West LA Buddhist Temple Obon, 1999 (West LA Buddhist Temple Obon, 1999 - wearing the yukata)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County; and Kassy Duran, Utah

Photo 2 of 3: wearing Yukata

Growing up in Burbank, my family often made trips to Little Tokyo for a Sunday dinner at Far East. However, we usually celebrated Obon in West LA since my parents grew up in West LA and Santa Monica where Sawtelle Boulevard was the local center of their Japanese American cultural experience. Since there were only a handful of Japanese American families in Burbank, I felt transported to Japan during these celebrations. My brothers and I especially loved the carnival and catching goldfish that we proudly brought back home in plastic bags.  As an adult, I cherish the continuation of these celebrations connecting me & the next generation (in this case my niece) to our Japanese American culture and to fond memories of my childhood.  It also gave me an opportunity to wear the yukata that I was given by my friend, Etsuko's family during my trip to Japan with her.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Growing up in Burbank, my family often made trips to Little Tokyo for a Sunday dinner at Far East. However, we usually celebrated Obon in West LA since my parents grew up in West LA and Santa Monica where Sawtelle Boulevard was the local center of their Japanese American cultural experience. Since there were only a handful of Japanese American families in Burbank, I felt transported to Japan during these celebrations. My brothers and I especially loved the carnival and catching goldfish that we proudly brought back home in plastic bags.  As an adult, I cherish the continuation of these celebrations connecting me & the next generation (in this case my niece) to our Japanese American culture and to fond memories of my childhood.  It also gave me an opportunity to wear the yukata that I was given by my friend, Etsuko's family during my trip to Japan with her.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

West LA Buddhist Temple Obon, 1999 (West LA Buddhist Temple Obon, 1999 - my niece)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County; and Kassy Duran, Utah

Photo 1 of 3: My niece

Growing up in Burbank, my family often made trips to Little Tokyo for a Sunday dinner at Far East. However, we usually celebrated Obon in West LA since my parents grew up in West LA and Santa Monica where Sawtelle Boulevard was the local center of their Japanese American cultural experience. Since there were only a handful of Japanese American families in Burbank, I felt transported to Japan during these celebrations. My brothers and I especially loved the carnival and catching goldfish that we proudly brought back home in plastic bags.  As an adult, I cherish the continuation of these celebrations connecting me & the next generation (in this case my niece) to our Japanese American culture and to fond memories of my childhood.  It also gave me an opportunity to wear the yukata that I was given by my friend, Etsuko's family during my trip to Japan with her.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Growing up in Burbank, my family often made trips to Little Tokyo for a Sunday dinner at Far East. However, we usually celebrated Obon in West LA since my parents grew up in West LA and Santa Monica where Sawtelle Boulevard was the local center of their Japanese American cultural experience. Since there were only a handful of Japanese American families in Burbank, I felt transported to Japan during these celebrations. My brothers and I especially loved the carnival and catching goldfish that we proudly brought back home in plastic bags.  As an adult, I cherish the continuation of these celebrations connecting me & the next generation (in this case my niece) to our Japanese American culture and to fond memories of my childhood.  It also gave me an opportunity to wear the yukata that I was given by my friend, Etsuko's family during my trip to Japan with her.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004 (Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004 - with big uchiwa)

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Los Angeles County

Photo 1 or 5: Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family.  Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy.  Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished. 

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family. Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy. Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Los Angeles County

Photo 2 or 5: Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family.  Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy.  Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished. 

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family. Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy. Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004 (Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004 - with two uchiwas)

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Los Angeles County

Photo 5 or 5: Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family.  Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy.  Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished. 

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family. Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy. Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Los Angeles County

Photo 4 or 5: Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family.  Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy.  Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished. 

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family. Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy. Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Los Angeles County

Photo 3 or 5: Ella's 2nd Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2004

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family.  Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy.  Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished. 

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

* * * * *

Celebrating our culture and honoring our ancestors means so much to my family. Seeing Ella dancing dances that my parents and their parents, etc. performed with such exuberance filled my soul with joy. Today, 17 years later as she's off to college, these special traditions & moments are even more cherished.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 (Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 - matching yukata)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County and Etsuko Honigsberg, Denver, CO

Photo 4 or 4:  Matching yukatas

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

* * * * *

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 (Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 - bon odori)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County and Etsuko Honigsberg, Denver, CO

Photo 3 or 4: Bon odori

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

* * * * *

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 (Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 - Etsuko and Coleen)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County and Etsuko Honigsberg, Denver, CO

Photo 1 or 4: Coleen & Etsuko

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

* * * * *

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 (Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival – Yamaga Toro Matsuri, 1998 - Shaved Ice)

Submitted by: Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County and Etsuko Honigsberg, Denver, CO

Photo 2 or 4: Shaved ice

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

* * * * *

Traveling to Japan to meet maternal relatives and to visit their village was a dream come true. The dream continued, watching the famous and spectacular Yamaga Lantern Dance Festival with 1000 women all dressed in matching white summer yukatas & red obi sashes dancing elegantly while wearing beautifully crafted paper illuminated lanterns on their heads.

The origins of the festival arise from an ancient story of Yamaga villagers helping the legendary Emperor Keiko (71 to 130 AD) and his followers who were lost in the middle of a fog storm by holding lighted pine torches in their hands to lead the way.

A Matsuri celebration would not be complete without food.  Etsuko delightfully enjoyed having a proper shaved iced snow cone, just as she remembered it.  At that time, real shaved iced machines were not as prevalent in the Los Angeles area as they are now.

Photo credits: Coleen Uchida-Tamny; Shoji Miyajima

Ella's 1st Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2003 (Ella's 1st Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2003 - Big smile!)

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County

Photo 2 of 2: Ella with a big smile

Even though Ella wasn't even walking yet, she felt the beat & spirit of the Obon Odori music and wanted to join the dancers.  Having just moved up to the Bay Area, I was thrilled to attend this festival in San Francisco to feel connected to my family.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

*****

Even though Ella wasn't even walking yet, she felt the beat & spirit of the Obon Odori music and wanted to join the dancers.  Having just moved up to the Bay Area, I was thrilled to attend this festival in San Francisco to feel connected to my family.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Ella's 1st Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2003

Submitted by: Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny, Los Angeles County

Photo 1 of 2: Ella's 1st Obon, San Francisco Japantown 2003

Even though Ella wasn't even walking yet, she felt the beat & spirit of the Obon Odori music and wanted to join the dancers.  Having just moved up to the Bay Area, I was thrilled to attend this festival in San Francisco to feel connected to my family.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

*****

Even though Ella wasn't even walking yet, she felt the beat & spirit of the Obon Odori music and wanted to join the dancers.  Having just moved up to the Bay Area, I was thrilled to attend this festival in San Francisco to feel connected to my family.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny

Just havin’ fun!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The local Awa odori group just out there having fun!

*****

The local Awa odori group just out there having fun!

Awa odori

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Leading the local Awa odori group down the parade route. Each dance group participating in the Nisei Week parade has an identifying banner or something to identify themselves. The introduction of the Awa Odori Tokushima Ren always has a more traditional feel to it, rather than a very American banner.

*****

Leading the local Awa odori group down the parade route. Each dance group participating in the Nisei Week parade has an identifying banner or something to identify themselves. The introduction of the Awa Odori Tokushima Ren always has a more traditional feel to it, rather than a very American banner.

Traditions

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Many who dance at local obon or matsuri like to wear traditional garb. Capturing these various forms of dress is one of my traditions.

*****

Many who dance at local obon or matsuri like to wear traditional garb. Capturing these various forms of dress is one of my traditions.

Waving Goodbye to Mme. Sanjo Kanya

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Dancers from the Kanya Sanjo V Kabuki Dance Company as they dance down 2nd St. I viewed this as a final wave of good-bye to their sensei, Mme. Sanjo Kanya, who passed away four months before this event.

*****

Description: Dancers from the Kanya Sanjo V Kabuki Dance Company as they dance down 2nd St. I viewed this as a final wave of good-bye to their sensei, Mme. Sanjo Kanya, who passed away four months before this event.

Sanjo Kanya ( (Sanjo Kanya))

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Dancers from the Kanya Sanjo V Kabuki Dance Company. Madame Sanjo Kanya (1940-2019) was the official choreographer for the 2019 Nisei Week Parade, but sadly passed away four months before the actual parade. Her natori and students danced in her honor.

This was submitted by Richard Watanabe from Arcadia, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

*****

Dancers from the Kanya Sanjo V Kabuki Dance Company. Madame Sanjo Kanya (1940-2019) was the official choreographer for the 2019 Nisei Week Parade, but sadly passed away four months before the actual parade. Her natori and students danced in her honor.

Yoshitsune

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Nebuta float of Minamoto Yoshitsune (1159-1189). Yoshitsune was considered one of the greatest warriors of the late Heian (794-1185) and early Kamakura periods (1192-1333), leading the Minamoto clan to victory over the Taira clan during the Gempei War.

*****

Nebuta float of Minamoto Yoshitsune (1159-1189). Yoshitsune was considered one of the greatest warriors of the late Heian (794-1185) and early Kamakura periods (1192-1333), leading the Minamoto clan to victory over the Taira clan during the Gempei War.

Tiny Dancer. (Tiny Dancer)

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

It’s never too early to get in your gear and start learning obon dances.

*****

It’s never too early to get in your gear and start learning obon dances.

Yosakoi at night!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The Yosakoisoran Hiragishi-Tenjin group from Sapporo, Japan does their unique brand of yosakoi at the foot of the Japanese Village Plaza yagura. Although a modernized version of yosakoi, keeping traditions like this alive and sharing with communities like ours is important.

This was submitted by Richard Watanabe from Arcadia, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

*****

The Yosakoisoran Hiragishi-Tenjin group from Sapporo, Japan does their unique brand of yosakoi at the foot of the Japanese Village Plaza yagura. Although a modernized version of yosakoi, keeping traditions like this alive and sharing with communities like ours is important.

Yosakoi!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The Yosakoisoran Hiragishi-Tenjin group from Sapporo, Japan. Fusing the traditional soranbushi folk song of Hokkaido with elements of Yosakoi dancing, this group was 2011 champions in Japan. Yosakoi is from Kochi Prefecture, but has spread throughout Japan. A subset of the Hiragishi-Tenjin group participated in the 2012 Nisei Week Parade. Bringing various cultural things from Japan maintains that link to where our ancestors came from.

*****

The Yosakoisoran Hiragishi-Tenjin group from Sapporo, Japan. Fusing the traditional soranbushi folk song of Hokkaido with elements of Yosakoi dancing, this group was 2011 champions in Japan. Yosakoi is from Kochi Prefecture, but has spread throughout Japan. A subset of the Hiragishi-Tenjin group participated in the 2012 Nisei Week Parade. Bringing various cultural things from Japan maintains that link to where our ancestors came from.

Together! ( (Together!))

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Passing on the tradition of celebrating matsuri and doing various dances is a critical component of keeping these traditions alive in the US. Although these little ones aren’t quite coordinated now, they will eventually be passing on this tradition to their children and grandchildren.

*****

Passing on the tradition of celebrating matsuri and doing various dances is a critical component of keeping these traditions alive in the US. Although these little ones aren’t quite coordinated now, they will eventually be passing on this tradition to their children and grandchildren.

Okinawa Association of America (OAA)

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Led and organized by the Geinobu of the OAA, volunteers dance both traditional Okinawan and obon dances. Okinawa has its own unique history and traditions that are a mixture of cultures. It’s always a pleasure to see that on display like this.

*****

Led and organized by the Geinobu of the OAA, volunteers dance both traditional Okinawan and obon dances. Okinawa has its own unique history and traditions that are a mixture of cultures. It’s always a pleasure to see that on display like this.

Awa odori!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Local Awa odori dancers in traditional garb. It’s always fun to do a static capture of their various movements.

*****

Local Awa odori dancers in traditional garb. It’s always fun to do a static capture of their various movements.

Bando Mitsuhiro Kai

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The dance group led by the late Madame Mitsuhiro Bando (1928-2016). This particular year, Mme. Bando was the official choreographer for the Nisei Week Parade. Another example of how local dance groups dress-up in traditional garb to perform for the public.

*****

The dance group led by the late Madame Mitsuhiro Bando (1928-2016). This particular year, Mme. Bando was the official choreographer for the Nisei Week Parade. Another example of how local dance groups dress-up in traditional garb to perform for the public.

Kodomo Nebuta

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Nebuta makers from Aomori, Japan helped locals make slightly smaller versions of the traditional nebuta. This was the first locally-made nebuta. Not quite as large as ones made in Aomori, but the size was intentionally restricted to make navigation easier in LA streets. This was quite memorable, as it is rare for these to be made outside of Japan.

*****

Nebuta makers from Aomori, Japan helped locals make slightly smaller versions of the traditional nebuta. This was the first locally-made nebuta. Not quite as large as ones made in Aomori, but the size was intentionally restricted to make navigation easier in LA streets. This was quite memorable, as it is rare for these to be made outside of Japan.

Whushi!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The traditional Chinese Lion Dance performed as part of the 2009 Nisei Week parade. The original Chinatown in Los Angeles is a neighbor to Little Tokyo and their participation represents the close-knit nature of the local community.

*****

The traditional Chinese Lion Dance performed as part of the 2009 Nisei Week parade. The original Chinatown in Los Angeles is a neighbor to Little Tokyo and their participation represents the close-knit nature of the local community.

Dancing down 2nd Street

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

One of the many dance groups representing different schools dance down 2nd Street in Los Angeles. These moments in the Nisei Week Parade are memorable because of the different attires worn by the dancers.

*****

One of the many dance groups representing different schools dance down 2nd Street in Los Angeles. These moments in the Nisei Week Parade are memorable because of the different attires worn by the dancers.

Nebuta!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

A Nebuta of Takeda Shingen (1521-1573), famous daimyo of the Kai Province. The Nebuta Festival in Aomri, Japan traces its roots to the Heian period (794-1185) in which large paper lantern floats of famous figures in history are created. This was the first Nebuta to be brought to Los Angeles from Aomori, Japan specifically for the 2007 Nisei Week parade and only the second time Nebuta ever left Japan.

*****

A Nebuta of Takeda Shingen (1521-1573), famous daimyo of the Kai Province. The Nebuta Festival in Aomri, Japan traces its roots to the Heian period (794-1185) in which large paper lantern floats of famous figures in history are created. This was the first Nebuta to be brought to Los Angeles from Aomori, Japan specifically for the 2007 Nisei Week parade and only the second time Nebuta ever left Japan.

Rassera, Rassera!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The Haneto dancers lead the nebuta float down LA’s First Street. The Nebuta Festival in Aomori, Japan features giant paper lantern floats. However, the Nebuta Festival is never complete without Haneto dancers. Haneto dance is probably one of the easiest to learn, but does require the appropriate attire. In fact, in Aomori, guests are encouraged to join the Haneto dancers, so long as they wear the appropriate attire. A group of locals and dancers from Aomori came together to lead the Nebuta at the 2007 Nisei Week Parade. The dancers completed a very memorable Nisei Week Parade that featured a Nebuta borrowed from Aomori, Japan.

*****

The Haneto dancers lead the nebuta float down LA’s First Street. The Nebuta Festival in Aomori, Japan features giant paper lantern floats. However, the Nebuta Festival is never complete without Haneto dancers. Haneto dance is probably one of the easiest to learn, but does require the appropriate attire. In fact, in Aomori, guests are encouraged to join the Haneto dancers, so long as they wear the appropriate attire. A group of locals and dancers from Aomori came together to lead the Nebuta at the 2007 Nisei Week Parade. The dancers completed a very memorable Nisei Week Parade that featured a Nebuta borrowed from Aomori, Japan.

Generations!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Two different generations do Awa odori. The passing of traditions from one generation to another is an important part of any community and any cultural tradition.

*****

Two different generations do Awa odori. The passing of traditions from one generation to another is an important part of any community and any cultural tradition.

Awa odori!

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

A form of dance from Tokushima, Japan, “Awa” is the old feudal name for the Tokushima Prefecture. The Awa odori can trace its roots back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The Awa Odori Festival is the largest matsuri in Japan and its influence stretches across the globe. The local Awa Odori group, Awa Odori Tokushima Ren, regularly participates in the Nisei Week parade and is always a group I look forward to watching.

*****

A form of dance from Tokushima, Japan, “Awa” is the old feudal name for the Tokushima Prefecture. The Awa odori can trace its roots back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The Awa Odori Festival is the largest matsuri in Japan and its influence stretches across the globe. The local Awa Odori group, Awa Odori Tokushima Ren, regularly participates in the Nisei Week parade and is always a group I look forward to watching.

Community

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

The obon festivals bring together different parts of the local community to dance, have fun, share food, and to connect. Activities like this are an important part of our local community, but also play an important role in teaching those outside of our immediate community various aspects of our culture and traditions.

*****

The obon festivals bring together different parts of the local community to dance, have fun, share food, and to connect. Activities like this are an important part of our local community, but also play an important role in teaching those outside of our immediate community various aspects of our culture and traditions.

The Rinban

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Rinban Noriaki Ito of the Higashi Honganji joins in on obon dancing each year. I think it’s important for temple leadership to participate in events like this, but to also enjoy themselves with temple congregation and members of the community.

*****

Rinban Noriaki Ito of the Higashi Honganji joins in on obon dancing each year. I think it’s important for temple leadership to participate in events like this, but to also enjoy themselves with temple congregation and members of the community.

Myles Hamada

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Myles is an avid dancer and can be found at all the obon festivals and other opportunities to do traditional and non-traditional “obon odori.” Myles always dresses for the part.

*****

Myles is an avid dancer and can be found at all the obon festivals and other opportunities to do traditional and non-traditional “obon odori.” Myles always dresses for the part.

Food Traditions

Submitted by: Richard Watanabe (Arcadia, Califronia, USA)

Taketo Yamauchi, medical student from Japan, tries out traditional Japanese American obon food, tamales. Matsuri on this side of the Pacific include non-traditional foods that are tradition here. Taketo is now Dr. Yamauchi in Saitama, Japan.

*****

Taketo Yamauchi, medical student from Japan, tries out traditional Japanese American obon food, tamales. Matsuri on this side of the Pacific include non-traditional foods that are tradition here. Taketo is now Dr. Yamauchi in Saitama, Japan.

Exciting Time

Submitted by: Mary Sunada (Cerritos, California, USA) 

Three single ladies in our 20’s enjoying and participating in the opening ceremony of the Nisei Week Japanese Festival in Los Angeles, California during the late 1970s. My sister Marian, myself, and my high school classmate, Kiku, performed three Bon Odori dances under the Sensei, Hanagyagi Rokumine.  It was an exciting time for us that we will never forget. 

Tamlyn Tomita leading group of children at Nisei Week Ondo

Submitted by: Nisei Week Japanese Festival (Los Angeles, California, USA)

Nisei Week Board Member and 1984 Nisei Week Queen Tamlyn Tomita leading a group of children during the Nisei Week Closing Ceremony & Ondo.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

*****

Nisei Week Board Member and 1984 Nisei Week Queen Tamlyn Tomita leading a group of children during the Nisei Week Closing Ceremony & Ondo.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

Bando Hidesomi Dance Group in the Nisei Week Grand Parade

Submitted by: Nisei Week Japanese Festival (Los Angeles, California, USA) 

Bando Hidesomi leading her dance group in the Nisei Week Grand Parade.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

This was submitted by Nisei Week Foundation, Los Angeles, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

*****

Bando Hidesomi leading her dance group in the Nisei Week Grand Parade.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

Taiko Performance at the 2019 Nisei Week Closing Ceremony

Submitted by: Nisei Week Japanese Festival (Los Angeles, California, USA)

A lively taiko performance at the 2019 Nisei Week Closing Ceremony & Ondo.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

*****

A lively taiko performance at the 2019 Nisei Week Closing Ceremony & Ondo.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio.

Nebuta float at the 75th Nisei Week Japanese Festival

Submitted by: Nisei Week Japanese Festival (Los Angeles, California, USA)

The Nebuta float making a stunning appearance at the 75th Nisei Week Japanese Festival.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio

This was submitted by Nisei Week Foundation, Los Angeles, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

*****

The Nebuta float making a stunning appearance at the 75th Nisei Week Japanese Festival.

Photo by Toyo Miyatake Studio

Nisei Week 2019: Awa Odori Dancers (Awa Odori Dancers in the 2019 Nisei Week Parade)

Submitted by: Japanese American National Museum (Los Angeles, California, USA)  

The largest aspect of the annual Nisei Week Festival in Los Angeles is the grand parade down the streets of Little Tokyo with traditional Japanese dancing, floats, marching bands, celebrities, and various community groups. The Japanese American National Museum always participates, with volunteer photographers documenting its participation. They also take photos of other parade entries like this one of awa odori dancers at the 2019 Nisei Week Parade.

Photo by Richard Watanabe.

Photo by Richard Watanabe.

Nisei Week 2016: Nebuta Haneto Dancers (Nebuta Haneto Dancers in the 2016 Nisei Week Parade)

Submitted by: Japanese American National Museum (Los Angeles, California, USA) 

Nebuta haneto dancers at the 2016 Nisei Week Parade.

Photo by Daryl Kobayashi

Photo by Daryl Kobayashi

Nisei Week 2018: Dancing Elvises (2018 Nisei Week Ondo: Dancing Elvises)

Submitted by: Japanese American National Museum (Los Angeles, California, USA) 

JANM volunteer photographers also documented other dancers, like this colorful group of dancing Elvises at the 2018 Nisei Week Ondo.

Photo by Daryl Kobayashi.

Nisei Week 2018: JANM Ondo Dancers (JANM Ondo Dancers at 2018 Nisei Week Festival Ondo)

Submitted by: Japanese American National Museum (Los Angeles, California, USA) 

The Nisei Week Festival closes each year with live entertainment and ondo dancing in the streets of Little Tokyo. The community at large are invited to participate. Many organizations and groups join in together dressed in festive attire. The Japanese American National Museum organizes a group of volunteers and staff each year to participate, with many wearing JANM purple happi coats.

Photo by Daryl Kobayashi.

Photo by Daryl Kobayashi.