Category: Articles

Ottawa Obon 2024 report

We bring you a wonderful look at Ottawa’s first Obon ceremony, which took place on Bate Island on Saturday, August 10th, before dusk (and heavy rain) descended on the island.

It was a wonderful gathering. The park came alive with the beautiful yukata robes worn by many of this year’s attendees. The festivities began with the making of paper lanterns, which were then hung on nearby trees and around the ceremonial site to help summon the ancestral spirits to the gathering. This was followed by a hearty meal of potluck, dancing, and finally, escorting the ancestral spirits down the river to return them to their homelands.

Thank you so much to event organizers Shigemi Ichino and Mari Wellman, as well as to sound technician, David Okura who supplied expert services and technical support. The whole park was able to enjoy the sounds of our Odori dancing thanks to him!

Kimiko- Created by Kaylie Hatashita

Kimiko is a poetic circus show that tells the tale of self discovery and reconciling generational trauma. Using a modern perspective on traditional Japanese arts, Kimiko explores the history of Japanese-Canadians and the relatable journey of discovering one’s cultural roots. Story telling, balancing objects, dancing, and sword swallowing are all woven together into a rich live performance that is more than entertaining, it is healing. Suitable for all ages, Kimiko is a visual feast full of beauty and surprises.

Kimiko’s original production was created with the support of the OJCC!

Showtimes
Wednesday, February 7, 7:00 p.m.
Friday, February 9, 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 10, 7:00 p.m.

Buy Tickets

Ottawa Japanese Cultural Activities Guide – Spring-Summer 2023 edition

The Ottawa Japanese Community Association (OJCA) is excited to bring you the Spring/Summer 2023 edition of the activities guide!

Want to know what’s going on in our Ottawa Japanese community? Check out the Ottawa Japanese Cultural Activities Guide for classes and workshops offered by various groups and individuals in the National Capital Region.

Due to the impacts of the pandemic certain details such as dates and locations are still to be determined.

A New Year Message from Ambassador Kawamura

Happy New Year! 明けましておめでとうございます。

It is my pleasure to introduce myself as the new Ambassador of Japan to Canada. After arriving in Canada on November 19, 2019, I presented my credentials to Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, on December 18 and officially began my duties as Ambassador of Japan to Canada.

Last year, Japan-Canada relations were strengthened in various areas such as security, economy and culture. This year, I am fully committed to further developing positive bilateral relations in all areas. We have many events to look forward to this year, most notably the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. I hope you will enjoy the biggest sports festival in Japan!

During my time as Ambassador, I will also work hard for the Japanese-Canadian community in Ottawa. I appreciate your continued support and look forward to working with you this year!