The e-Japan Journal is the electronic webletter of the Consulate General of Japan at Chicago and the Japan Information Center (JIC). We hope it proves to be a useful, interesting, and exciting window for you into Japanese cultural activities happening throughout the Midwest. As always, your feedback, comments, and suggestions are encouraged and can be sent to our editor, Amy Klouse, at jic@cg.mofa.go.jp.
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| This Month in Japan |
| Special Announcements |
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| JIC Library |
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| Fun Features |
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| Editor's Note |
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Highlighted
Cultural Events |
- October 3-29: “Nagisa Oshima: His Will on Film” Film Series @ Gene Siskel Film Center ($7 tickets [instead of $11] to anyone who mentions "JAPAN" in person at the box office)
--10/3 & 4: In the Realm of the Senses
--10/4 & 6: Diary of a Shinjuku Thief
--10/10 & 11: Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence (This movie stars David Bowie, particularly interesting for those who plan on visiting the David Bowie exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago)
--10/11 & 15: Boy
--10/18 & 22: The Ceremony
--10/18 & 23: The Man Who Left His Will on Film
--10/24 & 25: Empire of Passion
--10/25 & 29: Death by Hanging
- October 3: “Musical Soiree: Soprano & Piano Song and Chopin” dual recital by pianist Kanae Tsuruga and Kaori Williams in Palatine, IL
- October 3: Justin Nozuka Concert @ City Winery in Chicago, IL
- October 3-5: Maneko Neko Con @ Matteson Community Center in Matteson, IL
- October 4: Kimono Show by Omaha Sister Cities Association in Omaha, NE
- October 4: “Ichi-go Ichi-e Sake Dinner” with Japan House of Univ. of IL @ Ani Restaurant in Chicago, IL
- October 5: Moon Concert by NCJAA @ Emily Oak Nature Center in Skokie, IL
- October 8: “Cooking Workshop: Japanese Soup Stock, Umami, and Shinjo” @ Japan House (Univ. of IL Urbana-Champaign)
- October 9: “Learning to Lead: Lessons Learned from Japan” with the Japan America Society of Chicago
- October 9: “Tea and Talk Lecture: The Rage of the Returned Soldier in Wartime Japan” @ The Univ. of KS
- October 10: 50th Annual Chicago International Film Festival – Words With Gods
- October 11: Japanese Culture Center of Chicago Open House
- October 11 & 20: 50th Annual Chicago International Film Festival - The World of Kanako
- October 11- January 4: Ghosts and Demons in Japanese Prints @ The Art Institute of Chicago
- October 12: Cheering Section for Chicago Marathon Chicago Sister Cities International
- October 15: Tokyo Type Director’s Club Exhibition with the Japan America Society of Minnesota
- October 16: North American Japanese Garden Association International Conference @ Chicago Botanic Garden
- October 17: “Dam Close: Water Mediations and Productions of Harmony in Japan's Kiso Valley” (Eric Cunningham, Japanese Studies, Earlham College) @ Indiana University
- October 17-19: Anime Fusion @ Ramada Mall of America in Bloomington, MN
- October 23: “Beyond the Kimono: Japanese High Fashion from Hanae Mori to Comme des Garcons” with the Japan America Society of Chicago
- October 23: “Strings and Serpents” @ PianoForte in Chicago, IL
- October 24-25: Ryoji Ikeda Superposition @ Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, MN
- October 24-26: Four Japanese ice skaters @ 2014 Skate America in Chicago, IL
- October 25: Fall Open House @ Japan House (Univ. of IL Urbana-Champaign)
- October 25: Anime Getaway @ Gateway Center in Collinsville, IL/St. Louis, MO
- October 27: 40th Anniversary of Suwa-St. Louis Sister City relations
- October 28: “Precarious Japan” with the Japan America Society of Chicago
- October 29: Osaka Monaurail in Minneapolis, MN
- October 31- Nov 2: Anime NebrasKon @ Ramada Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Omaha, NE
- October 31- Nov 2: Meta Con @ Hyatt Regency in Minneapolis, MN
Please click through to our Events Calendar for a full list of events, as well as information about events in the coming months!
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| Economic News |
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| Political News |
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Kannazuki, the old name for the month of October, literally means “the month of no gods.” According to legend, all of the gods in Japan for October gather at Izumo Shrine, forgoing their responsibilities in other parts of Japan at this time. Hence, the “no gods” part of the name. Conversely, in Izumo, the month is known locally as Kamiarizuki, or "the month of gods."
In Japan, the only official holiday in October is Taiiku no hi (Health and Sports Day), which is always observed on the second Monday of the month. Typically, schools and some businesses host field days to encourage both physical and mental health. Popular activities include track and field events, tug of war, three-legged races, etc.
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| JOI Coordinator Spotlight: Chiaki Tokiwa |
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The Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) was formed from a partnership between the Japan Foundation's Center for Global Partnership and the Laurasian Institution. JOI's goals are to promote American understanding of and interest in Japan and to cultivate leaders in grassroots exchange between Japan and the United States. This is carried out mainly with the help of the JOI Coordinators, Japanese citizens selected by the program to live in the US for two years. The presentations they give on Japanese language and culture open dialogue with people and communities that have limited exposure to Japan and Japanese people.
This year's first JOI Coordinator the Consulate would like to introduce is Ms. Chiaki Tokiwa who recently arrived in Indianapolis, IN to work with the Japan America Society of Indiana!
"Hello! I look forward to meeting and working with you all! I majored in education at my university and taught English at the middle school level for two years. After that, I joined the Peace Boat which includes volunteers from many countries and travels around the world. The experience on the Peace Boat inspired me to work at a travel lodge (hostel) in Japan which welcomed and provided accommodations to tourists from all over the world.
As a JOI coordinator, I would like to visit many places such as schools, universities, and community centers to make presentations and organize cultural activities related to Japan. Please see this flyer that details the types of information and cultural activities I can provide!
Phone: 317-635-0123
Email: chiaki.tokiwa@japanindiana.org
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The Japan Foundation in Los Angeles and New York will be offering the following grants this fall and winter. To ensure a smooth submission process, it is highly recommended that interested candidates start their applications early.
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Austin Gilkeson, the JET Program Coordinator at the Consulate, will be visiting universities in Iowa this month to inform communities on the JET Program. If you attend one of these schools or live nearby, stop by and learn all about the benefits of teaching English in Japan through the Japanese government!
If you would like to learn more about the JET Program, please visit our JET Program website. If you have any questions for Austin, feel free to email austin.gilkeson@cg.mofa.go.jp.
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| Sept 19 - Oct 17: Contemporary Calligraphy Exhibit @ JIC |
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The Japan Information Center currently has on display a selection of 80 contemporary calligraphy works by Toyo Shojin Rengo that are sponsored by the Japan Foundation, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago, and the Japan America Society of Chicago.
Toyo Shojin Rengo has been an active, world-traveling group of artists since 1982. They have visited many countries including, but not limited to: China, Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, Germany, Vietnam, Turkey, and the United States with the purpose of spreading peace and understanding across borders through their artworks.
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Location |
Information |
September 19 - October 17, 2014
9:15 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday |
Japan Information Center
737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1000
Chicago, IL 60611 |
Flyer
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| Oct 3: Registration for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) [deadline] |
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The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) takes place annually in December and this year, registration ends October 3. The JLPT measures comprehensive Japanese-language communicative competence through three elements: "Language Knowledge," "Reading," and "Listening." There are five levels offered, with N5 being the least difficult and N1 being the highest level. The test challenges your progress in Japanese language studies and if you pass, it can be used as a benchmark to indicate your level of proficiency.
The American Association of Teachers of Japanese website has more information on the test and provides useful advice on what steps you can take to prepare for the exam.
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| Oct 4-5: Omaha Japanese Ambience Festival |
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Take in the crisp fall air, enjoy the bold and brilliant shades of yellow, orange, red and brown in trees and shrubs and participate in a multitude of autumn-themed activities to celebrate Japanese culture!
This year is a special year as it marks the anniversary of the gift of the Japanese Sunpu Castle Gate at Lauritzen Gardens by Shizuoka, Japan, Omaha's first Sister City! Other attractions this year include koto music from Mrs. Hiroko Temme, Mrs. Yoshie Mizuno, and Mrs. Tomoko Shepherd, and an On-Tour production of The Tempest by Nebraska Shakespeare's 2014 that features Asian-infused costumes, sets and rituals like Noh theater masks.
Enjoy activities like Japanese calligraphy, koinobori, origami, chop sticks, traditional Japanese games, traditional Japanese dance, a fall chrysanthemum show, hayrack rides through the garden, scarecrow making, bonsai, and martial arts demonstrations. Paid activities will help fund the construction of Phases II and III of the future Japanese garden at Lauritzen Gardens.
| Dates |
Location |
Information |
October 4-5, 2014 (Sat & Sun)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Lauritzen Botanical Gardens
100 Bancroft Street
Omaha, NE 68108 |
Website |
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| Oct 11: Greater Kansas City Japan Festival |
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The Greater Kansas City Japan Festival appeals to those with no prior knowledge of Japan and to Japanese culture enthusiasts alike! This is the first year the event will feature a Haiku Contest with haiku composed by community members that are inspired by one of the following Kansas City area topics:
- The Heartland
- Barbeque
- Fountains
- Jazz
- KC Sports
Please also enjoy special live performances by Aya Uchida (a professional Japanese pop singer - with a music video shot on location in Kansas), Denver Taiko, Koto and Shakuhachi with Yoko Hiraoka & David Wheeler, Kyogen (Japanese Comedy) with Dr. June Compton, Buyo Dance with Yoshiko Yamanaka, Kansas State University Yosakoi Dance Group, Ki Daiko Olathe High School Taiko Group, Ottawa Suzuki Strings Institute, Marimba Performance with Mai Tadokoro, and Min’Yo Folk Songs with Molly Adkins Jeon.
Stop by displays that showcase quilts from the Tohoku region, Bonsai, Ikebana, and a Japanese landscape exhibit. Grab a bite to eat at one of vendors that will be serving sushi and other delicious Japanese food items. Please visit the link to the website listed below to see a detailed schedule of events and to purchase discounted tickets in advance (Adults: $10, Children: $6, Students: $8)
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Location |
Information |
October 11, 2014 (Sat)
10:00 AM - 7:30 PM |
Johnston County Community College
12345 College Boulevard
Overland Park, KS 66210 |
Website
Facebook Page |
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| Oct 18: Anime DeMoii with the Japan America Society of Iowa |
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Anime DeMoii is a free, Des Moines-based, all-ages anime and Japanese culture convention that is hosted annually in collaboration with the Japan America Society of Iowa (JASI) and Drake University’s Anime Club. The event is co-sponsored by the Consulate, CK international, Kintetsu International, and other funders. With activities for both the young and old, it is always a blast and all are encouraged to come!
You can see photos from past Anime DeMoii conventions here. Soon on the Anime DeMoii Facebook Page, a full schedule of special guests, activities, vendors, and speakers will be available, so please check it regularly for updates!
| Dates |
Location |
Information |
October 18, 2014 (Sat)
1:00 - 5:00 PM |
Olmstead Center @ Drake University
25 University Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50314 |
Facebook Page
Event Page |
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| Oct 26: 5th Seminar by Japanese Researchers Crossing in Chicago @ JIC |
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Japanese scholars conducting research in Chicago will be giving presentations in Japanese on their work for the Japanese Researchers Crossing in Chicago lecture series. Attendees are invited to bring sharable snacks for the opening reception and potluck. Each presentation will be for approximately 30 minutes immediately followed by a 15 minute Q&A session. Please refer to the presentation schedule on their website for more information and for more details on what topics presenters will be discussing.
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Location |
Information |
October 26, 2014 (Sun)
1:00 - 5:30 PM |
Japan Information Center
737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1000
Chicago, IL 60611 |
Website
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| Nov 1: Walter Mondale Dinner with the Japan America Society of MN |
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This year, the Japan America Society of Minnesota will celebrate its 17th Annual Mondale Award and Scholarship Dinner Gala! The event celebrates and strengthens the ties between Minnesota and Japan, as embodied by Walter Mondale, the former Minnesota Senator, United States Vice-President, and Ambassador to Japan. The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. Matthew Welch, Deputy Director and Chief Curator at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts Directors Office and Asian Art department. His specializations are in Japanese and Korean art, with a particular interest in Edo period and Zen painting.
The Mondale Award for Japan – Minnesota Partnership honors an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the building of understanding between Minnesota and Japan. Moreover, the Mondale Scholarship recognizes three undergraduate students who attend Minnesota universities and demonstrate a commitment to studying Japan.
Proceeds from this fundraising event will enable JASM to continue to offer fascinating social and educational programs that promote cultural exchange between Minnesota and Japan, including the merit-based Mondale Scholarship. All payments and registration are required before the event and can be accessed from the below website.
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Location |
Information |
November 1, 2014 (Sat)
5:30 - 9:00 PM |
Oak Ridge Country Club
700 Oak Ridge Road
Hopkins, MN 55305 |
Website |
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If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, feel free to contact our librarian directly at emily.toelcke@cg.mofa.go.jp.
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| This month's Highlighted Resources was written by JIC librarian Emily Toelcke that features notable library materials we offer per month. |
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Maneki neko (“beckoning cat”) are ubiquitous decorations found throughout Japan. These cute little felines with a waving paw frequently grace the entrance of shops, restaurants, and homes. It is said that a raised right paw brings fortune while a left one brings happiness and good luck. What are the origins of these appealing figurines? No one actually knows though many different folktales abound. One such narrative has been retold in the children’s story The Tale of the Lucky Cat まねき猫の話 by author and illustrator Sunny Seki (Call number 510030).
The Tale of the Lucky Cat begins with the poor toymaker Tokuzo embarking on a trip to a large matsuri (festival) with hopes of selling his wares. On his way, he rescues the injured cat Tama, and uses his last few earnings in an effort to nurse him back to health. Sadly, Tama passes away but the next day an identical looking cat beckons to Tokuzo from a temple and ultimately rescues him from certain danger. Tokuzo is so overjoyed that he decides to create figurines of Tama to share his good fortune with others…
The Tale of the Lucky Cat is a story of doing the right thing even at the expense of one’s own comfort. We are most rewarded when we put another’s needs in front of our own. Additionally, Tokuzo’s hard work and determination while creating the maneki neko is a good reminder that we too should work diligently until we have reached our goals. Kindness and perseverance will be rewarded!
While the JIC library owns the Japanese bilingual edition of The Tale of the Lucky Cat, it should be noted that the book is also available in seven additional languages. The Japanese version includes both a glossary of terms as well as furigana over all the kanji thus making it easily accessible to language learners. Additionally, the beautiful authentic and detailed illustrations provide great conversation starters for Japanese traditions and customs. Overall, The Tale of the Lucky Cat is a well-rounded book designed to teach not only Japanese folklore and traditions but important morals as well.
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| New Additions showcases the latest materials we have received in the JIC collection. |
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Here are some questions about current events in Japan. Email your answers to Amy Klouse at jic@cg.mofa.go.jp for a chance to win a small prize!
- Which Japanese company has shown interest in acquiring DreamWorks?
- Which Japanese University ranks 2nd after Harvard in iPS research?
- Which volcano in Japan recently erupted? Where is it located?
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Congratulations to Richard Stump, our winner from the September issue! Here are last month's answers: |
• Which popular Japanese character is currently on the Hodoyoshi-3 satellite that is orbiting space?
Hello Kitty
• What other city in Japan joined Hiroshima as a host city for the G8 Summit in 2016?
Sendai
• What anime has characters that are being advertised on bread packages this month? (Hint: this is a promotion for a new live-action version of this anime coming out)
Lupin III
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 Tsunagu Japan
This month, I found Tsunagu Japan, a relatively new Japanese culture and travel information platform. Most stories are targeted at a younger audience and are casually written in comparison to other professional travel and culture sources (like Visit Japan or the Japan National Tourism Agency), but the articles DO provide preliminary insight into Japanese life. Whether you are interested in “Otaku,” “Entertainment,” “Fashion,” “Travel,” “Food,” “Art,” or “Life,” there are a variety of interesting articles to choose from. For instance, an article I use in the Editor’s Note section below lists 20 of the best locations in Japan for kouyou (leaves turning red) viewing and I found this gem in the entertainment section for those who love to read.
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The first day of autumn has officially passed and now, as we approach October, I just hope that weather conditions remain pleasant and that we do not face another Polar Vortex this coming winter!
Autumn in Japan and America is a beautiful time of year. It’s a time to celebrate the falling of leaves, to eat and drink delicious seasonal treats, and to stay cozy under a warm kotatsu or next to a small bonfire. Japan's mostly known for sakura blossoms in spring, but the autumn colors are definitely worth seeing, too. Here you can read about the most popular spots in Japan to enjoy the changing of the seasons or here you can read about the 10 best foliage places in the United States. Enjoy!
Best,
Amy Klouse (Editor, Technology and Information Coordinator)
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Maneki neko image courtesy
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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| You are receiving this email webletter because you have signed up to receive information about Japan and Japan-related events from our office. If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please email the Japan Information Center at jic@cg.mofa.go.jp. |
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Official website for Consulate General of Japan at Chicago
www.chicago.us.emb-japan.go.jp |
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Kannazuki, the old name for the month of October, literally means “the month of no gods.” According to legend, all of the gods in Japan for October gather at Izumo Shrine, forgoing their responsibilities in other parts of Japan at this time. Hence, the “no gods” part of the name. Conversely, in Izumo, the month is known locally as Kamiarizuki, or "the month of gods."
The Japan Foundation in Los Angeles and New York will be offering the following grants this fall and winter. To ensure a smooth submission process, it is highly recommended that interested candidates start their applications early.
Austin Gilkeson, the JET Program Coordinator at the Consulate, will be visiting universities in Iowa this month to inform communities on the JET Program. If you attend one of these schools or live nearby, stop by and learn all about the benefits of teaching English in Japan through the Japanese government!
The Japan Information Center currently has on display a selection of 80 contemporary calligraphy works by Toyo Shojin Rengo that are sponsored by the Japan Foundation, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago, and the Japan America Society of Chicago.
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) takes place annually in December and this year, registration ends October 3. The JLPT measures comprehensive Japanese-language communicative competence through three elements: "Language Knowledge," "Reading," and "Listening." There are five levels offered, with N5 being the least difficult and N1 being the highest level. The test challenges your progress in Japanese language studies and if you pass, it can be used as a benchmark to indicate your level of proficiency.
Take in the crisp fall air, enjoy the bold and brilliant shades of yellow, orange, red and brown in trees and shrubs and participate in a multitude of autumn-themed activities to celebrate Japanese culture!
Anime DeMoii is a free, Des Moines-based, all-ages anime and Japanese culture convention that is hosted annually in collaboration with the Japan America Society of Iowa (JASI) and Drake University’s Anime Club. The event is co-sponsored by the Consulate, CK international, Kintetsu International, and other funders. With activities for both the young and old, it is always a blast and all are encouraged to come!
Maneki neko (“beckoning cat”) are ubiquitous decorations found throughout Japan. These cute little felines with a waving paw frequently grace the entrance of shops, restaurants, and homes. It is said that a raised right paw brings fortune while a left one brings happiness and good luck. What are the origins of these appealing figurines? No one actually knows though many different folktales abound. One such narrative has been retold in the children’s story 
