The South Bay Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League
and the Gardena Valley Japanese Cultural Institute

What is TANOSHII Nikkei Youth Camp ?
The TANOSHII is a weeklong day camp sponsored by the South Bay JACL and the Gardena Valley Japanese Cultural Institute (JCI). The first ever camp took place from July 14 to July 18, 2008 with 48 elementary school-aged students. TANOSHII uses fun activities to teach kids 7-10 years old about Japanese American heritage. Activities include a combination of cultural experiences, games and a field trip to the Japanese American National Museum. Cultural workshops may include Taiko, Ikebana, Martial Arts, Origami, Calligraphy, Obon Dancing, Japanese Language, Japanese Cooking, etc. The goal of the camp is to spark interest in Japanese American culture and community through hands-on experiences and interaction with people in the community. Campers will get a chance to learn, and connect with the Japanese American community and heritage. TANOSHII was inspired by Camp Musubi, which is for older students who are entering middle school.

Where is TANOSHII held ?
TANOSHII meets at the Gardena Valley JCI. The Gardena Valley JCI is located at 1964 W 162nd St; Gardena, CA; 90247. Daily activities will be held at the JCI with a one day field trip to the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo. The students learn from a variety of cultural and community “experts” and do group activities with high school juniors and seniors serving as camp counselors under adult supervision.

What if I have additional questions ?
Please contact the TANOSHII Camp director, Ray Shibata by email at tanoshiifuncamp(at)gmail.com if you have any questions about the camp.

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