Japan-America Society of Southern New England (JASNE)
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Founded in 2018
Promoting and strengthening the friendship between the United States and Japan.
Part of the Newport–Shimoda Sister City Celebration
Thanks to all who came out to our first annual Japan-America Friendship Festival. It was a tremendous success thanks to our volunteers, our performers (Gendo Taiko, ShinDaiko, Suiō-ryū Iai Kenpō of Rhode Island, and Okaze), our vendors (particularly Yagi Noodles), and everyone who enjoyed the day!
We want to especially thank our Festival Director, Everett Hoag! He did an amazing job coming up with the vision for the event, preparing tirelessly, and executing the day perfectly. If you need a superb event coordinator or are looking for fun and exquisite costumes/hats, please go to https://everetthoag.com/ !!!
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
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
Mon, Dec 01NewportThe JMSDF members of JASNE/JANAFA-Newport organize, and run a ceremony annually at the Naval War College. The ceremony remembers those who died on December 7, 1941, when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor and also focuses on the decades after the war as Japan and the U.S. became close friends and allies.
Thu, Jan 22NewportThis will be the first informal get-together event of 2026. Date and time are TBD, but location will likely be in the Officers Club on base.
Fri, Apr 24BostonMembers of JASNE plan to attend and volunteer at the large Japan-focused festival that occurs every April in Boston Commons.
Thu, Jun 04NewportNo-host get-together at the Officers Club on Naval Station Newport to bid farewell to members who are graduating from the Naval War College
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.