Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Translator
Posted by: U.S. Embassy in Tokyo
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Contract: Full-time

The incumbent translates a broad range of Japanese-language materials, some of considerable difficulty, into smooth, readable English for use by Embassy Tokyo and Washington. S/he contributes translation and analytical summaries of magazine articles selected for inclusion in office publications.   S/he translates into Japanese by special request speeches and statements by the President and other high-level officials and English-language materials for posting on Embassy website or dissemination by social media.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: Applicants must address each required qualification listed below with specific information supporting each item. Failure to do so may result in a determination that the applicant is not qualified.

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree from a four-year university in Linguistics, English, Economics, or Political Science.
2. Prior Work Experience:  At least three years of professional translation experience.
3. Language Proficiency: Level V* (professional) English and Japanese. Language proficiency may be tested.
4. Skills and Abilities: Certificate from a public- or private-sector organization attesting to competence in English or in Japanese→English/English→Japanese translation. Basic computer skills. Be available to work after hours and on weekends and national holidays in support of high-level visits, etc.
5. Knowledge:  Superior level of knowledge of host country policies in the political, financial and economic, defense and security, and scientific spheres, as well as familiarity with labor and social issues. Being conversant in jargon and terminology in those areas is essential. Must also possess knowledge of the structure of the U.S. Government and the functions of its individual components and current office holders, and also have a basic knowledge of the U.S. military and the functions of its branches.

Read More

By Julio Perez Jr. (Kyoto-shi, 2011-13) for JQ magazine. A bibliophile, writer, translator, and graduate from Columbia University, Julio currently keeps the lights on by working at JTB USA while writing freelance in New York. Follow his enthusiasm for Japan, literature, and comic books on his blog and Twitter @brittlejules.

Imagine coming home to find a stranger in your house. He acts like he owns the place, eats your food and drinks your beer, before leaving you reeling in confusion! Better send a letter to the Yokai Post for help from Kitaro, a charming character made by manga legend Shigeru Mizuki. Kitaro investigates strange phenomena and protects humans from ill-intentioned yokai.

Shigeru Mizuki’s Kitaro – Kitaro Meets Nurarihyon is a manga volume collecting seven more of Kitaro’s paranormal adventures. While this book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dive into the classic character’s adventures, your enjoyment can be enhanced by checking out Kitaro’s origin story featured in the first volume, The Birth of Kitaro, reviewed last year by JQ here. This book is one of several entries in a list of literary delights from Japan that Drawn and Quarterly has been bringing to America for affordable access. This volume was also translated by JET Alum and Shigeru Mizuki expert/JQ interviewee Zack Davisson (Nara-ken, 2001-04; Osaka-shi, 2004-06).

Like it says on the tin, in this book Kitaro encounters a uniquely urban yokai: Nurarihyon. This creature takes on the appearance of an unsettling-looking and self-important man to stealthily wreak havoc as mundane as forcing you to serve him your best snacks and as extreme as explosions in cities.

Many of the yokai Kitaro encounters cause trouble because it is in their nature, some have a need to feed, or have a human-like impulse that persists beyond the grave, but Nurarihyon is cut from a different cloth. He is simply cruel and makes mischief because of his hatred for humans. He also stands apart from others in Kitaro’s rogues gallery because he finds it repulsive that Kitaro helps humans and targets him for that reason. You’ll have to pick up the book to find out just how Nurarihyon plots Kitaro’s demise, and how he very nearly gets away with it!

Read More

WIT Life is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

Along with ramen and sushi, sake is a part of Japanese food and drink culture that is ubiquitous here in New York.  But as someone who spent the majority of my time in Japan in Kyushu, I sometimes wonder why shochu doesn’t get its fair share of the acclaim.  Down there shochu is the go-to drink, and since 90% of domestic production takes place at distilleries in Kyushu it is known as Shochu Island.

So I was thrilled when Japan Society asked me to interpret at its first ever event showcasing shochu, Distilled, Not Brewed: Discovering Shochu.  The main speaker was Shinichiro Watanabe, CEO of Kyoya Shuzo and Chairman of the Committee on Shochu Planning at the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association.  His presentation on shochu was for the uninitiated, and highlighted aspects of this distilled liquor such as its history, cultural significance and health benefits.

To breakdown the basics of Watanabe’s presentation, the main way that shochu differs from sake is that it is distilled as opposed to brewed.  Sake is made from rice whereas shochu can be made from ingredients such as sweet potato, barley and rice.  The ingredient is determined by what Read More

By Rashaad Jorden (Yamagata-ken, 2008-10) for JQ magazine. A former head of the JETAA Philadelphia Sub-Chapter, Rashaad is a graduate of Leeds Beckett University with a master’s degree in responsible tourism management. For more on his life abroad and enthusiasm for taiko drumming, visit his blog at www.gettingpounded.wordpress.com.

Sometimes, I might come across a book that makes me feel as if I don’t know anything about Japan. Not that I didn’t learn a lot about the country during my JET days, but that the book contains so much information, it puts to shame what I’ve learned about Japan.

Such is the feeling I experienced while reading Womansword: What Japanese Words Say About Women. First published in 1987, the book examines Japan through the language used to describe women and the terms frequently employed by women. This new 30th anniversary edition of Kittredge Cherry’s work seems to be the perfect setting to learn about women’s issues I had never thought of.

And it certainly was, although I got a feeling from the book that I once experienced while observing the fashion sense of people attending a flea market in Yoyogi Park: everything is stuck in the ’80s. (More on that later.)

Womansword is divided into seven chapters that address themes such as motherhood, sexuality and aging. It provides relevant information before reaching the first chapter as the “Preface to the 30th Anniversary Edition” includes several details on how the landscape for women in Japan has changed—and hasn’t changed. The good news: In 1991, for the first time in history, more than half of Japanese women had entered the workforce. And in 2015, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced several measures to reverse the country’s shrinking birth rate as part of his Abenomics economic plan. On the other hand, Japan ranked 105th out of 136 countries in the 2014 Global Gender Gap Report and in the following year—more than 30 years after the Equal Employment Law was passed—Japanese women still earned lower pay and fewer promotions on average.

Read More

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Program Manager
Posted by: The Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C. 
Location: Washington, D.C. 
Contract: Full-time

The Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C. is currently recruiting for a Program Manager to work on the Japan Bowl and JASWDC Language School.  

Here is the description: http://www.jaswdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/JASWDC-Japan-Bowl-Lang-School.pdf

Title: Assistant Reporter, leading new network
Location: Sydney
Salary: 47-70K+S Depends on your experience and negotiations
Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00-6:00pm

The Role
You will assist the Bureau Chief in reporting, researching, and write general news and breaking news stories under the direction of the News desk. The role will also include some clerical work.

Criteria

• Research ability ( web, newspaper) in English
• Native English ability with good writing skill (article should be written in English)
• Interstate travel required (anywhere big news are, around 2/months)
• Understanding of Australian politics and social issues, strong interest in Australia-Japan relations are essential.

Desirable

• Interest in writing news, mainly politics, Australia and foreign relation
• Experience in writing for news media or degree in Journalism is plus
• Japanese language or cultural understanding an advantage

To apply, email (to career@ssaust.com.au) your resume (Word File) and short description of your previous experience and your selling points preferably which match the job description or criteria (3-5 lines).

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Culture and Information Employee
Posted by: Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta – Culture and Information Section
Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Contract: Full-time

Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta is seeking an individual for the culture and information section. Candidate must be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. green card holder, must be fluent in Japanese and English, and possess computer skills (Microsoft Word and Excel etc. preferred).

To apply for this position, please send your resume to takatoshi.sakurai@mofa.go.jp.

 

By Rashaad Jorden (Yamagata-ken, 2008-10) for JQ magazine. A former head of the JETAA Philadelphia Sub-Chapter, Rashaad is a graduate of Leeds Beckett University with a master’s degree in responsible tourism management. For more on his life abroad and enthusiasm for taiko drumming, visit his blog at www.gettingpounded.wordpress.com.

During your elementary school days, you surely read about the primordial creatures you know as dinosaurs. But if you haven’t been reminded of the creatures that roamed the earth roughly 65 million years ago in some time, you might not realize that there’s more than meets the eye. Case in point: Tatsuya Miyanishi’s I Want That Love.

I Want That Love (the third book in Miyanishi’s Tyrannosaurus series of 13 titles that have sold more than three million copies internationally) tells the story of a Tyrannosaurus, who is described by the author as “the strongest of all the dinosaurs.” Not surprisingly, everyone is scared of him as he never fails at getting his way by force. But the good times don’t last—the Tyrannosaurus (whose name is revealed to be Mr. Rhadbodon)—is somehow sapped of his strength after being bitten in his tail by a Masiakasaurus.

As expected from someone whose identity is clearly tied to brute force, the Tyrannosaurus loses all sense of who he is, so he’s desperate to find any solution to the disaster that has befallen him. Fortunately, he receives help in the form of berries given to him by fellow creatures and he uses his newfound energy to protect his friends from other dinosaurs.

Read More

By Jon Dao(Toyama-ken, 2009-12) for his podcast Discussions with Dao. Jon works as a speech coach and personal trainer.

 

---

Here’s an interesting one– William reached out to me after I made the Leaving Home (Again) video. He’s another former JET who could relate, so of course I invited him to talk about his experiences more. Here’s the breakdown of what’s discussed:

Why do JET? [1:00]

Was it worth it? [6:50]

3 Years, “The Sweet Spot” [12:45]

Would you go back? [23:00]

Advice for Returning JETs [27:15]

Option: Relocate [32:45]

Throwing Yourself a Pity-Party [39:30]

You can reach William here: genkinagaijin [at] yahoo.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: English Teacher
Posted by: Kyoto Gakuen Junior and Senior High School
Location: Kyoto, Japan
Contract: Full-time

Kyoto Gakuen Junior and Senior High School is looking to hire new teachers for next year (beginning in April).

• Full time teaching position.
• Working hours Monday to Friday, 8:20 to 17:20.
• 18 contact hours of instruction.
• The school is located in Kyoto city.
• Salary is set at ¥300,000/month (+¥25,000 for homeroom duties) for first-year teachers.

Teachers will also be required to come to 3 open campuses held on weekends throughout the year. Classes are not team taught, thus the successful candidate should possess organizational and classroom management skills. There are currently 7 other native English speaking teachers here at Kyoto Gakuen so being able to work closely and collaborate with others is crucial. Travel expenses are paid for (up to ¥50,000 a month).

Interested candidates should send a CV and cover letter to Nordine Lafdal at lafdal@kyotogakuen.ed.jp

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Graduate Wine Ambassador
Posted by: Pernod Ricard Winemakers 
Location: Japan
Contract: Full-time

We are looking for a Graduate Wine Ambassador based in Japan that has a passion for wine and a ton of character. You must be a university graduate with a full driver’s license.

Links to position info:

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/207580548?trk=rj_ad_title

https://pr.taleo.net/careersection/prext/jobdetail.ftl?job=MAR02830&lang=en&media_id=34237&src=LinkedIn_Slots

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Political Advisor
Posted by: Consulate General of Japan
Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Contract: Full-time

The Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta is an overseas establishment of the Government of Japan that works to protect Japanese nationals, provide consular services, and promote exchange between Japan and the people of the Southeast at all levels and across all sectors (political, economic, cultural, etc). The jurisdiction of the Consulate is Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

As part of its mission to promote exchange and best understand the politics of the Southeastern region, the Consulate is seeking a Political Advisor.

The position is based in Atlanta (the Lenox area of Buckhead) and operates from 9a.m. to 5p.m.Monday through Friday, though occasional paid overtime may be required on nights and weekends. In addition to the salary that comes with the position, the Consulate offers healthcare coverage and generous vacation and sick leave. The Consulate is also closed for an average of 14 paid holidays each year. Read More

Posted by Sydney Sparrow, an ALT currently living in Toyota City. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

---

Position: Assistant Academic Director and Marketing Assistant
Posted by: PacSet Tours
Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
Contract: Full-time

Ryan Hata (Tottori-ken, 2014-Present) AJET National Council Director of Alumni Relations: Ryan is in his second year on the AJET National Council and first as the Director of Alumni Relations. He works alongside Rachel Brisson (AJET National Council Director of Alumni Resources ) and members of JETAA International (JETAA-I) to strengthen the relationship between former JETs, current JETs, and Japan. Ryan helps to keep you up to date with JETAA events around the world. If you have a specific event that you would like promote, please do not hesitate to contact him by email at ryan.hata@ajet.net or his Linkedin profile. 

As fall comes and goes in Japan, many people are starting to have indoor activities and events. The biggest change has been the type of food available for purchase. We’re now starting to see oden and nabe sold at conbinis and local shops. Check out if the cooler weather is sparking indoor eating events in your local JETAA community.

1. JETAANC

Volunteer Info Pizza Party

When: November 2nd, 6 pm-7 pm PDT 
Where: 3 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111-4034, United States

**Can’t join in person? Watch remotely on this event page via FB Live Video!: https://www.facebook.com/events/225248887889284/?%3Fti=ia **

Enjoy some free pizza and snacks while learning about our chapter’s many volunteer opportunities for JET alumni and friends. Whether you have only a little time to volunteer or a lot, we can match you with the right opportunity to fit your passions, talents, and time constraints.

We are looking for help with our social, cultural, career development, and scholarship programs; chapter operations, including communications/social media, IT, and membership; and activities supporting the JET Program.

Volunteering for JETAANC is a great way to “give back” to Japan while learning new skills and working with a talented, fun team to make a big impact in our community. It also looks great on your resume to have worked for a major 501(c)(3) NPO!

Register here: https://jetaancvolunteerinfo.eventbrite.com/

Agenda:
6:00 – Registration & networking
6:15 – Intro to JETAANC & volunteer opportunities
6:30 – Q&A and volunteer sign up
7:00 – Networking Nomikai at nearby Crystal Jade (4 Embarcadero Center)

Location:
3 Embarcadero Center
20th Floor
San Francisco

JETAANC’s Volunteering page: http://www.jetaanc.org/activites/volunteering/

Photo from JETAANC’s Facebook event

2. JETAA Wellington

November Meeting

When: November 3rd, 5:30 pm NZDT
Where: 18F, Majestic Centre, 100 Willis street, Wellington, New Zealand 6011

It’s that time when JETAA Wellington are having our monthly meeting again. Come and join us to discuss what we’ve been up to and what we are going to be up to in the coming months.

November will be a busy month, with the Photo Contest and Exhibition in full swing, as well as the Japan Festival on November 26. Lock in your chance to work on the Taiyaki stall, or see how else you can get involved in these events and much more just by coming along! We hope to see you there!

Photo from JETAA Wellington’s Facebook event

3. JETAA Ottawa 

25th Annual Soiree

When: November 3rd, 7 pm-9pm EDT
Where: 110 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa, ON, Ottawa, Ontario K2P 2L7

Join JETAA Ottawa, alumni, and the public as we celebrate 25 years of JETAA in Ottawa. This year’s Networking Wine and Sushi will be replaced by a swanky celebratory soiree that boasts the same AYCE / AYCD wine, sake, and snacks as in previous years but this year will also host a VIP keynote speaker, a representative from the Embassy of Japan, and live entertainment.
The event runs from 7-9pm
Jean Pigott Hall, Ottawa City Hall
Tickets are $20 (EARLY BIRD PRICE) and will go up on October 27th. Get yours today!
Dress: Business or National Dress

Photo from JETAA Ottawa’s Facebook Page

4. JETAA Portland

Resume Writing Workshop

When: November 3rd, 6 pm-8pm PDT
Where: 2223 NE Alberta St. Portland, OR

Recently returned from JET and need a little help with your job search? Join our Resume Writing Workshop!

To help you find your new job the JET Alumni Association of Portland is putting together a resume workshop for new returnees. This is a great chance for you to work with our JET Alumni and get your resume ready to send out to those potential employers and recruiters. This will be a working session to help you take your resumes and cover letters from rough draft to final edition. By the end of the session you will have met some new faces, put together your resume, created a version of your cover letter, and will be ready to move forward in your job search.

When: Thursday, Nov. 3rd, 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Where: Townshend’s Tea (2223 NE Alberta St. Portland, OR) – find us in the basement at one of the big tables!

What to bring: Your current resume and cover letter, a list of your accomplishments on JET, a list of previous employers, writing and note taking materials.

Also considering bringing: Character references, business cards, and a laptop if you would prefer to work digitally.

RSVP: Contact Michael Richey if you’re interested in joining or if you have questions.

 

Photo from JETAA Portland’s website

5. JETAA Vic/Tas/SA

JET Programme 30th Anniversary Cocktail Celebration

When: November 4th, 7 pm AEDT
Where: 23 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne, Australia 3006

Let’s celebrate 30 years of JET!

It’s time to get classy and dress up for JETAA Vic/Tas/SA’s biggest event of the year, a cocktail night commemorating 30 years of the JET Programme!

Hosted a stones throw away from the ocean edge, this evening will see people from all walks of life, touched by JET, come together to celebrate the many friendships built through the programme over the years.

We hope you can make it to this truly special event! Make sure to spread the word to former JETs you know who may not have received information about this event. We would love as many JETAA members to attend as possible!

WHEN: Friday November 4th, 7pm ~

WHERE: The Boatbuilders Yard, The Decks Private Room, 23 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006

COST: $15 for members and non-members, including 2 hrs of canapés and various drinks

RSVP: Must be received by Thursday 10am October 27th at rsvp@victassa.jetaa.org.au. Please contact us again if you do not receive a reply within 48 hours.

Hope to see you there!

— From your friends on the JETAA Vic/Tas/SA Committee

 

 

Photo from JETAA Vic/Tas/SA’s Facebook event page

6. JETAAUK

London Karaoke and Pub Social

When: November 4th, 6 pm-11pm GMT
Where: 37-38 Great Marlborough St, London, W1F 7JFUnited Kingdom

Our third social with a twist! We will be meeting at O’Neill’s in Carnaby Street for the usual pub socialising. A space has been reserved from 6pm. As usual, look out for the JETAA sign and the hinomaru flag.

For those who would like to re-live the fun of belting out some tunes in a room full of fellow Karaoke lovers, we have made reservations at Adanami from 7 – 9pm. We aim to meet at the pub and head to the venue for 7pm, alternatively, you can make your way to the venue directly and meet us outside.

In true Japanese style, the venue is pretty small so unfortunately there are only 10 tickets available. Get yours ASAP to avoid disappointment. But don’t worry if you can’t get a ticket there is a waiting list which you can add your name to so you will get priority for our next Karaoke social.

The Karaoke venue is BYOB so feel free to purchase something before hand, we will also be making a pit stop enroute to the venue.

This is a great chance to re-connect with other JETs and friends and get natsukashii about your experiences in Japan whilst networking and meeting new people. Share your sempai wisdom with the recently returned JETs or get to know those who have been back for a while longer. Friends of JETs are are also very very welcome, so feel free to invite anyone even if they weren’t a JET.

Details

Date:

Nov 4

Time:

18:00 – 23:00

Cost:

£10.50

Website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/karaoke-at-adanami-tickets-28763661887

 

Photo from JETAAUK’s website

7. PNWJETAA

Transitions

When: November 5th, 9 am-4:30 pm PDT
Where: 3710 Montlake Blvd NE, Seattle, WA 98195, United States

Whether you’ve just come back from Japan, or have recently moved to the Pacific Northwest or are considering trying something new, it’s time to figure out what your next move will be:  Job? Grad School? Volunteering?

 

Get ideas and advice as well as network in order to put your next plan of action into motion!  PNWJETAA has a great program lined up for whichever direction you are planning to go next!  Although this event will be open to the public, it was originally created to serve the needs of our members like YOU!

 

 Transitions: Opportunities Forum & Networking Expo!

Saturday, November 5th from 9:00am – 4:30pm

University of Washington, Waterfront Activities Center

3710 Montlake Blvd., Seattle, Washington 98195

Please visit the Transitions Site for updates and full details

 

Reserve your space TODAY with these two simple steps:

•       Purchase your ticketHERE(http://transitions2016.brownpapertickets.com/)
•       Complete the Participant Survey: (http://transitions.pnwjetaa.org/?page_id=90)

 

Admission includes:

• Key Note Presentation on “How to Parlay The JET Experience In the Real World”
• Presentation on “Being Competitive in the Japanese Company Job Market” – from a recruiter’s perspective
• Small group discussions: LinkdIn Tips & Best Practices; Careers using Japanese Language Skills, Creating Balance, Continuing Education Options.
• Individual resume reviews
• Profile headshots by professional photographer
• Networking Expo: Meet one-on-one with today’s presenters as well as local community, grad school program & business representatives.

If you are not yet a registered member of PNWJETAA, be sure to register with PNWJETAA(http://pnwjetaa.org/registration-2/registration/) in order to purchase the discounted Transitions Ticket!

 

Photo from PNWJETAA’s Website

8. JETAA Wellington

Welcome Back 2016 Returning JETs

When: November 6th, 2 pm-5 pm NZDT
Where: 3710 Montlake Blvd NE, Seattle, WA 98195, United States

As my final event as the Kiwi JET Coordinator, I am hosting a “Yaki Food Fiesta” of Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki at my house in Tawa (only 15mins from the city by train or car) on Sunday afternoon and really hope you can make it along to welcome the 2016 Returning JETs back to the friendly JETAA Wellington Community.

Our country Rep will be in Japan for the 30th anniversary celebrations that weekend so it is great timing for us to celebrate vicariously with her and an awesome way to share some delicious food with great people. BYO drinks but JETAA Wellington will provide all yummy okonomiyaki and takoyaki!

Please click “going” on the event if you are able to make it so we can be sure to get enough ingredients Friends, family, plus ones welcome, just let me know when you RSVP :)

I will message everyone who is coming a few days before the party with my house number (and my cellphone just in case) but Roy Street is only a 5-8minute walk from Tawa Train Station (take the Kapiti line from Wellington for 15minutes) – Hope to see you there!

Please note that the Embassy will still organise an official Welcome Back (which have been running at the Ambassador’s Residence each year since 2014) for the 2016 Returning JETs but due to the Japan Festival in November this won’t be until February this year so this is a great chance for a more timely and slightly less formal Welcome Back :)

 

Photo from JETAA Wellington’s Facebook event page

9. JETAA Music City

JETAA Potluck

When: November 6th, 12 pm-4 pm CST
Where: 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37203

The weather is finally cooling off and that means it’s time for our annual Nashville Japan Potluck! Music City JET Alumni
Association welcomes everyone to come join us for delicious food, great fun, and the chance to meet amazing people!
Food and games will be provided, however the fun of a potluck is getting to share your favorite dishes with new friends!

 

Photo from JETAA Music City’s Facebook event page

10. JETAA Chicago

JETAA Chicago Member Meeting 

When: November 7th, 6:30 pm CST
Where: 659 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, Illinois 60614

On Monday, November 7th, JETAA Chicago will have its monthly member meeting.

The meeting’s location will be Next Door Chicago on Diversey. It will not be at Mitsuwa. (But that photo is from our Survivor Series, which you can learn about!)

This meeting will be the introduction of the new board for the 2016-2017 year. Come learn about the new leadership and let us learn what you want out of JETAA this year!

We gladly welcome returnees and alumni alike.

A light dinner is provided to all who attend. Let us know if you have any food allergies or avoidances. This time we will be buying food from Next Door. They savory and sweet crepes, coffees and teas as well.

There may be a nomikai afterwards for those interested.

Email info@jetaachicago.com with any questions or any items you would like to add to the agenda. We are looking forward to seeing you!

 

Photo from JETAA Chicago’s Facebook event page

11. JETAADC

JETs@State Briefing and Reception

When: November 10th, 4-5:30 pm EST
Where: 2201 C St NW, Washington, DC 20520

** To register, please email professionaldevelopment@jetaadc.org with “RSVP JETs@STATE EVENT” and your name in the email subject line by Friday, Nov 4, 5pm. Please note that space is very limited and will be offered on a first come, first serve basis. **

Please join us for a special, combined event between JETAADC and JETs@State with a special guest in the Delegates Lounge at the U.S. Department of State. Stay tuned for updates!

 

Photo from JETAADC’s website

12. JETAANY

Narrow Road to the Deep North

When: November 10th, 7-10 pm EST
Where: 333 E 47th St, New York, New York 10017

After consulting the I Ching, it has been determined that our next read will be THE NARROW ROAD TO THE DEEP NORTH, the 2014 Man Booker Prize-winning novel by Richard Flanagan.

The book tells the story of Dorrigo Evans, an Australian doctor haunted by memories of a love affair and his subsequent experiences as a prisoner of war. Taking its title from 17th-century haiku poet Basho’s travel journal, the novel is epic in form and chronicles an Australian century, with one horrific day at its heart on the Burma Railway in August 1943. Encompassing the post-war lives of Japanese and Korean prison guards as well as Australian Far East Prisoners of War, the novel deals both with the effects of war and the many forms of love.

The JETAANY Book Club is open to anyone with an interest in Japan and a love of reading. Please join us for a casual, nonjudgmental discussion!

Bring $3-5 for pizza; soda will be provided but snacks/dessert/wine for sharing is welcome.

RSVP/Questions via Facebook or by emailing bookclub[at]jetaany[dot]org

 

Photo from JETAANY’s Facebook event page

13. JETAA Toronto

Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival

When/Where: November 10th, 7 pm EST at 6 Garamond Ct, North York, ON M3C 1Z5,

November 11th, 6:15 pm EST at 350 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5, Canada

JETAA Toronto is proud to be co-presenting two, that’s right two films at this year’s Reel Asian Film Festival! Now in its 20th year! #ReelAsian20

This year, we co-present to you…

MY DAD & MR ITO お父さんと伊藤さん
(November 10th at the JCCC. 7pm)

TSUKIJI WONDERLAND 築地ワンダーランド
(November 11th at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. 6:15pm)

Two different, but well received Japanese films I feel should appeal to you fine JETAA members.

Please see the attached posters/promotional images, and absolutely stay tuned in the coming days for the trailers, even more information, promo codes for many films at the festival, and even the chance to win some tickets to the co-presented films! That’s right, free tickets could be yours all for reading the very wall you’re reading right now.

Check out the links below for more information on the festival, and I hope to see some of you out there at the movies!

Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reelasian
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelasian/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/reelasian

 

Photo from the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival’s Facebook page

14. JETAA Chicago

Career Development Workshop

When: November 12th, 2 pm CST
Where: 222 Merchandise Mart Plz, Ste 1212, Chicago, Illinois 60654

Come learn from like-minded professionals at our annual Career Development Workshop.

Theme: Telling your JET story for the career you want.

We will have former JETs speaking on their current careers, how to update Linkedin profiles, and most importantly, how to tell your JET story for the career that you want. We will have a keynote speaker, and people from the fields of translation, international business, non-profit work and more!

**If you are from out of state, be sure to let us know in advance. We can reimburse for some of the costs of travel.

Supported by USJETAA and the Sasakawa USA

Be sure to register via our guestlist website. This will help with food and setup: https://guestlistapp.com/events/435612

 

Photo from JETAA Chicago’s Facebook event page

15. Great Lakes JETAA

Monthly Meet-up

When: November 13th, 1 pm EST
Where: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48202

Our monthly meet-up will happen at the DIA in November! We will check out the “Detroit After Dark” exhibition. This photographic exhibit includes architectural studies, street scenes and graffiti, as well as some of Detroit’s famous night haunts, like jazz club Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the legendary Grande Ballroom, and punk and garage rock venues such as Bookie’s Club and the Gold Dollar. We will meet at Cafe DIA in the lower level. GLJETAA will have a special DIA gift for all alum that attend! Hope to see everyone next month!

 

Photo from the Great Lakes JETAA Facebook event page

16. JETAA Rocky Mountains

Board Game Day 

When: November 13th, 2 pm MST
Where: 1710 S Broadway, Denver, Colorado 80210

Hey all, do you love boardgames, atari, and dare I say knitting? Then join JETAA Rocky Mountain at Grandma’s House on November 13th.

This quirky bar really does feel like your grandparents place, and is lined wall to wall with board games, atari, and an N64 – Come be dorky with us for an afternoon at Denver’s coziest bar.

And of course for our more recently returned JETs, feel free to bring any job announcments, cover letters, or resumes you’d like to have checked over.

 

Photo from JETAA Rocky Mountain’s Facebook event page

17. JETAAMN

November Happy Hour

When: November 16th, 6-9 pm CST
Where: 1900 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55418

Hello everyone!

Come and join us for drinks, food and fun at our November Happy Hour event on Wednesday, November 16th. This time, we will meet at Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge (www.psychosuzis.com) in Northeast Minneapolis. This is a great chance to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

Everyone is welcome!

 

From JETAAMN’s Facebook event page

18. JETAADC

A Night of Ramen II

When: November 19th, 5 pm EST
Where: Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC (address will be released only to those who sign-up AND pay).*

The Ramen Returns

Autumn is upon us, and that means the craving for heart and soul warming food intensifies. How better than to sate this craving and also relive your Japan culinary experiences right here in Washington, DC?Joshua Beatty (CIR, Saga 99-01) has generously agreed to once again open up his home for a Night of Ramen. Josh spent the last several years studying traditional and new styles of ramen in Japan, as well as developing his own unique flavors that appeal to both Japanese and America palettes.

Join JETAADC on Saturday, November 19th as he dishes up a variety of ramen, a talk on the history and evolution of ramen, and his own personal experiences.

The ramen featured during the night will be Tonkotsu-based, but a vegetarian option (note: not vegan) will also be available. Please contact JET Talks directly to let us know of any food allergies, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

During the evening, Josh will demonstrate how to make garlic chili oil, an important condiment in Kyushu-style ramen. There will also be a 3 oz jar of garlic chili oil for each attendee to take home.

 

---

Date: Saturday, November 19
Time: 5:00 PM until last ramen serving
Cost: $15
Location: Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC (address will be released only to those who sign-up AND pay).**

**Please note that, due to Safe Track surge #10, Rhode Island Avenue and other stations from Fort Totten to NoMa will be closed. The venue is accessible to Uber, Lyft, taxis and local bus lines, and parking is also available street-side and in a school parking lot across the street. Capital Bikeshare is also close by within 3~4 blocks of the venue.

Due to limited space, we’ll be accepting the first 20 people who sign up and pay. After that we’ll have a wait-list going if people have to drop out (contact JET Talks Chair Stephanie Sanders:jettalks@jetaadc.org). Also feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need to cancel your RSVP.

Sign-Up Here!

 

Photo from JETAADC’s website

19. JETAA Toronto

Kiln You Softly

When: November 19th, 12:30-3:30 pm EST
Where: 50 Rolark Drive, Toronto, Ontario M1R 4G2

!! The much anticipated ceramics workshops are here !!
Secret Teatime, run by Helen Kong and Sorlie Madox offers ceramic workshops at varying levels, where you can make bowls, teacups, plates or teapots. JETAA kindly offers this event with reduced pricing so it’s a great opportunity to support this ceramic studio and try your hand at this beautiful art form.

Due to popularity and limitations on the number of participants allowed, this event sold out the past few years. If you are interested, please RSVP as soon as you can!

The workshops will be offered on Saturday November 19th and Sunday November 20th.

Sat Nov 19:
12:30 – 3:30 Bowls & Cups – $55 ($35 for JETAA) max # of participants: 8

4:30 – 7:30 Slab Plates – $55 ($35 for JETAA) max # of participants: 6

Sun Nov 20:
1:00 – 6:00 Teapots – $90 ($70 for JETAA) max # of participants: 4

Location:
50 Rolark Dr.
Scarborough, ON
M1R 4G2

RSVP: Amy Uyeda – amyritsuko@gmail.com

 

Photo from JETAA Toronto’s Facebook event page

20. JETAA South Island

J-Kaiwa Language Exchange

When: November 23rd, 7-10 pm NZDT
Where: 371 St Asaph Street, Christchurch, New Zealand 8011

Come along to J-Kaiwa! This free event will allow you to spend time speaking in both Japanese and English. Meet new people and enjoy a fun quiz to win prizes.

Doors open 6.30pm, event starts 7pm so come in early and grab a drink and snack from the awesome bar!

All welcome, please bring your friends!

 

Photo from JETAA South Island’s Facebook event page

 

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.

From the silver screen to the stage to J-pop, November is just as colorful as the autumn leaves drifting through the air. Add these live events to the mix and you’ve got an irresistibly epic rundown.

This month’s highlights include:

Friday, Nov. 4, various times

We Are X

Alamo Drafthouse Downtown Brooklyn, 445 Albee Square West

$11

East Coast premiere! This award-winning documentary debuted at Sundance and SXSW earlier this year chronicles the back story of the hard rock band X Japan, as its star drummer Yoshiki prepares for a reunion concert at Madison Square Garden. While virtually unknown to U.S. audiences, Yoshiki has sold more than 30 million records overseas, where he enjoys an A-list following. Directed by Stephen Kijak (Stones in Exile) and produced by John Battsek (Searching for Sugar Man), We Are X includes testimonials from such high-profile X fans as Gene Simmons and Marilyn Manson. See Yoshiki and director Stephen Kijak in person for Q&A on Fri, 11/4 following the 7:30 p.m. show. Director Stephen Kijak appears in person for Q&A Sat, 11/5 following the 6:30 p.m. show.

Tuesday, Nov. 8

Tonoharu: Part Three

$24.95                                              

The long-awaited final volume of the critically acclaimed Tonoharu series from JET alum Lars Martinson (Fukuoka-ken, 2003-2006) rejoins Dan Wells several months into his tenure as an English teacher in the Japanese village of Tonoharu. As personal stresses push Dan to the breaking point, he decides to take an extended cross-country vacation to let off steam. His time away grants him a fresh perspective on his troubles, but upon his return to Tonoharu, Dan discovers that dramatic change has occurred in his absence. Will this upheaval render his new-found epiphany moot? With hundreds of beautiful, detailed illustrations that evoke 19th century line engravings, Tonoharu provides a nuanced portrayal of the joys and frustrations of living abroad.

Friday, Nov. 11, 8:30 p.m.

Sounds to Summon the Japanese Gods: Ko Ishikawa

Japan Society, 333 East 47th Street

$20, $15 Japan Society members. A limited number of Lobby Seats are available for purchase. Please call the box office at (212) 715-1258 to inquire.

Step into a space where otherworldly sounds abound. Led by Ko Ishikawa, master player of the sho (ancient Japanese mouth organ) and internationally active contemporary musician, this program offers selections spanning from medieval gagaku (Imperial Court music) to works by acclaimed music composer Mamoru Fujieda. Ishikawa will be joined by Kayoko Nakagawa on koto and Ami Yamasaki on voice for this musical soiree, which also incorporates the sounds of fermenting shochu (Japan’s distilled alcohol), a highly sacred beverage in Japanese mythology.

Read More