Japan in the News

Japan is known for high-tech manufacturing techniques—but what about innovations developed more than 1,000 years ago? Take for example the craftmanship behind the katana sword, which is still practiced today by swordsmith Fusahiro Shimojima in Saitama City. Prized for their effectiveness in close combat, katanas were used by Japanese samurai, nobles, and martial artists. The fascinating process for making katanas is laborious, time-consuming, and spiritualLearn more about this ancient art here.

Ties to Japan in Richmond, VA
Embassy Spokesman Takehiro Shimada visited Richmond earlier this month to celebrate the diverse connections between Japan and one of the oldest cities in the US. His trip included visits to Randolph-Macon College, the University of Richmond and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. At each institution, he met with faculty and staff who support a variety of Japan-related programs. Minister Shimada wrapped up his trip by attending the Japan-Virginia Society’s 30th Anniversary celebration, which was held at the more than one-hundred-year-old Maymont Japanese Garden. 

J.Live Japanese Speech Contest
Finalists from US universities gave speeches at George Washington University for the third and final round of J.Live, a highly competitive Japanese language speech contest.The contest features audio-visual materials, audience interaction and other TED Talk-style components. Awards included a trip to Japan provided by the KAKEHASHI Project. Embassy Spokesman Takehiro Shimada was among the judges at the event. 

Honoring the U.S. Chamber of Commerce President
President Thomas J. Donohue’s efforts have made the US Chamber of Commerce the world’s largest business organization, a key partner to Japan as stronger Japan-US business ties are built.In honor of his leadership, Ambassador Sugiyama conferred the Order of the Rising Sun at a recent event. He was joined by Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao.