newsletter
July 2026 Issue
Aloha UJSH Members and Friends,
It is an honor and privilege to serve as President of the United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi, following Brian Taniguchi’s presidency. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our dedicated Board of Directors, member organizations, volunteers, and community partners as we continue to celebrate our heritage and strengthen our community
As we look ahead, I hope to build upon UJSH’s proud legacy by preserving our traditions, fostering meaningful connections, and creating opportunities to engage the next generation. Through cultural programs, educational events, and community service, we will continue to honor our past while embracing the future
Thank you to everyone whose dedication and support make UJSH such a vibrant organization. Whether you are a longtime member or are joining us for the first time, you are an important part of our UJSH ʻohana.
I look forward to serving with all of you in the year ahead.
With warmest aloha,
Lynn Araki-Regan
UJSH President
2026-2027
A Message from President Lynn Araki-Regan
UJSHtoHostObonHōyōinCollaborationwith BuddhistLeaders
As Hawaiʻi is now in the midst of the Obon season, the United Japanese Society of Hawaii (UJSH) will host its annual Obon Hōyō memorial service to honor the Gannenmono, who first arrived in Hawaiʻi in 1868, and the Kanyaku Imin, who began arriving in 1885.
The ceremony will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at Makiki Cemetery, 1630 Pensacola Street, Honolulu.
By: KeithSakuda
This meaningful annual tradition, conducted with the assistance of the Hawaii Buddhist Council, brings the community together to offer prayers and pay respects to the early Japanese immigrants whose perseverance and contributions helped shape modern Hawaiʻi.
The service will be co-officiated by Bishop Takami Inoue of the Higashi Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and Bishop Toshiyuki Umitani of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, along with participation from members of the Hawaii Buddhist Council.
The event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend this brief but meaningful observance.
CalendarofEvents
November / December Wolfhounds Toy Drive for the Holy Family Home Orphanage in Osaka, Japan
UJSH Zippy’s Fundraiser
December 12-13 Honolulu Marathon “Volunteer at Clothing Return Booth” at Kapiolani Park
March
UJSHCoordinatesChopsticksWorkshopOfferedby EsteemedJapaneseDiningEtiquetteInstructor
By: LynnAraki-Regan
On July 6, 2026, participants gathered at Jodo Mission of Hawaiʻi’s Ikoi Hall for an “Everything You Want to Know About Chopsticks” class, led by the accomplished Japanese dining etiquette instructor Misuzu Hirata Guests enjoyed a delicious bento dinner before discovering the fascinating history, etiquette, traditions, and artistry behind one of Japan’s most iconic dining utensils
From proper chopstick techniques to the cultural significance of table settings, everyone left with a deeper appreciation for Japanese hospitality and customs The evening was filled with laughter, engaging conversation, and hands-on learning, making it a memorable experience for all
A heartfelt mahalo to Hirata Sensei for sharing her expertise, Amy Young and Nikki Thompson for translating, Bishop Kosen Ishikawa for setting up the meeting room, and all of the attendees who made the evening a success
OkayamaKenjinkaiCelebratesHistoricSisterState Partnership
By: BobbieYorita
The year 2026 has been a landmark year for the Okayama Kenjinkai, highlighted by the establishment of the historic Sister State relationship between the State of Hawaiʻi and Okayama Prefecture This milestone was celebrated during a series of events held in May, bringing together government officials, community leaders, and representatives from both Hawaiʻi and Japan to strengthen cultural, educational, and economic ties.
The celebration began on May 20 with a welcome dinner hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu. Okayama Kenjinkai joined fellow kenjinkai organizations in showcasing the rich culture, history, and traditions of their ancestral prefectures while sharing information and
ony of the Sister State agreement. osh Green formally established the hip with Japan. This new alliance is althcare, and cultural exchange of leaders in both regions.
The celebrations concluded on May 22 with a banquet hosted by Okayama Prefecture Dignitaries and guests from Hawaiʻi and Okayama gathered to commemorate the beginning of this exciting partnership and to celebrate the friendships that will continue to grow through this sisterhood.
Looking ahead, Okayama Kenjinkai is already working closely with the International Affairs Division of Okayama Prefecture through virtual planning meetings to develop future exchange programs and collaborative projects. One of the organization’s most significant upcoming initiatives will be the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Okayama Kenjinkai Hawaiʻi. Planning is already underway, with project ideas being developed and funding proposals being prepared for consideration by Okayama Prefecture.
As this historic Sister State relationship begins its next chapter, Okayama Kenjinkai looks forward to strengthening the bonds between Hawaiʻi and Okayama through continued friendship, cultural exchange, and meaningful partnerships that will benefit generations to come
Hawai’i’sPublicLibrariesReceiveGiftCelebrating OkinawanHeritage
By: LynnAraki-Regan
The United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi extends its heartfelt mahalo to Norman and Renette Nakasone for their generous donation of Born Again Uchinanchu: Celebrating Hawaiʻi’s Chibariyo! Story to the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System.
Thanks to their generosity, every public library throughout Hawaiʻi now has a copy of this beautifully written book by Karleen Chinen, making the rich history and cultural legacy of Hawaiʻi’s Okinawan community accessible to readers across the state The book chronicles the remarkable journey of Okinawans in Hawaiʻi and highlights significant milestones, including the establishment of the Hawaiʻi Okinawa Center and the muchloved Okinawan Festival, which continues to celebrate Okinawan culture, traditions, and community spirit.
Norman, a past president of the Hawaiʻi United Okinawa Association and treasurer of UJSH, and Renette Nakasone, an accomplished sanshin musician, have long been dedicated to preserving and promoting Okinawan heritage.
Their thoughtful gift ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the enduring contributions of Okinawans to Hawaiʻi’s multicultural community
Kudos to Ed Kuba for coordinating this meaningful donation and helping bring this valuable resource to libraries statewide
Mahalo to everyone whose efforts continue to preserve, celebrate, and share the stories that enrich Hawaiʻi’s diverse cultural heritage
UJSHSeeksOutstandingYoungJapaneseAmerican for2026KakehashiProject
By: LynnAraki-Regan
The United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi (UJSH) is excited to announce an outstanding opportunity for a young Japanese American leader to participate in the 2026 Kakehashi Project, a prestigious cultural exchange program sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
The Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu has invited UJSH to nominate one exceptional candidate for consideration. The selected nominee will then complete the official application through the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), which administers the program in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE).
The Kakehashi Project is designed to strengthen ties between Japan and the Japanese American community by providing participants with an immersive, week-long educational and cultural experience in Japan This year’s program is scheduled for December 9–16, 2026
During their visit, participants will explore Tokyo and one or two additional cities while visiting government offices, educational institutions, and Japanese companies They will also experience Japan’s rich cultural traditions through hands-on activities, lectures, workshops, and discussions that foster a deeper appreciation of Japan’s history, society, and future
The program seeks outstanding young Japanese Americans who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. Participants are expected to share what they learn with others and develop an action plan that they will implement within three months of returning to Hawaiʻi.
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be a U.S. citizen of Japanese ancestry.
Be between 18 and 27 years of age.
Demonstrate leadership potential and a desire to strengthen connections between Hawaiʻi and Japan.
Be prepared to carry out a meaningful post-program action plan through their nominating organization.
The Government of Japan will cover the cost of international airfare, accommodations, and most program expenses Participants will be responsible for transportation within Hawaiʻi, personal expenses during free time, and certain participant fees required by the program organizers
As part of its nomination process, UJSH encourages interested young adults including the children and grandchildren of our member organizations to apply Applicants should submit:
A current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV) that includes their name, occupation or affiliation, gender, age, and email address
A Statement of Purpose describing their interest in the program, leadership experience, and proposed action plan following their return from Japan.
Application materials must be submitted to UJSH President Lynn Araki-Regan via email at arakiregan@gmail.com by Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. UJSH’s selected nominee will be contacted by August 1.
The Kakehashi Project offers an unforgettable opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of Japan, build lifelong friendships, strengthen leadership skills, and return with ideas that benefit both the Japanese American community and future generations.
SupportUJSHThroughFoodland’sGiveAlohaProgram thisSeptember
By: JanMatsuura
The United Japanese Society of Hawai’i (UJSH) is once again participating in Foodland’s annual Give Aloha community giving campaign, offering a simple way for shoppers to support our mission throughout the month of September.
From September 1–30, customers shopping at any Foodland, Foodland Farms, or Sack N Save store statewide can make a donation to UJSH at checkout by providing our organization code: 77697, along with their Maikaʻi Member number Every contribution helps support UJSH’s cultural and community programs
Foodland will contribute additional funds by matching a portion of customer donations, with matching gifts distributed proportionally among participating nonprofit organizations based on the donations they receive. Individual monetary donations of up to $249 are eligible during the campaign.
In addition to making a cash donation, customers can also support UJSH by:
Donating 250 Maikaʻi Points, equal to a $5 donation
Rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar
Purchasing Give Aloha merchandise
Donating their spare change
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference We encourage our members, supporters, family, and friends to participate in this annual campaign and help us continue our mission of preserving our heritage, supporting educational opportunities, and strengthening our community
When you shop this September, please remember UJSH and use organization code 77697 Mahalo for your generosity and continued support!
Volunteer/UnpaidInternshipOpportunity
HelpShapetheFutureoftheUnitedJapaneseSocietyofHawaii
By: LynnAraki-Regan
The United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi (UJSH) is seeking an enthusiastic and communityminded Volunteer or Unpaid Intern to help us connect with the next generation of Japanese Americans.
Project
The selected volunteer/intern will conduct outreach to young adult members, as well as the children and grandchildren of UJSH and its member organizations, to better understand their interests, needs, and ideas for the future. Through surveys, interviews, and conversations, the volunteer/intern will help identify activities, programs, events, and volunteer opportunities that would encourage greater participation by younger generations in UJSH.
Responsibilities
Contact young adults by phone, email, social media, or in person.
Conduct surveys and informal interviews
Gather and analyze feedback
Prepare a summary of findings and recommendations for the UJSH Board of Directors
Help shape future programs that strengthen Japanese cultural heritage and community engagement
Ideal Candidate
College student, recent graduate, or young professional
Strong communication and organizational skills
Interest in Japanese American culture, nonprofit organizations, or community engagement.
Self-motivated and comfortable interacting with people of all ages.
Benefits
Gain valuable experience in community outreach, research, and nonprofit leadership.
Build professional communication and project management skills.
Network with community leaders throughout Hawaiʻi.
Make a meaningful impact by helping preserve and strengthen the Japanese American community for future generations.
This is an unpaid volunteer/internship opportunity with flexible scheduling.
To express your interest or request additional information, please email UJSH President Lynn Araki-Regan at arakiregan@gmailcom with a brief introduction and résumé
Help us ensure that the next generation has a voice in shaping the future of UJSH We look forward to hearing from you!
Nearly300Attend85thInstallation,RecognitionBanquet
By: LynnAraki-Regan
On Saturday, June 20, 2026, the United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi (UJSH) welcomed members, guests, community leaders, and representatives from its member organizations to the Generations Ballroom at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi for its 68th Annual Installation & Recognition Banquet. The event celebrat d th i ti ’ i h h it while honoring outstanding leadership, dedicated se strengthen Hawaiʻi’s Japanese community.
The program began with the recognition of Outgoing President Brian Taniguchi and the 2025–2026 Board of Directors for their dedicated leadership and service to UJSH. Under Brian’s guidance, the organization continued to foster collaboration among Hawaiʻi’s Japanese organizations while promoting cultural preservation and community engagement.
A highlight of the afternoon was the installation of Lynn Araki-Regan as UJSH’s new President, along with the incoming Board of Directors President Araki-Regan shared her vision of building upon UJSH’s proud legacy while strengthening connections among member organizatio and expanding opportunities to celebrate and preserve J
The banquet also recognized several outstanding individ whose dedication has made a lasting impact on UJSH an the broader Japanese community
Special awards included:
Dr. Nobuyuki Miki – Outstanding Contributions to the Japanese Community & Hawaiʻi
Heather Furutani – Outstanding Member of the Year
David Jones – Outstanding Young Leader of the Year
One of the most meaningful traditions of the banquet is recognizing exceptional volunteers from UJSH’s member organizations. This year’s honorees represented the incredible spirit of service that continues to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s Japanese community:
Clyde Matsumoto – Central Oahu Kumamoto Kenjin Kai
Jerre Teiko Tokairin – Hanayagi
Mitsusumi Dance Studio
Yuko Okawa Buchanan – Hawaiʻi Ehime Kenjinkai
Ai Cheung – Hawaiʻi Fukuoka Kenjin Kai
Azusa Kanzaki – Hawaiʻi Miyagi Kenjin Kai
Frances Nakachi Kuba – Hawaiʻi United Okinawa Association
Iris Taniguchi – Hawaiʻi Yamagata Kenjinkai
Eileen Clarke – Honolulu Fukushima Kenjinkai
Bob Nagao, Ken Saiki, and Wayne Toma – Honolulu Hiroshima Kenjin Kai
Kosen Ishikawa – Honolulu Niigata Kenjin-Kai
Maude Omai – Honolulu Yamaguchi Kenjinkai
Amy Young – Japanese Women’s Society Foundation
Anna Tsuhako Lewis – Senjukai Frances Nakachi Ryubu Dojo
Fusayo “Fussy” Nagai – Wahiawa-Waialua Hiroshima Kenjin Kai
UJSH also proudly celebrated three milestone anniversaries. Hawaiʻi Miyag Kenjin Kai and the Hawaiʻi United Okinawa Association were recognized for 75 years of preserving culture and fostering fellowship, and Shufu Society’s 40 anniversary serving Hawaiʻi’s community. Their decades of th dedication exemplify the enduring importance of Japanese cultural organizations across the islands.
Following the formal program, guests enjoyed a delicious buffet luncheon and an afternoon of Japanese cultural entertainment that reflected the vibrant traditions shared by UJSH and its member organizations. Many attendees embraced the event’s cultural spirit by wearing beautiful kimono, yukata, happi coats, adding color and elegance to the celebration Those dressed in traditional Japanese attire were eligible for the awing for a trip to Tokyo, while others wearing Japanese-inspired fashions were entered into drawings for additional prizes Congratulations to Naomi Satake who won the trip to Tokyo, compliments of JTB Hawai’i
The 68th Annual Installation & Recognition Banquet served as a joyful celebration of leadership, volunteerism, heritage, and friendship As UJSH begins a new chapter under President Lynn Araki-Regan and the newly installed Board of Directors, the organization looks forward to continuing its mission of uniting Hawaiʻi’s Japanese organizations, preserving cultural traditions, and inspiring future generations to carry that legacy forward
