Saskatoon Japanese Association

The Saskatoon Japanese Association (SJA) works to preserve, promote, and celebrate the Japanese language, traditions, and culture with the community of Saskatoon.

 The Saskatoon Japanese Association (SJA), established in 1976 by four families (Takaya, Otsu, Oyama, and Ito), originally functioned as a Japanese school for language and culture. At the same time, SJA participated in Saskatoon Folkfest at the Bessborough Hotel with a traditional tea ceremony, flower arrangement, calligraphy, and Japanese food. Years later, kendo and taiko have been added to Folkfest.

In earlier years, SJA helped expand learning opportunities for Japanese and Canadian exchange students. With dedicated volunteers, the SJA provides community activities to celebrate Japanese culture including Undokai (Sports Day) and a New Year’s party. 

The Saskatoon Japanese Association looks forward to growing and continuing to serve the local Japanese community and anyone interested in learning more about or maintaining connections to the Japanese language and culture.