Nadeshikokai, formally known as Japanese Culture and Traditions, Inc., is a volunteer organization and NPO 501(c)(3) which promotes Japanese culture and traditions.  It was founded in 2011 in Southern California by a kimono master, Ms. Takako Sasaki.
 
In Japan, kimono culture has more than 1,000 years of history. Many people enjoy wearing a kimono for special occasions or trying one out at various tourist sites. The Nadeshikokai holds and organizes workshops and events throughout the year to introduce and/or showcase the beauty of kimono as well as Japanese traditional culture.  Our main annual event is the Coming-of-Age Ceremony, a long-held tradition in Japan which celebrates everyone who reaches adulthood, in order to promote and preserve this meaningful Japanese tradition for generations to come.  We have been hosting the Coming-of-Age Ceremony in January of every year since 2013, and in 2023 we will be celebrating our 11th Ceremony.
 
Nadeshikokai membership is open to anyone who wants to learn the complex techniques and etiquette of wearing traditional Japanese garments.  Activities include lectures on kimono and kimono-dressing demonstrations, presentations of kimono culture at schools and libraries, the Coming–of-Age-Ceremony, and participation in cultural exchange events, such as Japanese fairs and events around the Greater L.A. area and Orange County.  We also offer makeup and etiquette lessons, tea ceremony demonstrations, Japanese folk music lessons, etc. 
 
Nadeshikokai honors and serves a culturally diverse community, regardless of background or beliefs. The volunteers and members participate with the understanding that the organization exists to promote and transmit Japanese culture, specifically the kimono culture, to all communities as well as to the future generations.
 

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