Discovering the Rich Culture of Hawaii: The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
Hawaii is a melting pot of different cultures, and the Japanese community has a rich history in the islands. One place that is highly recommended to explore Japanese heritage in Hawaii is the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii (JCCH). In this article, we will take a closer look at this center and what it has to offer.
History and mission of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
Established in 1975, the JCCH aims to promote an understanding and appreciation of the history, culture, customs, language, and achievements of the Japanese people in Hawaii. It has a two-fold mission: to preserve and perpetuate the Japanese American experience and to enhance the understanding and appreciation of Hawaii’s multi-ethnic society.
The center’s facilities
The JCCH has several facilities that visitors can explore, including:
Museum Gallery
The gallery showcases the historical and cultural contributions of the Japanese American community in Hawaii, including the early plantation era, World War II incarceration, and postwar development.
Historic Waipahu Service Center
This former social service center now serves as a cultural and educational hub that offers a wide range of programs, including classes, workshops, performances, and events.
Maeda Farm Exhibit
The Maeda family, like many Japanese immigrants, worked on sugar plantations in Hawaii. This exhibit displays a restored bunkhouse and equipment from the family’s farm, providing visitors with a glimpse into the life of plantation workers in the past.
Programs and events
The JCCH offers a diverse range of educational and cultural programs and events that cater to different audiences. They include:
Workshops and classes
These programs cover a wide variety of topics, such as tea ceremony, origami, calligraphy, and martial arts.
Concerts and performances
The JCCH presents a range of concerts featuring traditional and contemporary Japanese music, dance, and theater.
Annual events
The center hosts several annual events that celebrate Japanese culture, including the New Year’s Ohana Festival, the Bon Dance Festival, and the Shinnen Enkai New Year’s Celebration.
Conclusion
The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii is a fantastic place to learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Japanese community in the islands. With its informative exhibits, educational programs, and exciting events, visitors are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation and understanding of Hawaii’s multi-ethnic society.
