Discover the vibrant traditions at nisei week grand parade 2024

The 82nd Nisei Week Japanese Festival, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture, returned to Little Tokyo in Los Angeles, California, captivating attendees with its rich traditions and lively atmosphere. This year’s festival, held over two weekends, from August 10-11 and August 17-18, 2024, showcased a plethora of cultural displays, exhibits, live music, and entertainment, making it a significant event in the local community.

A Parade of Tradition and Modernity

The Nisei Week Grand Parade, held on Sunday, August 11, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, was the highlight of the festival. The streets of Little Tokyo were filled with Japanese dancers, musicians, and floats, creating a colorful and dynamic spectacle. The parade route started at 2nd Street, proceeded to Central Avenue, and concluded between 1st Street and 2nd Street, drawing large crowds eager to witness the festivities.

Among the notable participants were the Nisei Week Foundation President Joann Shin Cordeiro, accompanied by her husband Mike and son Jake. The parade also featured athletes from the Nikkei Games, including a judo demonstration, and Pikachu and other Pokémon characters delighting young parade watchers. Former USC basketball star Jamie Hagiya and the granddaughter of the 1954 Nisei Week Queen, June Aochi Berk, Megan Nelson, also made appearances.

Japanese Consul General in Los Angeles, Kenko Sone, marched alongside his wife, Mami, and Toshiaki Toyoshima, owner of Sushi Gen. The parade included musicians from Rissho Kosei Kai, a local Buddhist group, and OCO Kibou Taiko drumming groups, adding rhythmic energy to the event.

Honoring Veterans and Cultural Icons

The parade paid tribute to Japanese American veterans from various conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent operations like Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Veterans walked or rode in vintage military vehicles, accompanied by a trailer pulled by a Tanaka Farms tractor. The Nisei Week Pioneer Spirit honorees, including June Aochi Berk, Patricia Kinaga, Barbara Shirota, and Diane Kawata Watanabe, were also celebrated, accompanied by family members and friends.

The Japanese American National Museum played a significant role in the festivities, hosting various events and exhibits. Winners of the Nisei Week Baby Show, such as Tiny Tots Princess Kimiko Uba and Prince Kai Pitcher, were also honored, adding a touch of youthful charm to the parade.

Cultural Performances and Community Participation

The parade featured a diverse array of cultural performances, including dancers from Hanayagi Rokufukumi Kai, the Nisei Week choreographer, and participants from the Meiji Ondo Group from the San Fernando Valley Japanese American Community Center in Pacoima. The Nisei Week Public Ondo Dancers invited anyone to join, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

Representatives from various organizations, such as the L.A. Metro and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, participated in the parade. The WizStars Hip-Hop Dance Group and the Japanese-Speaking Parents Association for Children with Challenges also showcased their talents. The Rissho Kosei Kai Buddhist Center in Los Angeles added a spiritual dimension with their matoi (evil spirits) and mando (Buddha’s pagoda) performances.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles during the Nisei Week Japanese Festival, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route. Bringing snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the wait can enhance the experience. The event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in Japanese culture and enjoy the vibrant community spirit of Little Tokyo.

For occasional travelers, attending the Nisei Week Grand Parade offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Japanese Americans in Los Angeles. It is a chance to experience traditional performances, taste authentic Japanese cuisine, and participate in community activities.

For expert travelers, exploring the historical and cultural landmarks in Little Tokyo, such as the Japanese American National Museum, can provide a deeper understanding of the Japanese American experience. Engaging with local residents and learning about their stories can add a personal and enriching dimension to the visit.

In conclusion, the Nisei Week Grand Parade is not just a celebration of Japanese culture but also a testament to the enduring spirit and contributions of the Japanese American community in Los Angeles. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the festival offers a memorable and enlightening experience that highlights the beauty of cultural diversity and community solidarity.