Archives: Programs

We begin the festivities with a First Nations’ blessing with Elder Carleen Thomas from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, followed by greetings from PSFS President Russell Chiong and government officials.

Originating from Japan, Shorinji Kempo is a martial art that combines physical prowess with mental discipline. Witness the fluid and powerful movements of Shorinji Kempo practitioners, highlighting its unique blend of strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws. Whether you are a seasoned martial artist or a curious spectator, join them for a captivating display of … Read more

Founded in 2006 in Vancouver, BC, Wailele Wai Wai is a volunteer-based Hawaiian Hula group dedicated to sharing the beauty and spirit of contemporary Hawaiian dance. Through graceful hand and arm movements and rhythmic patterns, they tell stories that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. Wailele Wai Wai is committed to embodying the Aloha … Read more

The Vancouver Iaido Club will present a demonstration of the traditional Japanese sword martial art of Iaido. The club practices Seishin Seiryu Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu. They are affiliated with the World MJER Iaido Federation, headquartered in Japan.  

Rakuichi plays Ohayashi, the traditional Japanese musical accompaniment for Matsuri, using Taiko, Fue (Japanese flute), and Kane (Japanese gong). At the same time, they perform Shishi-Mai (Japanese Lion Dance), a symbol of good health and fortune. After the performance, they carry Mikoshi, portable shrines, together with volunteers and visitors. Those interested in the Japanese festival … Read more

Vancouver Okinawa Taiko has been performing numerous festivals, charity functions and anniversary events for about two decades. The group’s aim is to promote and preserve Okinawan style drum-dancing called Eisa, and to share Okinawan cultural heritage. The membership consists of a mixed generation to reflect the presentation of grassroots folk art. We hope to deliver … Read more

The Sakura Singers was formed in 1970 by Ruth Suzuki, and was inaugurated into a Society in 2006. We promote the enjoyment of Japanese songs, and a better understanding and appreciation by all Canadians of Japanese-Canadian culture. We invite anyone who loves to sing Japanese songs to join us. さくらシンガーズは1970年にルース・スズキによって結成され、2006年に正式に協会として発足しました。私たちは日本の歌を楽しむこと、そしてすべてのカナダ人に日本・日系カナダ人の文化への理解と親しみを深めていただくことを目的としています。 日本の歌を歌うことが好きな方は、ぜひ私たちにご参加ください。

3:00 – 3:15 pm 午後3時〜3時15分 The Vancouver Buddhist Temple is the first Buddhist Temple in Canada and was established in 1904. The current temple building was constructed 35 years ago and contains a beautiful sanctuary originally constructed in Japan. Come meet a monk and see where generations of Canadian Shinshu Buddhists celebrate and express their … Read more

In collaboration with Nikkei Seniors Health Care & Housing Society Japanese Canadian Survivors Health & Wellness Fund, seniors from Sakura So and Nikkei Home will guide us through a Radio Taiso exercise routine, as well as their original exercise routine, Nikkei Taiso. Whether old or young, everyone can experience the benefits of stretching our bodies. … Read more

Our performance combines a mix of traditional and contemporary taiko styles and pieces, expressing our passion, power, and joy. Founded in 1988 to provide a creative outlet for women performing with the confines of a then largely male-dominated cultural tradition, Jodaiko now embraces artists of varying identities who share a passion for wadaiko. Following the … Read more

Kyudo is the art of Japanese Archery. It originates from ancient warfare, but nowadays it is performed with slower, deliberate movements, creating harmony within oneself in this fast-paced world. The Vancouver Kyudo Club is a non-profit organization and has been doing Kyudo at the Vancouver Japanese Language School and Japanese Hall (VJLS-JH) since 2005. They … Read more

Vancouver Japanese Language School–Japanese Hall: Japanese Hall Kenny Sembokuya, Iwama Aikido Fifth dan, Tamiyaryu Iaijutsu 6th dan, father of three children and Entrepreneur, leads the international Aikido group, Iwama Busenkai and the international headquarter of Tamiyaryu Genwakai Genkei branch which has achieved a presence not only in Japan, but also in Canada, US, France, Chile, … Read more

The Otowa Ryu Japanese Dance Group presents a vibrant selection of traditional Japanese folk dances, children’s dances, and shin buyo (contemporary Japanese dances). Since the early 1970s, members of the group have been dedicated to sharing the art of Japanese dance through performances at festivals, cultural demonstrations, and events throughout the Lower Mainland and across … Read more