JACCC Kokohajime Image Nihonbuyo

Japanese American Cultural & Community Center’s free video celebration of the Year 2025 will premiere on January 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time at the following site:
https://jaccc.org/events/42nd-annual-kotohajime/

Ring in the New Year with a vibrant celebration of Japanese tradition and culture at JACCC's 42nd Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-Ho 初穗 (First Crop).

Meaning “the beginning of things,” Kotohajime is a cherished tradition that symbolizes renewal and hope for the year ahead.

This year’s theme, Hatsu-Ho (初穗), or “First Crop,” honors the ancient Japanese custom of offering the first harvest to the gods in gratitude and anticipation of abundance.

Celebrate the Year of the Snake, a symbol of rebirth and transformation, with an exciting lineup of performances:

Nobuko Fukatsu: A mesmerizing biwa (lute) performance of Heike Monogatari.

Fujima Kansuma Classical Japanese Dance School: Captivating Japanese classical dance performances that highlight the elegance of Nihon Buyo.

Los Angeles Kyudo Kai: A breathtaking demonstration of kyudo (Japanese archery), blending precision and spirituality.

Nadeshiko Kai: A showcase of Japanese kimono culture, dedicated to preserving and sharing its beauty.

The JACCC invites the public to join the celebration as they honor tradition, embrace renewal, and celebrate the beauty of Japanese culture with music, dance, and art.

The 42nd Annual Kotohajime is supported in part by the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) and The Henri and Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation. In-kind support is provided by Mutual Trading Co., Sho Chiku Bai, and Yamajirushi.