The Japan America Society of Southern California (JASSC) will host its 117th Anniversary Dinner & Gala on Thursday, Sept. 17, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the historic Biltmore Hotel, 506 S. Grand Ave. in Downtown Los Angeles.
With “Voices of Courage, Legacies of Hope” as the theme, the evening will celebrate the enduring friendship between Japan and the U.S. Yoshiki will honored with the Kokusai Shimin Sho (International Citizens Award) and Rintaro Sasaki with the Next Generation Rising Star Award.
Yoshiki is Japan’s biggest rock star and an internationally acclaimed composer, musician, producer, philanthropist, and cultural ambassador whose influence extends far beyond the world of music. As the leader and co-founder of X Japan, he helped redefine Japanese rock music and became one of the country’s most influential artists.
His remarkable career has expanded across classical music, film scoring, fashion, and international collaborations, earning him worldwide recognition while introducing Japanese artistry and culture to global audiences.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Yoshiki has devoted himself to humanitarian efforts and charitable initiatives throughout his career. He has generously supported disaster relief, children’s charities, medical research, and educational programs in Japan, the U.S., and around the world. Through both his philanthropy and his music, he has inspired hope, resilience, and compassion across cultures.
As a cultural ambassador, Yoshiki has built meaningful bridges between Japan and the U.S. through creativity, innovation, and mutual respect. His ability to unite people through music while using his global platform to support humanitarian causes reflects the very spirit of international friendship.
Rintaro Sasaki is one of Japan’s most promising young baseball players, recognized for becoming the all-time high school home run leader in Japanese baseball history. Rather than immediately pursuing a professional career in Japan, he chose to continue both his academic and athletic journey at Stanford University, demonstrating remarkable vision, ambition, and a commitment to personal growth on the international stage.
His continued development has now led to his signing with the Miami Marlins organization, marking an exciting new chapter in his baseball career.
Beyond his accomplishments on the baseball field, Sasaki represents a new generation of leaders who embrace global opportunities while serving as ambassadors of Japanese excellence. Through his dedication, sportsmanship, and willingness to challenge himself in a new cultural environment, he has inspired young athletes in both Japan and the U.S. to pursue their dreams beyond borders.
As a student-athlete competing in the U.S., Sasaki continues to strengthen the connection between Japan and America through sports, education, and cultural exchange. His journey reflects the values of perseverance, humility, and international understanding that define the next generation of global leaders.
Check-in at 6:30 p.m.; reception at 7 p.m.; dinner and gala celebration at 8 p.m. Attire: Cocktail or business. Parking will be complimentary as validation will be provided.
Individual seats are $450 per guest. Table sponsorships start at $6,500.
Your participation will make JASSC programs possible, including the Kite Workshops that benefit children attending Title I programs (schools serving a high percentage of children from low-income families) and Japan Bowl of California.
Info/registration: https://www.jas-socal.org/event-6756204