Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship 2023 award ceremony | PHOTO GALLERY

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 in honour of Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda’s major contribution to the development of the Ireland Japan Association and Ireland-Japan relations, and to underpin the association’s strong commitment to supporting Japanese studies in Ireland.

In 2023, the scholarship was awarded to Ben Murphy, studying Japanese Language at University of Limerick. Ben will be travelling to Japan for an exchange year at Waseda University, Tokyo.

From left: Mrs. Yoshiko Ushioda, IJA founder member and Scholarship Patron, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Ben Murphy, Univeristy of Limerick & Ushioda Scholarship winner in 2023.

 

The small but heartwarming award ceremony of the scholarship took place on 30th August 2023 at the beautiful offices of the IJA Patron Member – ElectroRoute. Ben was greeted and congratulated by Mrs. Yoshiko Ushioda, IJA founder member and Scholarship Patron, Ms. Tsugumi Yamamoto, IJA Vice-Chaiperson, Ms. Paula Kelly, IJA Council and Scholarship coordinator, and Mr. Donal Flyn, CFO, Managing Director of Finance & Operation at ElectroRoute.

H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and Ms. Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan in Ireland, were the special invited guests at this event. Ambassador dedicated well wishes and words of encouragement to Ben as he is preparing to travel to Japan for his year abroad.

 

 

I have always wanted to explore and discover another culture and language. Studying Japanese in UL has granted me the opportunity to do so. Since my first class in Japanese, I have been captivated by Japan and its history and culture. I have met some of my closest friends, both Japanese and non-Japanese through my studies, and I hope to see them all in Japan when I complete my study abroad in Japanese at Waseda University in Tokyo!’ – Ben Murphy

 

We would like to thank Ms. Paula Kelly, IJA Council, and Barbara Geraghty, University of Limerick, for their support and assistance with the scholarship management and administration process this year.

Many thanks to Azumi Uchitani and her team at ElectroRoute for a very warm welcome, reception set up and looking after all the guests during this event.

 

 

Summer Ikebana Workshop | PHOTO GALLERY

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To celebrate summer and all the beautiful seasonal flowers, the IJA Council organised a beautiful, seasonal Summer Ikebana Workshop for our members. The workshop was presented by the IJA member and Ikebana instructor Mrs. Tomoko Ozaki on 26th August.

 

Workshop participants had a unique opportunity to learn about Ikebana traditions and principles, make their own Ikebana arrangement and change the way how they think about floral displays. We would like to thank everyone who attended this event and hope it was a great experience and learning opportunity for everyone.

A wonderful surprise for our workshop participants was the visit by H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Ms. Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan in Ireland.

 

 

We would like to thank Eva Reavley, IJA Council, for all her work and support to make this event such a success, and our event hosts – Oomi Travel – for welcoming us at their cosy and beautiful office, and looking after us during this event, and Gopan Bakery for very tasty Japanese baked treats.

 

Join Japanese Summer Fest celebrations this summer!

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Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family for a day filled with Japanese cultural delights at the Japanese Summer Fest. Whether you’re a Japan enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious about other cultures, this festival promises an unforgettable experience.

Experience the vibrant summer traditions and rich cultural heritage of Japan right here in Ireland!

Date: Saturday, 1st July 2023
Time: 12 – 4 PM
Venue: Cherrytree Pub, Walkinstown Cross, Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 EY19
Admission: FREE / Please note that there may be a charge for some activities.

 

 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and cultural delights of Japan with a plethora of exciting activities!

Mouthwatering Japanese Cuisine
Savor the delicious flavors of Japan with a selection of authentic Japanese dishes. We have carefully curated a menu featuring a few tantalizing Japanese delicacies that will transport your taste buds to Japan. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Japan!

Bon Odori (盆踊り) – Traditional Japanese Dance
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as we celebrate Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese dance performed during the summer festival season. Join the spirited circle dance with fellow festival-goers. Let the rhythm of the music guide your steps and experience the joy of this cultural tradition.

Origami and Calligraphy Workshop
Discover the beauty of Japanese art forms through our origami and calligraphy workshop. Learn the art of folding intricate origami designs and master the graceful strokes of calligraphy. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process.

Tanabata – Make Your Wishes Come True
Participate in the enchanting Tanabata celebration, where you can write your wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. Feel the magic in the air as the festival brings together people’s hopes and dreams, creating a tapestry of aspirations.

Sushi Demonstration
Ever wondered how to create perfect sushi rolls? Attend our sushi demonstration and watch as our skilled sushi chefs unveil the artistry behind this beloved Japanese culinary delight. Learn the techniques, appreciate the precision, and gain insights into the world of sushi-making.

Suikawari – Watermelon Splitting Game
Cool down with a fun and refreshing game of Suikawari, a traditional Japanese activity where participants are blindfolded and attempt to split a watermelon with a stick. Unleash your inner competitor and see if you can strike the sweet spot!

Japanese Language Theatre – Ordinary People 普通の人々
Be captivated by the magic of Japanese language theatre as talented performers take the stage to showcase traditional and contemporary plays. Let the expressive gestures and melodious tones transport you to the world of Japanese drama and storytelling. Please book a ticket here!

 

For more information and event programme:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/japanese-summer-fest-in-cherrytree-pub-tickets-649911963177

IJA Annual Dinner 2023 | Photo Gallery

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On 12th May the IJA members, friends, and supporters celebrated and enjoyed one of our biggest events of the year – the IJA Annual Dinner 2023. This year’s event took place at one of the most beautiful and luxurious Dublin venues – Conrad Dublin Hotel.

 

 

The IJA Council was delighted to welcome H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland and the IJA Patron, as well as Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate & Communications, as special guests and speakers at the event.

 

From left: Ms. Tsugumi Yamamoto, IJA Vice Chairperson, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland and the IJA Patron, Ms. Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate & Communications, and Mr. Raymond Hegarty, IJA Ex-Officio and Master of Ceremonies. Photo: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

 

The evening began with Sake reception, kindly supported by the IJA Council in cooperation with Retro Vino Wine & Sake. Reception was followed by welcome words from Raymond Hegarty, IJA Ex-Officio and Master of Ceremonies, and after that dinner guests enjoyed a delicious 3-course meal in the beautiful Ball Room.

 

Raymond Hegarty, IJA Ex-Officio and Master of Ceremonies. Photo: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

 

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, expressed her gratitude to the IJA corporate and individual members present at the event, inviting everyone to enjoy ‘the celebration of cultures and our successes, a celebration of friendships forged through the Ireland Japan Association and of our achievements together’.

 

No association can function effectively without a strong membership who are committed to the ongoing activities, and we believe the members of this association are one of the main reasons we are so successful.  We can see the evidence of this here this evening with such a large attendance.  I would like to reiterate how much we value your individual, family, student and corporate membership participation in the many events we host and support throughout the year. – Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson.

 

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson. Photo: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

 

Catherine Grennell-Whyte thanked the IJA Patron member – ElectroRoute – for their support to the association and a very successful cooperation. Special gratitude was expressed to the IJA Patron H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland. ‘Your patronage of the association is most gratefully appreciated and so is the support of the entire team at the Embassy,’ said Catherine Grennell-Whyte.

 

Ms. Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland and the IJA Patron. Photo: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

 

Prize Giving this year was sponsored by the IJA Corporate members – ElectroRoute, Dillon Eustace, Oomi Travel (former Unique Japan Tours), PwC Ireland, SuMi TRUST and Yamamori,  and we would like to thank everyone for their continued support and very generous prizes. The Grand Prize this year was sponsored by our Corporate member Finnair, and we would like to congratulate the lucky winner who received a return flight to Japan – Mr. Yiannis Gkoufas.

We would also like to thank everyone at the Dublin School for Japanese Children who created and gifted beautiful Japanese origami decorations to our dinner guests, and to Mrs. Tomoko Ozaki who created stunning Ikebana flower arrangements for the event. Huge thanks to the event team at Conrad Dublin for being great hosts and providing excellent service during our event.

We would like to thank Raymond Hegarty, Master of Ceremonies, and our event team and volunteers from the IJA Council – Catherine Grennell-Whyte, Tsugumi Yamamoto, Darina Slattery, Laura Goonan, Azumi Uchitani, Eva Reavley and Verity Swan – for their time, support and help to make this year’s event such a great success. Special thanks to Eddie Hughes, former IJA Council member, for his dedication and help with the event arrangements.

 

Photo Gallery | IJA Annual Dinner 2023

Photos: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

(If you were a guest at the IJA Annual Dinner 2023 and would like to receive an access to full photo gallery from the night, please email your request to: info@ija.ie)

 

 

Tazaki Foods joins the IJA as a Corporate member

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Ireland Japan Association is delighted to welcome Tazaki Foods, the leading importer, developer and distributor of speciality Japanese food and beverage products in Europe, on board the IJA as a Corporate member, and is looking forward to a long lasting and successful cooperation.

 

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Tazaki Foods was founded in 1978 for the purpose of importing Japanese food and beverage products into the UK. The company has since grown to become the leading importer and wholesaler of speciality Japanese food and beverage products in Europe – supplying not only the Japanese restaurant and food service sectors, but also major supermarket chains throughout Europe.
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Working in close partnership with a global network of suppliers, Tazaki Foods sources high quality, Japanese products that meet the evolving needs of the food service and retail industries. Harnessing its extensive knowledge and experience in the sector, the company also launched its own “Yutaka” range of Japanese food products in 1995. This ever-expanding range today includes ingredients for sushi, sauces, soups, rice, noodles, as well as easy-to-use meal kits. Yutaka continues to be the leading Japanese ingredient brand in many countries across Europe.
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Tazaki Foods has been supplying Japanese food products to the Irish market for close to two decades, fostering close relationships with both restaurant and wholesale customers over this time. Since 2021, the company has operated from a partner warehouse located close to Dublin, which has enabled it to provide a more convenient and efficient service to customers throughout the country.
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Tazaki Foods sees great potential in the Irish market, particularly in the aftermath of Brexit, and will be focusing greater resources here going forward to drive further expansion, both domestically and across the EU.
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We are delighted to support the Ireland Japan Association and the important work it does in cultivating ties between the two countries. We very much look forward to meeting other members over the coming weeks and months.
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If you wish to learn more about Tazaki Foods and services they provide, please visit their websites: https://www.tazakifoods.com/ and https://yutaka.london/ or visit their social media –  LinkedIn or Twitter!
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K&L Gates Ireland LLP joins the IJA as a Corporate member

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Ireland Japan Association is delighted to welcome K&L Gates Ireland LLP, global law firm across five continents, on board the IJA as a Corporate member and is looking forward to a long lasting and successful cooperation.

 

At K&L Gates, we foster an inclusive and collaborative environment across our fully integrated global platform that enables us to diligently combine the knowledge and expertise of our lawyers and policy professionals to create teams that provide exceptional client solutions. We marry action with vision, success with dedication, method with passion, and innovation with creativity.
Our firm is recognized consistently for providing clients with the most sophisticated solutions to legal challenges around the world.
If you wish to learn more about K&L Gates Ireland LLP and services they provide, please visit their website: https://www.klgates.com/Dublin or visit K&L Gates LLP profile on LinkedIn and Twitter!

Applications are now open for 2024 MEXT Scholarships

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The Embassy of Japan in Ireland is pleased to inform that applications will be accepted from Irish nationals for the 2024 Japanese Government Monbukagakusho (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology/MEXT) Research Student & Undergraduate Student Scholarships offered to international students who wish to study at Japanese universities under the MEXT Scholarship Programme.

 

 

Research Student Scholarships are offered to Irish university graduates and graduate students who wish to study and research a specific field at a Japanese university. In principle, applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1989.

Undergraduate Student Scholarships are offered to Irish students who wish to pursue their undergraduate education in the fields of Social Sciences & Humanities or Natural Sciences at Japanese universities. In principle, applicants must have been born on or after 2 April 1999.

Details of the application procedure and schedule will be available on the Embassy website at https://www.ie.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000055.html, and general information about the MEXT Scholarships can be found on the Study in Japan website at https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/scholarship/.

Application documents can be downloaded from the Study in Japan website:

Applications for both scholarships should be submitted by e-mail by Friday, 16 June 2023 to the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science at Scholarships@dfheris.gov.ie and not to the Embassy of Japan.

Applications for MEXT Scholarships through the Embassy Recommendation system must be submitted to the Embassy of Japan in the country of the applicant’s nationality. A list of websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions is available at https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/mofaserv.html.

Business Seminar ‘Ireland as a Strategic Investment Location’ | Photo Gallery

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Last week, on Thursday, 27th April, Dillon Eustace hosted a business seminar ‘Ireland as a Strategic Investment Location’, organised in cooperation between the IJA, Dillon Eustace, Cpl and IDA Ireland. Event offered a great opportunity to learn more about the benefits of investing in Ireland, the various supports and resources available, and some of the legal aspects to consider when contemplating investing or establishing a presence in Ireland.

 

From left: Adrian Benson (Dillon Eustace), Emma Mitchell (IDA Ireland), Stephen Mullin (Cpl), H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland, Catherine Grennell-Whyte (IJA), and Philip Lee (Dillon Eustace)

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, addressed the audience and welcomed everyone to the event, introducing also the participants of the panel:
  • Adrian Benson, Partner and Head of the Corporate and M&A team, Dillon Eustace, moderator of panel,
  • Lorna Conn, CEO, Cpl,
  • Emma Mitchell, Business Development Manager, Growth Markets at IDA Ireland,
  • Philip Lee, Partner, Corporate Department, Dillon Eustace.

H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland, attended event and met with event participants.

The panel discussion was followed by networking and refreshments.

 

Adrian Benson, Partner and Head of the Corporate and M&A team, Dillon Eustace, moderator of panel

 

Lorna Conn, CEO, Cpl

 

Emma Mitchell, Business Development Manager, Growth Markets at IDA Ireland

 

Philip Lee, Partner, Corporate Department, Dillon Eustace

We would like to thank all our amazing panelists from Dillon Eustace, Cpl and IDA Ireland, everyone who attended this event, and last but not least – huge thanks to hosts – Dillon Eustace team – for the warm welcome and all the work to make sure this event ran smoothly.
Click on the image to open it!
Then click on the image to enlarge it!

 

Japanese Calligraphy Workshop 2023 | Photo Gallery

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On 22nd April, the IJA organised Japanese Calligraphy Workshop together with artist, educator and writer Azumi Uchitani. Participants were invited to learn the ancient wisdom and value of Japanese symbols, unplug from every day’s hustles and bustles, and experience a ritual with a brush and ink on paper.
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During the workshop everyone had a chance to learn basic principles and techniques of calligraphy, including different brush strokes, practice body movements and mindful meditation, as well as practice calligraphy and create their own calligraphy art.
Huge thanks to our inspiring teacher Azumi san for bringing everyone on a mindful journey to discover this very unique and wonderful part of Japanese culture, and sharing her knowledge, skills and passion! Calligraphy workshop was followed by a tea & coffee break, and wonderful musical performance on violin by Kevin O’Neill.
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Our event was hosted by ElectroRoute, IJA Patron member, and we would like to thank our hosts for welcoming us and looking after everyone on the day.
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(Click on the images to enlarge!)

Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship in 2023 is awarded to Ben Murphy (UL)

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The Ireland Japan Association is delighted to announce that in 2023 the Ushioda Scholarship is awarded to Ben Murphy, studying Japanese at University of Limerick. Ben will be travelling to Japan for an exchange year at Waseda University, Tokyo.

 

 

‘My name is Ben, and I have always wanted to explore and discover another culture and language. Studying Japanese in UL has granted me the opportunity to do so. Since my first class in Japanese, I have been captivated by Japan and its history and culture. I have met some of my closest friends, both Japanese and non-Japanese through my studies, and I hope to see them all in Japan when I complete my study abroad in Japanese at Waseda University in Tokyo!’ – Ben Murphy

 

We would like to thank Ms Paula Kelly, IJA Council, for her support and assistance with the scholarship management and administration process this year.

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 in honour of Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda’s major contribution to the development of the Ireland Japan Association and Ireland-Japan relations, and to underpin the association’s strong commitment to supporting Japanese studies in Ireland.