Community Events
“I Am An American: The Nisei Soldier Experience” @ Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning Center
Introducing: “I Am An American: The Nisei Soldier Experience”
A New Traveling Exhibit Debuting at the Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning Center in San Francisco
On View to the Public: February 23, 2026 to September 13, 2026
Admission: $15. Free to veterans, children 12 & under, NJAHS members.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 12pm to 5pm
Am An American: The Nisei Soldier Experience” is a new traveling exhibit that tells the storied history of second-generation Americans of Japanese ancestry, known as “Nisei,” who demonstrated their loyalty during World War II by enlisting to serve in the U.S. Army. In the exhibit, their service is recounted against the backdrop of fear and racial tension that inspired thousands to volunteer from Hawaii and drove the U.S. government to remove Japanese Americans and people of Japanese ancestry on the West Coast to ten Wartime Relocation Authority (WRA) Incarceration Camps during the war.Through 1,800 square feet of immersive storytelling, the exhibition showcases firsthand accounts, rare artifacts, and evocative images that reveal how the Nisei Soldiers’ service became a defining testament to courage, sacrifice, and belonging. Visitors will encounter the remarkable stories of the Nisei Soldiers who served in the European Theater as part of the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team—one of the most highly decorated units in military history—and in the Pacific Theater as linguists in the U.S. Army’s Military Intelligence ServiceLaunching this February 2026 at the MIS Historic Learning Center at the Presidio in San Francisco, this national five-year tour will travel to 11 venues across the United States.For more information about this exhibit’s national launch, visit nvnvets.org/exhibit.
Artwork by Chris Shinya Tomine Exhibition @ National Japanese American Historical Society
Artwork by Chris Shinya Tomine
July 1, 2026 – September 28, 2026
NJAHS Japantown Peace Gallery
1684 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
Peace Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday, First Saturdays each month: 12 Noon-5PM
Presented by the National Japanese American Historical Society, the Buddhist Temple of Alameda Celebrating the Temple’s 110th Anniversary, with support from Grants for the Arts.
Come to the National Japanese American Historical Society’s Peace Gallery in San Francisco Japantown to experience a curated exhibit of artwork by Chris Shinya Tomine, including a 20-year retrospective of past Buddhist Temple of Alameda Obon and Bazaar posters!
Japantenna Presents: Japantown 120th Anniversary Photo Contest
Japantenna invites photographers of all levels to participate in our second annual Social Media Photo Contest, held in celebration of Japantown’s 120th anniversary. Submit up to five photos that are a reflection of the theme “My Japantown,” however it is that you interpret it.
Submission Period: August 1–31, 2026
Submissions are open from August 1 through August 31. Please review the contest rules by clicking the button below before submitting your entry.
Kimochi, Inc. Bingo @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Kimochi, Inc. Bingo!
August 20, 2026. 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
1840 Sutter Street. San Francisco, CA. 94115
Register with Grace Hulleza via email: ghuzella@kimochi-inc.org
Seated Exercise w/ Kimochi, Inc. and instructor Laura Cohen
Every Wednesday 8/19/26 - 10/28/26. 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Register with Grace Hulleza via email: ghuzella@kimochi-inc.org
Gunplamo (Gunpla Social) @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Gunplamo (Gunpla Social)
Are you a fan of the iconic mecha anime Gundam? Join the community in building the popular Japanese mecha models! Gunpla models allows individuals to showcase their craftsmanship and attention to detail creating miniature works of art! Whether you are a seasoned builder or a newcomer to the world of Gundam, this event will be a fun and enriching opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. (Never a better time to start going through your backlog!)
Participants below the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian throughout the event.
An Invitation to Koto Music @ Hotel Kabuki
An Invitation to Koto Music presented by Seiha Hogakukai USA
Place： Hotel Kabuki, Imperial Ballroom (Garden level)
Date： AUGUST 23, 2026 (Sunday) Start 1:00 PM, Doors Open 12:30 PM
Ticket $31.00 (incl. $1.00 booking fee)
Experience the Beauty of Japanese Traditional Music
Direct from Japan, a special performance by the Headmistress and Vice Head of Seiha Music School (Seiha Hōgaku-kai), a 113-year-old music school of Japanese traditional instruments. Together with members of Seiha Japan and Seiha USA from the Bay Area and Nationwide, experience the unique sound of traditional and contemporary sounds of koto, sangen (shamisen) and kokyu (Japanese bowed instrument).
The program includes Godan Ginuta, Hiyaku, Ballad, Yugao, Raden, and Yuki Ningyō, offering a variety of perspectives through which to enjoy the distinctive beauty of Japanese koto music.
Film Screening: KŪKAI @ San Francisco Public Library
Event Details
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
Admission Time: 1:00 PM
Screening Time: 1:30 PM
Venue: San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102
What to Expect
A 90-minute screening of KŪKAI
A post-screening Q&A with members of the film’s creative team
The film features Chinese narration with English subtitles
For more details, please visit the official website: https://www.kukaimovie.com
About KŪKAI
KŪKAI is a Mandarin-language documentary directed by Chinese filmmaker Yue Ye. The film follows the journey of Kūkai, the Buddhist monk who traveled to Tang China in 804 AD to study under Master Huiguo, and explores the transmission of Buddhist teachings, Tang-era culture and ideas across East Asia. The 90-minute documentary is presented with Chinese narration and English subtitles.
Origami Palooza @ Hotel Kabuki, Japan Center East Mall
Join us for a day packed full of fun folding at this year’s Origami-Palooza!
Learn from one of our special guests or check out various classes for different levels, competition, and free workshops.
Sunday August 30 from 11-4pm in the Hotel Kabuki and Japan Center East Mall.
GOLDEN GATE CARD SHOW @ Hotel Kabuki
🌉 GOLDEN GATE CARD SHOW · SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 🌉
The entire Pokémon world is in San Francisco at the end of the month. With the biggest Pokémon weekend on the planet this year, we’re running our card show right in the middle of it!
Don’t have a ticket to PokémonXP? We got you! Come join the party at Hotel Kabuki 🎟️
💵 $5 entry at the door
🧒 Kids get in free
🏨 Free for Hotel Kabuki guests
🃏 Dozens of vendors: singles, sealed, vintage, slabs
📍 Hotel Kabuki ballroom, 1625 Post Street, SF
Pack your binders and come trade with the whole world. See you in Japantown!
BonPOP 2026 @ San Francisco Botanical Gardens Fountain Plaza
We’re excited to welcome you back for 2026!
KOHO and Gardens of Golden Gate Park are excited to present the fifth annual KOHO BonPop community Bon Odori festival on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at the San Francisco Botanical Gardens Fountain Plaza.
Event Schedule:
2-4 pm: Vendors & Activities
4-6 pm: Bon Odori Dancing
43rd Annual Kimochi Golf Tournament @ Richmond Country Club
43rd Annual Kimochi Golf Tournament for the benefit of Kimochi, Inc.
$330.00 for four players
The entry fee includes golf, carts, range balls, one mulligan, closest-to-the-pin contests, lunch, and a prime rib dinner.
Side Game Options : 2 Mulligans: $30, 50/50: $30. Closest to the pin hole (half of the pot goes to the closest shot and the other half supports Kimochi)
This event will be an individual 18-hole medal play competition. Currently, the committee plans for three flights including a ladies flight.
Raffle featuring golf clubs, gift certificates, and many other exciting prizes.
Prizes for all par 3 hole in ones and closest to the pins.
Awards will be made for each flight in addition to “Field Low Net” (Tournament Champion) and “Field Low Gross”.
Special senior award.
Demon Slayer Voice Actor Signing @ Japan Center Malls
Demon Slayer Voice Actor Signing Event
Sep 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM PDT
Japan Center East Malls, 1737 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
Featuring Johnny Young Bosch, Ray Chase, and Mark Whitten
Demon Slayer Voice Actor Signing @ Japan Center Malls
Demon Slayer Voice Actor Signing Event
Sep 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM PDT
Japan Center East Malls, 1737 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
Featuring Johnny Young Bosch, Ray Chase, and Mark Whitten
2026 SAN FRANCISCO ALOHA RUN @ Crissy Field, San Francisco
JCYC’s 16th Annual SF Aloha Run 5K, 10K, Keiki Mile, and Keiki Trot will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at Crissy Field in San Francisco.
Register now until July 29!
For the past 16 years, the San Francisco Aloha Run has brought together individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join an uplifting and healthy movement that supports the local community. The 2026 San Francisco Aloha Run is a platform for all of us to educate and lead by example through individual acts of kindness and hope.
Proceeds from the run will provide scholarships for low-income, first-generation college students through the JCYC Scholarship Programs. By registering and fundraising, you're helping shape a brighter future for the children and youth in our community and beyond. Donations are tax-deductible!
To learn more about our impact, visit sfaloharun.org/impact.
Packet pickup will be on Saturday, September 19 from 10 AM - 3 PM at Sports Basement Presidio and is required for all runners.
Rakugo and Matcha | Laugh and Sip Experience
Laugh, sip tea, and experience the vibrant heart of Japanese storytelling and tea ceremony all in one cozy afternoon hosted in Japantown SF!
Rakugo & Matcha - Laugh & Sip Experience-
Enjoy two of Japan’s most treasured traditions in one unforgettable afternoon. Experience the traditional storytelling art of Rakugo alongside an authentic Matcha tea service at the Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center brought you by the Japantown Cultural District.
You're invited to laugh, relax, and connect with Japanese culture. Whether you are new to traditional Japanese arts or looking to deepen your appreciation, this event offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where stories and tea come together to create a truly memorable experience.
📅 Event Details & Schedule
Date: Saturday, August 15
Workshop Sessions (Select your preferred time slot at checkout):
*Please check in 15 minutes before the session starts.
Session 1: *12N
Session 2: *3 pm
Location: Japantown Visitor Center, Japan Center EAST Mall, 2nd Floor,
1737 Post Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115
Website: japantownculturaldistrict.org/community-events
Follow Us: @japantownculturaldistrict
🎟️ Tickets & Registration
Price: $25 per ticket (+ Eventbrite service fees)
Limited Capacity: Spots fill up quickly. Be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible for this unique experience!
🪭 Meet Your Event Hosts
Noah Soei Leong: Rakugo Performer
High school senior Noah Leong is one of the very few Rakugo performers in San Francisco, bringing Japan's classic "sit-down" comedy storytelling art to life.
Kazuki Nakajima: Matcha Master
Founder of MAORA LLC and Secretary General of the Japan Cultural Heritage Association, Kazuki oversees the Traditional Culture Stage at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai and shares Japanese wellness through the art of tea ceremony.
Japanese Language Lounge @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Join our Japanese Language Lounge for casual conversation, cultural exchange, and Japanese language practice. All levels are welcome!
Japanese Language Lounge (JLL) Overview
The Japanese Language Lounge (JLL) is a casual conversation gathering designed for people interested in practicing Japanese and learning about Japanese culture. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate learner, native speaker, or simply curious about Japan, JLL provides a welcoming environment to connect, communicate, and build confidence in Japanese.
The hour-long sessions feature diverse themes, such as travel, food, hobbies, seasonal traditions, and everyday life in Japan. Participants engage in small-group conversations, interactive activities, and cultural exchange while practicing speaking and listening skills.
JLL is organized by the Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center and facilitated by native Japanese instructor and Japantown Navigators. The goal is to create a fun and supportive community where people can learn from one another, make new friends, and deepen their appreciation of Japanese language and culture.
Current Schedule: Twice monthly on Sundays through September 27, 2026, except July 29.
Location: Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center, Japan Center East Mall, 2nd Floor
Admission: $15 + Eventbrite service fee.
A Remembrance for Peace: Commemorating Hiroshima and Nagasaki @ Konko Church of San Francisco
Join us for a special screening of White Light / Black Rain, the Primetime Emmy Award-winning film by filmmaker Steven Okazaki, who will introduce the film. Presented by the Nichi Bei Foundation and Friends of Hibakusha.
WHEN
Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
1 p.m.
WHERE
Konko Church of San Francisco
1909 Bush St. in SF Japantown
Natsu No Ikebana - Flower Arrangement Workshop
Overview
Experience traditional art of Japanese flower arrangement at Natsu No Ikebana, a hands-on flower arrangement workshop hosted at Japantown SF
Natsu No Ikebana | Summer Japanese Flower Arrangement
Celebrate summer with us in-person and experience traditional art of Japanese flower arrangement! Natsu No Ikebana is a hands-on flower arrangement workshop presented by the Japantown Cultural District.
Whether you are a beginner curious about Ikebana or looking to refine your floral design skills, this interactive class offers step-by-step guidance from expert instructors in a welcoming atmosphere 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!
📅 Event Details & Schedule
Date: Saturday, August 8
Workshop Sessions (Select your preferred time slot at checkout):
*Please check in 15 minutes before the session starts.
Session 1: *12N – 1:45 pm
Session 2: *2 pm – 3:15 pm
Location: Japantown Visitor Center, Japan Center EAST Mall, 2nd Floor, 1737 Post Street, San Francisco, CA, 94115
Website: japantownculturaldistrict.org/community-events
Follow Us: @japantownculturaldistrict
🎟️ Tickets & Registration
Price: $35 per ticket (+ Eventbrite service fees)
What’s Included: All floral materials, supplies, and tools are included with your ticket price! You’ll get to create and take home your own custom Ikebana flower arrangement.
Limited Capacity: To ensure personalized instruction, each workshop session is strictly limited to 10–12 participants (24 total spots across both sessions). Spaces fill up fast, so reserve your spot early!
🌸 Meet Your Instructors
Yoko Tahara (Flower Master & Instructor) began her journey with Ikebana in her early 20s in Japan. After moving to the United States in 1991, she continued her dedicated study of the art form. She currently holds the prestigious First Master degree in Ikebana from the Ohara School and has been teaching Ikebana across the San Francisco Peninsula since 2008.
Yoshiko Gill (Flower Master & Instructor) is a master instructor in Japanese flower arrangement bringing years of expertise, technique, and passion to the workshop. They are rooted in their deep respect for nature and mindfulness, bringing a balanced and grounded approach to the art of Ikebana.
J-Town Community Clean-Up Day
It’s about to go down in J-Town! Join the Japantown Community Benefits District, Refuse Refuse, SF Public Works, and community for a friendly neighborhood cleanup!
Volunteers will meet in front of Kippu Restaurant (1707 Buchanan St) on Osaka Way to grab our supplies and form our crew. Then, cleaning will occur from 10:00am to 11:30am around the neighborhood. Join us after to celebrate our good work.
Sign up today and let’s beautify San Francisco together!
Organizer: Brandon, Grace
By participating or registering in a cleanup or volunteer event, I acknowledge and agree to the Civic Joy Fund and Refuse Refuse volunteer waivers: https://civicjoyfund.org/volunteer - https://refuserefusesf.org/waiver
Mini Zen Garden Workshop @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Transform your home with your very own functional zen garden! Destress and express your creativity by making your own personalized garden at our Mini Zen Garden Workshop.
Mini Zen gardens act as both beautiful decorations and interactive mindfulness tools. By creating patterns with a rake, these tabletop gardens have a calming and meditative effect. At this workshop, participants will use sand, moss, rocks, and more to decorate Zen gardens and learn mindfulness techniques they can use at home. Zen garden materials and refreshments provided!
This workshop was planned and will be led by one of our 2026 Kase Interns, Alicia Tan.
Anmitsu Social @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Looking for a fun, hands-on way to spend your evening? Join us for Anmitsu Social, where you’ll make your own ice cream from scratch to go along this beloved Japanese dessert!
As you make and assemble your creations, you’ll have plenty of time to meet new people, chat, and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you come with friends or on your own, you’ll leave with new skills, great conversations, and a delicious dessert you made yourself. Come hungry and make sweet memories with us!
This workshop was planned and will be led by one of our 2026 Kase Interns, Casey Niwa!
Remembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki Cascade Ceremony @ Japanese Tea Garden
Participants are asked to arrive at the Japanese Tea Garden by 3 pm for a brief setup and rehearsal before the water-pouring and purification ceremony.
Japanese Language Lounge @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
The Japanese Language Lounge (JLL) is a casual conversation gathering designed for people interested in practicing Japanese and learning about Japanese culture. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate learner, native speaker, or simply curious about Japan, JLL provides a welcoming environment to connect, communicate, and build confidence in Japanese.
The hour-long sessions feature diverse themes, such as travel, food, hobbies, seasonal traditions, and everyday life in Japan. Participants engage in small-group conversations, interactive activities, and cultural exchange while practicing speaking and listening skills.
JLL is organized by the Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center and facilitated by native Japanese instructor and Japantown Navigators. The goal is to create a fun and supportive community where people can learn from one another, make new friends, and deepen their appreciation of Japanese language and culture.
Current Schedule: Twice monthly on Sundays through September 27, 2026, except July 29.
Location: Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center, Japan Center East Mall, 2nd Floor
Admission: $10 + Eventbrite service fee (registration encouraged) Special session $25 + Eventbrite Service fee (8/16 & 9/27)
52nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair @ Japantown SF
Get ready for a vibrant cultural explosion! The 52nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair returns to San Francisco’s Japantown on August 1st & 2nd, 2026.
United together since 1974, we have spent over half a century bringing our AAPI communities together to honor our roots and build our future. At its heart, the Nihonmachi Street Fair builds a culture of unity, belonging, and camaraderie, creating a space where every voice is celebrated and every generation feels at home.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend honoring the rich traditions and dazzling diversity of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
52nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair @ Japantown SF
Get ready for a vibrant cultural explosion! The 52nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair returns to San Francisco’s Japantown on August 1st & 2nd, 2026.
United together since 1974, we have spent over half a century bringing our AAPI communities together to honor our roots and build our future. At its heart, the Nihonmachi Street Fair builds a culture of unity, belonging, and camaraderie, creating a space where every voice is celebrated and every generation feels at home.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend honoring the rich traditions and dazzling diversity of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
Karaoke Nights 2026 @ Konko Church of San Francisco
You're Invited to a Fun-Filled Karaoke Night!
Join us for an evening of singing, laughter, and delicious food at our Karaoke Event! We will also have an exciting raffle and a chili oil tasting and a potluck with catered food options.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 23rd
Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Konko Church Social Hall
Featuring an Exclusive Raffle: Gifts from the Japantown Visitor's Center!
Raffle Information:
Participate in our raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes!
For your donations you will receive: $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!
POTLUCK OPPORTUNITY! Show off your skills or bring a purchased food item sharing your taste with the group. Participants are encouraged to bring a dish or drink to share.
*Special Appreciation Ceremony: We will be recognizing our We Are One volunteers who marched with us at the Chinese New Year Parade at this Karaoke Night.
Let’s make this a night to remember!
Tanabata Star Festival @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Celebrate the Tanabata Star Festival over two weekends in San Francisco Japantown! Enjoy colorful decorations and holiday deals, write your wishes on tanzaku wish strips, and experience one of Japan's most beloved seasonal traditions.
Tōrō Nagashi Floating Lantern Festival @ Sokoji Zen Mission Parking Lot
In Japan, it is said that the spirits of our ancestors come back annually to visit us for several days in middle of July of the lunar year. It is at this time that food is offered at the altar and a visit to the grave is made to welcome and remember our ancestors.
Some regions of Japan also light bonfires so that the ancestors will find their way to visit their families, while other areas make paper lanterns (toro) that are cast down the river with the names of those who have passed away or a message for them to read.
We hope that you will take this time to remember your ancestors and wish them a safe journey back home by writing a special message on your toro.
Each Toro ordered is handmade with a picture and name written on it.
On the day of the event, guests will enjoy yakitori and onigiri bento, as well as a variety of drinks, desserts, and snacks.
We are prepared to provide entertainment until dark.
Please join us and invite your friends and family.
Tanabata Star Festival @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Celebrate the Tanabata Star Festival over two weekends in San Francisco Japantown! Enjoy colorful decorations and holiday deals, write your wishes on tanzaku wish strips, and experience one of Japan's most beloved seasonal traditions.
JCCCNC Summer Kaiseki Virtual Cooking Workshop Via Zoom
Learn to prepare a seasonal kaiseki multi-course Japanese meal with instructors Larry Sokyo Tiscornia and Kimika Soko Takechi in this virtual cooking workshop. This summer's menu features chilled somen noodles with prawns, nasudengaku (grilled miso-glazed eggplant), a vegetarian tahini miso salad, miso soup, and rice. Recipes will be provided in advance, and a recording will be available after the workshop.
Nakayoshi Annual Welcome Picnic @ Sign Room in Presidio Sports Basement
Looking to meet new people and get involved in the Japanese American and APA community? Join Nakayoshi's biggest social event of the year to connect with young professionals, recent graduates, and community members. This free picnic is potluck-style, and guests are encouraged to bring food or beverages.
Second Annual Kintsugi 2026 Healing Conference @ Hotel Kabuki
Join Kintsugi 2026: A Space for Japanese American Healing & Community Repair. Inspired by the art of mending broken pottery with gold, Kintsugi 2026 is a transformative four-day gathering focused on understanding intergenerational trauma and exploring collective healing within the Nikkei community. Taking place in San Francisco’s historic Japantown, the conference will feature expert speakers, restorative workshops, intentional discussion groups, and a closing solidarity action.
Spaces are limited and filling fast on a first-come, first-served basis. Sliding-scale registration is open now, and youth/elder scholarships are available. Learn more and RSVP today! Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity in partnership with JCYC.
Tanabata Star Festival @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Celebrate the Tanabata Star Festival over two weekends in San Francisco Japantown! Enjoy colorful decorations and holiday deals, write your wishes on tanzaku wish strips, and experience one of Japan's most beloved seasonal traditions.
Vintage Japanese Pop-Up Market @ The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Vintage Japanese ceramics, lacquerware, tea sets (for your matcha collections!), clothing, books, and etc.
Bring a friend to shop with you!
At our last sale, the most popular items were large print posters, art, ceramics, tea sets, and books! This sale supports the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC).
Japan Week & Day @ Japan Center Malls & Hotel Kabuki
[Mon-Sun, 7/13-7/19]: Japan Week & Day @ Japan Center Malls & Hotel KabukiJoin us for a week of FREE traditional Japanese arts and cultural experiences at Genryu Arts! Reserve your spot today through Eventbrite:
源流アーツで、無料で日本の伝統芸術や文化体験を楽しめる1週間をぜひお過ごしください。Eventbriteから今すぐお申し込みください。
着物着付け: Kimono Dressing
現代舞踊: Contemporary Odori Dance
折り紙: Origami Workshop
芸術家パネルディスカッション: Artist Panel Discussion
組太鼓: Kumi Daiko Workshop (満席 SOLD OUT)!
[Sun, 7/19, 12N-5 pm]: VOLUNTEER for Japan Day Join us in San Francisco Japantown for a full day of Japanese culture, performances, demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and community celebrations. We are looking for volunteers for Japan Day. Please sign up here! July 19 Japan Day Volunteer SignUp
Tanabata Star Festival @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Celebrate the Tanabata Star Festival over two weekends in San Francisco Japantown! Enjoy colorful decorations and holiday deals, write your wishes on tanzaku wish strips, and experience one of Japan's most beloved seasonal traditions.
One City Day: Japantown Sidewalk Survey @ 1765 Sutter Street
Join San Francisco’s first citywide Day of Service by helping identify uneven sidewalks here in Japantown! Volunteers will document problem areas with photos to support future improvements, particularly for seniors and other community members.
What to Wear/Bring: Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. Additional supplies (gloves, tools, bags, etc.) will be provided by your project host unless otherwise notified. Sign up here. Questions: schang@japantowntaskforce.org
One City Day: Japantown Sidewalk Survey
About One City Day
Join us for One City Day — San Francisco’s first-ever citywide day of service! On Saturday, July 11th, San Franciscans across all 11 districts will come together to volunteer, connect, and show up for the city we love. Whether you’re gardening, cleaning up a neighborhood, packing supplies, or creating art, there’s the perfect project for all ages and abilities.
About This Project
Uneven sidewalks pose serious risks to pedestrians in Japantown. There is a large senior population living in and around the neighborhood. We have consulted with the office of District Supervisor Bilal Mahmood who advised that the community will need to document problem spots before the City can address them.
The event will recruit volunteers to note problem spots with cell phone photos and mapping coordinates. The data will be forwarded to the Department of Public Works.
What to Expect
When you get to your project site, your project host will welcome volunteers, go over the day’s activities, and provide a quick safety overview.
Volunteers will work alongside neighbors, community organizations, and city partners for approximately two hours.
There will be an opportunity to connect with fellow volunteers after your project wraps.
What to Wear/Bring
Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Additional supplies (gloves, tools, bags, etc.) will be provided by your project host unless otherwise notified.
Project Partners
Japantown Task Force, Japanese American Citizens League San Francisco Chapter (SF JACL), & Jewish Community Relations Council
One City Day: Japantown Community Cleanup
About One City Day
Join us for One City Day — San Francisco’s first-ever citywide day of service! On Saturday, July 11th, San Franciscans across all 11 districts will come together to volunteer, connect, and show up for the city we love. Whether you’re gardening, cleaning up a neighborhood, packing supplies, or creating art, there’s the perfect project for all ages and abilities.
About This Project
Japantown is one of only three remaining J-towns in the United States. It is a cultural anchor, a home for seniors, and a destination for small businesses.
By participating, you aren't just picking up trash; you are protecting the legacy of this neighborhood, supporting our local merchant's recovery, and showing the rest of San Francisco what "One City" looks like when we care for our shared spaces.
Based on our past clean-ups, this event is perfect for: Families: A great way for kids to learn about civic responsibility and environmental stewardship. Students: High schoolers looking for community service hours (we provide sign-offs!). Corporate & Community Groups: A fantastic team-building opportunity for local offices or clubs. Long-time Residents & Newcomers: Whether you’ve lived here for 40 years or 4 days, this is the best way to meet your neighbors.
What to Expect
When you get to your project site, your project host will welcome volunteers, go over the day’s activities, and provide a quick safety overview.
Volunteers will work alongside neighbors, community organizations, and city partners for approximately two hours.
There will be an opportunity to connect with fellow volunteers after your project wraps.
What to Wear/Bring
Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes.
Bring sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
Additional supplies (gloves, tools, bags, etc.) will be provided by your project host unless otherwise notified.
Project Partners
Japantown Community Benefit District
By participating or registering in a cleanup or volunteer event, I acknowledge and agree to the One City Day volunteer waiver: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YLmkplBpwR4prb4kQFcI93iWbTxn1Z6lRTOnBtJf2-Q/edit?usp=sharing
Vintage Japanese Pop-Up Market @ The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California
Vintage Japanese ceramics, lacquerware, tea sets (for your matcha collections!), clothing, books, and etc.
Bring a friend to shop with you!
At our last sale, the most popular items were large print posters, art, ceramics, tea sets, and books! This sale supports the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC).
Japanese Language Lounge: Explore Japan @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center
Japanese Language Lounge: Explore Japan @ Japantown Cultural District Visitor Center, Japan Center East Mall, 2F
Practice Japanese and make new friends! The theme for this session is "Explore Japan"—discover Japan's diverse regions, unique local cultures, and foods. Learn useful travel phrases, share your favorite destinations and future travel plans, and connect with fellow Japan enthusiasts. Open to all levels—from beginners to native speakers. Free; advance registration recommended.
Fillmore Jazz Festival @ Fillmore District
[Sat-Sun, 7/4-5, 10 am-6 pm]: 2026 Fillmore Jazz Festival @ Fillmore DistrictJoin for two free days packed with music, community, and celebration! The 2026 Fillmore Jazz Festival returns, bringing live jazz back to the heart of San Francisco’s historic Fillmore District— once known worldwide as the “Harlem of the West.” Presented by the Fillmore Jazz Festival Preservation Fund and the Fillmore Merchants Association. Details.