By Chang-Hyun Choi for JQ magazine. Interpretation assistance by Miyuki W. Myrthil. Photos by Sayaka Harada.

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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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.

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: Program Manager
Posted by: U.S.-Japan Council
Location: Washington, D.C., USA (hybrid) or Remote (U.S.-based)
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the U.S.-Japan Council for passing along the following job opening.

Position Overview:
The Program Manager will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and managing high-impact programs that advance USJC’s mission and strengthen U.S.-Japan global partnership. Responsibilities include leading the planning and execution of key events, convenings, and leadership initiatives—working closely with internal teams, external partners, and a diverse network of stakeholders. Topical areas of work include bilateral issues, leadership development, social impact work, and more.

Key Responsibilities:
– Design, lead, and execute USJC’s signature programs and convenings—both in-person and virtual—including conferences, leadership delegations, and partnership programs and events.
– Develop and manage program timelines, budgets, speaker outreach, promotion, participant engagement, and logistics.
– Coordinate across departments to ensure program alignment and visibility.
– Serve as the primary liaison with vendors, venues, and collaborators for assigned programs and convenings.

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: Bilingual Outside Sales Representative
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Gardena, CA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

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

A Japanese Distribution company is looking for a full time, fully onsite Japanese Bilingual Outside Sales Representative to join their Gardena, CA location.

As a Sales Representative you would need to meet new sales goals, develop new customer relations,
deliver company goods, and handle other assigned tasks.

Although this position requires Japanese, candidates with an intermediate level are also encouraged to apply if they are interested in applying for this position.

DOE and skills the pay range for this position would be between the 60k-66k mark. This position also includes benefits such as fully covered employee insurance

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: Associate, Political Affairs Section
Posted by: Consulate-General of Japan in Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Magda Fuller (Ishikawa, 2015-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

The Consulate-General of Japan is seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented individual for the position of Associate, Political Affairs Section. Please see job posting for details.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please visit – https://www.chicago.us.emb-japan.go.jp/files/100850244.pdf

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: Media Researcher/Assistant Reporter
Posted by: Nikkei America, Inc.
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Contract: Full-Time

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

Nikkei America, Inc. is one of the subsidiaries of Nikkei, Inc.

For nearly a century and a half, Nikkei Inc. has offered unparalleled coverage of Japan’s economy, industries and markets. The group’s business portfolio extends beyond traditional publishing to include broadcasting, online and the widely cited Nikkei 225 stock index.

Our flagship newspaper, The Nikkei, boasts approximately 2.3 million subscribers across its print and digital editions. With a network of 51 bureaus in Japan and 37 overseas, our 1,500 journalists are ideally positioned to deliver news and analysis from an Asian perspective to the world.

Our digital-first global posture includes the award-winning Nikkei Asia and Financial Times, both in English. As content partners, Nikkei Asia and the FT share select articles with their audiences and collaborate editorially.

Position Overview

Nikkei America is looking for a Media Researcher/Assistant Reporter for its Washington D.C. bureau.

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: JET Program Coordinator
Posted by: Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Amy Su (Gunma, 2013-2014) for passing along the following job opening.

The Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco has an opening for a full-time staff member in the Japan Information and Cultural Center (JICC). This position oversees all aspects of the Japan Exchange & Teaching (JET) Program within the Consulate’s jurisdiction of Northern and Central California and the entirety of Nevada.

Duties include recruiting, assessing, and selecting qualified participants for the JET Program, promoting the program through information sessions and events, managing orientation and departure for outbound participants, and fostering alumni opportunities and relations. The position also works as part of a team and assists with general JICC activities (including but not limited to office work, public events, and responding to inquiries [in English]) as well as other activities of the Consulate as needed.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here – https://www.sf.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/25_0521.html

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: Translator
Posted by: Pasona NA
Location: Cullmen, AL, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Laura Tanaka (Osaka, 2017-2020) for passing along the following job opening.

• Japanese skill is a MUST
• Entry-level welcomed
• Direct-hire

Job Duties:

• Interpret/translate project documents (English/Japanese)
• Interpret in various meetings
• Simultaneous interpretation
• Expat support
• Production planning support
• Other projects or tasks as required

Application Process: To apply please email your resume to abutterfield@pasona.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: Seasonal Program Director
Posted by: VIA Programs
Location: Hybrid (except for on-site program Aug 8-15)
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Melissa Golden (Hokkaido, 2007-2012) for passing along the following job opening.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Program Director will manage the preparation and implementation of the Discovering Social Impact in Careers (DSIC) program from mid June through August 2025. Anchored in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this pilot program invites 10-15 university students and starting professionals from Asia and the US to align their careers with impactful solutions to global challenges through interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and mentorship.

Priority Deadline: May 30, 2025

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://viaprograms.org/job/seasonal-program-director/

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 an unusually warm spring, it’s finally starting to feel like summer. Enjoy some seasonal events this month that celebrate the best of both fine and pop art.

This month’s highlights include: 

Monday, June 2, 7:00 p.m.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Future Boy Conan

Japan Society, 333 47th Street

$14-$18

4K digital restoration! Japan Society presents the first three episodes of Future Boy Conan on the big screen. Before becoming globally beloved for films including My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, Hayao Miyazaki worked in television animation, and Future Boy Conan holds a significant place in anime history as his first project as a director. Created in 1978, this 26-episode series was never officially licensed in the United States until now and remained unavailable to U.S. audiences for over 40 years. Based on Alexander Key’s 1970 novel The Incredible Tide, it was reimagined by Miyazaki and can be viewed as a template for much of Miyazaki’s later work. Set in a world after a terrible war that destroyed civilization, created massive floods, and caused the Earth’s axis to shift, Conan lives an isolated life on an island until a mysterious girl named Lana washes ashore. She’s pursued by shadowy operatives who seek to use her in a scheme to control what’s left of the planet, and Conan soon embarks on a daring journey to save Lana and uncover the secrets of his broken world. Future Boy Conan’s environmental theme, family tone, strong female characters and sense of wonder would be revisited again and again throughout Miyazaki’s career, and we invite audiences to discover where it all began.

June 5-12

DAN DA DAN: EVIL EYE

Various theaters

Various prices

In celebration of the return of DAN DA DAN, the theatrical premiere, releasing as DAN DA DAN: EVIL EYE, kicks off the thrillingly eerie EVIL EYE arc, which began in the last episode of the first season. The DAN DA DAN: EVIL EYE theatrical event screens last season?s start of the EVIL EYE arc, along with the first three episodes of the new second season, in addition to an exclusive interview with series co-directors Fuga Yamashiro and Abel Gongora. DAN DA DAN follows Momo, a high school girl from a family of spirit mediums, and her classmate Okarun, an occult geek. In this new arc, Momo and Okarun set out on their latest adventure, traveling to a hot springs town home rented by Jiji, Momo?s childhood friend and former crush, with the goal to solve the mystery surrounding his family. When they arrive, strange locals derail their investigation before it can properly begin, and the group soon learns there’s more lurking under the surface of the town than they could possibly have imagined.

June 5 & 7, 7:30 p.m.

Shun Ishiwaka: Jazz Transcending

Japan Society, 333 47th Street

Confidently straddling the jazz, pop and classical worlds and slipping into all the spaces in between, Shun Ishiwaka is rapidly becoming a worldwide percussion sensation. Recognized for his exceptional versatility, Ishiwaka has been summoned by many prominent international jazz musicians, such as Federico Casagrande, Tony Allen and Jason Moran, for their sessions in Japan. Now, it’s his turn to come ashore to the U.S. to place himself front and center in two distinctive events. Save 20% when you purchase a ticket to both Jazz Transcending programs. Offer only valid for tickets purchased in the same transaction.

The Dragon Painter

SILENT FILM WITH LIVE PERFORMANCE

Thursday, June 5 at 7:30 pm

$24, $33

Dir. William Worthington, 1919, 61 min, silent with live accompaniment. With Sessue Hayakawa, Tsuru Aoki, Edward Peil, and Toyo.

Last heard performing the drum score within the 2023 megahit jazz anime film Blue Giant playing alongside jazz legends Hiromi and Tomoaki Baba, percussionist Shun Ishiwaka gives his onstage debut at Japan Society in a live film-screening “concert.” Playing an improvised, original score on drum set and vibraphone, Ishiwaka infuses bursts of jazz-inflected color and dreamlike grooves into the classic silent film The Dragon Painter.

Shun Ishiwaka with Adam O’Farrill: Improvisation Duo

JAZZ CONCERT

Saturday, June 7 at 7:30 pm

$36, $48

Trailblazer Shun Ishiwaka and “blazing young trumpet talent” (The New York Times) Adam O’Farrill join forces for an evening of transcendent, uninhibited music and improvisation. While both share the luminous status as recent collaborators of the jazz virtuoso Hiromi (Ishiwaka performed with her in the mega-hit jazz anime movie Blue Giant; O’Farrill is a member of her Sonicwonder project), this concert is the first time for these new talents to light a spark together.

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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: Flight Attendant, Japanese Language Qualified
Posted by: Hawaiian Airlines
Location: Honolulu, HI, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Hawaiian Airlines for passing along the following job opening.

The primary function of Hawaiian flight attendants is to ensure the safety of our guests while aboard Company aircraft, by being physically and psychologically capable of performing safety procedures and assisting guests in the event of an emergency. Flight Attendants work in a fast-paced environment; they must be able to handle emergency situations and effectively deal with all types of personalities in an attentive and pleasant manner.

Secondarily, flight attendants provide our guests with a consistent and prescribed level of customer service in the aircraft cabin during flight, which includes providing food and beverage service, while providing an unsurpassed Aloha experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend preflight briefings concerning weather, altitudes, routes, emergency procedures, crew coordination, lengths of flights, food and beverage services offered, and numbers of guests
• Pleasantly greet and direct guests to their assigned seats and answer flight related questions
• Assist guests with stowing carry-on luggage in overhead compartments or underneath cabin seats
• Demonstrate use of safety equipment (e.g., seat belts, oxygen masks, and life jackets) and emergency procedures prior to take-off
• Walk aisles of planes to check for guest observation of safety regulations, enforce and advise guests of safety infractions and effectively diffuse and resolve difficult guest’s situations
• Direct and assist guests in emergency procedures, such as evacuating a plane following an emergency landing

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: News Translator
Posted by: Pasona
Location: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Laura Tanaka (Osaka, 2017-2020) for passing along the following job opening.

This role is with a leading international media group that has delivered trusted coverage of Japan’s economy, industries, and markets for nearly 150 years. In addition to traditional publishing, the organization operates in broadcasting, digital media, and financial indexing. It produces one of Japan’s most widely read newspapers and maintains a global reporting network of nearly 90 bureaus. Its digital-first strategy includes respected English-language outlets that share select content and collaborate editorially to provide a global perspective rooted in Asia.

About the Role
The team is seeking a News Translator to support the production of English-language news content. This position plays a vital role in translating and refining articles for publication across English-language platforms and partner distribution services.

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