44th Annual Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival

The 44th Annual Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival was held from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28, 2019, at the Seattle Center. During the three days of the event, various aspects of Japanese culture were demonstrated and exhibited by groups from around the region.
 

Taiko performance at the indoor stage of the Armory	The Consul General of Japan, Yoichiro Yamada, giving opening remarks
Participants answering some difficult questions about Japan	“Hashilympics” a chopstick challenge game was hosted by the International Institute of Hashi
Advanced origami by P.A.P.E.R.	Workshop on how to build abacuses by the Banshu Abacus Crafts Association
A table tennis tournament using shamoji (rice paddle) was held by the Japan Business Association of Seattle.	The Consulate General of Japan Booth
Tea Ceremony Demonstration	Koto Performance by Miyagi Kai
There were a wide variety of classical Japanese performing arts presentations, such as Nihon Buyo at the indoor stage of the Armory.	Traditional arts such as shodo (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging) were on exhibit for visitors to admire.
Japanese goods were sold at one corner of the Fisher Pavilion.	Cooking demonstrations of traditional Japanese cuisine.
The indoor stage at the Armory drew large crowds for a variety of performances and presentations.	The outdoor stage at the Fisher Pavilion drew large crowds as well with the sun out and shining.