Japan America Society of Chicago

In Pursuit of a Sustainable Future
2024-02-08 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Join Mitsubishi Electric’s Kevin Webb to learn about the company’s commitment to realize a vibrant and sustainable society. By taking responsibility for its emissions and contributing to a decarbonized society through circular-digital engineering, the company is working collaboratively with its stakeholders to pursue a sustainable future for all. Webb will compare approaches to sustainability in Japan and the U.S., as well as discuss the challenges and opportunities facing industry as we work collectively to help make tomorrow’s world greater than today’s.
About the Speaker
Kevin R. Webb, M.A., directs environmental sustainability and social responsibility efforts in the Americas region at Mitsubishi Electric. Under Webb’s leadership, Mitsubishi Electric is working toward achieving its environmental, social and governance goals in the Americas to work toward a sustainable smart society. He serves as a member of the Consumer Technology Association Foundation’s (CTAF) Industry Partner Council and has been appointed to serve as a CTAF Trustee beginning in January 2024. Webb is also responsible for national grantmaking and corporate employee volunteer programs as Senior Director of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. The Foundation’s vision is to empower youth with disabilities to lead productive lives by building a pipeline of talent to help create a more inclusive and sustainable society for all. Previously, Webb worked for a decade in the field of international education by planning professional exchange programs for 3,500 U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program participants, and leading civil society training missions to Chile, Moldova, Russia, Slovenia, and Ukraine. An Eagle Scout, Webb holds a BA in International Studies and an MA in Public Administration from The Ohio State University. He lives in Mount Airy, Maryland with his wife and two children.
With support from:

The Female Emperor Suiko
2024-01-25 18:00 - 19:00 | Online via Zoom
About the Event
Suiko (554 ~ 628) ruled Japan for 35 years, the first of eight recognized female sovereigns who were not
empress-consorts. Because of renewed interest she is the subject of manga, documentaries, biographies, and
other media. This presentation will review a few of her notable achievements, as well as representations of her
complex and extraordinary life.
About the Speaker
Laura Miller is the Ei’ichi Shibusawa-Seigo Arai Endowed Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of MissouriSt. Louis where she teaches courses on Japanese visual and material culture, ancient history, food culture, and yōkai.
She has published more than ninety articles and book chapters on Japanese culture and language, and has authored
or co-edited five books. Her forthcoming book is Occult Hunting and Supernatural Play in Japan (University of Hawai’i
Press).

How to Make the Most of the Osaka-Kansai Expo
2024-01-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Did you know that Expo Osaka-Kansai will be held in Japan in 2025? Find out about the Osaka-Kansai Expo and what you are about to experience. The theme of the Expo is “Designing Future Society for our lives” and the concept is the People’s Living Lab. The world’s knowledge and cutting-edge technology will be brought together, to create and share new ideas to help resolve global issue. This webinar will update you with the latest information about the Osaka, Kansai Expo.
About the Speaker
Sachiko was appointed as the Director-General of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, in September 2022. She is conducting a Global communication team, and her responsibility is to raise global interest in to the 2025 Word Exposition, by planning and implementing promotional events and campaigns and building strong relationships with the global media.
Prior to her current position she has working experience in JETRO, a Japanese Government Agency under Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) that promotes trade and investment between Japan and other countries. In JETRO, she has worked in various departments overseeing international trade fairs, supervising and operating international conferences. She was the Chief Executive Director of JETRO Los Angeles between 2012 to 2016.
Special thanks with support from:

37th Annual Holiday Fundraiser and Bonenkai
2023-12-14 17:30 - 21:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, : 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60604, United States
Please note that the reception time has changed to 5:30-6:45pm. Presentations and Dinner will be held from 7:00-9:00 pm.
To celebrate 93 years of U.S.-Japan friendship in true holiday spirit, the Society will host our 37th Annual Holiday Fundraiser and Bonenkai on December 14, 2023 at the Union League Club of Chicago. The Society’s goal is to continue to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the United States, and to celebrate cross-cultural understanding and friendships. We thank you in advance for helping us in this continued endeavor, and look forward to a promising 2024.
All proceeds from this event will benefit programming and educational endeavors.

INDIVIDUAL RESERVATIONS
INDIVIDUAL $190
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS
CHRYSANTHEMUM ($3900)

Table of 10
Preferred seating
Full-page, color ad in program book
Corporate logo on Society website
Company name included in email update
Logo on auction signage
Company sign on table

CHERRY BLOSSOM ($2900)

Table of 10
Full-page, black-and-white ad in program book
Corporate logo on Society website
Company name included in email update
Company sign on table

Thank you to our current confirmed table sponsors! CLICK HERE TO VIEW
We would be grateful if you would consider contributing to our fundraiser in the following ways:
Attend the Gala or purchase sponsorship.
Individual reservations are available for $190 per person or you can purchase Chrysanthemum ($3900) or Cherry Blossom ($2900) sponsorship with additional promotional value.
You can purchase individual, Chrysanthemum, and Blossom reservations to the event at the bottom of this page.
Purchase Raffle Tickets

37th Annual Holiday Fundraiser & BonenkaiRAFFLE PRIZE – December 14, 2023

(1) Japan Airlines (JAL)
Round-Trip Economy Class Ticket to
Tokyo, Japan

Winner does not need to be present to win. Once tickets are purchased, JASC staff will complete contact info on ticket and will email purchaser ticket # info. Winner is responsible for tax and fuel charges.
Purchase tickets under TICKETS SECTION below.

Donate a gift certificate and/or item for silent auction.
You and/or your organization will receive a display board outlining your donation, which will be viewed by 200+ Japanese and American executives and their guests. In addition, your company will be listed in an auction book to be disseminated to all attendees, as well as listed as a donor in the Society’s email update.
Download a donor form as a fillable and printable PDF .
Make a cash donation.
Cash donors will be listed in a program book to be disseminated to 200+ Japanese and American executives and their guests. All cash donors will be listed in the Society’s annual report and email update.
Donations of $700+ will receive one complimentary dinner reservation.
All donations are tax deductible (FEIN # 36-2480811).
Click the button or scan the QR code below to make a donation.
MAKE A DONATIONPurchase An Ad
Ads will be placed in the Society’s Holiday Fundraiser program book to be disseminated to 200+ guests.
Ad Sizes and Prices
Inside Front Cover 4.6” x 7.5” – B&W: $550 Color: $750
Full Page 4.6” x 7.5” – B&W: $400 Color: $600
Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” – B&W: $650 Color: $850 SOLD
Inside Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” – B&W: $550 Color: $750
1/2 Page 4.6” x 3.5” – B&W $350 Color: $550
1/3 Page 4.6” x 2.25” – B&W $250 Color: $450
* To purchase Inside Front Cover, Back Cover or Inside Back Cover please email us at: Please enable JavaScript to see this field. or call: (312) 263 3049.
All other ad sizes can be purchased online by clicking “Purchase Ad” below:
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Inside Front Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (B&W) - $550.00

Inside Front Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (COLOR) - $750.00

Full Page 4.6” x 7.5” (B&W) - $400.00

Full Page 4.6” x 7.5” (COLOR) $600.00

Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (B&W) $650.00

Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (COLOR) $850.00

Inside Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (B&W) $550

Inside Back Cover 4.6” x 7.5” (COLOR) $750

1/2 Page 4.6” x 3.5” (B&W) $350

1/2 Page 4.6” x 3.5” (COLOR) $550

1/3 Page 4.6” x 2.25” (B&W) $250

1/3 Page 4.6” x 2.25” (COLOR) $450
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Volunteer
The Society seeks volunteers to assist with everything from auction set-up to registration and final auction coordination.
If you are interested in volunteering, please CLICK HERE or email Erika Kono at Please enable JavaScript to see this field.. All volunteers will receive a volunteer link in early to mid-November listing all available opportunities with detailed descriptions. A light dinner will be provided and a $50 travel stipend.

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JETAA & YPC December Book Club
2023-12-12 18:00 - 19:00 | IL
About the Event
Follow the link for more information and registration: https://guestlist.co/events/757074

Pilgrim Stamp Hunting
2023-11-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Online via Zoom
About the Event
There has been an explosion of interest in pilgrim stamps and the little books in which they are collected. Called goshuin, they reflect new aesthetic tastes and a renewed appreciation for calligraphy styles. This presentation will explore how their popularity is revealed in the novel and cute goshuin created by shrines and temples, as well as specialized guidebooks, goshuin tours, and even J-Pop songs dedicated to them.
About the Speaker
Laura Miller is the Ei’ichi Shibusawa-Seigo Arai Endowed Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Missouri-St. Louis where she teaches courses on Japanese visual and material culture, ancient history, food culture, and yōkai. She has published more than ninety articles and book chapters on Japanese culture and language, and has authored or co-edited five books. Her forthcoming book is Occult Hunting and Supernatural Play in Japan (University of Hawai’i Press).

Confessions - Book Club - JETAA Chicago & JASC YPC
2023-10-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
For more information and registration, visit the link here!

Ikebana for Every Season Workshop
2023-10-15 13:00 - 14:30 | Japan American Society of Chicago, 1 N LaSalle Street, #2475, Chicago, IL, 60602, United States
About the Event
The Society is pleased to host a two-part Ikebana series, to explore the inner universe and outer world through the practice of Ikebana.
The first part of the Ikebana series will include a lecture about Ikebana history, and a look at how this art form has been developed through the years. Attendees will also learn about how ikebana is connected to nature, and how it is reflected through the seasons.
The second part of the series will include a hands-on workshop. By choosing the seasonal floral materials, attendees will be instructed to create a basic style of ikebana arrangement related to Heaven, Earth and Man. Attendees will be able to see the universe in their unique Ikebana arrangement.
This workshop is for beginning students, and is open to families and children over 10. Space is limited. All students will follow guidelines and curriculum to create their own arrangement. Students will receive additional individualized feedback from Ms. Wang on their creation.
Ikebana lecture free admission held via Zoom
Ikebana Workshop:
$60 fee includes a kenzan, ceramic container, flowers and instruction. Students can keep kenzan and container.
$40 fee includes flowers and instruction. Students are asked to bring their own kenzan (3.5” x 2.5”) and a container (8-10” diameter and 2” height).
Deadline for workshop is 10/11. Seats are limited. Fresh floral materials need to be ordered in advance. Please register ASAP.
About the Speaker
Margot Wang is the President of the Ikebana International Chicago Chapter. She has practiced Ohara School of Ikebana for years and obtained the Master rank from Ohara School in Japan. Currently, she is an Instructor at the Ikebana on Halsted in Chicago, a member of Ohara School Chicago Chapter, a member of the North American Ohara Teachers Association, and a Docent at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Conservancy.

Japanese Style Breakfast and Presentation
2023-10-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, 12 South Michigan Avenue (Drawing Room Library, 2nd Floor), Chicago, IL, 60603, United States
Reservations (SOLD OUT): www.jaschicago.org or email kono@jaschicago.org
About the Event
Enjoy Chef Katsumura’s tantalizing version of a Japanese breakfast, including pan seared market catch or marinated local tofu, steamed white rice, miso soup, koji pickles, and sesame-soy sauteed vegetables with garlic and ginger. Choice of coffee or tea included. Guests will be seated in the beautiful semi-private Library space.
Chef Katsumura will make a special guest appearance exclusively for our group. Hear about Chef Katsumura’s culinary background, how her childhood memories inspire her dishes, as well as the stories behind her vision to add a Japanese style breakfast to the Cherry Circle Room menu.
About the Speaker
Ms. Mari Katsumura is Executive Chef at the Cherry Circle Room. She earned accolades working for Michelin-starred restaurants Grace, Blackbird, Acadia and Entente. Ms. Katsumura also served as head chef at Michelin-starred Yugen.
Valet parking is available at the side entrance on Madison Street. For a disocunted rate, please give code 2440 to valet upon arrival. Discounted rate is $18 for up to 4 hours.

Ikebana for Every Season Lecture
2023-10-05 19:00 - 20:00 | Online via Zoom

Welcome Reception for Consul-General of Japan
2023-09-28 18:00 - 20:00 | The Metropolitan, 233 S. Wacker Drive (Michigan/Superior Room, 66th Floor), Chicago, IL, 60606, United States

Connecting to the Cosmos
2023-08-31 18:00 - 19:00 | Online via Zoom
About the Event
Michiko Itatani is an award-winning artist and educator who has exhibited her paintings throughout the world for over 50 years. Born in Osaka, Japan, Itatani came to the United States in her early 20s. She earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she then taught for 40 years. This lecture will offer insight into her work, which explores human existence in the larger context of the universe.
About the Speaker
Mary Ellen Murphy has been a Volunteer Docent with Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art for over 10 years. As a Volunteer supporting the museum’s education department, she conducts tours for the public on a monthly basis, showcasing the museum’s collection and traveling exhibits. She regularly follows Chicago’s art scene, where Ms. Itatani’s work has been exhibited at Wrightwood 659 and currently at Jean Albano Gallery in River North

From Tea Ceremony to Gardens
2023-08-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, IL, 61107, United States
Reservations: www.jaschicago.org or email kono@jaschicago.org

About the Event
Spend the morning at Anderson Japanese Gardens experiencing the beauty of Japan through tea and nature. The journey will begin with a traditional tea ceremony demonstration in a private guest house nesteled deep in the gardens. Kimiko Gunji, Professor Emeritus of Japanese Arts & Culture and founder, Japan House at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will give a brief introduction of the art of tea ceremony, followed by a traditional demontration. After enjoying a specially crafted bowl of tea, our journey will continue with an exclusive private tour of the beautiful gardens.
We ask that all guests meet at the Visitors Center at 9:45 am.
Guests are welcome to explore the gardens on their own after the tour and/or grab lunch at the Fresco at the Gardens. Fee for event includes entrance into the gardens. Free parking is available.
About the Speaker
Kimiko Gunji is Professor Emeritus of Japanese Arts & Culture in the School of Art & Design, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the founder of the new Japan House at University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign, IL. She is a Full Professor of the Ikenobo Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arranging) School in Japan and Chapter President of the Illinois Prairie Ikenobo Ikebana. Kimiko Gunji received numerous awards for her teachings as well as her contributions to promote Japanese arts and culture.
With support from:

Kofun Mania
2023-07-27 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Some history buffs in Japan are obsessed with ancient tombs called kofun, built from the third to the fifth centuries. This talk will briefly introduce their history before turning to the ways that fans devote time and economic resources to travel, tours, festivals, and media devoted to kofun. Some cute and novel kofun-themed goods and food items will also be discussed.
About the Speaker
Laura Miller is the Ei’ichi Shibusawa-Seigo Arai Endowed Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Missouri-St. Louis where she teaches courses on Japanese visual and material culture, ancient history, food culture, and yōkai. She has published more than ninety articles and book chapters on Japanese culture and language, and has authored or co-edited five books. Her forthcoming book is Occult Hunting and Supernatural Play in Japan (University of Hawai’i Press).

JETAA/YPC Book Club
2023-07-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
For Registration and More Info: https://guestlist.co/events/749928

Advanced Origami Workshop
2023-07-18 18:00 - 19:30 | Konbini and Kanpai 1433 West Belmont Avenue Chicago, IL 60657, Konbini and Kanpai 1433 West Belmont Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60657, United States
Get Tickets Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/advanced-origami-workshop-tickets-640805766297
Hosted by Japanese Culture Center
If you’ve been looking to up your origami game, come join this advanced origami workshop! This session is open to anyone who wants to learn something beyond simple patterns and isn’t afraid of a challenge and already has a base knowledge of the art form. The fold we create together will depend on the skill level of those who attend.
This event is sponsored by the Young Professionals Committee of the Japan America Society of Chicago.
A variety of paper will be provided. Space is extremely limited at this event so register quickly! This event will be held at Konbini & Kanpai with a one drink minimum (drinks are not included with purchase of a ticket.)
Let’s get ready to fold!
Instructor Bio
Ty Yamamoto is a Chicago-based filmmaker, photographer and Japanese teacher with a passion for the art of folding paper. Ever since childhood, Ty has loved folding all sorts of intricate paper creations. Over the past year, Ty has taught origami lessons to people of all ages, bringing the traditional Japanese art form to households all over the world.
Konbini & Kanpai
Whether it’s an everyday family dinner, monumental milestone, or just making it to the end of a long day, tasty cold beers or sippable wines have been intertwined throughout our lives’ big and small celebrations. We remember the refreshing cider we had while apple picking in Michigan and discovering our love for Sauvignon Blanc wines during our three-week road trip around southern New Zealand. We wanted to combine these experiences with our love of the Japanese convenient store (aka Konbini) to create our friendly alchohol store in Lakeview — a neighborhood we call home. Come stop by, say hi, and explore our craft beers, wines, sakes, and non-alcoholic beverage offerings! Organized by flavor so your taste buds or our knowledgeable staff can easily guide you. Kanpai (cheers in Japanese)!
Japan America Society of Chicago
The Japan America Society of Chicago is a non-profit association made up of individuals and corporations interested in United States-Japan business, cultural, political, and social relations. Founded in 1930 to foster mutual goodwill and friendship between the people of Japan and the United States, the Society enjoys a total membership of over 150 American and Japanese corporations and over 600 individuals throughout Chicago-land and the Midwest. The Society sponsors over 50 public affairs and cultural programs annually, including business luncheons, evening lectures, cultural events and social/networking opportunities. All members receive discounts on program registration and invitations to special member-only events. The Society also has a Young Professionals Committee that organizes various evening lectures and social outings throughout the year for members in their twenties and thirties. In addition, the Society offers over six levels of Japanese and English language courses. For membership information and other inquiries visit www.jaschicago.org or contact the Society office.

93rd Anniversary Celebratory Dinner: Celebrating 93 years of U.S.-Japan Friendship
2023-06-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, : 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60604, United States
About the Speaker
CLICK HERE for His Excellency Koji Tomita’s Bio
Special thanks to our sponsors:
Joyce E. Chelberg

Eliza Scidmore: Washington's Cherry Tree Visionary and Early U.S. "Friend of Japan"
2023-05-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
In the late-nineteenth century, American journalist and travel writer Eliza Scidmore became a recognized Western authority on Japan and its culture. A part-time home in Japan with her brother, a U.S. consular official, gave her a base for reporting from across the region. The results included a half dozen travel books, and her revolutionary idea of creating a cherry tree park in Washington's Potomac Park. Join author Diana Parsell for an overview of Scidmore, whose gravesite is in the Foreign General Cemetery in Yokohama.
About the Speaker
Diana Parsell is a writer, editor, and former journalist in the Washington, D.C., area. Her debut book, Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees (Oxford U. Press, March 2023), is the  first-ever biography of the little-known American woman whose deep appreciation for Japanese culture led to her longtime quest to have flowering cherries planted in Washington's Potomac Park. The book has been featured on NHK's International News 2023,  and on NBC's "Today" show, in addition to other media outlets. Visit www.dianaparsell.com for more on Diana and the book.
To purchase a copy of Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees and enhance the discussion, go to https://dianaparsell.com/books/eliza-scidmore/. Use code AAFLYG6 for 30% discount when purchasing direct from Oxford University Press.
NHK World
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20230401053824559/
NBC "Today" Show
https://www.today.com/video/meet-the-woman-behind-the-cherry-blossoms-tradition-in-dc-167139397774

Journey to Kyushu: Oita
2023-04-20 19:00 - 20:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Japan’s best hot spring spot. Full of flavors
Oita is a charming prefecture on Kyushu, a gorgeous island to the west of Japan. It’s a bucolic destination that has it all: history, culture, adventure, and wilderness – not to mention the fact that it’s probably the best natural spa destination in the entire world! After a lot of presentations showcasing the beauty of Japan, you may start wondering what makes Oita different from other prefectures? During this presentation, the speaker will highlight the unique qualitites of Oita.
About the Speaker
Koichiro Mizobe is the Inbound Manager at the tourism strategy and promotion Office of the Oita Prefectural Government. After graduating from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Oita, he left his hometown for a job. Since Oita is such a nice place to live (of course a nice place to visit too), he returned home and started working for the prefectural government. Not only does he love his hometown, but Oita has so much to offer. Mr. Mizobe is delighted to introduce Oita Prefecture in this presentation.
Special thanks to our sponsor:
*The Zoom event link will be sent in the confirmation email. Please be sure to check your email junk folder and whitelist “@jaschicago.org” for future mailings if your confirmation ends up there.

New Scholarship on Japanese History: Economy, Environment, Entanglement
2023-04-12 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Recent work on Japanese history emphasizes new ways to analyze the economy that use energy expenditure as the basic unit of analysis rather than money, which incorporates environmental thinking into it, for example drawing our attention to entirely different domestic and international trade routes and infrastructure development.
About the Speaker
Laura Hein, the Harold H. and Virginia Anderson Professor of History at Northwestern, teaches and writes on twentieth-century Japan in its global context. Her most recent book, Post-Fascist Japan: Political Culture in Kamakura after the Second World War (Bloomsbury, 2018) focuses on the reparative social and cultural activities of Japanese who experienced the war years as fascist repression. Jinbun Shoin is bringing out a Japanese edition in mid-2023. Previous books focused on energy policy, economic thought, and various aspects of war remembrance in Japan and elsewhere.
*The Zoom event link will be sent in the confirmation email. Please be sure to check your email junk folder and whitelist “@jaschicago.org” for future mailings if your confirmation ends up there.

Corporate Social Responsibility from Japan to the U.S.
2023-04-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR, is a form of self-regulation that reflects a business’s accountability and commitment to contributing to the well-being of communities and society through various environmental and social measures. Japanese companies have been contributing to society in both Japan and the United States. Ms. Havlicek will highlight Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation’s grantmaking in the US, along with Mitsubishi Electric’s charitable giving and volunteer efforts in both Japan and the US and why it is an important part of the corporate strategy. She will also focus on the impact CSR efforts have on a company culture, local nonprofits, and the environment.
About the Speaker

With over 15 years of experience in corporate philanthropy, Tara MP Havlicek serves as Program Manager for the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation where she focuses on national grantmaking and corporate employee volunteer programs. The mission of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation is to help young people with disabilities maximize their potential and participation in society with a focus on empowering youth with disabilities through increased employment. Tara also contributes to the field of grantmaking as Co-Chair of the Midwest Region with PEAK Grantmaking where she facilitates conversations and presents at regional meetings and annual conferences focused on process improvement, diversity, and inclusion. She serves as an advisor with the National Disability Mentoring Coalition and a mentor with the Psychology Department at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Prior to her role at the Foundation, she worked in HR and Administration with Mitsubishi Electric Automation in Vernon Hills, IL, where she was responsible for employee relations and organizing corporate social and philanthropic events.
Tara graduated with a B.S. in Psychology at the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign. She lives with her husband and two adopted cats, Sylvester and Oslo, in Lake County, IL and volunteers her time to various non-profit organizations that focus on children, animals, and cancer research.
With support from:
*The Zoom event link will be sent in the confirmation email. Please be sure to check your email junk folder and whitelist “@jaschicago.org” for future mailings if your confirmation ends up there.

Material Culture of Royal Childbirth in Medieval Japan
2023-03-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Royal childbirths were events of critical importance for Japan’s imperial house and court. They required numerous rituals and objects to ensure the safety of the mother, the newborn, and those involved in the pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care. My talk will examine the material culture associated with an imperial consort’s birth of a prince in the late Heian period, with focus on women’s roles in such rituals and objects. The imperial consort to be discussed is Taira no Tokushi (a.k.a. Kenreimon’in), and the baby is the future Emperor Antoku. Through the office of her household, Tokushi performed the duty of the principal consort and took an initiative in many rituals, such as sponsoring the production of Buddhist images, viewing certain objects for empowerment, and presiding over the first night of the postpartum banquet. Moreover, her mother, the newborn’s “nursing mothers,” and spirit mediums, among other women, played indispensable roles in many of the childbirth rituals. I will investigate how and why these women actively contributed to the safe childbirth rituals in medieval Japan.
About the Speaker
Naoko Gunji is Assistant Professor of East Asian Languages and Cultures at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Her primary research interests lie in cultural, social, political, and religious functions of Japanese premodern art. Her current research centers on visual representations of the Tale of the Heike and the functions the Heike art served in historical contexts. Her publications include “Heike Paintings in the Early Edo Period: Edification and Ideology for Elite Men and Women,” Archives of Asian Art 67:1 (April 2017); and “The Ritual Narration of Mortuary Art: The Illustrated Story of Emperor Antoku and Its Etoki at Amidaji,” Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 38:1 (Fall 2013). Her first book, Amidaji: Emperor Antoku’s Mortuary Temple and Its Culture, was published in 2022 from Brill’s Japanese Visual Culture series.
*The Zoom event link will be sent in the confirmation email. Please be sure to check your email junk folder and whitelist “@jaschicago.org” for future mailings if your confirmation ends up there.

Yayoi Kusama: To Infinity and Back Again
2023-03-21 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Happy 94th Birthday to Yayoi Kusama! Join the JASC in a presentation about the life and art work of this legendary
artist. This lecture will offer details of Kusama’s career, which has spanned seven decades, and include Kusama’s life
in Japan, and her travels to the United States. The presentation will feature Kusama’s art work in various formats,
including her painting, sculpture and installation. It will also highlight her fashion projects, and the current collaboration
with Louis Vuitton: Louis Vuitton® x Yayoi Kusama Collection.
About the Speaker
Mary Ellen Murphy has been a Volunteer Docent with Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art for over 10
years. As a Volunteer supporting the museum’s education department, she conducts tours for the public on a
monthly basis, showcasing the museum’s collection and traveling exhibits. While traveling for work, she was
fortunate to attend a 50-year retrospective of Kusama’s work at the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, D.C.,
which was the inspiration for this lecture.
*The Zoom event link will be sent in the confirmation email. Please be sure to check your email junk folder and whitelist “@jaschicago.org” for future mailings if your confirmation ends up there.

Astellas : Working to advance innovative science into proven value for patients & “Restoring Japan’s Leadership in Innovation”
2023-03-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Mark Reisenauer, President, Astellas Pharma US
Astellas : Working to advance innovative science into proven value for patients
Successful biopharmaceutical innovation requires a collaborative scientific, financial and policy ecosystem that encourages high-risk investment in R&D and support for patient access to cutting-edge medicines. Mark Reisenauer, President, Astellas Pharma US, will discuss Astellas’ ongoing efforts to produce medical solutions that provide value to patients and the current landscape for life sciences innovation in the U.S.
Richard Katz, Publisher, Japan Economy Watch and Senior Fellow, Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs
“Restoring Japan’s Leadership in Innovation”
Mr. Katz will discuss open innovation and how that applies to industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and electronics to more pedestrian things like household goods that a company by Johnson & Johnson would produce. He will also talk about how Japan compares in this area to the US and Europe, typically in the area of pharmaceuticals where Japan currently lags.
Secondly, Mr. Katz will talk about potentials for US-Japan cooperation in business and finance and University areas. One area is the area of open innovation and he will talk about activities already going on in Silicon Valley and elsewhere. A second is University cooperation in entrepreneurship education. A third is potential for US venture capital and private equity in Japan. And finally there is a potential for US direct investment particularly for profitable SMEs that face failure to do a lack of successors.
About the Speakers
Mark Reisenauer is President, Astellas Pharma US. In this role, he is responsible for the operations of Astellas Pharma across the U.S., a $4 billion affiliate of the Tokyo-based pharmaceutical company headquartered in Northbrook, Ill. with 1,200 employees. Astellas is a company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative pharmaceutical products.
Reisenauer was most recently Senior Vice President of Astellas’ Oncology business unit and joined Astellas in 2011 as Vice President of Oncology Sales and Marketing. During his tenure, Mark’s leadership has yielded the fastest-growing franchise in Astellas’ US portfolio, as Oncology franchise sales grew from less than 10 percent of sales to approximately 50 percent of US sales. He has been instrumental in bringing many new important oncology treatments to patients, including XTANDI® (enzalutamide), XOSPATA® (gilteritinib) and PADCEV™ (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv). All three products have become standards of care in their approved indications.
Prior to joining Astellas, Reisenauer served as Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Micromet Inc. (now part of Amgen), where he led investor and public relations, new product planning, and commercial launch planning. Previously, Reisenauer held various sales and marketing leadership roles at AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Squibb, Pharmacia, and Abbott. Reisenauer earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin.
Reisenauer serves on the board of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), an organization dedicated to advancing policies that ensure continued investment in biopharmaceutical innovation.
Richard Katz is Publisher, Japan Economy Watch, a free blog at https://richardkatz.substack.com/ and Senior Fellow, Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs
He is also a special correspondent at Weekly Toyo Keizai, a leading Japanese business weekly. He authored two books on Japan. The first was Japan: The System That Soured—The Rise and Fall of the Japanese Economic Miracle (M.E. Sharpe, 1998), followed by Japanese Phoenix: The Long Road to Economic Revival (M.E. Sharpe, 2002). Toyo Keizai Shimposa published them in Japanese.
He has taught about Japan as an adjunct professor in economics at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and at the New York University Stern School of Business, and has testified several times before Congress. He regularly writes op-eds and essays for newspapers and magazines, including Voodoo Abenomics in the July-August 2014 issue of Foreign Affairs.
This event is part of the NAJAS/KKC Business Speaker Series sponsored by the National Association of Japan-America Societies and the Keizai Koho Center.

Biofeedback Medical Device, PARO, for Mental Health
2023-03-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
“PARO” aims to be a “subsitute for pets” in general households and a “substitute for animal therapy” in the medical and welfare fields. PARO is a “welfare device” in Japan, and a “biofeedback medical device” in the United States and Europe, where medical welfare systems are different. In this presentation, Prof. Shibata will describe the evidence, and explain how PARO is being incorporated into medical and welfare systems around the world.
About the Speaker
Prof. Takanori Shibata received B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Electronic and Mechanical Engineering from Nagoya University in 89, 91 and 92, respectively. He was a research scientist at AIST, MITI from 93 to 98. Concurrently, he was a visiting research scientist at the Artificial Intelligence Lab., MIT from 95 to 98. At the AIST, Dr. Shibata was a senior research scientist from 98 to 13. Concurrently, he was the Deputy Director for Information and Communication Technology Policy, Cabinet Office of Japan in 2009 and 2010. Since 2013, he has been the current position, and concurrently, a Professor at School of Computing, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and a visiting fellow, AgeLab, MIT. His research interests include human-robot interaction, robot therapy, mental health for astronauts in long-term mission (e.g. to Mars), and humanitarian de-mining. He received many awards including the Japanese Prime Minister’s Award in 2003, and The Outstanding Young Person of the world by Junior Chamber International in 2004. In 2015, PARO was awarded the “Patient Trophy” as innovation of non-pharmacological therapy for dementia by AP-HP, France. In 2018, Prof. Shibata was awarded the “Ryman Prize” that is the most prestigious award in the fields of geriatric medicine, welfare and health in the world. In 2022, he was awarded the 10th Anniversary Special Robot Award by the Gov. of Japan.
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2023 Illinois Japan Bowl
2023-02-26 13:30 - 14:30 | North Central College (Wentz Science Center), 131 S. Loomis, 2nd Floor, Naperville, IL, 131 S. Loomis, Naperville, IL, United States
About the Event
The 2023 Illinois Japan Bowl, sponsored by the Japan America Society of Chicago, will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at North Central College from 10:00 – 2:30 pm. The Illinois Japan Bowl is an academic competition which covers a wide range of topics that tests high school students who are studying the Japanese language across the state of Illinois. The competition tests not only their knowledge of the language, but also their understanding of traditional and modern Japan.
Students must currently be enrolled in Level 2,3 or 4 Japanese in order to participate. Level 1 students may also participate in a practice competition.
The public is welcome to attend the Opening Ceremony from 10:00-10:30 am and/or the Closing Ceremony from 1:30-2:30 pm. Competition rooms will be closed to the public.
This program is made possible with support from:
In cooperation with:
Special thanks to our venue sponsor:
Special thanks to our sponsors:
Special thanks to our t-shirt sponsor:

Journey to Kyushu: Kagoshima
2023-02-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
With its active volcanoes, natural hot springs, oceans and islands, Kagoshima Prefecture is the place to feel the power of the earth. Kagoshima is located in the southernmost part of the four main Japanese islands and is a warm place blessed with awesome foods, nature, diverse cultures, and history. In this talk session, 3 presenters living in Kagoshima will talk about the unique lifestyles of people in Kagoshima and the surprising cultures and nature of Kagoshima’s islands
About the Speakers
Wong Yimin is a Coordinator of International Resources (CIR) who hails from the sunny island of Singapore. She came to Kagoshima in October 2021, and has been working under Kagoshima Prefectural Office’s International Affairs Division with a job scope ranging from translation, events, to matters related to international relations. When not busy at work, she dabbles in photography and enjoys capturing the beauty of Kagoshima through her lens. Although she is still relatively new to Kagoshima, she is looking forward to sharing the wonders of this prefecture to everyone.
Joseph Snowden is a British Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) with the Kagoshima Prefectural Government’s International Affairs Division. Graduating from the University of Cambridge in 2017 with a BA in Natural Sciences, he became interested in international exchange while working with people from all over the world as a research scientist at the University of Leeds. He began his post as CIR in Kagoshima in August 2022, following the completion of his PhD. While still new to Kagoshima, he is already enamored with the region and excited to share his experience so far.
Naoki Taruno is working for the tourism division of Kagoshima Prefectural Government. He had been working for the Tokyo Headquarters of the Development Bank of Japan and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for 12 years in total. Now he has come back to his hometown of Kagoshima in 2021. He has visited the U.S. many times for volunteer projects to support critically ill children, and studied at the University of Michigan in 2005. In particular, he is a fan of the Chicago Bulls in the 90’s, and he is especially happy to introduce Kagoshima to the people in Chicago.
With support from:
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Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake
2023-02-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
Ms. Matsumoto and Mr. Tremblay will
· Describe how “Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake” came to be published
· Offer an overview of the book’s contents
· Describe what craft sake is and how it is made
· Tell the story of the birth of ginjo sake
· Discuss current trends in sake
· The session will end with a guided tasting of a selection of sakes
All attendees will receive a recommended list of sake for a virtual tasting after the presentation.
About the Speakers
Nancy Matsumoto is an award-winning writer and editor who specializes in the areas of regenerative agriculture, food, sake, arts and culture. A holder of three sake certifications, she is the co-author of Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake: Rice Water Earth (Tuttle Publishing, 2022) and the editor of the forthcoming English-language translation of a book of Japanese tanka poetry, By the Shore of Lake Michigan (UCLA Asian American Studies Press). She has been a contributor to The Wall Street Journal, Time, Newsweek, TheAtlantic.com, People, Food & Wine, Saveur, The Los Angeles Times, and NPR, among other publications.

Michael Tremblay is currently the Beverage Director for Toronto’s Ki Modern Japanese + Bar, where he manages an award-winning wine and sake list, including the largest sake program in Canada. He is dedicated to being Ki’s ambassador for sake, educating guests and staff alike in the beauty and subtle art of sake, wine and food. Michael is a certified WSET sake and wine instructor for the Independent Wine Education Guild, a Senior Sake judge for the International Wine Challenge, held in London and Japan, and the U.S. National Sake Appraisal half in Hawaii. In October 2018 Michael was inducted as a Sake Samurai at the Matsuo Taisha Shrine in Kyoto, a 1300-year old shrine to sake. This is a distinction held by only 70 people at that time. He is the founder of the Sake Scholar Course, a advanced certification that explores the many sake regions of Japan. He enjoys traveling to Japan whenever he can and has worked in renowned sake breweries in Niigata, Shizuoka, Shimane and Gifu prefectures, practicing his ‘work-in-progress’ Japanese and learning from the Toji (master brewers).
Instagram / Twitter: mtrsake
CLICK HERE to purchase “Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake” book
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Journey to Tokai: Mie
2023-02-09 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
-Mie, Once in Your Lifetime –
Ranging from Suzuka Circuit, where F1 Gran Prix takes place, the birthplace of Iga-ryu Ninja and Kumano Kodo ancient pilgrimage routes to Matsusaka Beef and Ise-ebi spiny lobster, some of Japan’s most sought-after cuisines, Mie never fails to stimulate your interest and appetite. Located in central Japan, the prefecture is easily accessible from major international airports.
About the Speaker
Tala Karmy-Jones is an American Coordinator for International Relations at the Mie Prefectural Government’s Diversity Promotion Division. Tala moved to Mie in 2021 after graduating from the University of Washington with a double degree in Anthropology and Japanese Language. She is very excited and thankful for the opportunity to introduce Mie’s cultural assets in this presentation.
With support from:
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Journey to Hokuriku: Ishikawa
2023-01-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Zoom Event
About the Event
“The Culture of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Passed Down from the Samurai Era”
During the Samurai period (1603-1868), Kanazawa invested more in culture than in military affairs, and many cultures flourished as a result. Centuries later, we are still carrying on the traditions from that time. We would like to trace Kanazawa’s past and present with you.
About the Speaker
Ms. Yumiko Omoteguchi is currently the Europe, North America and Oceania markets Team Leader for the Inbound Tourism Division of the Ishikawa Prefectural Government since 2019. She has worked in the Inbound Tourism Division since 2014.
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With support from:
