Japan in a Suitcase
Sponsored by
Let us Bring Japan to You!
Japan-in-a-Suitcase is an onsite educational program offering customizable presentations that bring Japanese culture, customs, and contemporary life to life. Designed for all ages, from elementary students to lifelong learners, these engaging topics will ignite curiosity and open minds and hearts.
Free for qualifying schools! See guidelines below for details and find out how to bring Japan to your community.
Kamishibai:
Japanese Storytelling
How did one-inch boy save a princess? Presentation includes an engaging Japanese folktale with picture cards, cotton kimono demonstration, plus origami activity.
Kids’ Arts in Japan:
Origami and Calligraphy
How does a flat piece of paper become a three-dimensional animal? Can a single word be a work of art? Students will learn the history of ancient art forms that are popular with children in Japan even today. They will make their own origami creations and write Japanese calligraphy with a brush pen.
School Life in Japan
Who cleans Japanese schools? Why isn’t there a cafeteria in most schools? Students will discover the answers to these questions and more through a presentation of Japanese school items. They will learn to count to ten and write simple Japanese “letters”.
Daily Life in Japan
Why do Japanese leave their shoes at the door? If there are no beds in a Japanese house, where do people sleep? Students will learn about Japanese homes, food, entertainment, and money. They will practice Japanese manners and create an origami chopstick holder.
Customized Presentations
We are happy to offer customized presentations upon request. In addition to our standard content, we can incorporate special topics such as Japanese food, traditional arts, and traditional vs. modern Japanese homes. We will do our best to tailor the presentation to meet your needs (an additional fee may apply).
Community Outreach
We bring Japanese language and culture to communities near and far! Our team visits local libraries, museums, cultural festivals, and other community events to share engaging experiences. Offerings include workshops, interactive presentations, live demonstrations, and table booths that let participants explore Japanese culture hands-on.
Guidelines
Maximum 30 students per presentation
Teacher must be present at all times during the presentation
To request Customized Presentations, please contact us: hiromi@jasdfw.org
Fee
Library: $100
An additional materials fee may apply depending on the type of presentation
Free for qualifying schools
In 2026, qualifying schools may receive up to two free Japan-in-a-Suitcase presentations per year, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors.
(please complete sign-up form to help us determine eligibility)
Sponsor a School
For just $500, your company can sponsor a school through Japan-in-a-Suitcase, a dynamic educational program that brings Japanese culture, traditions, and contemporary life directly into classrooms and community spaces. With engaging, customizable onsite presentations for all ages—from elementary students to lifelong learners—the program sparks curiosity, deepens cultural understanding, and promotes global awareness. Corporate sponsorship showcases your organization’s commitment to education, diversity, and international collaboration while fostering meaningful connections with students, educators, and the community. Your support helps open minds, inspire future global citizens, and strengthen U.S.–Japan cultural ties at the local level.
Rates
Presentation Length: 50 minutes
Maximum 30 students per presentation
Maximum of 2 presentations per day
Available Times: 9am – 2pm (Mon-Fri, except holidays)
Fee:
School Pricing: $70 (On-Campus), $50 (Virtual)
Other Org./Group: Please contact us.
Teacher must be present at all times during the presentation
To request Customized Presentations, please contact us
$70
On-Campus
$50
Virtual
Sponsors
