Japan-American Society of San Antonio

JASSA coordinates the annual Japanese Language Contest. This annual event offers participants an opportunity to demonstrate their oral communication skills in Japanese while competing in a statewide competition. It brings attention to the Japanese language and promotes the knowledge and understanding of Japan by Americans. JASSA, in cooperation with Japanese Teachers Association of Texas and the Consulate-General of Japan at Houston, coordinates and co-sponsors this event, with additional support from the Japan Foundation and San Antonio College.

JASSA has an annual scholarship program available through the generosity of Corporate Donors and Sponsors. The purpose of the scholarship program is to promote mutual understanding of the cultures, business environments and people of the United States and Japan. It also aims to strengthen the relationship between San Antonio and its Japanese sister city, Kumamoto, Japan. A recipient is expected to maintain high standards of achievement while serving as a bridge of understanding and friendship between the peoples of the United States and Japan. Deadline for the scholarships is typically around spring of each year.

JASSA coordinates and/or sponsors various events that promote interactive engagement with Japanese culture in the local community.   Activities and events in include annual Bonnenkai, Shinenkai and Asian New Year celebrations, participation in cultural fairs, as well as sponsorship of touring artists and performers.

Japan Connection is a referral service provided by JASSA to further its mission of building a community for those who support, facilitate, and promote Japanese culture, education and business in the greater San Antonio area. Requests can include referrals for translators/interpreters, cultural presentations or performances, demonstrations that require specific skills (ie. martial arts, horticulture, tea ceremony, art crafts), exhibits (ie. antiques, woodblocks, ceramics), or educational presentations for business networking (ie. Cultural protocols).