Nori Kamiya of Shin-Sen-Gumi grills up some yakitori.A pair of young visitors have a visit with Pokemon character Eevee.Bushido Tanren Kenkyukai Sensei Masaji Saito displays his expertise with a razor-sharp katana.ESGVJCC Queen Jacqueline Naito displays member-created glass art.Hideyasu Hagihara, fourth-generation president of his family business that began in 1892, shows a lightweight tatami mat they are now selling in the U.S. “Tatami is made of natural materials, smells fresh, and also gives a nostalgic feeling, like being at Grandmother’s house,” he said. In addition to traditional tatami, the company produces a variety of related items, such as tatami sandals, shown at left by Kahori Takatsugi.Young dancers from Na Pua ’Ohana ’Ilima Hula Studio take the stage.Photos by MIKEY HIRANO CULROSS / Rafu Shimpo
A light drizzle did not dampen the spirits of all attending the West Covina Cherry Blossom Festival on April 25 at Plaza West Covina.
Presented in partnership with the East San Gabriel Valley Japanese Community Center, the free event featured cultural performances, traditional and modern cuisine, a Japanese beer garden, local artists and vendors, and community resources.
