Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03) presents WIT Life, a periodic series about aspects of Japanese culture such as art, film, food and language. Stacy starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she offers some interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) coalition lost its longtime majority in the upper house of the Diet to a variety of opposition parties in last weekend’s election. The LDP had also lost its lower house majority in an election last fall, making this election the first time since the party’s 1955 founding that its coalition lost majorities in both legislative houses. Following the death of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the conservative LDP has shifted more toward the center and other right-wing parties have swooped in to fill the gap.

Most notable is the relatively new Sanseito (参政党 or Participate in Politics party), an ultra-conservative, right-wing populist party that campaigned on a “Japanese First” agenda and railed against the deluge of foreign tourists and foreign buying of Japanese homes. In its appeal to younger voters, in addition to its anti-immigrant stance Sanseito also seeks to raise wages and break the grip that older voters have held on politics (it also espouses the retrogressive idea that women should be less career-focused and have more children). Sanseito is led by Secretary-General Sohei Kamiya, a 47-year old former teacher who has cited Trump as his inspiration. He founded the party in early 2020 along with two others who have since left. At the time they gained prominence via a YouTube channel that spread conspiracy theories about vaccines.

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By JQ magazine editor Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02). Justin has written about Japanese arts and entertainment for JETAA since 2005. For more of his articles, click here. 

In the dog days of summer, it’s best to escape the heat in a place that’s cozy and cool. For those into both cutting-edge and classic anime, this month offers a diverse trio of theatrical revivals—all in the comfort of indoor air conditioning.

This month’s highlights include: 

August 1-2, 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Hiromi’s Sonicwonder – OUT THERE Album Release Show

Sony Hall, 145 West 45th Street

From $45

Since Hiromi’s debut album Another Mind (2003), the world-renowned pianist’s sound has evolved with every release, erasing the lines between jazz and classical, composition and improvisation. This special intimate performance celebrates the release of OUT THERE, Hiromi’s 13th studio full-length album. Born in Hamamatsu, Japan, Hiromi began studying piano when she was six years old. When she was 17, Chick Corea invited her to play with him at a Tokyo concert. She attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where she was mentored by jazz legend Ahmad Jamal. A prolific artist, she has also recorded the soundtrack to Blue Giant, an animated feature film based on the popular manga. Hiromi is a perennial favorite on DownBeat’s Annual Critics and Readers Poll, and has performed at the world’s finest jazz festivals, including Montreux, Umbria, North Sea, Newport, and Monterey. Her work has been celebrated by media including the New York Times, NPR and NPR Music, and the Washington Post, and she was a featured performer at the Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony in 2021.

August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2:00-4:00 p.m. 

Koji Workshop: Exploring Koji & Amazake

Brooklyn Beauty/Fashion Labo, 300 7th Street (Brooklyn)

$45 (kids free)

Bread, coffee, cheese, chocolate…the wisdom of fermentation has given us not only flavorful foods, but also natural ways to preserve them. Let’s explore one example from Far East Asia called “Koji” and see how beautifully it blends with Western daily life. Hakko-an will present its recipes—and you’re welcome to bring anything you’d like to add, so you can explore and create your own Koji Smoothie! After the exploration, you’ll get to take some Koji home for trying it out at home. All kids are welcome free to join the adventure!

August 10-12

Grave of the Fireflies

Various theaters

Various prices

As the Empire of the Sun crumbles upon itself and a rain of firebombs falls upon Japan, the final death march of a nation is echoed in millions of smaller tragedies. This is the story of Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, two children born at the wrong time, in the wrong place, and now cast adrift in a world that lacks not the care to shelter them, but simply the resources. Forced to fend for themselves in the aftermath of fires that swept entire cities from the face of the earth, their doomed struggle is both a tribute to the human spirit and the stuff of nightmares. Beautiful, yet at times brutal and horrifying. Based on the retellings of survivor Nosaka Akiyuki and directed by Isao Takahata (co-founder, with Hayao Miyazaki, of Japan’s legendary Studio Ghibli). Grave of the Fireflies has been universally hailed as an artistic and emotional tour de force. Now digitally remastered and restored, it is one of the rare films that truly deserves to be called a masterpiece.

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Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Student Engagement Coordinator
Posted by: Temple University, Japan Campus
Location: Tokyo, Japan; Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Temple University, Japan Campus for passing along the following job opening.

Visa Requirement   

Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) is able to sponsor a visa for this position

Salary & Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

Eleven (11) days paid vacation in the first year, increasing to 20 days after 6 years of employment, plus 5 paid “personal and sick days” each year. In addition, approximately two weeks company-wide break over Christmas/New Year. Japanese social insurance and pension, commuting/telework allowance, a welfare-discount program membership, retirement payment system, and tuition benefits for Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) programs.

Overview of position

The student engagement coordinator organizes cultural workshops, day outings, and overnight trips to cultivate social relations among our diverse student population and supports an active campus life by working with student organizations. The engagement coordinator also supports and coordinates different initiatives within Student Engagement and collaborates with other departments to promote campus-wide activities and events via social media. In addition, as a team member of OSSE, the engagement coordinator will also be asked to assist with the new student welcome week, office-sponsored events, and walk-in inquiries.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Japan Specialist, Sales
Posted by: Extraordinary Journeys
Location: Remote
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Extraordinary Journeys for passing along the following job opening.

Are you passionate about a destination and want to share it with other people? Do you love to travel and thrive off sharing your knowledge and expertise in planning interesting, unique trips for people that will create memories that last a lifetime? Do you want to work with a group of passionate, highly motivated women who live and breathe travel? We are searching for an experienced Japan specialist with a deep knowledge of the country to join our team. Candidates will be able to work remotely.

Extraordinary Journeys is a luxury adventure tour operator that specializes in creating custom, authentic, high-end trips for adventurous travelers to Africa and around the world. We know that people are looking for something unique, something special, and we pride ourselves on staying on the edge of the industry—constantly discovering places and how our clients see them. Beyond that, we know that no two people are the same and that their trips shouldn’t be either; matching the right people with the right properties has become our trademark. We value knowledge, creativity, enthusiasm, and customer service.

We recently expanded our offerings to include Asia, but with continuing interest in Japan from our travelers, we’re looking to bring a full-time specialist onto our team.

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Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Business News Researcher / Reporter
Posted by: The Yomiuri Shimbun
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Alex Carlson (Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, 2013-2017) for passing along the following job opening.

Main duties involve assisting the Yomiuri Shimbun’s New York-based Japanese business correspondent by covering events, conferences, company earnings calls, financial markets; tracking relevant stories, arranging and conducting interviews, doing research, and coming up with story ideas. One area of special focus is big tech (Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple) and issues connected to artificial intelligence.

In addition to reporting on business and covering financial markets, you may at times have to cover other areas (including national politics, sports, etc.). Some transcription / synopsizing of press conferences and earnings calls is also required. Since the articles are written in Japanese, there are no byline opportunities for this position.

Application Process: Email cover letter and resume to: yomiuri2025job@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Sales Representative for a Japanese Manufacturing Company
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Dublin, OH, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

A Japanese Manufacturing company is currently looking for a full time Sales Representative to join their Dublin, OH location.

This position is ideal for candidates who are eager to grow in a technical sales environment. You will support experienced sales staff in promoting automatic control products to customers across North and South America.

With a flexible work style, supportive team culture, and structured training, this role offers a great opportunity to build a strong foundation in manufacturer sales within a global Japanese company.

DOE and skills, the pay range for this position will be between 50k-55k. Candidates with previous sales experience are of course welcomed, but even candidates without prior sales experience, but willing to learn are encouraged to apply.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Volunteer English Language Teacher
Posted by: Get Universal Co. Ltd. on Peace Boat
Location: Tokyo/Yokohama, Japan; Around the World
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Get Universal Co. Ltd. for passing along the following job opening.

Description

• Creating and delivering a student-negotiated curriculum of task-based English and/or
• Spanish lessons for both private and group students.
• Organising and participating in a variety of student programmes such as informal
• English/Spanish-language conversation events, language study sessions, etc.
• Collaborating to create and host a series of extra-curricular events for GET students,
• including but not limited to student orientation sessions, a speech festival, graduation
• ceremony, student parties, etc.
• Participating in onboard events such as departure ceremonies, welcome ceremonies,
• international festivals, themed performances, etc.
• Assisting in events both on board and in port in support of Peace Boat’s cooperative
• projects and advocacy activities.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://peaceboat.org/english/volunteer/GET-volunteer

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Part-Time Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
Posted by: Digital Museum of the History of Japanese in New York
Location: Remote or NY-based
Contract: Part-Time

Thanks to Mac Gill (Kochi Prefecture, 2021-2023) for passing along the following job opening.

Description:
The Digital Museum of the History of Japanese in New York is seeking a creative and expansion-minded Social Media & Marketing Coordinator to support the Digital Museum’s focus on preserving and sharing the experiences of Japanese and Japanese Americans in New York City. This part-time position is ideal for someone passionate about public history, cultural heritage, and engaging diverse audiences through digital storytelling. You will help grow our digital presence, highlight archival materials and oral histories, and connect our mission with both local and global communities.

Key Responsibilities
Content Creation

sparrosd@gmail.com

By Chang-Hyun Choi for JQ magazine. Interpretation assistance by Miyuki W. Myrthil. Photos by Esther JY Kim.

Known for her powerful vocals and electric performances, anisong and J-pop global sensation LiSA kicked off her first-ever North American Another Great Day tour in New York City with two sold-out concerts at Terminal 5 on June 18-19, followed by stops in Los Angeles on June 23-24 and Mexico City on June 28. Notably, these were her debut solo shows in America, and her first show in Mexico in nine years. 

Fans excitedly shook their penlights and sang along with their favorite songs from hit anime such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Fate/Zero, and Solo Leveling. LiSA’s performances showcased her artistry and tenacity, combining her incredible singing with breathtaking visuals across consecutive nights. She crafted an unforgettable experience for New Yorkers who got the chance to cheer and even dance together with LiSA to her setlist full of thrilling and emotional songs.      

In this exclusive interview, JQ had a chance to sit down with LiSA to chat about her experiences performing in New York City and her vision for this momentous overseas tour.

First of all, congratulations on your two sold-out concerts in New York City!

Thank you!

What was your impression of the crowd, and do you feel any differences performing here than elsewhere?

It was so surprising to witness such high energy, high voltage energy from the start. The way they called me and called my name, the LiSA calls, were so great, and most impressive was the way the New York City audience was dancing to my music, swaying to my music. They definitely know how to enjoy music, and that’s something that’s so unique.

The crowd had a huge response to your songs from hit anime series such as Demon Slayer and Sword Art Online, but we also got to hear songs like “WiLD CANDY” and the recent “RED ZONE.” What thoughts went into making your New York City or overseas setlists?

I’m entering into the 15th year of my career, and for this being my first North American tour, I wanted to bring out all the songs that I think the fans got to know me for, the songs that they must have been waiting for me to perform in America, so those are the songs that I put together. Also, songs like “WiLD CANDY” and “RED ZONE” are songs where I love to see how the audiences react to them. Those are the kinds of thoughts and processes that I put into creating the setlist.

It was very impressive that you spoke English for most of the MC Parts.

Really?

Yes! Was there anything more you’d have wanted to tell the fans if you had more time?

I definitely wanted to share in the great time with the fans who have been looking forward to meeting me, who got to know me through anime and my music, and also I wanted to share that “今日もいい日だ” or “Today’s Another Great Day,” the catchphrase that I have. That phrase means to appreciate and feel gratitude for the good parts of the day. I wanted to share that moment and phrase with the audience here.

今日もいい日だ, or Today’s Another Great Day, is a phrase that you’ve kept very close to your heart as LiSA. What does it mean for your first North American tour to be called that, to share those words?

It was definitely a happy day and the reason I made the title “Another Great Day” is because I wished for the day to be another good day and it has become that, and so I feel so great and I feel grateful that such a day happened.  

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Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Publicity Coordinator
Posted by: Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
Location: Washington D.C., USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan in Washington D.C. for passing along the following job opening.

The Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC), Embassy of Japan, is seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented individual for the position of Publicity Coordinator. The main responsibilities of this position include promoting JICC exhibitions and events through press outreach, social media management, website, and other digital and traditional means. The position also performs various office support functions. Please see below for a detailed listing of responsibilities.

The Embassy offers group health insurance coverage, paid vacation, and sick leave. Working hours are 9 AM – 5 PM, Monday through Friday with weeknight and/or weekend events several times a month (paid overtime). Salary is commensurate with experience. The monthly pay range for this position is USD $3,800-6,500.

Please note: Candidate must be able to provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States. Screening will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Only successful candidates will be contacted. All candidates will be subject to background checks and security clearance.

RESPONSIBILTIES

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Social Media Assistant
Posted by: Consulate General of Japan in New York
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time; Contract

Thanks to Joseph Meringolo (Fukushima-ken, 2014-2017) for passing along the following job opening.

The Consulate General of Japan in New York is currently seeking a Social Media Assistant to assist with social media postings and the organization of Japanese cultural events.

This is a CONTRACT POSITION that will run from September 2025 until the end of March 2026. This is an in-office post between Monday through Friday (from 9:15am to 6:00pm with flexible hours) to offset the compensation of around $24,000 for the contracted period.

We are looking for an organized team player who can manage a variety of tasks and assume the following responsibilities as Social Media Assistant.

sparrosd@gmail.com

By JQ magazine editor Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02). Justin has written about Japanese arts and entertainment for JETAA since 2005. For more of his articles, click here. 

After the outdoor fireworks, enjoy some summer events in the cool indoors, whether it’s taking in North America’s largest annual Japanese film festival, checking out a Kurosawa or Studio Ghibli classic, or enjoying a musical, Pokémon-style!

This month’s highlights include: 

July 10-20

Japan Cuts 2025

Japan Society, 333 47th Street

Screenings with Receptions: $26 Nonmembers/ $18 Members / $23 seniors & students

Screenings with Q&As: $24 Nonmembers/ $17 Member / $22 seniors & students

All Other Screenings: $20 Nonmembers / $14 Members / $18 seniors & students

Short Films: $10 Nonmembers / Free for Members / $5 seniors & students

North America’s largest festival of contemporary Japanese film returns for its 18th year this summer at Japan Society! Join us July 10-20 for 30 curated films from across Japan featuring major award-winners, indie darlings, up-and-coming filmmakers, restorations, documentaries, experimental and short films and anime. JAPAN CUTS Powered by GU is a showcase of the latest in Japanese cinema, featuring both today’s most popular actors and directors as well as tomorrow’s pioneering talent. Become part of our passionate filmgoer community for premieres, parties and celebrity guests in the heart of America’s biggest city! Leading this year’s highlights: JAPAN CUTS Powered by GU will present legendary director Kiyoshi Kurosawa with the CUT ABOVE Award for Outstanding Achievement in Film, host the premieres of his new film Cloud and recent remake of Serpent’s Path, as well as showcase revivals of License to Live and a new 4K restoration of the original Serpent’s Path.

July 16-17

JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death

Various theaters

Various prices

Before they were enemies, Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto were high school classmates and friends. The two powerful sorcerers are tasked with protecting Riko Amanai, a student who has been designated to be sacrificed as the Star Plasma Vessel, until she can fulfill her duty. Pursued by a religious cult and other curse users, they are the only sorcerers capable of carrying out such a difficult task – but this mission will set their destinies, and challenge the two sorcerers in ways unimaginable. The beloved and deeply emotional Hidden Inventory / Premature Death arc from the global phenomenon JUJUTSU KAISEN returns to the big screen, reaching all new heights for fans and newcomers alike.

Friday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.

Keiko Matsui

City Winery, 233 West Street (Pier 26)

$25-$70

“This album is about the hope that we all carry inside of us,” shares internationally acclaimed pianist, composer and humanitarian, Keiko Matsui, who has worked with everyone from Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Bob James, and Hugh Masekela. “I have this dream where we can each cherish our own happiness and learn to accept and care for one another.” There is a reason why the stunning, soft-spoken, and petite powerhouse with such a commanding presence at the piano has amassed a devout following through the years. “When I tour around the world and witness how my music cuts through our differences and connects everyone, it makes me feel euphoric!” exclaims Keiko, who harnesses this joy on her 30th recording Euphoria. She enlists an all-star contingency of special guests including vocalist, and daughter of Donny Hathaway, Lalah Hathaway, trumpeter Randy Brecker, guitarist Mike Stern, saxophonist Kirk Whalum, vibist Joel Ross, harmonica player Grégoire Maret and pianist/arranger John Beasley. Keiko concludes, “During the past few years, I have witnessed the loss of life and seen people’s sadness and it has been really painful, but it has helped to remind me of the precious gift of time and the importance of gratitude for what I have now,” confides Keiko.” “Euphoria is my gift to my fans around the world.”

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Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Hokkaido-US Representative Staff (Temporary)
Posted by: NTA America
Location: Remote (NY-based)
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Joseph Meringolo (Fukushima-ken\, 2014-2017) for passing along the following job opening.

NTA America is looking for a Hokkaido-US Travel Representative. This is a temporary position that runs from July 4th until the end of February. This individual will serve as a liaison between travel advisors and the media to promote tourism and travel to Hokkaido. The work is primarily remote, approximately 16-24 hours per week, with two required in-person events. The first event is a travel seminar in November, while the second is the Travel and Adventure Show in late-January. Details and requirements are below:

Preferred qualifications:

1) Fluent or native-level English. Japanese ability a plus, but not required.

2) Familiarity with Hokkaido. Preference for those who have experience living or traveling there.

Application Process: The deadline for applications is June 30th. Please email resumes to Mr. Kenichi Sudo at kenichi_sudo@ntaamerica.com.

Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03) presents WIT Life, a periodic series about aspects of Japanese culture such as art, film, food and language. Stacy starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she offers some interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

As I’m sure everyone can relate, recent domestic and world events have taken a great toll so I’ve been seeking solace wherever I can find it. Last night that was by going to see the documentary 25 Cats from Qatar at the Museum of the Moving Image (Tokyo Cowboy co-writer Dave Boyle is one of its producers). It features Katy McHugh, a flight attendant and Midwestern cat cafe owner who saves cats from around the world by bringing them to the U.S. for adoption. The film depicts her latest rescue mission in Qatar, a wealthy country powered by the migrant workers who make up 89% of its 3 million population. This is also the population of its street cats, 25 of whom McHugh plans to fly back to her cafe after careful selection.

The film has both tragic and heartwarming elements (often in the same scene), and many tears were shed by the audience. The behind-the-scenes stories shared during the post-screening Q&A with director Mye Hoang and McHugh were a bonus. They will be on hand for an encore show at the Angelika tomorrow at 7 p.m if you want to see the film before it moves to other parts of the country. It’s a fundraiser for LIC Feral Feeders & Cat Rescue, so please show some love by donating when you buy your ticket.

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Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Volunteer Writer
Posted by: JETwit
Location: Remote
Contract: Part-Time

Thanks to JETwit for passing along the following job opening.

Project: In March-April 2025 JETwit ran a survey inviting JET alumni to share how changes in US government employment and funding were impacting them. JETwit is looking for a volunteer writer to review the data collected and write an article based on this information discussing how the JET community has been affected and how alumni are navigating this new landscape.

Apply: Email Steven Horowitz at stevenwaseda@gmail.com if you are interested in writing this article.