JASC Cultural Programs

JASC Cultural Programs offers Tampopo Kai for preschool age children from 0 to 5 years old, Donguri Kai for Little Kids in K-2nd grade and Big Kids in 3rd-6th grade, Kids Cooking Classes held monthly on Sundays, Kids Day Camp, JASC Youth Volunteer Program, and Yo!Camp Summer Camp. JASC states that its cultural programs are open to anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese American culture.

Programs

• Tampopo Kai — preschool age children from 0 to 5 years old · JASC offers this as part of its youth cultural programs.
• Donguri Kai (Little Kids, Big Kids, Youth) — K-2nd grade for Little Kids; 3rd-6th grade for Big Kids; youth classes offered · Little Kids classes are for students in K-2nd grade. Big Kids classes are for students in 3rd-6th grade.
• Kids Cooking Classes — Monthly on Sundays · Classes teach students how to make cultural dishes. Class fees may vary with the food being prepared.
• Kids Day Camp — Listed under programs for children and youth.
• JASC Youth Volunteer Program — Listed under programs for children and youth.
• Yo!Camp Summer Camp — Listed under programs for children and youth.

At a glance

• Ages: 0–18 years old
• General schedule: JASC offers Japanese and educational cultural programs for all ages. For children and youth, it offers programs from preschool through high school.

About the provider

JASC was founded in 1946. Its mission is sharing Japanese American cultural heritage through programs, education, and events that bring together all generations, from toddlers to seniors. JASC also welcomes partnerships with schools, libraries, corporations, and cultural organizations interested in Japanese and Asian American programming, including recent partnerships with the Chicago Public Library, the Field Museum, and Chicago Public Schools.

All of JASC’s cultural programs are open to anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese American culture. JASC members receive priority registration. For Kids Cooking Classes, the October class is full and registration is closed.

Last updated November 6, 2026.