Japan Day to continue community camaraderie

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jose L. Hernandez-Domitilo
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Sword fighting, giant kite flying, Yosakoi Soran dancing, karate demonstrations, and local folk music performances are only a few of the entertainment exhibits Airmen and their families can expect to see at this year's 27th annual Japan Day at the Misawa Collocated Club, April 5, 2014, from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This year is scheduled to have 17 stage shows and 25 cultural displays, encompassing more than 650 Japanese performers and artisans ready to demonstrate their unique talents and skills. Traditional Japanese cuisine will also be available throughout the event.

According to earlier publications about the event, the idea of Japan Day originated from two Misawa City businessmen who sought to "give Americans here a broad sampling of Japanese culture."

In 1988, Col. John G. Lorber, wing commander of the then 432nd Tactical Fighter Wing here, welcomed the very first Japan Day in an opening ceremony dressed in traditional Japanese attire. With the help of the Misawa International Club, leadership successfully hosted the event, agreeing it served as a great way of promoting goodwill and understanding between the citizens of Misawa City and Americans living on base.

The event has brought anywhere from 3000 to 4000 attendees each year, according to past estimates.

For Senior Airman Jeremy Ordioles, 35th Fighter Wing knowledge operations journeyman, last year's Japan Day was something he enjoyed so much, he recommends everyone attend.

"I loved Japan Day," said Ordioles. "My favorite part was definitely all the various types of Japanese food they had."

The event continues to grow throughout the years and has paved the way for providing the local Japanese community the opportunity to showcase a variety of their cultural activities and traditions which define who they are.

This year the MIC seeks to give attendees the opportunity to experience the local outdoor Nebuta Festival. The summer occasion is a yearly Japanese northernmost-regional celebration featuring folk dancers, music, radiant floats and more. This demonstration is a first for Misawa Air Base and will be taking part in the Misawa Collocated Club parking lot.

"We are bringing the Japanese culture on base all in one day," said Capt. Francisco Boral, 35th Medical Group pharmacist and project officer for Japan Day. "It's great for people of all ages. There will be something for kids and adults."

Boral explained the itinerary is lengthy and can include event titles which people may not be familiar with like Kori music, Gonohe Firemen's dancing, Bon dancing and Yosakoi. Nevertheless, for him, it is all the more reason for people to come out and experience Japan Day.

For a complete itinerary of the event click the following link: 27th Annual Japan Day Itinerary