Wa no Kai

Bridging cultures through the Japanese spirit of Wa (和)

Who We Are

Wa no Kai is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to support and connect with the community by sharing the art of Nihon Buyo, or Japanese traditioal dance, while fostering harmony among our supporters. Established in Dec 2023, Wa no Kai aims to support Madame Bando Hidesomi, one of the few trained masters of the Bando-ryu style of Japanese classical dance in the United States.
Our first goal as a non-profit is to fundraise and support the production of the 30th-anniversary show of the  Bando Hidesomi Nihon Buyo Class , which will take place on January 18, 2026 at the historic  JACCC Aratani Theatre . This milestone event will celebrate the rich cultural legacy of Nihon Buyo and bring its artistry to a wider audience.‎
The Japanese character Wa (和) symbolizes harmony (Chowa, 調和), peace (Heiwa, 平和), and the timeless essence of Japanese culture and tradition (Wafu, 和風).‎
We are deeply grateful for and cherish the legacy of our Nihon Buyo predecessors from both Japan and the United States. Their artistry and dedication continue to inspire us, and through your support, we can honor their contributions while ensuring that this cultural treasure thrives for generations to come.

Bando Hidesomi Nihon Buyo Class

Your support matters!

Every dollar counts in bringing this unique production to life.Donate Today!

Advertise in our Program today!

Promote your business or share your support for the arts with an ad in our professionally printed show program.Learn More

Ways to Support Us:

Your generousity will help to continue Wa no Kai's mission of preserving and promoting the art of Nihon Buyo

Program Ad Sales - Wa no Kai 30th Anniversary Show

Become a Wa no Kai Supporter Today!

Become a 30th Anniversary Production Sponsor Today!

Interested in Volunteering with us?

Kimono Sale Fundraiser-April 5 & 6, 2025

Thanks to you, we've collected

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We are seeking Production Sponsors!

Join us as a Production Sponsor for our 30th Anniversary Performance, and your name or logo will be proudly featured on our website, event programs, and promotional materials, showcasing your support for preserving Japanese cultural heritage.

Wa no Kai Board

Joel Minamide President

Bando HidesomiBoard member / Founder

Kathy YamashitaKY

Kathy YamashitaBoard Member / Secretary

Bryan TakedaBT

Bryan TakedaBoard member / Project Manager

Emiko KuwataEK

Emiko KuwataBoard member / Marketing

Tomomi ItayaTI

Tomomi ItayaBoard member / Treasurer

Helen OtaHO

Helen OtaBoard advisor

Alan MiyatakeAM

Alan MiyatakeBoard advisor

Janice GibsonJG

Janice GibsonBoard advisor

Donna MinamideDM

Donna MinamideBoard advisor

Wa no Kai / 和の会

Verified 501(c)(3)