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The first annual Natsu Matsuri, Oregon Summer Festival was held at Uwajimaya Plaza in Beaverton on Jul 3 and was a huge success
that was enjoyed by all.
The Consul General of Japan in Portland, Takamichi Okabe, helped lead the festival by being an active supporter and participant
greeting everyone on the main stage, bon dancing, and helping with the blessing of the Yagura-daiko or taiko tower were just a
few things he did. Takohachi Taiko, the area’s premier Japanese taiko and dance Group did a fantastic job with great
entertainment, beautiful music and exciting dance performances as they hosted a day of entertainment that many described was just
like it is in Japan. Takohachi even wrote and choreographed special Natsu Matsuri music and dances just for the event.
Takohachi Taiko performed both on stage and in a yagura (tower). This group has immense talent and always delivers exciting
performances that are traditional yet innovative and always crackling with of energy. Under the leadership of Executive Director
Yumi Torimaru and Artistic Director Kohei Kimura, Takohachi Taiko delivers some of the best Japanese taiko inside or outside of Japan.
We are lucky to have this dynamic group of entertainers in our community.
The Yukata contest was a big hit. It was held on the main stage with some great judges, and the contestants not only walked
the catwalk but also were asked questions about themselves as well as their costumes. The all-ages event featured some great yukata
and contestants and was judged by Consul General Okabe, famed sauce king and philanthropist Junki Yoshida, Uwajimaya Plaza General Manager
Jack Ayers, and the beautiful Oregon Ballet Theatre principal dancer, Yuka Iino.
A highlight of the festival and a real treat for Japanese music fans was an appearance by Japanese pop music icon, T. Akira.
He is incredibly talented and is admired throughout Japan, and this surprise visit was a big surprise to many who attended.
A special thanks to Dai Ichi International our community travel agency located in Beaverton – CEO Suemi Kratochvil, who worked
her magic to make this happen.
Volunteers from the Salem Japanese Cultural Society were a big help, serving as members of the taiko group, volunteering
at the kids’ games, and preparing and serving delicious Japanese festival food. The food was awesome, and traditional
Japanese games were a lot of fun for the kids. Money was raised for a couple non-profits that helped with the festival and the
charitable organizations that came to volunteer and support this event.
Natsu Matsuri was a Japanese community event that came together with a few organizers who brought in a passionate crowd of
people to make it all happen. It could not have happened without the effort, energy and enthusiasm of the many volunteers who worked
hard all day to make it possible for so many have a good time and enjoy such great entertainment throughout the day.
Special thanks to Uwajimaya and its wonderful staff and managers. They put a lot of work and time to make these festivals a success.
David Onishi, Seafood Manager; Junita Koentoro Operations Manager for their unstinting support.
And a special thanks to Yamato Transport, Inc. Located in Beaverton who helped bring festival supplies from Japan in a very short and
demanding period without any delays of problems.
Natsu Matsuri was sponsored by Takohachi Taiko, Yamato Transport, Uwajimaya, Inc., The Yuuyake Shimbun, Westside International Business
Association, Salem’s Japanese Cultural Society and Dai Ichi International, and was supported by the Japanese Consulate of
Japan in Portland.
Please contact any of the above if you are interested in next year’s Natsu Matsuri.