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Ongaku: Performers at Japan Night play Taiko drums, a traditional drum form, Monday night in the
Ballroom of Smith Memorial Student Union. Taiko drumming was one of many cultural set pieces on
display at the Japanese Student Society-sponsored event, which also included an eating contest and
traditional Japanese Dance.                                                                                                           

Monday evening’s Japan Night extends a cultural hello to PSU students

Owen R. Smith (Vanguard staff)

The annual Sakura FestivAs catchy hook-laden Japanese pop music gave way to thunderous Taiko drums,
Japan Night was well underway Monday night in a packed-to-capacity Smith Memorial Student
Union Ballroom. Organized by the newly formed Japanese Student Society, Japan Night is an evening
filled with food, music and Japanese culture meant partially as a thank you to Portland State.

Many of ourselves came here as exchange students,” said Hajime   Kauwayama, president of the JapaneseStudent Society. “Many of   the people were very kind to us and helped us. Before we leave   we want to give back to the Americans that helped us."   “This event’s concept is we want to introduce our traditions   and pop culture, “Kuawayama said. “We prepared interactive   performances and shows.”   Tnight featured a performance by Takohachi, a Taiko group   from Portland, a speedeating contest, traditional Japanese food   from Bush Garden and a dance performance.