San Jose Taiko’s highly-acclaimed Swingposium employs the power of performance to teach about the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II.

Swingposium is an immersive production that combines taiko, jazz, swing dance, and theatre to tell a
hidden history of one way Japanese Americans maintained morale in World War II “internment camps” –
through swing dances with live big band music. The audience is surrounded with the sights and sounds
in a fictional mess hall serving as a dance hall behind barbed wire. Active participation pulls them
deeply into the emotional trajectory of the story: the fear and loss of being incarcerated without due
process, the struggle to maintain dignity and hope, and the perseverance of the human spirit.

Join the fun at the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce’s Meishi Koukan Networking Event, presented by the Small Business Advocacy Committee (SBAC) and Membership Development Committee (MDC). “Meishi koukan” (名刺交換) is the Japanese custom of formally exchanging business cards as a way to build respectful, professional connections.

Held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Beer Lab Puck’s Alley, this networking evening offers a unique opportunity to connect with professionals while enjoying drinks, food, and prizes.

San Jose Taiko’s highly-acclaimed Swingposium combines taiko, jazz, swing dance, and immersive theatre to tell a hidden history of one way Japanese Americans maintained morale in WWII Incarceration Camps — through swing dances with live big band music. An immersive environment surrounds the audience with the sights and sounds of “camp,” their active participation pulls them deeply into the emotional trajectory of the story: the fear and loss of being sent to an Incarceration Camp, the struggle to maintain dignity and hope, and the ultimate perseverance of the human spirit. Tickets are available for $21.50 through the event website.

The inaugural Explore Asia Fest 2026 celebrates culture, community, and the joy of welcoming the Lunar New Year as we usher in the Year of the Horse. This family-friendly festival brings together Asian communities, including Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and more, for a day of food, arts, and cultural experiences.

Enjoy Asian cuisine, pop-up crafts and shopping, art and collectibles, anime and K-pop, cultural village experiences, kids’ games and activities, and live entertainment and performances. Free admission and fun for all ages!

The Hawaii Japanese Center (HJC) will hold its popular “Mukashi Mukashi” sale on Saturday and Sunday, February 14 and 15. HJC members will be granted early admission from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. on Febuary 14. Hours for the general public will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

Over the years, the “Mukashi” sale has gained strong reputation for its array of vintage items donated to HJC by local residents – including ceramic ware (dishes, platters, tea sets, vases and sake sets); Japanese dolls; books; artwork and scrolls; kimono; obi; furniture; and much more! Traditional Japanese children’s stories often begin with the phrase, “Mukashi, Mukashi,” or “Once upon a time…” In that vein, each item at this special sale has its own story to tell of its journey to the homes of families rooted here in Hawai‘i.

Proceeds from “Mukashi Mukashi” support HJC’s efforts to preserve the history and heritage of Japanese and other immigrants here in Hawai‘i.