Portland Japanese Culture Workshops

This meetup group is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture through hands-on workshops led by a native Japanese instructor.

Rather than simply learning about Japan, we explore how Japanese traditions are practiced and enjoyed in everyday life — and how they reflect cultural values, mindset, and ways of thinking.

Through practical experiences, participants gain not only knowledge, but also a deeper sense of the spirit behind Japanese culture, bringing greater mindfulness, connection, and richness into daily life.

Our workshops may include:
• Japanese tea & matcha
• Washoku (Japanese cuisine), including rice culture, dashi, miso, tamagoyaki, and everyday home-style dishes
• Traditional tools and daily practices such as furoshiki wrapping, tenugui, and chopstick etiquette
• Soroban (Japanese abacus) and mental math training
• Educational practices and learning methods rooted in Japanese culture
• Seasonal customs and cultural experiences

By learning both the “how” and the “why” behind these traditions, we create opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange and personal growth.

We welcome anyone who is curious about Japanese culture and eager to experience it in a thoughtful and authentic way.