Community Events
Exhibit: JAM Workshop 50th Anniversary @ National Japanese American Historical Society Peace Gallery
Fifty years ago, 12 artists in San Francisco’s Nihonmachi founded “Community Arts” with practicality and social inclusion. They expressed their talents by serving their communities and instituting a new movement of conscientious artists and supporters – a movement that continues with a new generation of artists.
From the hundreds of posters created at the JAM Workshop, we’ll be displaying 56, representing some of our most important works from 1976 to 2000. The history of Asian Americans during the last quarter century of the 20th Century can be visualized through these significant posters, all printed in the traditional methods, each one by hand.The exhibit will take place in two venues: Studio Gen in Japan Center East on the 2nd floor showcasing 20 prints and 38 prints in the Japantown Peace Gallery at NJAHS, 1684 Post St. The exhibits are curated by Rich Tokeshi and Leon Sun, two of the original JAM members and two of the most prolific silkscreeners of our generation.
API Council Congressional Town Hall for CA-11 Candidates @ 750 Kearny Street
April 2: API Council Congressional Town Hall for CA-11 Candidates
Thank you for your interest in attending API Council’s Congressional Town Hall for California’s 11th Congressional District (CA-11) candidates on April 2 from 2:00–3:30pm at 750 Kearny Street (Third Floor).
This forum will bring together candidates for a timely conversation on the issues impacting our communities and the clients we collectively serve.
Please complete the form linked below to confirm your attendance by March 4th at 5pm PST.
You may also submit suggested questions for the candidates, related to healthcare (Medi-Cal/Medicaid), education, immigration, housing, and other critical services provided to your clients.
Cantonese interpretation will be available to support language access.
Hanamatsuri Service @ the Buddhist Church of San Francisco
BCSF is a Buddhist temple located in the Japantown area of San Francisco, California. BCSF was founded in 1898, and while remaining true to its Japanese heritage, over the years it has become a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-generational temple community. Everyone is welcome!
BCSF services, which include Sunday services, funerals, memorials and weddings are now offered both in-person and live-streamed via Zoom
The BCSF COVID-19 safety precautions/protocols for Sunday services will include optional mask and self-monitored vaccination status- please stay home if feeling unwell.
Uphold Truth, Honor Resilience @ The Bay School
Organizations from San Francisco Japantown and the East Bay, in partnership with The Bay School, invite you to join us for a community gathering to reclaim the truth about the WWII incarceration of Japanese Americans and the role of the San Francisco Presidio’s building 35.
At a moment when historical erasure is rampant in this country, the intent of this event is to acknowledge the harm that originated from the former Western Defense Command Headquarters where the military orders to incarcerate Japanese Americans was signed by Lt. General DeWitt. It will also serve as a critical statement in partnership with the Bay School about healing the past and creating new opportunities to amplify the Presidio’s key role in the Japanese American incarceration story.
Co-Hosts: JCYC, Tsuru For Solidarity, JCCCNC, Nichibei Foundation, SF JACL, Nihonmachi St Fair, Japantown CBD, KOHO, Japantown Merchants Association, Buchanan Y, Japanese American Religious Federation, Kimochi, Japantown Task Force
Refreshments will be provided. Transportation from San Francisco Japantown available. Please indicate interest in transportation below.
Questions? Please email building35@jcyc.org.
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival @ Japantown SF
Get ready for two unforgettable weekends in Japantown, San Francisco. Full of culture, performances, food, and community vibes as we celebrate our rich traditions. 💖
📅 Save the dates (2026):
🌸 April 11–12
🌸 April 18–19
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival @ Japantown SF
Get ready for two unforgettable weekends in Japantown, San Francisco. Full of culture, performances, food, and community vibes as we celebrate our rich traditions. 💖
📅 Save the dates (2026):
🌸 April 11–12
🌸 April 18–19
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival @ Japantown SF
Get ready for two unforgettable weekends in Japantown, San Francisco. Full of culture, performances, food, and community vibes as we celebrate our rich traditions. 💖
📅 Save the dates (2026):
🌸 April 11–12
🌸 April 18–19
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival Grand Parade Day @ Japantown SF
Get ready for two unforgettable weekends in Japantown, San Francisco. Full of culture, performances, food, and community vibes as we celebrate our rich traditions. 💖
NCCBF Grand Parade
Sunday, April 20th - 1pm to 3pm
Grand Marshal: Atsuko Akatsuka
Community Marshals: Roy & PJ Hirabayashi and Steve Nakajo
Japanese Community Youth Council’s Excellence in Education Awards
SAVE THE DATE: Excellence in Education Awards
TICKETS AVAILABLE: March 2!
The JCYC College Access Programs’ second annual Excellence in Education Awards will celebrate the achievements of our students, educators, and 47 years of our unwavering commitment to equitable access to higher education. We will recognize pioneers who have been nominated by members of our community and carefully selected by JCYC staff and our Board of Directors. These will include school staff members and students. The goal of this event is to recognize the achievements of students and educators and help to ensure that JCYC’s College Access programs can maintain high-quality academic and educational services for students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds.
Karaoke Nights 2026 @ Konko Church of San Francisco
You're Invited to Karaoke Night!
Join us for an evening of singing, laughter, and delicious food! We will also have an exciting raffle and a chili oil tasting and a potluck with catered food options.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, March 28th 2026
Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Konko Church Social Hall
Featuring a Japantown Exclusive Raffle - 3 Chances to Win!
Raffle Information:
Participate in our raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes! For each donation you make, you will get...
$5 per Ticket, $20 for 5 tickets
Don't Miss Out!
This is a great opportunity to enjoy good food, great company, and showcase your singing talent. We can't wait to see you there!
Spring Kaiseki Virtual Cooking Workshop – 2026 @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Spring Kaiseki Virtual Cooking Workshop – 2026
Our popular seasonal Kaiseki cooking workshops consist of an elegant multi-course meal in the Kaiseki tradition using a menu of fresh ingredients to reflect the flavors and colors of each season. Instructors Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi will show you step by step how to make this specially curated menu for the Spring season. Recipes for the workshop will be provided in advance to all registrants and the workshop will be recorded and made available for registrants following the live session. Sign up for this virtual workshop and cook along with us as we prepare for a Spring Kaiseki!
This spring kaiseki workshop will include sakana no kobujime (raw white fish fillet marinated in kelp), aosudofu (green pea “tofu” made with kudzu starch), vegetable kinomeae (with prickly ash herb & miso sauce) and sansai gohan (mountain vegetable mixed rice). Easy to follow recipes and a video recording link will be provided to all registrants.
Spring Kaiseki Menu:
sakana no kobujime (raw white fish fillet marinated in kelp)
aosudofu (green pea “tofu” made with kudzu starch)
vegetable kinomeae (with prickly ash herb & miso sauce)
sansai gohan (mountain vegetable mixed rice)
Kimochi Udon to Go Fundraiser @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Kimochi Udon to Go
$18.00
A favorite lunch since 1976, Kimochi Udon has satisfied many with ingredients of noodles, chicken, Kakiage (fried vegetables), Kamaboko (fish cake), shitake mushroom, and green onion. Hijiki (seaweed) and fruit accompany the udon.
Curbside Pickup
1840 Sutter Street #101 San Francisco, CA 94115
Available between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm in 30-minute intervals.
Please be sure to select your pickup time when placing your order.
Order deadline: Sunday, March 15, 2026
JAM 50+'s Anniversary and Women's History Month @ Studio Gen
Join us to view a historic art exhibit featuring the works of women artists in JAM - the Japan Art and Media Workshop of the 1970s - 1980s plus an artists talk featuring artists Stephanie Lowe and Nancy Hom, moderated by educator and artist Katie Quan.
The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t a Guy at All - Kinokuniya Worldwide POP-UP
The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t a Guy at All - Kinokuniya Worldwide POP-UP
Starting 2/19 (Thu) - 3/22 (Sun)
To celebrate the release of the The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t a Guy at All, Vol. 4 in Japanese, Kinokuniya stores worldwide will host a pop-up shop for the award-winning manga series by Sumiko Arai from 2/19 - 3/22.
The pop-up shop will offer a variety of merchandise featuring newly drawn illustrations of Mitsuki and Aya, as well as other beautiful art from the manga.
* Please note that this merchandise will be available in our physical stores only and will not be available online at this time.
KOHO Carnaval
Join the World Dance and World Music students from Ruth Asawa School of the Arts and community artists for a vibrant celebration of culture and rhythm. Every beat helps fundraise for our cultural exchange trip to Bahia, Brazil!
Experience the Magic:
Live Performances: High-energy Frevo, Samba Reggae, Locomotiva, and Capoeira with live drumming!
Interactive Fun: Face decoration booth, dance classes, Brazilian foods and drinks and more!
Your support ensures every student can join this life-changing journey. See you on the dance floor! 🔥🎶
San Francisco Interfaith Winter Shelter Program @ Konko Church of SF
San Francisco Interfaith Winter Shelter Program
Please join us preparing and serving dinner for the homeless!
Since 1988, the San Francisco Interfaith Council, Episcopal Community Services and the current Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing have partnered to operate the San Francisco Interfaith Winter Shelter. This event is part of an ongoing partnership between our church and these organizations.
Designed to augment existing shelter opportunities during the coldest months of the year, the Interfaith Winter Shelter provides dinner, breakfast and a safe and warm overnight rest for up to 100 homeless guests each night.
Please email Rev. Rodney Yano at ryano@konkosf.org or the church at kcsf@konkosf.org for a sign-up link.
San Francisco Interfaith Winter Shelter Program @ Konko Church of San Francisco
Please join us preparing and serving dinner for the homeless!
Since 1988, the San Francisco Interfaith Council, Episcopal Community Services and the current Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing have partnered to operate the San Francisco Interfaith Winter Shelter. This event is part of an ongoing partnership between our church and these organizations.
Designed to augment existing shelter opportunities during the coldest months of the year, the Interfaith Winter Shelter provides dinner, breakfast and a safe and warm overnight rest for up to 100 homeless guests each night.
Please email Rev. Rodney Yano at ryano@konkosf.org or the church at kcsf@konkosf.org for a sign-up link.
Wholecloth Quilt Sewing Workshop w/ Katie Furukawa Bonifacio of Old River Design Co. @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
1 session, 6 hours with a 45 minute lunch break
Instructor Katie Furukawa Bonifacio of Old River Design Co. will guide you in creating a unique and cherished wholecloth baby quilt – perfect for a memorable but not too complicated gift!
Learn to cut adorable applique letters and apply them to your chosen fabric using fusible web. We’ll finish the edges with curved bias binding, adding a special touch to this handmade treasure. Even with beginner quilting experience, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind quilt that showcases your creativity and love.
While the sample quilt shows a name, you can also choose to do a monogram or a simple graphic, such as a flower, anchor, or footprint.
There will be a lunch break from 1:00pm – 1:45pm. Lunch is not provided – please bring a brown bag lunch or plan to grab takeout nearby.
Please note that participants in future Tezukuri Handcraft sewing workshops will need to know the skills taught in our Introduction to Sewing series in order to participate. Space is limited. Please e-mail us at programsevents@jcccnc.org if you are unable to register and would like to placed on a waitlist.
Spring Music At the Malls @ Japan Center East Mall, 1F
Spring Music at the Malls
Join Homestead High School Choir as they sing songs from all over the world.
Haru no Ikebana | Spring Japanese Flower Arrangement Workshop 2026 @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Haru no Ikebana | Spring Japanese Flower Arrangement Workshop 2026
Join us in person for a fun and relaxing Ikebana workshop celebrating the beauty of spring! Whether you're a newbie or have tried Japanese flower arranging before, this event is perfect to get hands-on and create stunning floral art. It's all about creativity, nature, and chill vibes. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with flowers and friends in a cozy setting. See you there and let’s make some spring magic together!
This workshop is instructd by Connie Chen & Leona Fung, both study Ikebana under Sensei Fusako Seiga Hoyrup of the Wafu School of Ikebana. They are instructors for the Wafu School at Fremont Unified School District Adult Education, and both hold a Gakukan degree in Ikebana.
Please check in 15 minutes before the session starts.
Session 1: 12:30 pm - 1:45 pm
Session 2: 2:15 pm - 3:30 pm
10 seats per session.
American Red Cross Blood Drive w/ Wallenberg High School Students @ KOHO Creative Hub
American Red Cross Blood Drive w/ Wallenberg High School Students @ KOHO Creative Hub [1675 Post Street, San Francisco, CA. 94115]
Saturday March 14. 2026, 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Introduction to Sewing: 2-Part Workshop Series – April 2026 @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Introduction to Sewing: 2-Part Workshop Series – April 2026
Instructor: Katie Furukawa Bonifacio of Old River Design Co.
Never sewn before? No worries! Learn the basics of how to use a sewing machine and all of its features, including: winding a bobbin, finishing edges, and installing zippers.
We will also go over how to choose fabric and thread, cutting fabric, and sewing terminology. All tools, including sewing machines, and materials are included in your registration fee.
By the end of your second session, you will have your own handmade zip pouch to take home.
Please note that participants in future Tezukuri Handcraft sewing workshops will need to know the skills taught in our Introduction to Sewing series in order to participate. Space is limited. Please e-mail us at programsevents@jcccnc.org if you are unable to register and would like to placed on a waitlist.
Annual San Francisco Interfaith Ramadan Dinner @ Grace Cathedral
🌙✨ ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO INTERFAITH RAMADAN IFTAR DINNER ✨🌙
🤝 Fasting, Caring for Our Neighbors, and Responding to Today’s Challenges
📅 Wednesday, March 11
⏰ 6:00 PM
Grace Cathedral, Gresham Hall
1100 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
🕰 Program Schedule
🚪 5:30 PM Doors Open
🎤 6:00 PM Program with Community Leaders
🍽 7:15 PM Iftar Dinner
✨ You are cordially invited to join faith leaders, community leaders, civic officials, and distinguished guests for an evening of reflection, dialogue, and fellowship during the holy month of Ramadan. This annual interfaith gathering is dedicated to strengthening mutual understanding, compassion, and shared commitment to serving our neighbors and responding collectively to today’s challenges.
🤲 We look forward to welcoming you to this meaningful evening of unity, reflection, and community.
Link if you would like to donate: https://shorturl.at/E6CXZ
Community Kitchen – Shabu Shabu @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Community Kitchen – Shabu Shabu
Come enjoy a classic shabu shabu dinner at our next Community Kitchen night! Organized by volunteers, this event brings members of our community together to learn how to cook Japanese and Japanese American family recipes while also sharing in a multi-generational communal dinner. Community Kitchen began by adapting the Baachan’s Kitchen program from 2016 and continues to grow each year – it is open to all, so come enjoy and share Japanese home-style cooking while connecting with the community! Register by Friday, March 6th!
Every dinner has a curated menu that is determined in advance by the Community Kitchen volunteer committee, who then teach the attendees hands-on how to prepare the dishes for the dinner. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are welcome! Just come prepared to cook, clean up, and most importantly, have a great time!
Boy Scouts Troop 58 Curry Fundraiser
3/1—**Sunday, ORDER DEADLINE** Boy Scout Troop 58, Chicken Curry Fundraiser & Bake Sale!
This Sunday is the order deadline for Boy Scout Troop 58’s chicken curry fundraiser and bake sale! Get your orders in today for some delicious curry, knowing that your donation will fund troop activities in Kyoto.
Saturday, March 7, 2026. Take-Out only. Curb-side pick up from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Konko Church of San Francisco, 1755 Laguna Street @ Bush St.
$15.00 Suggested Donation per Curry order. Each curry will have Chicken or Veggie Curry (Fried Tofu), White Rice, and Fukujinzuke Pickles. BAKE SALE will also be set up on the Laguna St side.
Proceeds will help support our sister Troop in Kyoto, Karasuma Boy Scouts Troop 7 and Girl Scouts Troop 1, next Summer of 2027.
Deadline is 3/1/26.
Please call or text Rev. Rodney Yano at 415-517-1214 or email at ryano@konkosf.org
Master Crafts Traditional & Contemporary via Zoom
*Online program
Japanese craftsmanship transcends time. This online presentation showcases ten essential genres of master artistry — ceramics, indigo dyeing, metal, and more — and contrasts familiar traditional forms that have endured for generations with bold contemporary expressions often using identical techniques. Creating both the classical and modern forms demand the same unwavering commitment: 7 to 10 years of rigorous apprenticeship. Experience how Japan’s craftspeople bridge past and present without compromise. Additionally, learn how the JapanCraft21 building school has graduated 17 young working carpenters in the almost lost art of advanced joinery.
Date: Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 from 5-6:30 PM PDT / Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 from 10-11:30 AM JST
Venue: Online via Zoom (You will receive the Zoom link after registration)
Agenda:
5:00-5:05 PM Opening Remarks
5:05-6:00 PM Presentation by Steve Beimel
6:00-6:10 PM Moderated Discussion led by Steve Pollock
6:10-6:25 PM Q&A
6:25-6:30 PM Closing Remarks
Haru no Shodo: Spring Japanese Calligraphy Workshop 2026 @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Haru no Shodo | Spring Japanese Calligraphy 2026 Workshop
Join us in person for Haru no Shodo, a fun and creative calligraphy workshop celebrating the fresh vibes of spring! Whether you're a beginner or just want to brush up your skills, this is the perfect chance to explore the beauty of traditional Japanese writing with a relaxed, friendly crowd. Bring your enthusiasm and let your creativity flow!
Instructed by Junko Shikata, she has studied calligraphy at the Nichirenji Temple in San Francisco since 1987, learning under Archbishop Nitten Ishida and later Ms. Keigetsu Kikuchi. Following their retirement and passing, she returned to the temple in 2018 to serve as the calligraphy instructor.
Lunar New Year Party with Hennessey @ Hotel Kabuki
Join us for an evening of delicious food and drinks as well as immersive cultural experiences!
With ticket purchase, enjoy custom Lunar New Year-inspired beverages by Hennessey, including Hennessey cocktail tasting experiences, handmade dumplings from RestaurantXO, desserts from Ohana Florals and Sweets, Lion Dancing from West Coast Lion Dance Troup, live music, interactive cultural demonstrations and more!
In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse is associated with power, wealth, success, and progress. People born in the Year of the Horse are believed to be adventurous, hardworking, and charismatic. The teams at Hotel Kabuki and Hennessey are pleased to bring you a festive evening in celebration of the fortuitous return of the Fire Horse.
Spring Wagashi Virtual Cooking Workshop
Saturday, February 28, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Instructors: Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi
$25 Center Members, $30 General Public
Connect via Zoom; Meeting ID and password to be issued upon registration
Join us for our virtual Spring Wagashi Sweets Workshop! Our instructors Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi will show you step by step how to the perfect menu and dishes over Zoom.
This spring Japanese wagashi sweet making workshop will feature sakuramochi, tsubakimochi and kinton. Sakuramochi (cherry blossom mochi) is a salt cured cherry leaf wrapped around sweet mochi rice that has a center of sweet bean paste. The rice with bean paste is also placed between two camellia leaves and is called tsubakimochi. Kinton is a more formal style tea ceremony sweet. It is fashioned with different color strands of sweet bean paste. Seasonal variations are created using a different color palette. Easy to follow recipes and a video recording link will be provided to all registrants.
Spring Wagashi Virtual Cooking Workshop @ JCCCNC
Saturday, February 28, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Instructors: Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi
$25 Center Members, $30 General Public
Connect via Zoom; Meeting ID and password to be issued upon registration
Join us for our virtual Spring Wagashi Sweets Workshop! Our instructors Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi will show you step by step how to the perfect menu and dishes over Zoom.
This spring Japanese wagashi sweet making workshop will feature sakuramochi, tsubakimochi and kinton. Sakuramochi (cherry blossom mochi) is a salt cured cherry leaf wrapped around sweet mochi rice that has a center of sweet bean paste. The rice with bean paste is also placed between two camellia leaves and is called tsubakimochi. Kinton is a more formal style tea ceremony sweet. It is fashioned with different color strands of sweet bean paste. Seasonal variations are created using a different color palette. Easy to follow recipes and a video recording link will be provided to all registrants.
JOJOCARAVAN @ Kinokuniya
Join us for JOJOCARAVAN, and celebrate the anime adaptation of STEEL BALL RUN JoJo‘s Bizarre Adventure at select Kinokuniya stores!
Set in 1890, the story follows a cross-continental horse race from west to east. Just like the manga itself, JOJOCARAVAN will travel across the U.S., starting with our store in Seattle and making its way to New York!
Art Exhibit
A showcase of reproduced original artworks from Steel Ball Run, including color illustrations from its serialization and black-and-white manuscript pages.
Schedule:
2/27 ~ 3/8: San Francisco
3/20 ~ 3/29: Carrollton
* Tickets are not required to see the exhibition.
Special Merchandise
Don't miss your chance to get special JOJOCARAVAN merchandise featuring the artwork from manga and anime from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Series! Available until 3/29 at the following stores
Seattle
Portland
Beaverton
San Francisco
San Jose
Carrollton
Plano
Austin
Katy
Creating Peace from War - Marking 80 Years After Hiroshima: “Paper Lanterns, ” A Documentary Film
Please join the Consulate General of Japan, the San Francisco-Osaka Sister City Association, the Japantown Cultural District, and the San Francisco Public Library for a special film and discussion event.
Creating Peace from War - Marking 80 Years After Hiroshima: “Paper Lanterns,” A Documentary Film by Director Barry Frechette & Discussion with Producer Nobuko Saito Cleary
5 pm, Doors Open; 5:30-7:30 pm Program
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Koret Auditorium, San Francisco Main Library
100 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Special greetings by Consul General of Japan Kotaro Otsuki, San Francisco City Librarian Michael Lambert, San Francisco-Osaka Sister City Association Executive Director MIsako Sack. Emceed by Dr. Emily Murase.
This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
Young Professionals Group (YPG) Happy Hour 2026
**Please note that all drinks and food are self-pay.
We’re kicking off our 2026 YPG activities with a casual happy hour in San Francisco! Southside Spirit House offers a selection of non-alcoholic drinks and small bites. They also offer a happy hour until 6 pm, so come early!
Come connect with new people, learn about the Japan Society’s upcoming programs, and let us know what you’d like to see from YPG this year.
Date & Time:
Wednesday, February 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM PST
Venue:
Southside Spirit House | 575 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Want to stay up-to-date about the latest YPG and related events? Join the YPG email group: Sign Up for the YPG Newsletter
Tsuru Mizuhiki Knot Workshop @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Sunday, February 22, 2026
1:00 - 3:00pm
In-person at The Center
Instructor: Kathy Yoshida of Hanko Designs
$40 Members $50 General Public
Whether you’re brand new or returning to refine your skills, this workshop with Kathy Yoshida is a wonderful chance to explore or deepen your Mizuhiki craft. You’ll learn to tie the foundational Awaji knot and discover the rich history behind this centuries-old Japanese art form. All materials are included, and no prior experience is needed!
Mizuhiki are beautifully arranged Japanese paper cords tied into decorative designs and knots, often used as embellishments and decorations. This ancient craft originated over 1500 years ago during the Asuka Era,(late 500’s) as a way to embellish gifts. Initially, only red and white cords were used, but today, dozens of different colors and shades, along with textures are available. The primary purpose for this craft today, however, is still to enhance and decorate gifts. The Japanese symbolism of mizuhiki is “musubi” (結び) or “tying together” – a way to connect with the person receiving the gift.
About Hanko Designs
The word “Hanko” means “stamp” or “seal” in Japanese. A hanko stamp is used to “sign” official documents. Hanko Designs is an online store specializing in supplying cardmakers and artists with Asian themed craft products. They provide a wide selection of Japanese washi paper, Asian art stamps, and craft accessories. Hanko Designs strives to find fun and innovative products from around the world, with some items exclusively produced for them. Hanko Designs is owned and operated by Kathy and Norman Yoshida out of Alameda, California.
You can shop online at Hanko Designs website at: https://hankodesigns.com/
Karaoke Nights 2026 @ Konko Church of San Francisco
We will have our next CommUnity event on Saturday, February 21 from 6:00pm – 10:00pm in the Community Hall of the Church.
Live Band Karaoke by the talented Yatsunami Band! Potluck! Come hang out with us in this safe & welcoming CommUnity!
Film Screening: Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America
Experience Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America, a documentary film featuring youth activists and educators around the U.S. who are utilizing Asian American Studies to shape a movement. Screening is followed by a panel discussion including Making Waves co-directors, Josh Chuck and Jon Osaki, with local youth activists from AAPI Youth Rising, who are featured in the film. Space limited. Reservations required.
1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Documentary Screening in Koret Auditorium
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m.: Panel discussion in Koret Auditorium
2:45 p.m.–3:00 p.m.: Mingling with film makers and AAPI Youth Rising in Koret Lobby
Nichi Bei Foundation's Films of Remembrance @ AMC Kabuki 8
Since 2012, the Nichi Bei Foundation has presented Films of Remembrance as the premier showcase of films commemorating the forced incarceration of Japanese Americans in American concentration camps during World War II. Now, in addition to the annual screenings, the Nichi Bei Foundation is making a curated collection of films available for online streaming on the new Films of Remembrance On Demand platform. Join us in our mission to ensure these important stories are never forgotten.
2026 Films of Remembrance
For 2026, Films of Remembrance will be presented in San Francisco’s and San Jose’s Japantowns on February 21–22, 2026. Additional screenings in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo and in Gardena, CA are scheduled for March 28-29, 2026. Visit the event website for program information and tickets.
Intro to Yoga @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Saturday, February 21, 2026
10:00am – 11:00am
Location: The Center
Fees: $8 Center Members, $10 General Public
The Center is excited to announce an upcoming Intro to Yoga class with instructor Mayo Hunt! This rejuvenating workshop opens with a mindful Vinyasa yoga practice, seamlessly linking breath and movement to gently awaken the body, build warmth, and cultivate both flexibility and grounded stability.
Flowing sequences invite participants to move with intention, invigorating the body while cultivating both flexibility and stability. Rather than striving for perfection, the practice encourages awareness of the breath and body in the present moment, allowing each participant to move at their own pace. After the Vinyasa flow, the session transitions into a 15-minute Singing Bowl Sound Bath, where the gentle, resonant vibrations of singing bowls envelop the group. These soothing tones help dissolve accumulated tension, quiet the mind, and invite the nervous system to deeply rest and reset. Participants will leave feeling lighter in body, calmer in mind, and profoundly refreshed, and will carry this sense of ease and renewal into their daily lives.