JASH New Year’s Reception 2025
On February 10, 2025, the Japan-America Society of Hawaii (JASH) proudly hosted our annual New Year’s Reception, bringing together esteemed guests, members, and partners to celebrate the Year of the Dragon.
The evening commenced with opening remarks by JASH President Reyna Kaneko, followed by welcome remarks from JASH Board Chair Karen Knudsen, Governor Josh Green, M.D. and First Lady Jaime Kanani Green. Special remarks were delivered by Nola Miyasaki of the City & County of Honolulu, and Bishop Shuji Komagata of Soto Mission of Hawaii gave the invocation.
A significant highlight of the evening was the signing of the Action Plan by Governor Josh Green, M.D. and Consul General KODAMA Yoshinori, symbolizing a strengthened partnership between Hawaii and Japan. To officially ring in the New Year, the Kagami Wari Ceremony, sponsored by the Cherry Co., Ltd., was performed, followed by a Kanpai Toast led by Consul General KODAMA Yoshinori.
The evening featured an array of culinary delights as the food stations opened, offering a selection of delicious dishes for guests to enjoy. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in the much-anticipated New Year’s Lucky Draw, a tradition known as "shinnen no un-dameshi" (新年の運試し), symbolizing a bold chance at success in the coming months. Generous donations from Aloha Bento, Yakitori Hachibei, Asahi Shuzo, Speakeasy Productions, JCI Honolulu, Hawaii HIS Corporation, and Kintetsu Hawaii/Pan Pacific Festival made the lucky draw a thrilling highlight of the event.
A special omiyage (gift) of Happy Rice was available for all attendees—a token of gratitude and good fortune for the year ahead.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, partner booths from Hilton Grand Vacations, Central Pacific Bank, JTB Hawaii, Hawaii HIS Corporation, Kintetsu Hawaii/Pan Pacific Festival, JCI Honolulu, and JASH were set up, providing guests with a chance to explore and connect with key organizations in the community.
The event concluded with closing remarks from JASH President Reyna Kaneko, expressing heartfelt appreciation to all members, partners, and guests who contributed to the success of the celebration.
Our sincerest gratitude to our members, partners, guests and volunteers who helped make our New Year’s Reception a success!
