We are dedicated to honor the histories and legacies of Japanese American communities in Northern California while encouraging and inspiring the next generation of storytellers in our communities.

The S.F. Dots: Undefeated in Friendship

SAN JOSE, CA – Seven women sat around a couch, chatting and laughing as they flipped through old photos from their teenage years in San Francisco during the 1950s. There were snapshots of their days playing on a social basketball team called The Dots, wedding photos, and several reunions from the past that sparked plenty of stories and laughter about the antics they shared along the way.

Mikami Vineyards: A Century-Long Legacy Rooted in Land, Resilience, and Family

When Jason Mikami walks the vineyard rows his family first planted more than a century ago, he does so with a deep awareness that the land beneath his feet carries far more than vines. It carries memory, survival, and a legacy shaped by perseverance through discrimination, war, and generational change.

Preserving History In a 3-D Way

Rory Fukuda has been meticulously creating a miniature replica of a portion of San Jose Japantown, a place that Rory grew up and has many connections to the business owners and residents. He describes it as a 2024 snapshot of 5th and Jackson Street, the center of Japantown.

The S.F. Dots: Undefeated in Friendship

SAN JOSE, CA – Seven women sat around a couch, chatting and laughing as they flipped through old photos from their teenage years in San Francisco during the 1950s. There were snapshots of their days playing on a social basketball team called The Dots, wedding photos, and several reunions from the past that sparked plenty of stories and laughter about the antics they shared along the way.

Firefighter and Mentor Uncle at Same Station

JA Firefighter shares in his words how he and his hero become "brothers".
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Delta Visionary – Alice Murakami

The Sacramento River Delta breeds visionaries – some whose visions are thoroughly unique, deeply allegorical, and profoundly evocative. One such visionary is Delta artist Alice Murakami.

Have You Seen Ella’s Art?

There is no doubt that if Ella Honderich were alive today, she would be very pleased to know that her work has not only survived her, but brings joy to those who see it. So the question remains…

Resurrected interview sparks fond memories for family

Born in Watsonville, CA on December 9, 1918, Grandpa Jerry was funny, caring and honest despite all the hardships that he endured throughout his nearly 92 years.
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Growing Up Japanese American HAPA

Izzy is a unique blend of several cultures as she explains, “Mom is full Japanese American, and my dad is a mix of Guatemalan, Spanish, Syrian, and Lebanese. I grew up feeling more connected to my Japanese American side—something my mom laughingly says my dad should get credit for, since she used to call him “the Asian one”—that connection really came from him”.

Recreating ‘SWEET’ Memories of Childhood Wagashi

Emeryville, CA – Did you know that manju and mochi are types of wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets? In fact, there are more than 60 varieties of wagashi, and even snacks like arare are sometimes classified within this category.

Celebrity Corner

Who reads NikkeiWest NorCal Japanese American News?

Olympic judo legend, Yosh Uchida reads front page news of his 104th birthday!

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Dream Bowling Party at 100 Years Old!

By Patti Horikawa (daughter of Lucy Minamishin) SAN JOSE, CA - Lucy Minamishin was born November 6,1924 to Japanese immigrant parents Kunihisa Matsunaga and Tsuya...