Taste of JASH featuring Uwajima
Thursday, September 19, 2024
On Thursday, September 19, 2024, JASH hosted its signature Taste of JASH food series, which was sponsored by Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation, at ZIGU in Honolulu, showcasing a diverse array of culinary offerings. Guests were treated to an exquisite tasting experience featuring regional delicacies from Uwajima, Ehime.
Attendees savored dishes such as Fukumen (kale noodle with pickled radish), Tai Meshi (sea bream rice), and a delightful Hawaiian citrus jelly with mandarin mochi—a dessert famous in Uwajima. It was a wonderful evening of cultural exchange, delicious food, and the opportunity to make new friends while learning about Japan.
Our MC, Ms. Mimi Suemura of NexGen, read a heartfelt letter from Mayor Okahara of Uwajima City. In addition, Uwajima City generously sent beautiful pamphlets and adorable gifts for our guests.
Mr. Shin Ishiyama from Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation
Representatives from Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation, Mr. Shin Ishiyama and Mr. Moriyuki Arasaki, were in attendance, and Ms. Suemura led a fun quiz about Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation, Uwajima, and JASH. Congratulations to all the quiz winners who took home special Uwajima-themed gifts!
Mr. Moriyuki Arasaki from Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation
Ms. Mimi Suemura provides answers to a Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation, Uwajima, JASH Quiz.
Congratulations! Winners got Uwajima gifts.
Mr. George Hakozaki, General Manager of ZIGU, gave insightful explanations of each dish, including the highlight of the evening—Tai Meshi.
Tai Meshi(Sea bream rice)
Chef Yuta Tamano of ZIGU was also present to share his culinary expertise, and guests appreciated the care and flavor put into each plate.
The delicious Hawaiian citrus jelly, marmalade, and mandarin mochi were served by the ZIGU staff, with special thanks to Mr. Makoto “Mild” Hasegawa, CEO of ZETTON.
The event also provided an excellent opportunity for networking and introducing attendees to JASH’s Language Exchange (LangX) program, which encourages participants to mix and engage with new groups.
We were incredibly grateful to Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation for donating special gifts, including a 7-Day Ordinary Japan Rail Pass and HIS Airport Lounge Access. Congratulations to all the lucky winners!
A special thanks to Ms. Karen Knudsen, JASH Board Chair, for her support, and to all our sponsors and partners for making the evening a success.
The Taste of JASH food series was originally launched by JASH NexGen in 2019, featuring dishes from our Sister States, including Hiroshima, Okinawa, Fukuoka, Ehime, Hokkaido, and Chigasaki. The series highlights regional cuisines and promotes cultural appreciation.
Stay tuned for more Taste of JASH events in 2025!
Mahalo to our sponsor, Hawaii H.I.S. Corporation and ZIGU, for their continued support!
