2019 Sakura-Con

 Sakura-Con, the region’s largest anime convention, was held at the Washington State Convention Center from April 19 through April 21.

Organized by the Asia Northwest Cultural Education Association, Sakura-Con presents a mix of Japanese pop-culture programing and exhibitors featuring anime, cosplay, character goods, collectible figurines, and manga in addition to martial arts demonstrations, video gaming arcades, and much more.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the popular Gundam franchise, Consul General Yamada surprised the audience by appearing as a Gundam character for his greeting at the Opening Ceremony. The Consulate’s booth promoted the JET Program, government scholarship opportunities, tourism in Japan and included a samurai armor dress-up corner and PARO, the therapeutic harp seal robot. The Consulate also presented an informational panel about the JET Program and government scholarships and two cultural panels, one panel featuring samurai armor and the other on techniques of using the furoshiki (traditional Japanese wrapping cloth). All three panels were very well attended. 

Consul General Yamada gives his greeting at the Opening Ceremony cosplaying the popular Gundam character “Char” in honor of Gundam’s 40th Anniversary.	Consul General and Mrs. Yamada with Consulate staff in their “Team Gundam Spirit” costumes in the Exhibitors Hall.
Consulate staff and members of the PNW JET Alumni Association in the Consulate booth, which featured a variety of activities and showcased the city of Tokyo.	The Exhibitors Hall was very popular and always crowded with excited fans looking for their favorite booths or products to purchase.
JET Program and Japanese government scholarship panel presented by the JET Program Coordinator and alumni of both programs.	“Samurai Undressed” panel.  Presentation about the samurai’s historical background, depictions in popular anime and video games, as well as an armor dressing demonstration.