Dec 24th 2017 O.A.
LA Nebuta Part 2
The 86th Hollywood Christmas Parade happened on Sunday, November 25th. And the second nebuta of the LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai “Kintoki” appeared in it. The LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai started making this “Kintoki” in October with 6 members including nebuta creator, Hiroh Takenami. It is the 3rd year for the LA Nebuta to participate in this parade. Kintoki made its debut to the public this day. The Hollywood Christmas Parade features Hollywood celebrities and characters, so it is nationally known. This year, 130 people joined the Nebuta team with the Japan Aomori Nebuta staff and the cheering groups. The nebuta walked the 3mile road, accompanied by dancers and music. And excited the crowd filling the street of Hollywood. This year marks the 10th anniversary since the nebuta was introduced in LA. Bonds were formed within those years, wishing to spread the Japanese tradition in the US.
The Emperor’s birthday celebration
December 5th was the Emperor’s birthday celebration at the official residence of the Consulate General of Japan in LA. The Emperor of Japan will become 84 years old on December 23rd. The Emperor’s birthday is a national holiday in Japan, and a party is held at each embassy throughout the world as local representatives are invited. 450 people were invited at the official residence of Consul General in LA. Representatives of Japanese American organizations to well-known individuals, and city, government related individuals joined the party. After the speech, each city and state representatives presented a letter of appreciation to Consul General Chiba, celebrating the friendship between Japan and the US. At the reception, a tea ceremony by the Urasenke were performed. And many Japanese foods were served with local specialities and sake.
Japan House Los Angeles Shop
A shop in Japan House LA of Hollywood Highland opened on December 20th. Japan House is a facility that aims to spread Japanese culture and technologies to the US, and will complete around next Summer. This shop is the first service that opened up. This shop sells beautiful Japan made utility and general goods, where you can see the Japanese traditional craftsmanship. A gallery will open on January 19th and the Japanese brand, ANREALAGE will hold an exhibition.