Pasadena Jaycees Welcome Exchange Guests from Kasukabe, Japan After Two Year Wait

Pasadena Jaycees welcomed members of their sister Jaycee chapter of Kasukabe, Japan last week, who visited Pasadena after a two-year, COVID-19-caused pause in the Jaycees’ long-running homestay exchange program

The two chapters  had alternated hosting every summer since 1985, with one chapter sending Jaycee members and local high school and college students to experience the other’s country and culture.

After two summers of virtual exchanges, both chapters said they were excited for the exchange to resume in person in Pasadena.

Visitors stay in the homes of volunteer hosts to get a full cultural immersion experience. The hosting Jaycee chapter plans various activities and sightseeing.

This year, guests from Japan enjoyed the Rose Bowl, Griffith Park, Hollywood and the Magic Castle, Vasquez Rocks, and an Angels baseball game, among others. The Kasukabe members also toured Pasadena City Hall and met with Pasadena City Councilmember Gene Masuda.

Chairman of the exchange for Kasukabe, Keisuke Hanamura, said “I thank the Pasadena Jaycees for a rich and wonderful experience. I will never forget the hospitality. I hope to see you next year in Kasukabe to repay your kindness.”

One of the most special parts of the trip was the Japanese daruma, a Japanese doll where one eye is colored in when making a wish, and the second eye is colored in when the wish comes true. The Kasukabe Jaycees sent the daruma to Pasadena last year when the exchange was unable to take place in person due to COVID restrictions, with a wish that the chapters would reunite in person. It was an emotional moment when the second eye was colored in as the chapters celebrated their reunion.

“It was amazing to have our two chapters back together in person after two years,” says Irene Guillen, President of the Pasadena Jaycees. “At a time with so much division and negativity, it is very special to celebrate our differences and friendship across cultures.”

The Kasukabe exchange is one of the most unique and meaningful projects for the Pasadena Jaycees.

The two chapters have become a long-distance family that reunites annually to learn from and celebrate with each other.

The Pasadena Junior Chamber of Commerce (nicknamed “Jaycees”) began in 1929 as a volunteer and leadership training organization for people ages 21 to 40. For more information about the Jaycees and the projects it offers, including the Kasukabe exchange, visit pasadenajaycees.org or email info@pasadenajaycees.org.