Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington

The Nikkei Heritage Association

of Washington (NHAW)

is a

501(c)(3) organization.

The Japanese Culture and Community Center

of Washington

is a project

of the NHAW.

Seattle Japanese Language School

School Events

The Seattle Japanese Language School (SJLS) offers many fun, interactive, cultural events throughout the year.

• On Girl's Day, a set of Hina dolls is displayed. Hina dolls were traditionally set out by families so the daughter of the family might be married off; now they are set out for good wishes. The dolls are set out on seven platforms that represent the empress and emperor, their court, and all of their possessions.
  

• Boy's Day is a day to honor the boys. The boys fly wind socks, flags or banners. They also traditionally display kabuto, or helmets, and samurai armour.
  

Girl's Day (March 3) and Boys Day (May 5) are very popular festivals both in Japan and here at JLS.

The Sakura Matsuri, or Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival, held in April is a great opportunity for students to show off their Japanese language skills to Seattle by performing at the festival.

Mock Shopping Day usally takes place in late spring or early summer. Students learn basic commerce language in Japanese and are given fake money for their spending. They head downstairs and use their newly acquired business skills to purchase toys, school supplies and games.

Undokai is a Japanese Field Day usually held in June. All of the students go outside and compete in fun games, competitions and races. They also learn and sing traditional Japanese school songs. It is a fun way to end a successful school year.

SJLS always has a large New Year's Celebration. There will be plenty of delicious food and  activities for students, such as caligraphy and origami. This gives students the opportunity to showcase their learnings of the Japanese language and culture.

New Years caligraphy lessons.

Girl's Day Tea Ceremony.

Mock Shopping Day

A race at Undokai

SJLS Open House is on November 7, 2009 for SJLS students and families. There will be speakers, a conference for parents and teachers, and snacks.