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Kids & Youth Club
Experience. Connect. Let Your World Grow.
ふれる。つながる。世界が広がる。
Through the collaboration between JOI and the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, we hope to offer the people of Arizona opportunities to experience Japanese culture, connect with it, and broaden their view of the world. Through our events and programs, we aim to create moments that inspire new perspectives and deeper understanding, strengthening the cultural bridge between Japan and Arizona.
As a nonprofit organization 501(c) (3), we not only welcome your participation but also greatly appreciate any donations that help us continue and expand our cultural and educational activities. Your support plays an essential role in promoting Japanese culture within the community and in nurturing cultural learning for future generations.
Thank you very much for your continued support.
What is JOI × JFG?
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix partners with the Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) to promote cultural understanding through interactive workshops, educational programs, and outreach activities.
Together, we aim to bring Japanese traditions, language, arts, and values to the local community in a welcoming and engaging way.
Kids-Club Program Line-up
Japan Adventure
Our Outreach Activity, known as Japan Adventure, brings Japanese culture and language directly to schools. This program includes interactive demonstrations and cultural lessons designed to make learning fun and accessible. We place special emphasis on visiting Title 1 schools, supporting equal access to cultural education and meaningful learning experiences for all students. Please fill out our form if you would like to learn more about our free outreach opportunities for qualifying schools.
Private Kids and Youth Club (K–12)
The Private Kids and Youth Club offers a customizable group visit for K–12 students at the Japanese Friendship Garden. Groups explore the Garden through self-guided activities such as a Scavenger Hunt and Garden Bingo, and may add a hands-on cultural workshop to enhance their experience. This program is ideal for school field trips, youth groups, and educational organizations seeking an engaging introduction to Japanese culture.
JOI Program
Nihongo Camp
Nihongo Camp is open to participants of all levels.
JOI coordinators lead the program, and students are placed into three levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Breakout rooms are used during Zoom sessions so each group receives level-appropriate instruction.
The program is free of charge, making it widely accessible for families and learners interested in Japanese language and culture.
Class Schedule: Tuesdays
Class Time: 5 PM (MST) / 6 PM (CT)
Emiri Uchida
JOI Coordinator
Emiri was an elementary school teacher from Saga Prefecture, Japan. Currently serving as a coordinator for the Japanese Outreach Initiative (JOI). In her role, she is dedicated to introducing Japanese culture to communities throughout Arizona and welcomes a wide range of cultural outreach requests.
In addition to her teaching career, Emiri is a dancer specializing in Locking. She also provides instruction in traditional Japanese dance, sharing both contemporary and classical aspects of Japanese performing arts with local audiences.
For further information, please contact her by email or phone!
