A Free E-Newsletter for Friends of Japan & Teachers of Japanese
In the midst of the summer heat, it is now a good time to visit JFLA for cool events in our air-conditioned theater space and library. To start off, ‘Neko Samurai (cat-loving swordsman)’ is back by popular demand for Japanema. This time, the setting for the movie is a tropical island! Please do not miss this sequel of a ‘furry tale’ this summer.
If you are planning a trip to Japan this summer, you should definitely come to our ‘Japanese for Travel’ workshop, a two-hour crash course on how to get the most out of your next trip by familiarizing yourself with the language and customs of the country. The workshop is filling up fast, so don’t wait too long to register.
For those who cannot make it to our location, we still have a long list of opportunities we think you should check out. Our grants, both in the areas of Arts & Culture and Japanese Language Education are still accepting applications. We are also preparing to launch new Japanese language courses this fall based on the feedback we received, and looking for part-time teachers for our students. As far as we are concerned, there will be no such thing as having too many friends and partners!
Sincerely,
Hideki Hara, Director
Kyutaro Madarame (Kazuki Kitamura) was once a formidable swordsman who earned the nickname “Madara the Devil.” Now he is masterless, and lives in his hometown with his wife Shizu, daughter Haru, and nagging mother-in-law, Tae.
One day, Kyutaro reluctantly decides to take an opportunity to work as a sword instructor in the Tosa domain on the island outpost of Shikoku. However, just before he and his beloved cat Tamanojo reach the port for their voyage to Shikoku, a mysterious ninja steals their belongings, and their ship leaves without them. Nevertheless, he manages to rent a small boat, and sets sail for Tosa.
However, stormy seas eventually leave the duo shipwrecked on an unfamiliar shore, and Tamanojo is abducted by the local people, who speak a strange language. Is this really Tosa? What treasure does this place conceal? And can Kyutaro rescue his furry friend?
Don’t miss the rare chance to experience the authentic and unique beauty of this contemporary kabuki performance by Japan’s greatest kabuki actors in HD on the big screen!
NEZUMI KOZO is based on the story of a real-life bandit from the Edo period (19th Century). After his execution, the legend left behind states that he had been a kind of Robin Hood, sharing his ill-gotten gains with the poor. Written and directed by Hideki Noda and starring Nakamura Kanzaburō XVIII.
Journalist Shuichi Fujii (Takayuki Yamada) receives a letter from convicted killer Junji Sudo (Pierre Taki). Writing from death row, Sudo wants to confess to further crimes. Visiting Sudo in prison, Fujii learns of real estate broker "Doc," (Lily Franky) the mastermind behind a string of murders. Set up by Doc, Sudo seeks revenge and implores Fujii to find the evidence needed to bring in his former boss. Delving into the case, Fujii discovers a string of vicious crimes – extortion, torture, rape, and arson – in which the weak are preyed upon and the cruel rewarded.
*Contains graphic violence and harsh languages. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
This fall 2016 term, JF Nihongo will offer a new course. This course will be offered to students who would like to develop their intermediate level skills. Before offering it, we are conducting preliminary research for the possible new course, and looking for students who will give us their opinion.
This program aims to provide the Japanese art divisions of major museums in the field of Japanese art with various support to develop human resources and art collections, which are important components of an infrastructure for museum activities, and to further promote the exhibition of Japanese art to local people. Since support will be provided to the selected institutions for more than one year, we do not necessarily solicit applications every year.
Do you have plans to go to Japan in the near future? If so, prepare for your trip with us! You will learn helpful travel tips from a tourism specialist from JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization), and essential Japanese phrases from our JF Nihongo instructor. You won't be just a "stranger" in Japan!
With our many years of experience and achievements in Japanese Language Education, JFLA has been offering Japanese language courses in Los Angeles since 2012. The courses will be based on our “JF Standards,” which were developed by our headquarters in Japan. We are seeking applicants who are passionate about Japanese-language education as well as those who will be proactively involved in JFLA activities.
On the 100th anniversary of the death of Natsume Soseki, The Asahi Shimbun and three other organizations will jointly hold an international Japanese essay contest on the influential Japanese author. First and second prize winners will be invited to a symposium in Tokyo!
We are accepting applications for the following grants:
Last week, 14 American education administrators from across the country embarked on a ten-day trip to Japan. This group of superintendents, principals, community leaders and world language coordinators were invited by the Japan Foundation to visit Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Kyoto in order to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture and education.
5700 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 100
Los Angeles, CA 90036-
jflainfo@jpf.go.jp
323.761.7510
