Abe Welcomes Completion of Marunouchi Plaza at Tokyo Station

On Dec. 7, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended a ceremony commemorating the completion of Marunouchi Plaza at Tokyo Station, along with their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan who were also in attendance. The new plaza will provide improved access for pedestrians to the Imperial Palace from Tokyo Station.

Foreign Minister Kono Visits Russia

On Nov. 23-25, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono visited Russia, where he met with his counterpart Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov.

Abenomics Update

Read the latest progress from Abenomics, a comprehensive economic policy package rolled out in early 2013. 

Hello Kitty, Pokemon to Promote Japan's Bid for the 2025 World Expo 

Foreign Minister Taro Kono presented Hello Kitty and Pokemon's Pikachu with letters appointing them to be special envoys for Japan's bid to bring the 2025 World Expo to Osaka. 

Science and Technology to Help Bolster Japan's Contribution to U.N. Sustainable Goals

MIYAVI Appointed Goodwill Ambassador by UN Refugee Agency

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has appointed musician and actor MIYAVI as a Goodwill Ambassador, citing his advocacy for refugees. MIYAVI was introduced to the agency's activities and initiatives by Special Envoy Angelina Jolie, who cast him in her 2014 film "Unbroken," according to the UNHCR.

Japan House Los Angeles to Open Shop

The highly-anticipated opening of some Japan House operations in Los Angeles will take place on Dec. 20. Located at the Hollywood & Highland Center, the second floor section will open first, featuring a shop offering a special selection of Japanese goods. 
Read more:

Autumn 2017 Decoration Conferred

The conferment ceremony for Ms. Kitty Sankey, a recipient from the Los Angeles consulate jurisdiction of the Autumn 2017 Decorations, was recently held at the Official Residence of Consul General Chiba. Read more:

Mr. Glenn Tanaka Receives Japanese Agriculture Award

Three generations of excellence in maintaining the best traditions of Japanese American agriculture in California have been recognized and commended by Dai Nihon Nokai (Japan Agricultural Association). Glenn Tanaka, of Tanaka Farms, was honored with the award which recognizes the tremendous role he and Tanaka Farms play in southern California, far beyond just growing exceptional produce. Get the story here:

Kizuna Video Series: Go For Broke

The Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles in association with Kizuna brings you a video series highlighting the unique features and history of the Japanese American community. Our latest video showcases Go for Broke National Education Center and the inspirational story of the Japanese American soldiers of World War II.

Monozukuri Timekeeping Elegance in Beverly Hills

Consul General Chiba joins world's grand opening for the new Seiko Boutique stores, combining the highest standards of luxury and the deep traditions of Japanese craftsmanship - or monozukuri - in the heart of Beverly Hills. More on this new endeavor by one of Japan's premier timepiece makers here:

Clean Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks at the Ports

Toyota's environmentally friendly hydrogen fuel cell freight trucks are now moving goods from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach as part of a feasibility study, which figures into the ports' efforts to reduce harmful emissions. More information on how hydrogen fuel cell trucks are being deployed at the ports right here:

Ohtani Joins the Los Angeles Angels!

Baseball fans in Southern California rejoice... after much speculation and anticipation, Shohei Otani - a right-handed pitcher and left-handed slugger - will make his U.S. debut as a member of the Los Angeles Angels. Play ball!

Japan at VerdeXchange Conference 2018 in Los Angeles

The premier conference on the environment and technology solutions in the western United States will enter its 11th year of bringing policy makers together with business leaders addressing environmental and energy issues. Top business and government leaders from Japan will be joining, with the kickoff VIP discussion and reception led by Consul General Akira Chiba. More information and past years' conference video - including the many presentations by Japanese firms - here:

Season's Greetings and Happy New Year!

For New Year's events in Southern California and Arizona:
http://www.la.us.emb-japan.go.jp/e_web/jicc_calendar.htm