Upcoming Events
The Japanese Culture Center hosts a wide variety of classes, events, and demonstrations to explore the rich cultural heritage of artists and creators worldwide. Come join us for an immersive experience right in the heart of Chicago!
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List of Events
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Ongoing Monthly Chanoyu Class – January
The January classes are on January 10, 17, and 24.
January Zen Meditation Workshop
Zazen, the practice of meditation, is a transformative process that aims to deepen our connection to the mind and body. With regular practice, meditation and breath training can significantly reduce stress, improve mental clarity and cultivate a well grounded state of awareness. This intro is recommended for anyone new to zen meditation or working to deepen their existing practice.
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Advanced Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Intermediate Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the last class in our Japanese Language course series. This class is recommended for students who have completed both the Introductory and Intermediate Japanese Language courses. GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January 11th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii SenseiPlease note exact class dates for the SATURDAY class:1/11,…
January TRE Workshop
Developed by Dr. David Berceli, Ph.D., TRE™ is a simple technique that utilizes a set of basic exercises to release accumulated stress and tension accumulated within the body. Stress may arise from everyday circumstances of life or traumatic experiences. Used by thousands of people around the world, TRE can help restore a sense of inner peace, allowing for a more vibrant, complete experience of life. This workshop will teach you the basics of the TRE system allowing you to release…
January Shodo Calligraphy
The Japanese Culture Center is excited to announce a brand new 書道 - Shodo / Japanese Calligraphy program with Chicago's own Shodo master, Hekiun Oda!In the Shodo program you learn the art of Japanese calligraphy from Hekiun Oda-sensei, a calligraphy master from the Japanese Calligraphy Association in Japan, aka “Genshin-kai”. Thanks to Oda-sensei’s rank as “Shihan” in the association, students in this program will be able to send their work to the headquarters in Japan and potentially be an awarded…
Soothing Sound Bath
About the experience:A gentle and meditative immersion in the sounds of singing bowls, drums, gongs, and other healing tools. Participants will “bathe” in the vibrations of ancient and modern instruments, achieving deep rest. Appropriate for all seeking stillness, relaxation, meditation, or simply a really great nap.Participants are asked to lie on the floor. Please bring a mat/blanket to lie on, and a pillow/blanket as desired. Dress warmly and comfortably.Instructor Bio:Rachel Elizabeth Maley is a visual and sound artist based outside of…
January Shodo Calligraphy
The Japanese Culture Center is excited to announce a brand new 書道 - Shodo / Japanese Calligraphy program with Chicago's own Shodo master, Hekiun Oda!In the Shodo program you learn the art of Japanese calligraphy from Hekiun Oda-sensei, a calligraphy master from the Japanese Calligraphy Association in Japan, aka “Genshin-kai”. Thanks to Oda-sensei’s rank as “Shihan” in the association, students in this program will be able to send their work to the headquarters in Japan and potentially be an awarded…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Suminagashi – Japanese Paper Marbling Workshop
Join artist Pamela Martinez for a 2 hour introduction to Suminagashi Japanese paper marbling. Suminagashi is the ancient practice of of creating colorful ink patterns.Lightly touch the surface of water with the tip of a brush to release colorful ink and create free floating designs; a contact print is lifted after carefully placing a sheet of paper over the image. **For participants ages 10 and up**Instructor Bio:Pamela Martinez has been teaching, studying andpracticing the ancient art of paper marbling for…
Advanced Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Intermediate Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the last class in our Japanese Language course series. This class is recommended for students who have completed both the Introductory and Intermediate Japanese Language courses. GENERAL INFO: ‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January 11th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii Sensei Please note exact class dates for…
Color your Valentine! – Nerikiri (Japanese sweets) Making Workshop
Create your own Japanese sweets!Nerikiri is a type of artistic and high-grade traditional Japanese sweet originally made to be served at tea ceremonies. Made with white an paste (butter bean paste), mochi (sweet rice flour and sugar), sugar, and food coloring, Nerikiri is known for being one of the sweetest Japanese treats! You can express many things by coloring and shaping Nerikiri, so it is often called 'edible art.' In this workshop you will have the chance to color Nerikiri…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Advanced Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Intermediate Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the last class in our Japanese Language course series. This class is recommended for students who have completed both the Introductory and Intermediate Japanese Language courses. GENERAL INFO: ‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January 11th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii Sensei Please note exact class dates for…
Drawing Anime & Manga (6-Week Course)
Beginner Course: Ages 10+Cost : $175Drawing Anime & Manga is an 6-week course that moves through the foundations of illustration, through the lens of anime and manga. Students will follow along with the instructor as they learn the elements of creating simple shapes, 1-point perspective, figure drawing, scene composition, contrast and lighting, and ink and color. Students will end the course learning how to draw and ink their very own manga panels.All supplies will be provided and are included in…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Intermediate Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Introduction to Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the next class in our Japanese Language course series. You will use the second portion of the textbook you received in the Introduction to Japanese Language course, and therefore no new materials are required. This is a good class for those who already know hiragana and katakana.GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student ‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January…
Advanced Japanese Language
Ready to continue your studies in Nihongo/Japanese Language after completing the Intermediate Japanese Language course? Keep building upon the skills you've learned in the last class in our Japanese Language course series. This class is recommended for students who have completed both the Introductory and Intermediate Japanese Language courses. GENERAL INFO: ‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, January 11th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii Sensei Please note exact class dates for…
Gong Bath
Gongs have been used throughout history to signify awakening, arrivals, and important transitions. Gong baths provide a powerful sonic experience in which guests are immersed in the vibrations of these ancient instruments, creating space for a profound inward journey of meditation, exploration, and release.Please note: participants are asked to lie on the floor, though accommodations will be made for all needs. Dress warmly and comfortably. Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early to get situated. Instructor Bio:Rachel Elizabeth Maley is a…
Introduction to Japanese Language
Learn to read, write, and speak with fellow classmates in our Introduction to Japanese Language class!GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student (+$27.00 for textbook)‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, February 22nd OR Thursday, February 20th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday or Thursday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii SenseiPlease note exact class dates for the SATURDAY class:2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14, 3/28, and 4/4Please note exact class dates for the THURSDAY class:2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, 3/26, and 4/2REGISTER:Please consider registering as…
Introduction to Japanese Language
Learn to read, write, and speak with fellow classmates in our Introduction to Japanese Language class!GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student (+$27.00 for textbook)‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, February 22nd OR Thursday, February 20th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday or Thursday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii SenseiPlease note exact class dates for the SATURDAY class:2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14, 3/28, and 4/4Please note exact class dates for the THURSDAY class:2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, 3/26, and 4/2REGISTER:Please consider registering as…
Introduction to Japanese Language
Learn to read, write, and speak with fellow classmates in our Introduction to Japanese Language class!GENERAL INFO:‣ Price ⇰ $120.00 per student (+$27.00 for textbook)‣ Starts ⇰ Saturday, February 22nd OR Thursday, February 20th‣ Duration ⇰ Six weeks (one hour every Saturday or Thursday)‣ Instructor ⇰ Mieko Fujii SenseiPlease note exact class dates for the SATURDAY class:2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14, 3/28, and 4/4Please note exact class dates for the THURSDAY class:2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, 3/26, and 4/2REGISTER:Please consider registering as…
February Zazenkai
This event is designed for people to go deeper in their meditation practice and prepare for longer retreats. Bring loose clothing and your meditation cushion if you have one. If you have a dogi and hakama please wear them.*The event is geared for people with experience of sitting zazen for at least 40 mins at a time.*We are requesting a $75 donation. A small snack will be provided at the end of the event so you will need to eat…
February Zen Meditation Workshop
Zazen, the practice of meditation, is a transformative process that aims to deepen our connection to the mind and body. With regular practice, meditation and breath training can significantly reduce stress, improve mental clarity and cultivate a well grounded state of awareness. This intro is recommended for anyone new to zen meditation or working to deepen their existing practice.
Soothing Sound Bath
About the experience:A gentle and meditative immersion in the sounds of singing bowls, drums, gongs, and other healing tools. Participants will “bathe” in the vibrations of ancient and modern instruments, achieving deep rest. Appropriate for all seeking stillness, relaxation, meditation, or simply a really great nap.Participants are asked to lie on the floor. Please bring a mat/blanket to lie on, and a pillow/blanket as desired. Dress warmly and comfortably.Instructor Bio:Rachel Elizabeth Maley is a visual and sound artist based outside of…
Introduction to Ikebana Flower Arrangement: 6 Week Class
We are excited to offer the next 6 Week Ikebana Course at the Japanese Culture Center!Classes meet for 6 Sundays beginning 03/15/20203:00-4:00pm Introductory CourseThe course fee is $200, which includes flowers and all tools required for both the course. You can take home all tools and materials after its completion to continue the practice. *There are VERY limited seats in this class, and thus we recommend registering ASAP. Registration 1 week prior to class is required.*The class schedule will be 3/15, 3/22,…
Ikebana Flower Arrangement: 6 Week INTERMEDIATE Course
We are excited to offer the next 6 Week Intermediate Ikebana Course at the Japanese Culture Center!Classes meet for 6 Sundays beginning 03/15/20204:00-5:00pm Intermediate Course The class schedule will be 3/15, 3/22, 3/29, 4/5, 4/12 and 4/19The fee of $150.00 requires that you have all tools for the course.*There are VERY limited seats in this class, and thus we recommend registering ASAP. Registration 1 week prior to class is required.*The course is taught by Charles Harris Sensei, President of the Chicago…
Introduction to Japanese Tea Ceremony / Chanoyu
The Japanese Culture Center in Chicago is excited announce the next 4 Week Course on Chanoyu/Tea Ceremony for 2019! *Space EXTREMELY is limited, please do not hesitate in registering. General Information:• Classes will start Saturday, April 4, 2020 through April 25. • Saturdays 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Exact class dates are: 4/4, 4/11, 4/18, and 4/25• $100 per student • Business casual attire and white socks are requiredIntroductory Chanoyu 1This four week course focuses on step-by-step instruction of the foundation skills required to make…
Introduction to Japanese Tea Ceremony / Chanoyu
The Japanese Culture Center in Chicago is excited announce the next 4 Week Course on Chanoyu/Tea Ceremony for 2019! *Space EXTREMELY is limited, please do not hesitate in registering. General Information:• Classes will start Saturday, October 3, 2020 through October 24th. • Saturdays 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Exact class dates are: 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, and 10/24 • $100 per student • Business casual attire and white socks are requiredIntroductory Chanoyu 1This four week course focuses on step-by-step instruction of the foundation…