Japan America Society of St. Louis
About Japan America Society of St. Louis
Founded in 1967 with a mission to promote friendship, understanding, and exchange between the people of Japan and St. Louis, the Japan America Society of St. Louis (JAS) has grown into a vital cultural bridge serving the St. Louis, MO community for nearly six decades. Operating as a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization in partnership with the University of Missouri-St. Louis, JAS answers approximately 150 inquiries about Japan annually and responds to requests for cultural presentations from schools, libraries, and community organizations throughout the region.
What sets JAS apart is its commitment to building genuine relationships and fostering inclusive community engagement. The organization welcomes members of all backgrounds who share an interest in Japanese culture and international relations, creating spaces where people can make new friends, experience authentic traditions, and connect with like-minded civic and business leaders. JAS provides particular support for young people through Seinen-kai, its association of young men and women, offering leadership development opportunities alongside cultural enrichment.
Beyond its celebrated annual Japanese Festival, JAS cultivates deep cultural appreciation through intimate experiences like traditional tea ceremonies and ikebana workshops. The organization's collaborative approach—partnering with universities, museums, and local institutions—ensures that programming reflects authentic Japanese cultural practices. Whether through business networking events, holiday celebrations, or educational initiatives, JAS remains dedicated to strengthening the bonds between Japan and St. Louis while enriching the cultural landscape of the metropolitan region.