With a hope to train the next generation of Taiko players in Vancouver, Chibi Taiko was the first Canadian Youth Taiko Drumming ensemble, founded in 1993. They have since played an active role in performance to promote this unique performing art form by participating in various cultural events such as the Powell Street Festival throughout … Read more
Formed in 1990, Sawagi Taiko is the first all Asian women’s taiko group in Canada. They are a multi-generational group of women of East Asian and Indigenous heritage, brought together by our shared passion for Japanese drumming. “Sawagi” means to “cause a commotion” in Japanese. With thunderous drum beats, stirring vocals, & martial-arts inspired choreography, … Read more
GO Taiko originated from free afterschool taiko classes at Admiral Seymour School in East Vancouver. They are only the second youth taiko group in BC and try to bring a fresh energetic approach to their drumming and love to share Japanese culture through taiko. Taiko 55 formed from Taiko Drumming classes at South Arm Community Centre in … Read more
The Shorties are a contemporary folk trio based in Vancouver, BC. Drawing influences from Jazz, R&B and Folk, the singer-songwriters weave together colourful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. Cindy Dai, Kaya Kurz, and Sydney Tough met while studying music at Capilano University and quickly bonded over jam sessions, heart-to-hearts, and a shared love of Joni Mitchell. Their music is full of gentle encouragement and leaves audiences with a hopeful resolve that … Read more
VJLS – Japanese Hall On display all day/終日展示 The Japanese Canadian Hastings Park Interpretive Centre, at the northeast corner of the Livestock Building, is housed in one of the last intact structures where dispossessed Japanese Canadians were detained, born, or died, leaving trauma that affected generations. Phase 1 exterior construction is complete: 15 pillars name … Read more
Experience the harmony of Japan and the West with CoSei, a distinctive cross-cultural trio featuring koto/guzheng, piano, voice, and award-winning violin. Rooted in Japanese musical sensibility and shaped by Western classical and contemporary influences, CoSei creates an evolving soundscape that moves gracefully from serene, traditional-inspired melodies to dynamic, modern and rock-influenced pieces. Pico Masaki leads this intimate ensemble with rare … Read more
Southern Wave Okinawan Music and Dance Society, founded in 2020 as a nonprofit during the pandemic, is dedicated to celebrating and sharing Okinawa’s vibrant cultural heritage. Through spirited performances of min’yō, classical and popular songs accompanied by the Sanshin (Okinawan three‑stringed banjo) and graceful Ryukyu Buyo (traditional Okinawan dance), the Society enriches Vancouver’s multicultural landscape. … Read more
Presented by Executive Director Sophie Yamauchi Latimer, Board President Russell Chiong. This year’s opening ceremonies mark not just the start of a weekend, but the beginning of our next fifty years together.
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
NoriNori unravels the mystery of her family’s internment with shamisen accompaniment, storytelling, and music. This presentation will be mostly musical excerpts from the original work, supported by the Japanese Canadian Legacy Society. NoriNori is a musician and creator (former punk rocker bassist/vocalist) performing shamisen, shigin, taiko, koto, and guitar//bass with Onibana Taiko and NoriNori & Komori, Cynthia Dawn, and Canada Miyake Taiko Kai.
A demonstration of the Japanese sword martial art of Eishin-ryu Iaido. Vancouver Iaido Club has been practicing at UBC campus and Marpole Community Centre for over 45 years, and are certified by the World MJER Iaido Federation 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
Seniors from 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. So, join in with this easy-to-follow demonstration. 日系ホームの皆さんがラジオ体操のルーティンを紹介します。老若男女を問わず、誰もがストレッチすることのメリットを体験できます。難しくありませんので、ぜひご参加ください。
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
Vancouver Japanese Language School-Japanese Hall: Room #416 The Intergenerational Wellness stream of the JCLS grant program was specifically designed to support Japanese Canadian individuals and families in addressing and healing from the intergenerational impacts of racial trauma resulting from British Columbia government actions in the 1940s. As a follow-up initiative, JCLS contracted Lucy Komori to conduct … Read more
What seems like a simple game of hide and seek, Kakurenbo turns into a story of the mental turmoil centered on the contradiction of both wanting to be seen and wanting to disappear. Using cardboard boxes, playful props, and mesmerizing contortions, Kasha explores her identity both as an artist, performer and as a human who struggles with feelings … Read more
Shoheijuku Aikido Canada was established to promote the art of Aikido as taught by Morito Suganuma Sensei (Aikikai 8th Dan), based in Fukuoka, Japan. The organization offers Aikido classes for all levels, including programs for children. Its main dojo is located at Trout Lake Community Centre in East Vancouver, with additional locations in Surrey and … 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
