Japanese Club Fundraising Ideas

by Erik Steel

Overview

There are many aspects of Japanese culture--from food and tea to music and art--that are highly appealing to many Americans. Fundraisers that demonstrate these aspects of culture could be highly successful at helping your Japanese club reach its financial goals.
Tea Ceremony Demonstration

The Japanese tea ceremony is an old practice that began among monks and is considered by many to be an art form unto itself (Eastern Tea). You could invite someone knowledgeable in the complex movements of the ritual to show attendees how tea is traditionally prepared and consumed in Japan.

Sushi Night

Your club could purchase supplies to have a make-your-own sushi event. You could have a demo about rolling sushi (see Resources), discuss the different types of fishes and other ingredients used in making sushi, and have a member of your club at each table to aid people as they learn.
Snack Sale

Much like Americans, the Japanese are big fans of prepackaged sweet and salty snacks. You could sell packages of Pocky, which has also caught on in America, as well as kaki peanuts, Yan Yan, Kara Mucho or Ajigonomi.
Musical Demonstration

Japan is home to many unique instruments and musical styles. These include the Biwa, on which Biwagaku music is played; nogaku, the music of Noh performances; the koto and its sokyoku music; and the shakuhachi, a bamboo flute. Someone in your club or an invited guest could perform traditional Japanese music and talk about the use of different styles and instruments within Japanese performances and rituals.
Origami Demo Class

Origami is popular with all ages and will get all the attendees of your event involved. Provide paper, instructions (see Resources) and members of your group to help attendees; you can also discuss the history of origami and other Japanese decorative techniques.

Overview