It is technically a fundraiser and is run by the Torrance Sister City Foundation with the intention of raising money for the cultural exchange program run between the City of Torrance and the city of Kashiwa in Japan.

The Torrance Sister City Association’s main goal is furthering international friendship across cultures and it has been doing so quite successfully since the partnership was formed in 1973.

The event is great for families with young children, those interested in traditional Japanese culture, art and craft connoisseurs, and even foodies.
You’ll find plenty of modern and traditional Japanese foods as well as a good selection of local fare and even cotton candy.

The two-day event includes martial arts presentations, dance performances, live music, a tea ceremony, a Kimono demo, and Taiko drum routines. There are children’s games, traditional Japanese stories for younger children, and in the past few years the organization has included and Anime art contest.

In my opinion a quick stop in is worth it just for the art, but there’s aways something sweet to snack on, which is a plus.

Here is a quick shot of the 2017 program for an idea of all of the events that go off over the weekend.

The festival is held each year at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center and more information can be found on the Sister City Association’s Website.

The Torrance Cultural Arts Center is also home to the Pine Wind Garden, which we stopped into afterwards. It is a free Japanese Garden open to the public and offers a calm and beautiful space to relax.

LINKS:

Sister City Association – http://torrancesistercity.org/

Bunka Sai– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_festival_(Japan)

Torrance Cultural Arts Center – http://www.torranceca.gov/9009.htm