November 13th 2022 O.A.

Kenjinkai Picnic

Sunday, October 2nd was the joint picnic of different prefectural associations at Wilson Park in Torrance.

The picnic was hosted by Nanka Gifu Kenjinkai. 10 prefectural associations like Miyazaki, Ishikawa, and Chiba participated.
Members socialized within their associations but also got to know people from other prefectural associations as well.

There were about 170 participants who were mostly local businessmen, expats and their families, and students who came from Japan. They either saw an ad or heard from a friend.

Local cuisines like Gifu prefecture’s Goheimochi, Miyazaki beef from Miyazaki prefecture, to popular dishes like teriyaki chicken, yakisoba noodles, riceballs, and desserts were served.
Representatives of each association also promoted their hometown through unique stories.

There were games like rock paper scissors, gesturing, and kids had fun kicking their shoes.

This is the 15th year of the picnic event.
Nanka Gifu Kenjinkai started hosting the event since smaller associations cannot gather as many people due to members aging.
Although participating associations differ within that year, 3 associations participated for the first time.