Promoting and strengthening the friendship between the United States and Japan.
Part of the Newport–Shimoda Sister City Relationship
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
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!!!
The 2025 Festival 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 Japanese/Asian-inspired foods, crafts, or creators and all local vendors featuring their standard merchandise along with a special themed piece celebrating Japan-US friendship and culture.
Apply today at: Japan-America Friendship Festival Food Trucks & Vendors!
Congrats to this year's RI Cherry Blossom Delegate!!!
Over the past two years, Rhode Island representatives at the Cherry Blossom celebration in Washington DC have been instrumental in fostering friendships between Japan and the United States.
The Cherry Blossom Program, established in 1948, celebrates the gift of Cherry Blossom Trees from Japan to the United States, highlighting our friendship. This week-long event offers cultural, educational, and professional development for young women leaders aged 19 to 24 from the U. and beyond, managed by the National Conference of State Societies. Delegates are selected for their leadership and academic achievements, representing their states, territories, or countries at various events during the National Cherry Blossom Festival© in Washington, DC.
A special thank you to Alexandria Evers and Sophia Maynard for your outstanding leadership. JASNE is collaborating with the State Society of Rhode Island to support this initiative.
We have discovered an exceptional delegate to continue this legacy. Congratulations, Mya MacNeil!!!
Pictured left to right: Lexi Evers, Mimi Morimura, and
2026 Rhode Island Cherry Blossom Delegate - Mya MacNeil
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, Sep 03NewportNo-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, Sep 19BrooklineEvent hosted by Japan's Consul General in Boston. This event is by invitation-only and all available slots are filled.
Sat, Oct 17NewportSave the date. Our second annual family-friendly festival is scheduled for 17 OCT from 10am - 4pm