39th Annual Kauai Japanese Matsuri Festival

Sponsored by the Kauai Japanese Cultural Society, this annual event showcases traditional and contemporary Japanese culture and arts from folk dancing (Minyo, Azuma and Min) to Cosplay, Kendama and Musubi Making Contests.  Contestants are encouraged to create and wear their Cosplay fashions and enter the contest.  New this year are Gyotaku (Fish Screen Painting), Kimono and Hapi-Haori Coat Fashion Show in addition to the  three contests.  Starting the day will be Taiko drumming by Kauai Taiko followed by Tsunami Taiko who will both perform traditional and contemporary music pieces. Throughout the day there will be displays and sessions on Chanoyu (Japanese Tea Ceremony), Ikebana (Flower Arranging), Bonsai, Calligraphy and Mochi Pounding (attendees will have an opportunity to enjoy free samples of matcha green tea and the sweet rice (mochi) pounded flour shaped into round sweet cakes).   This free event is sponsored by the Society in partnership with the County of Kauai, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Kauai Visitors Bureau, Kekaha Agriculture Association, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative and numerous community organizations.  Food and beverage vendors will also be available to sell products throughout the day from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  For more information, contact (808)635-4130 or visit www.kauajcs.org.