Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftspersons (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Many other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese textiles, snacks, kimonos, t-shirts, artwork and jewelry.
Featured at the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming by Ho Etsu Taiko and MBT Taiko; the MBT Minyo Group; Fujima Ryu of Chicago, a Japanese Classical dance troupe; and The Na Kupuna Ukelele group. Aikido and Judo schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd.
The temple is open for visitors who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, short Dharma talks will be given inside the Temple.
An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, including the famous grilled Chicken Teriyaki dinner, udon (Japanese noodles), sushi, Spam musubi, edamame, grilled corn on the cob and Hawaiian shave ice. For dessert, try the kintoki (Japanese snow cone topped with sweet azuki beans). Japanese beer will also be available. Yoko Noge and her band Japanesque will be featured on Saturday evening.
Dates:
August 12-14, 2018
Hours:
Friday, 5:30–9 pm; Saturday, 11:30 am–9 pm; Sunday, 11:30 am– 5 pm
Location:
Old Town
Midwest Buddhist Temple, 435 W. Menomonee St.
Chicago, IL 60614
Admission:
$7 adults gate donation/$6 students & senior citizens; special 3-day pass $15 (Saturday after 7 pm, $12 for Yoko Noge concert)
Website:
For more information, visit ginzachicago.com, www.mbtchicago.org
Accessibility:
The following services are available for persons with disabilities:
- Accessible Seating Area Available (if Auditorium/Stadium Venue)
- Accessible Washroom(s)
- Accessible Wheelchair Entrance(s)
- Assistive Listening Devices Provided
Public Transportation:
For travel information, visit www.transitchicago.com