When surveying community programs a decade ago, Japanese American leaders found a lack of meaningful activities for young people. “There had been a vacuum for a long time of new programs (for young people),” said Jon Osaki, the executive director of Japanese Community Youth Council. In an effort to engage Japanese American young people, the […]
Nikkei Community Internship program celebrates 10 years, current class
San Jose Day of Remembrance focuses on ‘Fighting Against Fear’
SAN JOSE — Jimi Yamaichi will never forget his long and frustrating battle to join the carpenters union, which turned away Japanese Americans and other Asians before the start of World War II. Yamaichi, director and curator of the Japanese American Museum of San Jose, was among several speakers at the 31st annual San Jose […]
JAMsj museum shop offers array of holiday gifts
The Japanese American Museum of San Jose’s (JAMsj) store offers a treasure trove of gifts for every person on your holiday list. Items range from cards and clothing to jewelry and books. The majority of items sold in the store were created by Japanese American artists. Cards ($4) Colorful wooden kokeshi dolls are among the […]
Unforgettable gifts from Japan for under $50 (not including shipping)
Once you reach a certain age, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you will receive one or more of the following as gifts: a soap and loofah gift set… wine… assorted chocolates… a mug. While these gifts are practical and generally enjoyed by most people, they are, regrettably, forgettable. Why spend money on gifts that have […]
Gifts from Nichi Bei Bussan for under $50
Nichi Bei Bussan has a wide variety of Japanese gifts including traditional dishware, martial arts apparel, unique collectibles and a fantastic selection of books. Japanese Camera Case ($7.95) Give a unique and useful gift with fun Japanese flair! These soft-shell Japanese fabric carrying cases can be used as camera holders for the photographer in the […]
Biscuits a boom to dog owners
SAN JOSE — Jennifer Pan decided to open her whimsical dog boutique Biscuits in San Jose’s Japantown after experiencing difficulty in finding healthy treats for her Jack Russell Terrier, who had allergies. “I was looking for supplements and natural treats,” said Pan, who opened the store in July with her partner Steve Kim. Named after […]
Cukui combines art and fashion
SAN JOSE — Orly Locquiao combines his passion for tattoo art and streetwear as the owner of Cukui Clothing Company, which opened in San Jose’s Japantown in August. The store offers a broad range of urban apparel designed by Locquiao, who draws inspiration from his work as a tattoo artist at Humble Beginnings Tattoo Studio […]
Get a taste of the islands at Island Sol
SAN JOSE — Island Sol brings a Hawaiian vibe to San Jose’s Japantown, offering a wide range of apparel and merchandise inspired by the islands. The store, which has been open since August, offers such Hawaiian-inspired merchandise as printed shirts, music, jewelry, and foodstuffs. The store’s line of unique apparel includes reggae dresses and roots […]
Managing a Major Metropolis: Ed Shikada tackles new challenges as assistant city manager of San Jose
Growing up in Hawai‘i, Ed Shikada never imagined that he would one day become assistant city manager of the 10th largest city in the United States. Shikada was appointed assistant city manager of San Jose on June 24. He began his new role on June 27. Appointed by City Manager Debra Figone, Shikada’s duties focus […]
San Jose Japantown’s Sak N’ Sak — Saving the Earth One Bag at a Time
SAN JOSE — Kathy Sakamoto’s trip to the Guggenheim Museum in New York last year was a turning point in her life — it inspired her to start her own business. After viewing a display of tote bags recycled from old city banners at the museum store, Sakamoto teamed with business partner Lydia Uchida-Sakai to […]
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