We Took a Virtual Trip to Japan in Atlanta, Georgia!

Saturday & Sunday

September 21-22, 2019

Thank You, Atlanta, Georgia, and the Southeastern USA!

You made JapanFest 2019 one of our best years yet, with over 25,000 visitors! We had such a great time welcoming you, and hope to see you again next year in 2020 for our 34th!

Here are the winners of our 2019 200-Word Story Contest! Each of our winners gets to choose two JapanFest t-shirts of their choice.

First Prize

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#Dawnamatrix kimono latex fashion show was so lit that we had to fan ourselves to cool us down! Traditional kimono fittings was very historical lesson to learn and beautiful! #KimOhNo Got to experience a taste of Japan, with their Okonomiyaki and Sapporo Black beer, which pairs well together! Met very nice Japanese strangers, that were exchange students from Georgia State University, at the eating tables and shared foods to rate authenticity of Japanese foods. The saying goes "come as strangers, leave as friends." #Japanfest2019, where America and Japan bond together to create a special diverse and immersive cultural experience. A great way to end it was a big #kampai (cheers) with the Japanese momo (peach) sake, and to more upcoming Japanfest! #sayonaraJapanfest2019 #herewegoJapanfest2020

-By Jane Pak

Editor's Note: This was chosen as first place because of its clever spoof of social media, grammatical errors and all. With a "you are there" modern feel that sets the scene, your description makes us want to be at JapanFest 2020 for sure!

Second Prize

The Pilgrimage

All year long, I look forward to going to the JapanFest in Atlanta.

This year was no different. I got to meet some wonderful people waiting in line. And it got better from there.

Being Japanese from Hawaii and living in the South can be very lonely. But once a year, I hear "What school you went?" That's the Hawaii version of "Where are you from?"

I get to eat food my okaachan* used to make or something I can't find in South Carolina. The chichi dango was delicious.

I got my fortune, it wasn't good, but it gave me hope. I found some trinkets and tee shirts. And I got to see the taiko drummers.

I'm tired, but can't stop smiling. Who says you can't go home again?

-Merle Burge

*Mother

Editor's Note: This piece strikes deep in the heart. Those of us who are bi- or even tri-cultural really understand how you feel. It is so comforting to be with our own tribe, whatever and wherever that may be, and you've reminded us of the importance of celebrating our multiple identities out in the open.

Third Prize

The JapanFest

Saturday, I entered the doors of Japanfest. My eyes were filled with amazement! A whole bunch of cosplay stuff and every room filled with people!

I wait a couple of minutes with my mom, bro, and baby bro in a dark room. I think they will be doing a play soon, and boom! I was right. This play was called Samurai Soul Sword which I think was the best part of my experience. It was a masterpiece! It had action and comedy.

After that I went to the art area where I made music and looked at other art from different artists. I admired every piece of art that was there. I also took a picture.

The very best thing...I got a Naruto headband and now I am a true Shinobi!

I honestly think Japanfest was a blast. I loved it and hope to come again next year. Bye!

-Santana Long

Editor's Note: The pure delight in discovering Japan through fresh eyes is what JapanFest is all about. And yes, there is so much more to come. Thank you so much for sharing your unique perspective with us!