Every year for more than a decade, for a few days in early summer, the skies near Denver have been filled with colorful magic. Hundreds of kites—some with intricate designs, others simple colored diamond shapes with long tails—have delighted children and adults alike. These kites were inspired and created under the guidance of Edo Kite Master Mikio Toki , who visited Colorado annually from his town of Chiba, Japan. At the invitation of the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC), Master Toki shared his love of kite making and its place in Japanese culture with Coloradans of all ages from 2014 through 2025, inspiring the creation of over 6,400 kites over the years.
JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio was honored to serve on a planning committee recognizing the newest “sister” relationship between Colorado and Japan. The committee hosted an event this month to celebrate the fact that Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways Council and Scenic Byways Hokkaido Promotion Council have established a “Sister Byways” relationship. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Hokkaido last month, with several Colorado representatives attending in person. Last week our celebratory event was held in Golden, along the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway. Representatives from state and local governments along with Consul General of Japan in Denver Hiroyuki Okajima were all in attendance. Representatives from Hokkaido joined virtually live from Hokkaido.The purpose of establishing such a relationship is so that Colorado and Hokkaido can work together to revitalize scenic byways, create joint initiatives, and create guidelines with the goal of contributing to tourism and preservation of cultural heritage. JASC member Courtney Ozaki performed at the event through her Japanese Arts Network, showcasing a beautiful trio of taiko, shamisen and Japanese flute shinobue. JASC Member Misaki Restaurant (Stanley Marketplace) catered a beautiful meal for all attendees. We look forward to continuing to shepherd this unique and beautiful relationship into the future.
JASC looks to deepen Colorado Japan relations in 2025 with two new officers and two new directors.
On September 16, 2023, the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC) had the honor of participating in the International Day of Denver Startup Week. This event brought together innovators and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds to share insights and foster connections.JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio and Board Member John Hayato Branderhorst led a session titled "Understanding Japan through Business, Education & Cultural Synergy." The session aimed to explore the unique opportunities for collaboration between the U.S. and Japan in these key areas. We were privileged to have the session introduced by Mr. Yoichi Mikami, the Consul General of Japan in Denver, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships.As we look ahead, JASC is excited to welcome more international startups to Denver, particularly those from Japan. Together, we can create meaningful connections that enhance cultural exchange and drive innovation.Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming events and initiatives!
On September 4, 2024, an unforgettable ceremony took place at the residence of Consul-General Yoichi Mikami in Denver. During this special occasion, the Commendation of the Consul-General of Japan was presented to Claudine Locascio, Executive Director of the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC), recognizing her exceptional contributions to strengthening the bonds between Japan and Colorado.
On Monday, July 29, 2024, the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC) had the distinct honor of hosting Shigeo Yamada, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the United States. This private luncheon was a significant occasion, as Ambassador Yamada was in Colorado for a series of important meetings, including one with Governor Jared Polis.
Last week, Claudine, our Executive Director at JASC, had the honor of attending Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s speech to the joint session of Congress in Washington, DC. Invited by Colorado Congressman Jason Crow, District 6, Claudine witnessed a momentous occasion that showed the strong relationship between Japan and the U.S.
Welcome, Maho! We are thrilled to have you join us at JASC.
In a heartwarming display of international camaraderie, two officials from the Yamagata Prefecture Government, Yutaro Shida and Mayuko Ogata, embarked on a journey to Boulder, Colorado, to delve into the heart of American culture, learn the English language, and foster connections. Over a few months, they engaged in various cultural exchanges that transcended borders, furthering their education and building friendships.
In the heart of December, JASC and the JET Alumni Association of the Rocky Mountains (JETAARM) joined forces to host a delightful Nengajo workshop. The event aimed to explore the rich cultural tradition of crafting Japanese New Year’s postcards, known as 年賀状 “Nengajo.”
