Promoting and strengthening the friendship between the United States and Japan.
Congrats to this year's RI Cherry Blossom Delegate!!!
For the last two years, the representatives from Rhode Island to the Cherry Blossom celebration in Washington DC have dynamically led the way in building bonds of friendship between Japan and the United States.
Thank you you to Alexandria Evers and Sophia Maynard for your leadership.
JASNE is partnering with the State Society of Rhode Island to support this program.
We’ve found a great delegate to follow in their footsteps.
Congratulations,
Mya MacNeil!!!
Pictured left to right: Lexi Evers, Mimi Morimura, and
2026 Rhode Island Cherry Blossom Delegate - Mya MacNeil
Part of the Newport–Shimoda Sister City Celebration in odd-numbered years
Japan-America Friendship Festival back in Newport!
Celebrate Culture, Creativity, and Connection at the 2nd Annual Japan–America Friendship Festival!
• When: Sat, Oct 17, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Rain or Shine Event
• Where: Touro Park, 5 Touro Park St W, Newport, RI 02840
• Cost: Free and open to the public
• Highlights: Taiko drummers, martial arts, kids’ zone, cultural demos, artisan market, food trucks
• Host: Japan–America Society of Southern New England (JASNE)
• Occasion: Part of the historic Newport–Shimoda Sister City relationship, coordinated by the Mayor, Newport City Council, and Newport’s Sister City Commission
Bring the whole family to Touro Park for the second year of a vibrant Newport tradition! Part of the historic Newport–Shimoda Sister City relationship, this free, open-air festival is designed for all generations—from toddlers and teens to parents and grandparents. Come experience a day of immersive cultural exchange, hands-on discovery, and memory-making.
Deepest appreciation to Japan Foundation, New York for providing the financial support to make this happen and to the City of Newport RI for working closely with us through their Sister City Commission!!!
This program was also supported by a grant from the National Association of Japan-America Societies, Inc., with the support of the Embassy of Japan in Washington, DC
2026 Schedule Coming Soon!
Vendor Callout: Japan–America Friendship Festival 2026
We’re looking for local New England food trucks, artisans, jewelers, and craft makers to join our autumn celebration! We welcome all local vendors featuring their standard merchandise, with special appreciation for Japanese/Asian-inspired foods, crafts, or creators willing to offer a special themed piece celebrating Japan-US friendship and culture.
Apply today at Japan-America Friendship Festival Food Trucks & Vendors!
Cosplay Parade & Family Costume Contest
Family creativity was unleashed at our spirited Cosplay Parade!
Attendees of all ages showcased their imaginative attire inspired by Japanese animation, manga, and pop culture. This was a marvelous opportunity for families to bond through shared passion and artistry. They assembled under the large tent next to the Commodore Perry Statue. Simple prizes were awarded across three distinct categories celebrating creativity, including Best Family/Group Theme, Most Inspired Anime/Manga Look, and the Fan's Choice. Made possible by a grant from Japan Foundation, New York.
Our Vision
Japan-America Society of Southern New England (JASNE or JAS Southern New England) is based in Rhode Island with members throughout MA/CT/RI and aims to connect and serve individuals throughout southern New England who have significant connections with or interest in Japan. JASNE offers services and activities to foster greater friendship and understanding between Japan and America at the grassroots level, including collaborating with other organizations in New England focused on Japan-America relations in their efforts and promoting their events.
JASNE started in 2018 as the Japan America Navy Friendship Association-Newport (JANAFA-Newport). The group operates under the name JANAFA-Newport for activities on Naval Station Newport aiming to connect individuals who have served in Japan, are going to serve in Japan, or have a significant connection to Japan. JANAFA-Newport arranges on-base activities that focus on connecting military members and their families together to help them prepare for future assignments in Japan or to celebrate their previous time in Japan.
Our Mission
The mission of JASNE is to promote and strengthen the US-Japan Alliance and to foster greater friendship between our countries.
We believe that the strongest alliances are built not just on policy, but on people and mutual respect. That is exactly how we plan to achieve our mission with the Japan-America Friendship Festival: by transforming Touro Park into a vibrant space for shared experience.
Through hands-on Cultural Touchpoints, we're creating a grassroots platform for mutual understanding, deepening the cultural ties that form the foundation of our enduring alliance.
Come join us as we celebrate this powerful friendship!
Get Involved
Join us in our efforts to strengthen the ties between the American and Japanese communities. Whether you have a background in the military, cultural exchange, or simply share a passion for promoting friendship between the two nations, there are various ways to engage and contribute to our cause.
Upcoming Events
Thu, Aug 20NewportNo-host get-together at the Officers Club on Naval Station Newport to welcome new students, faculty, and staff who have been stationed in Japan, are heading to Japan, or have significant connection with Japan.
Sat, Oct 17NewportSave the date. Our second annual festival is scheduled for 17 OCT from 10am - 4pm