Events
Fall 2024
Japanese Film Series
Tuesday, December 3 and Thursday, December 5
The Soga Japan Center will host the Japan Foundation Film Series at Room 2028 Brown Hall at 5pm on December 3 and December 5. These screenings are free and open to the public.
Special talk by Dr. Diane Riggs
Thursday, October 24
Dr. Diane Riggs of World Religions and Cultures will give a special talk "Sewing the Buddhist Robe: Innovation and Inclusion" at 2pm on Thursday, October 24 in-person at 1720 Sangren Hall and online via Zoom. This event is free and open to the public. Free registration: https://wmich.edu/asia/sjc-lecture-registration
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public 1-2 times per week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages (English and Japanese) at every meeting. Registration
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese skills. The sessions will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Fridays, September 20, October 18 and November 15, 2024. Please register here to get meeting ID and link. All levels of learners are welcome.
Summer 2024
Panels at JAFAX in Grand Rapids
Sunday, June 23
The Soga Japan Center and some volunteer students from WMU's Japan Club will have four panels: a presentation titled "Japanese daily life with some anime scenes", Japanese 101, Japanese Conversation Table and Yukata Workshop on Sunday, June 23 at JAFAX in Grand Rapids. JAFAX is an annual Japanese visual culture convention held every June. Please see their website for the details. https://www.jafax.org/
Spring 2024
Japanese Children's Day Virtual Celebration
Friday, May 3
WMU Soga Japan Center and Michigan 4-H would like to invite you to join us for the 4-H Japanese Children's Day Celebration on Friday, May 5th at 6:00-7:00pm ET. Free and everyone is welcome! Register at https://forms.gle/swptf8xjtW3fQUZr9
Virtual Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day) Celebration
Friday, March 4
Virtual Japanese Culture and Language Presentations
Friday, February 23
The Soga Japan Center will host this virtual presentation event with some Japan Outreach Initiative coordinators from 3:30 to 5:15 p.m. (EST), Friday, February 23. Please register here to get the meeting link and ID. This event is free and open to the public.
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese skills. The sessions will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Fridays, January 12, February 9, March 8 and April 12, 2024. Please register here to get meeting ID and link.
Fall 2023
Faculty Colloquium
Friday, December 1
Dr. Jeffrey Angles will have a special talk "Godzilla as Anti-nuclear Activist and Anthropocene Guerilla" from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Friday, December 1, Brown Hall 1021. Dr. Angles has recently published a bestselling translation of Kayama’s Godzilla novels and he will talk about the monster’s history and what messages the story has for us in the Anthropocene.
Godzilla event
Monday, October 30
Dr. Jeffrey Angles will be hosting this Godzilla event at This Is a Bookstore (3019 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo) to celebrate the publication of his new translation of the 1950s Godzilla novels. This event is open to all fans of GODZILLA who are welcome to bring, wear, or display their favorite GODZILLA memorabilia and to hear from Japanese translator Jeffrey Angles about his newly (first-ever) published English version of GODZILLA and GODZILLA RAIDS AGAIN. Godzilla Invades Kalamazoo Tickets
Special talk by the Consul General of Japan in Detroit
Tuesday, October 24
The Soga Japan Center is hosting a special talk "Japan: People, Society, Tradition and its Relations with the US" by the Honorable Consul General Yusuke Shindo at 4 p.m., Tuesday, October 24, Sangren Hall Room 1920. This event is free and open to the public. No registration required.
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public 1-2 times per week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages (English and Japanese) at every meeting. <Registration is closed>
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese skills. The sessions will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Fridays, September 8, October 6, November 10 and December 8. Please register here to get meeting ID and link.
summer 2023
Sushi making workshop at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
Thursday, July 20
The Soga Japan Center will have a Sushi making workshop at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, MI) at 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 20. This event is in conjunction with the KIA’s ongoing exhibition, Sugoi! 200 Years of Japanese Art.
$5 KIA members/$10 nonmembers.
Seating is limited. Please register at www.kiarts.org/events. If you have a question about booking a ticket for an event, please contact events@kiarts.org.
Panels at JAFAX in Grand Rapids
Sunday, June 11
The Soga Japan Center and some volunteer students from WMU's Japan Club will have four panels: a presentation titled "Japanese daily life with some anime scenes", Japanese 101, Japanese Conversation Table and Yukata Workshop on Sunday, June 11 at JAFAX in Grand Rapids. JAFAX is an annual Japanese visual culture convention held every June. Please see their website for the details. https://www.jafax.org/
Cross Currents: East/West Woodblock prints exhibition
May 12-July 28
The Soga Japan Center is sponsoring an exhibition "Cross Currents: East/West Woodblock Prints by Mary Brodbeck and Yoshisuke Funasaka" from May 12 to July 28 at the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center. Please check Kalamazoo Book Arts Center's website for the details.
Japanese Children's Day Virtual Celebration
Friday, May 5
WMU Soga Japan Center and Michigan 4-H would like to invite you to join us for the 4-H Japanese Children's Day Celebration on Friday, May 5th at 6:30-7:30pm ET. <Registration is closed>
Spring 2023
Night of Rakugo with KATSURA Sunshine
Thursday, April 20
The Soga Japan Center is sponsoring "Night of Rakugo", traditional Japanese comedy, with KATSURA Sunshine who is a Canadian Rakugo storyteller, theatre producer, and television personality residing in New York City. The performance will be held in English. This event will be held at Kalamazoo College, Light Fine Arts Building Dalton Theatre on Thursday, April 20. Doors open at 6:30pm. This event is free and open to the public.
information (English) information (Japanese)
Virtual Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day) Celebration
Friday, March 3
Virtual Japanese Culture Presentations "Anime/Manga"
Friday, February 24
Learn about Japanese culture from university students and adults who love Anime/Manga. 3-5:30 p.m. (EST), 2-4:30 p.m. (CST), Friday, February 24. Please register here to get the meeting link and ID. This event is free and open to the public.
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese skills. The sessions will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. (EST) on the first Fridays, February 3, March 3, April 7 and May 5. Please register here to get meeting ID and link.
New Year's celebration (Japan Club)
Saturday, January 14
WMU's student organization, Japan Club, will host their New Year's celebration at 12pm-4pm on Saturday, January 14, Kanley Chapel on main campus. Free and open to the public. No registration required.
Fall 2022
Special talk by the Consul General of Japan in Detroit
Tuesday, October 4
The Soga Japan Center is hosting a special talk "Japan: People, Society, Tradition and its Relations with the US" by the Honorable Consul General Yusuke Shindo at 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 4, Sangren Hall Room 1920. This event is free and open to the public. No registration required.
Vicksburg Cultural Arts Center's Destinations Japan Events
The Soga Japan Center will have the "How to Make Sushi-roll" workshops on Saturday, September 17 for the Destination Series of Vicksburg Cultural Arts Center which was created in 2016 to immerse southern Kalamazoo county in different cultures through arts, tradition, storytelling, and food. The destination of 2022 is Japan and they are hosting some other events in September. Please check their website for the details.
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese skills. The sessions will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) on the first Fridays, September 2, October 7, November 4 and December 2. Please register here to get meeting ID and link.
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public 1-2 times per week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages (English and Japanese) at every meeting. The deadline to apply is Thursday, September 8 for Fall 2022. <Registration is closed.>
Spring 2022
Symbol Design Contest
The Soga Japan Center is pleased to announce an open Symbol Design Contest. We are looking for a graphic symbol that represents the identity (values and mission) of the Soga Japan Center. The contest is open from April 1, 2022 and closes on April 31, 2022. All entries must be submitted electronically with the Soga Japan Center Entry and Release Form. There is no fee to enter the contest. Please see Guidelines for more details.
Special Virtual Lecture "Spreading Indra’s Net in Manhattan: D. T. Suzuki’s Columbia University Seminars"
Monday, April 11
Dr. Richard Jaffe of Duke University will have a special virtual lecture titled "Spreading Indra’s Net in Manhattan: D. T. Suzuki’s Columbia University Seminars" at 6 p.m. (EDT) on Monday, April 11. He will talk about D. T. Suzuki and the introduction of Buddhism to the U.S. This event is free and open to the public. Please register here to get meeting ID and link. information
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Fridays, April 1, May 6 and June 3
WMU Soga Japan Center will host free Virtual Japanese Conversation Table with several other universities in April, May and June. These sessions will be free and open to the public. From 5 to 6 p.m. (EDT) on the first Fridays, April 1, May 6, and June 3. Volunteers of Japanese native speakers are welcome as well. Please register for getting a Zoom ID and link here.
Virtual Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day) Celebration
Thursday, March 3
Virtual Japanese Culture Presentations
Friday, February 25
Learn about Japanese culture from university students and JOI (Japan Outreach Initiative) coordinators. 3pm-5:30pm (EST), 2pm-4:30pm (CST), Friday, February 25. Please register here to get the meeting link and ID. This event is free and open to the public.
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Friday, January 28
Free opportunity to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday, January 28. Session is led by Michiko Yoshimoto of WMU Soga Japan Center, Aiko Hatano of Mayville State University, Mariko Nagai of University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nanaka Okamura of Western Carolina University. Meeting will be held virtually using Zoom. <Registration is closed>
Fall 2021
Virtual "Bonenkai" end-of-year gathering
The Soga Japan Center will host a casual style virtual Bonenkai, end-of-year virtual gathering. 7-8 p.m., Friday, December 17 (EST), which is 9-10a.m., Saturday, December 10, in Japan. Everyone is welcome. <Registration is closed>
Virtual Japanese Conversation Table
Fridays, November 19 and December 3
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: Nov. 19 and Dec. 3. Session are led by Michiko Yoshimoto of WMU Soga Japan Center, Aya Iwamoto of University of Central Oklahoma and Nanaka Okamura of Western Carolina University. Meetings will be held virtually using Zoom. <Registration is closed>
Japan Club @ WMU BBQ
Sunday: October 24
Japan Club @ WMU, a Registered Student Organizations at WMU, will host their first event in 2021 to celebrate their revival after a long break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic after Spring 2020. Their first event is BBQ on campus which will be held at 2pm, Sunday, October 24. Please contact the Japan Club for more details. Japan Club @ Western Michigan University - ExperienceWMU (campuslabs.com)
Summer 2021
Summer Japanese 101 virtual lesson for K-12 students
Fridays: August 13 and 20
Beginner Japanese language lessons for K-12 students are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is free and open to K-12 students. The virtual lessons which will be held from 4 to 4:40pm ET/ 3 to 3:40pm CT/ 2 to 2:40pm MT/ 1 to 1:40pm PT on two consecutive Fridays on August 13 and 20. No experience is necessary. Registration required to get the Webex link/ Meeting ID. <Registration is closed>
Spring 2021
Japanese Golden Week Virtual Celebration
The States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs, WMU Soga Japan Center, Michigan 4-H, and Kentucky 4-H would like to invite you to join us for the 4-H Japanese Golden Week Celebration Series on April 29th and May 5th at 7-8:30pm ET/ 6-7:30pm CT/4-5:30pm PT. Connection information will be in the registration confirmation. If you have questions please reach out to MSU Extension Educator Janis Brinn at brinn@msu.edu or Rachel Noble with the Kentucky 4-H Program at rachel.noble@uky.edu. <Registration is closed.>
Virtual Japanese Girls’ Day Celebration Series
Join States’ 4-H, Michigan 4-H, Kentucky 4-H, and WMU Soga Japan Center for a series of 4 programs on February 23rd, February 24th, March 1st, and March 3rd at 6pm EST/ 5pm CST/ 3pm PST as we host a Virtual Girls’ Day Celebration. Hinamatsuri, or Japanese Girls’ Day- also known at the Doll’s Festival- is celebrated on March 3rd to hope for the health and happiness of young girls in Japan. The series will consist of four sessions: Feb. 23: History/Traditions of Japanese Girls Day, General Japanese Culture, Feb. 24: Origami and Dolls (create a set), Language, Learn Song of Girl’s Day, Mar. 1: Sushi/Food, Eating Customs, Egg (Usuyaki Tamago) and Mar. 3: Tour of a Japanese Home and Questions <Registration is closed.>
Special talk "How Will Study Abroad and Student Exchange Evolve in Japan during and after COVID-19? "
Dr. Hiroshi Ota, a Professor at the Center for General Education of Hitotsubashi University and the Director of Hitotsubashi University Global Education Program, will give a talk titled "How Will Study Abroad and Student Exchange Evolve in Japan during and after COVID-19?" This event will take place virtually at 9 a.m. EST Wednesday, March 3. Free and open to the public. <Registration is closed>
Fall 2020
Virtual "Bonenkai" end-of-year gathering
The Soga Japan Center will host a casual style virtual Bonenkai, end-of-year virtual gathering. 7:30-9 p.m., Saturday, December 19 (EST), which is 9:30-11 a.m., Sunday, December 20, 2020 in Japan. Languages will be Japanese and English. Everyone is welcome. Please send an email to get the invitation.
summer 2020
English-Japnese Virtual Conversation Table
The Soga Japan Center will host the English-Japanese Conversation Table where people practice Japanese/English conversation with native speakers. This event will be held on Zoom at 9:30-10:30 am (EDT) Michigan time which is 10:30-11:30 pm, Japan time on Friday, July 10, 17 and 24.
Spring 2020
Information session of International Language House
Tuesday, March 10
Representatives of International House (Yokohama, Japan) will have a video information session for WMU students for who are interested in working in Japan as an English teacher. 4:00-4:50pm, Tuesday, March 10, Brown Hall 2048.
Japanese Documentary Screening
Wednesday, February 12
NHK Japanese documentary screening "Letters from Hibakusha, Animated Stories of A-Bomb Survivors", 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 12, Milwood Magnet School (2916 Konkle St, Kalamazoo, MI 49001).
Friday, January 31
NHK Japanese documentary screening "Letters from Hibakusha, Animated Stories of A-Bomb Survivors", 4 to 5 p.m., Friday, January 31, Brown Hall 1025, co-sponsored by Japan Club at WMU.
Friday, January 24
NHK Japanese documentary screening "10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki (Episode 1 & 2)", 4 to 6 p.m., Friday, January 24, Brown Hall 1025, co-sponsored by Japan Club at WMU.
Fall 2019
Special talk "Does an Animated Character Robot Increase Productivity?"
Thursday, December 5
Dr. Reo Matsumura, Ph.D. who is CEO, CTO and Co-Founder of karakuri products Inc, will give a talk at Western Michigan University titled "Does an Animated Character Robot Increase Productivity?" The talk will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. in 2730 Sangren Hall and is free and open to the public.
Japan Festival
Saturday, November 23
The Japan Club, which is one of the WMU's student organizations, will host the Japan Festival from 2 to 7 p.m. at Wesley on WMU's main campus (820 Rankin Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006). The festival will feature Japanese foods and cultural activities such as tea ceremony and Okinawan Dance. This event is a part of International Education Week 2019 at WMU.
Bilingual Poetry Reading
Thursday, November 21
The prominent Japanese poet Takako Arai will visit WMU and hold a bilingual poetry reading to celebrate the publication of Factory Girls (Action Books, 2019), edited and co-translated by WMU professor Jeffrey Angles. The reading will take place from 5 to 6:15 p.m. in 3025 Brown Hall and is free and open to the public.
Curry and Rice Social
Thursday, November 21
The Soga Japan Center will have Curry and Rice Social from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, November 21. Participants will enjoy making curry and rice together. The program will be held at the Solid Grounds Student Ministry WMU (1825 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo). A registration fee of $5 is required (paid at door; includes all food ingredients). Seats are limited for 7 WMU Non-Japanese students and 7 WMU Japanese students.
Japanese language lesson for teens
Fridays: November 1, 8, 15 and 22
BeginnerJapanese language lessons for teens are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students. The fee is $60 for four lessons (20% discount for siblings and WMU families), which will be held from 4:10 to 5:00 p.m. on four consecutive Fridays beginning November 1 in 2110 Sangren Hall on WMU's main campus. No experience is necessary.
Payment information: Please make your check payable to "Western Michigan University" and bring it to the first day of the class.
Japanese Film Screening "Room Laundering"
Friday, October 25
Screening of the Japanese film "Room Laundering" (2018, dir. Kenji KATAGIRI, 109mins, with English subtitles, https://jfdb.jp/en/title/8273) 15th Annual Japan Foundation Film Series, 3508 Knauss Hall, 3:30 p.m. Free.
Japanese Film Screening "Born Bone Born"
Friday, October 11
Screening of the Japanese film "Born Bone Born" (2019, dir. Toshiyuki TERUYA, 111mins, with English subtitles, https://jfdb.jp/en/title/8362) 15th Annual Japan Foundation Film Series, 3508 Knauss Hall, 3:30 p.m. Free.
Japanese Film Screening "Where I belong"
Friday, October 4
Screening of the Japanese film "Where I belong" (2017, dir. Shinji AZUMA, 108mins, with English subtitles, https://jfdb.jp/en/title/7551) 15th Annual Japan Foundation Film Series, 3508 Knauss Hall, 3:30 p.m. Free.
Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program information session
Thursday, October 3
The JET Program (Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) brings native English speakers to Japan to teach English and help with internationalization projects. A representative will be visiting WMU to talk with students about possible opportunities for those interested in working in Japan. The presentation is planned for 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 3 in 3010 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public 1-2 times per week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages (English and Japanese) at every meeting. The deadline to apply is Thursday, September 5 for Fall 2019.
Summer 2019
Submission for Presentation in Asian Forum 2019: East Asia/ South Asia
Monday, August 12
Please submit a one-page abstract describing the proposed presentation. Submission of proposals for full panels, round-table discussion, or workshops with a specific theme and list of presenters are also encouraged. Please submit the materials to Dr. Ying Zeng at @email. Submissions will be reviewed and invitation letters sent (if proposal is accepted) within 15 days following receipt of submissions. We are inviting papers and panel proposals encompassing all aspects on Asia’s past, present and future, including arts, history, business, economics, culture, humanities, literature, politics, educational exchange and cooperation, and language pedagogy, etc. The forum will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, September 27.
Japanese Calligraphy for teens at Schoolcraft Community Library
Thursday, July 25
Free opportunity for teens to learn Japanese Calligraphy from 3 to 4 p.m. at Schoolcraft Community Library. Call the library at (269) 679-5959 to reserve a spot.
Bento program for teens at Schoolcraft Community Library
Thursday, July 18
Free opportunity for teens to learn how to make Bento, Japanese style packed meal, from 3 to 4 p.m. at Schoolcraft Community Library. Call the library at (269) 679-5959 to reserve a spot.
spring 2019
Japanese language practice sessions
Fridays in April, May and June
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: April 19, May 3, May 10, May 17, May 31 and June 14. The meetings will be held in the Dining Area located on the main floor in WMU's Bernhard Center. Guests can park in visitor parking lots around the Bernhard Center for free after 4 p.m. on Fridays.
Japanese Anime Voice Acting Workshop
Friday, March 15
Chief Director of Global Communication Services at the Japan Visual Translation Academcy, Kiyotake Ishii, will teach a workshop from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The workshop is designed for Japanese language learners to develop voice acting skills for Japanese anime. Online registration is required and spots are limited. Contact Michiko Yoshimoto with questions at michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu.
Japanese Folklore/Mythology
Tuesday, March 12
Dr. Stephen Covell will give a special talk, "Japanese Folklore/Mythology," in the Austin and Sugarloaf Lake Rooms at Portage District Library, from 7 to 8 p.m. Dr. Covell is chair of the Department of Comparative Religion, director of the study abroad Japanese Religion and Culture Seminar and the Founding Director of Soga Japan Center. He has over ten years of experience living and researching in Japan including stints as a research associate at Taisho University, the Institute for Asian Cultural Studies at International Christian University and the University of Tokyo. Call the library at (269) 329-4544 for more details.
Japanese 101 for teens
Thursdays in February and March
The Soga Japan Center will start Japanese language class at the Schoolcraft Community Library for teens in grades 6-12. Classes will meet at 4 p.m. on the following Thursdays: February 28, March 7, March 14 and March 21. Classes are free of charge. Call the library at (269) 679-5959 to reserve a spot.
Japanese language practice sessions
Fridays in February
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: February 1, February 8, February 15 and February 22. The first meeting will be held in the Faculty Dining Room located on the main floor in WMU's Bernhard Center. Guests can park in visitor parking lots around the Bernhard Center for free after 4 p.m. on Fridays.
Fall 2018
Japanese lessons for young students & adults and children
Fridays, October 26 and November 2
Free opportunities to learn Japanese language for young students and adults from 4 to 5 p.m. and for children (3-5 years old) from 5:30 to 6 p.m. on the following Fridays: October 26 and November 2. Meetings will be held on the 4th floor in Ellsworth Hall on WMU's main campus.
Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program information session
Tuesday, October 2
The JET Program (Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) brings native English speakers to Japan to teach English and help with internationalization projects. A representative will be visiting WMU to talk with students about possible opportunities for those interested in working in Japan. The presentation is planned for 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, October 2 in 3025 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.
Norimaki Social
Friday, September 14
The Soga Japan Center will have Norimaki Social from 2 to 3 p.m. on Friday, September 14. Participants will enjoy making Sushi rolls together. The program will be held at the Solid Grounds Student Ministry WMU (1825 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo). A registration fee of $5 is required (paid at door; includes all food ingredients). Seats are limited for 10 WMU Non-Japanese students and 6 WMU Japanese students.
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public 1-2 times per week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages (English and Japanese) at every meeting. The deadline to apply is Thursday, August 30 for Fall 2018. The first meeting for new language partners will be held on Friday, August 31.
Japanese conversation table
Fridays, August 31 and September 7
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: August 31 and September 7. Meetings will be held at Faculty Dining Room located on the main floor in WMU's Bernhard Center. Guests can park at visitor parking behind the Bernhard Center free after 4 pm on Friday.
Spring 2018
Shamisen concert
Monday, March 12, 7:30 p.m.
Sato Michiyoshi is coming back to WMU on his second United States tour. Sato is an award-winning performer of Tsugaru-jamisen, a dynamic style of music played with a three-stringed Japanese banjo called a shamisen. Dalton Center Lecture Hall, 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.) Free.
Special Talk "Representations of the Body in 1960s Japan"
Tuesday, February 13, 3:30 p.m.
Professor Yoshizumi Higuchi of Kanto Gakuin University will give a talk at Western Michigan University titled "Representations of the Body in 1960s Japan: From the Playwright and Novelist Kara Juro. The talk will take place from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m in 3025 Brown Hall and is free and open to the public.
Fall 2017
Japan Festival
Wednesday, November 15, 4 p.m
The Japan Club, which is one of the WMU's student organizations, will host the Japan Festival from 4 to 7 p.m. at Wesley on WMU's main campus (820 Rankin Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006). The festival will feature traditional foods and cultural activities such as Taiko drummers performance, Okinawan Dance and English Rakugo. This event is a part of International Education Week 2017 at WMU.
English Rakugo
Wednesday, November 15, 6 p.m.
English Rakugo performer Kimochi （喜餅）will have his English Rakugo in the Japan Festival. This program is sponsored by Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit and WMU Soga Japan Center. 6 to 6:45 p.m. at Wesley on WMU's main campus (820 Rankin Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006). This event is a part of International Education Week 2017 at WMU.
Career workshop series for students studying Japanese
Wednesday, November 8, 3:30 p.m.
Japanese recruiting company PASONA N A will have a career workshop for WMU students who are studying Japanese. 3025 Brown Hall, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free and open to the public.
Japanese conversation table
Fridays, November 3 and 10
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: November 3 and 10. Meetings will be held in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. Guests can park at visitor parking of Bernhard Center free after 4 pm on Friday.
Japanese Film Screening "Silver Spoon"
Thursday, October 26, 7 p.m.
Screening of the Japanese film "Silver Spoon" (2014, dir. Keisuke YOSHIDA, 111 mins, with English subtitles, http://jfdb.jp/en/title/4098) 13th Annual Japan Foundation Film Series, 3508 Knauss Hall, 7 p.m. Free.
Japanese Film Screening "There is No Lid on the Sea"
Saturday, October 28, 2 p.m.
Screening of the Japanese film "There is No Lid on the Sea" (2015, dir. Keisuke TOYOSHIMA, 84 mins, with English subtitles, http://jfdb.jp/en/title/5703) 13th Annual Japan Foundation Film Series, 3508 Knauss Hall, 2 p.m. Free.
Japanese conversation table
Fridays, October 13, 20 and 27
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: October 13, 20 and 27. Meetings will be held in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. Guests can park at visitor parking of Bernhard Center free after 4 pm on Friday.
English–Japanese Language Partners Program
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public at least once or twice a week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages at every meeting. Deadline is Friday, October 6 for Fall 2017.
Japanese conversation table
Monday, September 11
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills with students from Takasaki City University of Economics from 2 to 3 p.m. on Monday, September 11. The meeting will be held in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. Contact Ryohei Wakabayashi for more information or to register at ryohei.wakabayashi@wmich.edu.
Summer 2017
JAPANESE COOKING CLASS
Thursdays, May 18 and 25
The Soga Japan Center will offer cooking classes from 11 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 18 and Thursday, May 25. Participants will enjoy cooking "chicken nanban" (marinated fried chicken) with tartar sauce and miso soup. The classes will be held at Solid Grounds (1720 West Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo). Each session covers the same content and one person can attend only one session. Registration is required by sending an email to michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu with a preferred date. A registration fee of $10 for adults and $5 for students is required (paid at door; includes all food ingredients).
Spring 2017
Japanese language lesson for teens
Fridays: April 7, 14, and 21
Beginning Japanese language lessons for teens are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students. The fee is $30 for three lessons, which will be held from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on three consecutive Fridays beginning April 7 in 2045 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus. No experience is necessary.
Japanese cooking class
Fridays, February 10, 17 and 24
The Soga Japan Center will offer cooking classes from 1:30 to 4 p.m. on the following Fridays: February 10, 17 and 24. Participants will enjoy cooking "Gyudon" (Beef bowl) and strawberry "Daifuku" (round mochi with sweetened red bean paste). The classes will be held in WMU's Kanley Chapel on main campus. Each session covers the same content and one person can join only once. Registration is required by sending an email to michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu (include preference date.) A registration fee of $5 is required (paid at door; includes all food ingredients.)
Japanese conversation table
Fridays, January 20, 27 and February 3
Free opportunities to practice your Japanese language skills from 4 to 5 p.m. on the following Fridays: January 20; 27; and February 3. Meetings will be held in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. Guests can park at visitor parking of Bernhard Center free after 4 pm on Friday.
ENGLISH–JAPANESE LANGUAGE PARTNERS
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language) and offers an opportunity to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public at least once or twice a week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages at every meeting. Deadline is Friday, January 20 for Spring 2017.
The Soga Japan Center facilitates this program and provides assistance, as needed. For more information, please contact Michiko Yoshimoto.
Fall 2016
Japan Festival
Saturday, November 12
The Japan Club, which is one of the WMU's student organizations, will host the Japan Festival from 4 to 7 p.m. at Wesley on WMU's main campus (820 Rankin Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006). Event page of Facebook
Special Talk: U.S.-Japan Relations: An Enduring Partnership
Thursday, October 13
The Consul General Mitsuhiro Wada will have a special talk from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Sangren Hall Room 2720.
English–Japanese Language Partners
The English–Japanese Language Partners program is for Western Michigan University students (native speakers of either language), offering an opportunity for them to practice Japanese and English outside of the classroom. Language partners meet in public at least once or twice a week for one hour of conversation. Partners are required to make time for speaking both languages at every meeting.
The Soga Japan Center facilitates this program and provides assistance, as needed. For more information, please contact Michiko Yoshimoto.
Summer 2016
Japanese lessons on parkview campus
Fridays, July 8, 15, and 22
Beginning Japanese language lessons are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is free and open to the public, which will be held from 3 to 3:50 p.m. on three consecutive Fridays, beginning July 8, in Room F-210 at Floyd Hall's East Wing on WMU's Parkview campus. Information
spring 2016
Manga Workshop
Thursday, April 7 & Saturday, April 9
WMU's Japanese exchange student from Hitotsubashi University, Tatsuhiko Watanabe, who is a Manga artist, will teach 5th-12th grade students how to draw Manga (Japanese comics) at Kalamazoo Public Library. 3:30 to 4:30p.m. at Eastwood branch on Thursday April 7 and 2 to 3 p.m. at Central library on Saturday April 9. Information
WALK IN U.S., TALK ON JAPAN—U.S. JAPAN RELATIONS
Wednesday, March 16
Former Ambassador of Japan Shuji Shimokoji, and a team of panelists, will visit WMU to host a stimulating dialogue on regional and global Japan-related issues. This project is sponsored by Japan’s Office of the Prime Minister and is open to campus and the public free of charge. 3 to 5 p.m. (Reception is from 4:10 p.m.), Fetzer Center Room 1035. Information.
Shamisen recital
Thursday, Feb. 11
Sato Michiyoshi is coming to WMU on his first United States tour. Sato is an award-winning performer of Tsugaru-jamisen, a dynamic style of music played with a three-stringed Japanese banjo called a shamisen. Dalton Center Lecture Hall, 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.) Free.
Japanese Language Lessons for Teens
Fridays: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26
Beginning Japanese language lessons for teens are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students. The fee is $40 for four lessons, which will be held from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on four consecutive Fridays, beginning February 5, in Room 2045 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.
Fall 2015
Manga Workshop
Friday: Dec. 4
Tatsuhiko Watanabe, a Japanese exchange student from Hitotsubashi University, will give a presentation on Japanese Manga and a hands-on drawing activity at 4 p.m. on Friday, December 4th in Room 3030 Brown Hall.
Japanese Language Lessons for Teens
Fridays: Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30 and Nov. 6
Beginning Japanese language lessons for teens are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students. The fee is $50 for five lessons, which will be held from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on five consecutive Fridays, beginning October 9, in 2045 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.
Japanese Movie Screenings: From Wartime Despair to Postwar Hope and Recovery
Thursdays: Oct. 8, 22, and 29
The Soga Japan Center will have the following movie screenings at 6 p.m. on Thursdays in October in Room 3508 Knauss Hall on main campus. This program is open to public and admission free.
Oct. 8: Keisuke Kinoshita's Army (1944)
Oct. 22: Tomoko Fujiwara's The Gift from Beate (2004)
Oct. 29: Takashi Yamaguchi's Always: Sunset on Third Street (2005)
Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program information session
Friday, Sept. 18
WMU almuni, Ellen Knuth, a graduate of the global and international studies program, will visit WMU to talk about the JET program, which connects students to opportunities to serves as an Assistant Language Teacher or Coordinator for International Relations in Japan. Her presentation is planned for 3 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18 in 2037 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.
Information session for new volunteers
Friday, Sept. 11
The Soga Japan Center will have an information session for who are interested in volunteer opportunities through Communities In Schools to offer Japanese cultural programs for area K-12 students. The session will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Friday, Sept. 11 in Room 4560 Sangren Hall on main campus.
Summer 2015
Japanese Conversation Table for beginners
Friday, July 31 and Aug. 7
The Soga Japan Center is providing opportunities for beginners to practice their Japanese language skills from 2 to 3 p.m. on July 31 and August 7 in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. The meetings are open to campus and the public free of charge. To register, send an email to Michiko Yoshimoto: michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu.
Spring 2015
Special lecture: Translation and Gender
Thursday, April 23
Special guest, Dr. Momoko Nakamura, will talk about translation and gender, 5 to 6 p.m. Room 3025 Brown Hall. Free.
Hyakunin isshu: Japanese poetry game
Tuesday, April 13
Join us in celebrating National Poetry month by playing the English version of Hyakunin Isshu. Noon to 1 p.m. Lower level of WMU’s Waldo Library. Free pizza and prizes.
WMU East Asian Forum
Friday, April 17
Faculty and staff and members of the academic community of the West Michigan region engaged in ongoing projects and interests related to East Asia are invited to participate in WMU's East Asian Forum planned for Friday, April 17, 2015. The forum will include panel presentations and a keynote speaker. Panel submission deadline is January 31.
Special talk: Japanese Print Arts and Culture
Wednesday, March 25
Special guests, Sam Yates and Hideki Kimura, will talk about Japanese print arts and culture, 4:30 to 6 p.m. Room 1220 of WMU's Chemistry Building. Free.
Japanese Language Lessons for Teens
Thursdays: Mar. 19, 26; April 2, 9, and 16
Beginning Japanese language lessons for teens are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students. The fee is $50 for five lessons, which will be held from 4 to 4:50 p.m. on five consecutive Thursdays, beginning March 19, in 3030 Brown Hall on WMU's main campus.Registration form
Japanese Conversation Table for intermediate and advanced levels
Fridays: Jan. 16, 23, and 30
The Soga Japan Center is providing three opportunities for people who have intermediate to advanced levels of proficiency to practice their Japanese language skills from 3 to 4 p.m. on January 16, 23 and 30 in WMU's Bernhard Center Cafeteria, located on the main floor. The meetings are open to campus and the public free of charge. To register, send an email to Michiko Yoshimoto: michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu.
Fall 2014
Tuesday, Oct. 14
Special talk—Dr. Kazuyuki Katayama, Consul-General of Japan in Detroit, 3:30 to 4:30p.m. Free., 1750 Sangren Hall.
Friday, Oct. 17
Performance—Michigan Hiryu Daiko #2, Taiko performance and education, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N. Rose St., 7 to 9 p.m. Admission $5. Information: (269) 491-7071.
Wednesday, Dec. 31
Performance—Michigan Hiryu Daiko #2, Taiko performance and education, Kalamazoo New Year’s Eve Bash, featuring more than 40 performances, Bronson Park, Kalamazoo, 6 p.m. to midnight. Admission charge.