SAN JOSE — The Japanese American Museum of San Jose, 535 N. Fifth St. in Japantown, will observe Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) on Sunday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Brightly dyed carp streamers will soon be fluttering above houses in Japan and many Japanese American homes during the celebration of Kodomo no Hi. In keeping with this tradition, koi streamers will be hung along Fifth Street, leading you to JAMsj during the Nikkei Matsuri Festival. Kodomo No Hi is a national holiday in Japan, traditionally celebrated on May 5.
JAMsj will be celebrating Kodomo no Hi with various craft-making workshops. Children can learn how to make kabuto (samurai helmets), koi-nobori (carp streamers), and other crafts at this popular event. A special JAMsj gift basket will be raffled off.
Event is free with admission to the museum (non-members, $5; students and seniors over age 65, $3; JAMsj members and children under 12, free). An additional materials fee may apply.
Also on Sunday, the second annual kimono and vintage sale will held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in JAMsj’s agricultural exhibit area. This unique sale features gently used items of Japanese or Asian influence.
Last year, Machiko Shiozaki from the Kimura Gallery in Palo Alto helped JAMsj evaluate and price the donated items. On sale last year were items from the Sasser family estate, books from the museum library, obis, kimonos, fabric, dishes, dolls, swords, paintings, and hangings. The samurai swords were the most sought-after items.
Come to the sale and buy whatever strikes your fancy, either for yourself or for a thoughtful gift. Help yourself and support the museum at the same time.
For more information, email PublicPrograms@jamsj.org or call the JAMsj office at (408) 294-3138, or visit www.jamsj.org.