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Twelve years ago, Mihoko Kawada started a cultural program that sent Japanese residents to American schools, introducing students and others to Japanese practices. This year, Kawada embarked on something of a one-woman cultural tour. She's been traveling in the United States since May, sharing her background with local communities.
"I have stayed with about 20 families while introducing Japanese culture with local people," Kawada said. On Monday, Aug. 2, Kawada will venture to Weed Memorial & Hollander Branch Library to discuss and demonstrate traditional elements such as kimono dressing, flower arranging and the tea ceremony. Her presentation will take place at 12:30 p.m.
Many cultural practices remain constant over generations, said Kawada. "My mother was an expert on Japanese flower arrangement and used to arrange flowers at a temple on [a] monthly basis. I took it over from her," she said.
Kawada describes the tea ceremony as the "essence of traditional Japanese culture." Monday's participants will taste Japanese sweets and "special powered green tea" while learning tea ceremony history, basic concepts and manners, Kawada said.
Weed Memorial and Hollander Branch Library is located at 1143 Hope St. To register for, or obtain more information about Monday's event, contact the library at (203) 351-8286.
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