Our Story,
Our Mission
About Japan-America Society of Washington DC
あなたが日本を感じる場所 – We are your connection to Japan in the National Capital Region – Learn more.
Who we are
Drawing on the unique resources of the nation’s capital and our long history, JASWDC is an organization that promotes friendship and understanding between Americans and Japanese.
What we do
From our local schools to our top political leaders, we support the US-Japan relationship through programs and partnerships that unite Americans around a shared interest in Japan’s vibrant culture.
Our Values
We are trusted stewards of the U.S.-Japan relationship, committed to mutual understanding and service to our community. We are friendly and welcoming to all who seek to advance their understanding of Japan and contribute to U.S.-Japan ties. We operate with honesty, integrity, transparency, and the highest ethical standards
Government Affairs
The Society’s Corporate Membership Program and many annual networking events connect our members to senior officials of the US and Japanese Governments and leaders of top American and Japanese businesses.
Educational Outreach
One of the Society’s most vital tasks is to engage the next generation of Americans by introducing them to Japanese language & culture. In addition to the Society’s academic scholarships and our celebrated Japanese Language School, the Japan-in-a-Suitcase program introduces local students to life in Japan through hands on activities and presentations.
Cultural Affairs
The Society brings all forms of Japanese culture to Washington DC audiences. Our programs bring a range of cultural activities– from traditions such as haiku, samurai films, sake brewing, and otsukimi (moon viewing), to manga, cosplay, architecture, and contemporary culinary arts.
Sakura Matsuri
The Society’s Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the nation. Held each April as a premier event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, it stretches for six blocks through downtown Washington.
Japan Bowl®
Our National Japan Bowl is America’s premier Japanese-language competition, generating excitement for Japanese language study among students and teachers alike. It is a critical piece of America’s “pipeline” for future Japan talent.
JASWDC’s US-Japan Capital Gala
Our annual Gala serves as the foremost celebration of the US-Japan relationship in the Nation’s Capital Region, bringing together over 200 of the region’s top political, business, and academic leaders.
