Remembering the Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami in 2024

11 March 2024 marks the 13 year anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. Our charity who supported the orphans of the tsunami disaster closed last year, however, we are still in touch with the orphans and their … Read More

Aid For Japan Memories

In 2023, Aid For Japan announced that after their 12-year anniversary event and a final outing at Doki Doki Japanese Festival in Manchester, the charity would close. To mark the decision, we have created a special Memorial Page for the … Read More

Our final Doki Doki Manchester Japanese Festival – Summer 2023

Our final outing as a charity coincided with the final Doki Doki Manchester Japanese Festival this year. The charity and the festival have grown up together, and so coming to a close together was a bittersweet feeling. Incredibly, over the … Read More

Eternal New Mornings – Japanese independent cinema

We are very proud to present the Japanese independent film 『有り、触れた、未来』Ari Fureta Mirai or Eternal New Mornings (English title) directed by Toru Yamamoto this summer at Doki Doki Japanese Festival in Manchester. The film is about the importance of community … Read More

12 Years On From The Disaster And Our Closing Charity Event

Twelve years have passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake and the charity held its final anniversary event to mark the occasion on 11th March 2023 at the London Metropolitan Archives. It was warming to see familiar faces there, like … Read More

KENJI stores fundraise for Aid For Japan

Over the festive holiday season in December 2022, the super-cute Japanese retail store KENJI ran a raffle and prize draw to fundraise for our charity. The raffle included soft toy plushie giveaways and the lucky winners received a copy of … Read More

Aid For Japan 2022 : The Year In Review

A year in charity work… Every year, Aid For Japan marks the day the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami struck Japan. To commemorate the anniversary for 2022, Aid For Japan staged a special event that combined a showcase for … Read More

Christmas 2022 presents posted

To wish the orphans and their carers a Merry Christmas we sent them British biscuits in the shape of Scottie dogs. We also wrote them Christmas cards in both English and Japanese wishing them well for the New Year. This … Read More

Maria-chan’s Summer Trip to England

In Summer 2022 the charity team welcomed Maria-chan from Japan to the UK. We even managed to fit in a dream trip to Disneyland Paris! Maria-chan’s primary reason for visiting England was to take part in a Vidal Sassoon Academy … Read More

Doki Doki – The Manchester Japanese Festival 2022

The return of Doki Doki Festival to Manchester after the pandemic hiatus proved hugely successful. The Japanese themed stalls were bustling with pundits and there was food, music, cosplay and more, all related to Japanese culture. As with previous years … Read More

Call for submissions for Aid for Japan and asari music video collaboration

The Tōhoku based artist asari has shared her latest creation with us at Aid For Japan. The song is quite appropriately called ‘Share’ and contains all the hope, sadness and anxieties of someone who survived the Great East Japan Earthquake … Read More

Hanami Cherry Blossom Viewing Picnic hosted by Aid For Japan

In Japan there is the tradition of cherry blossom viewing called hanami 花見. Where people gather beneath ample cherry blossom trees to appreciate the flowers’ fleeting beauty. In April 2022 Aid For Japan hosted such an event at Greenwich Park. … Read More

Aid For Japan 11th Anniversary Event

2022 marks the 11th Anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami As well as the loss of life that this devastating event resulted in, hundreds of children also lost their parents and families. To commemorate the anniversary Aid … Read More

asari collaborates with Aid For Japan

The Tōhoku based artist asari has shared her latest creation with us at Aid For Japan. The song is quite appropriately called ‘Share’ and contains all the hope, sadness and anxieties of someone who survived the Great East Japan Earthquake … Read More

Aid For Japan Rotary Club Talk

We were invited by the Rotary Club of Chiswick and Brentford to give a talk about the continuing work of Aid For Japan. This Rotary Club in West London have supported the charity for many years, and this year they … Read More

Akemi and Tsunagu/Connect

Akemi Tanaka (the founder of Aid For Japan) features as an interview as part of the Tsunagu/Connect project. Tsunagu/Connect is a multi-phased, multi-year project that explores the lives of Japanese women living in the UK since 1945. The project began … Read More

10 years on and shining!

We had a very special meeting this week with Maria-chan in Japan. She is one of the original orphans supported by Aid For Japan. Maria is now studying business and fashion at a Tokyo university. Her hobbies include photography, clothes … Read More

Aid For Japan 2021 : The Year In Review

Braving a tough year… 2021 was the ten year anniversary of the charity. It also marked ten years since the natural disaster which devastated East Japan, especially the Tohoku region where most of the orphans supported by the charity are … Read More

Christmas Gifts 2021

Another year of COVID-19 meant another year of uncertainty. We thought it was particularly important to keep up the Christmas cheer and so sent presents to the orphans in Tohoku, Japan. This lovely festive tradition was started by Akemi when … Read More

Akemi’s Tree and Winter Gathering

This winter we had our first in-person gathering with the charity trustees since the March 2020 lockdown. Unfortunately and quite inevitably some members couldn’t make it due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, or because they lived on the other side of … Read More

Aid For Japan : Going Forward

Since the tragic and sudden death of the charity’s founder, Akemi Solloway Tanaka, the trustees are all working hard to plan for the future and direction of Aid For Japan. The charity’s mission to support the orphans of the 2011 … Read More

Akemi Tanaka 1958 – 2021

It is with great sadness that we must announce that after developing cancer, Akemi Tanaka passed away recently. Akemi had been ill for some time, but had made the conscious decision to continue working to promote those ideals that she … Read More

1000 Origami Cranes Gallery

Let’s make origami cranes… In Japanese culture one thousand origami cranes strung together symbolises hope, peace and healing. Here’s some of the beautiful cranes people have made as part of Aid For Japan’s 1000 Origami Cranes initiative. This includes the … Read More

Aid for Japan: 10th Anniversary Testimonials

Recollections, thoughts and memories from 10 years of Aid For Japan… On the 11th March 2011, the Tōhoku region, northeast Japan, was hit by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake. The earthquake and tsunami led to the deaths of around 25,000 people … Read More

Aid For Japan 10th Anniversary

Commemorating ten years… On the 11th March 2011 the east coast of Japan was struck by an undersea earthquake and subsequent tsunami. As well as the loss of life that this devastating event resulted in, hundreds of children also lost … Read More

Aid For Japan’s Ten Year Anniversary Online Cultural Fair

Commemorating Ten Years… With the 11th March 2021 marking the 10th Anniversary since the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, Aid For Japan decided to host an online cultural fair to commemorate the event. The cultural fair was free and … Read More

1000 Origami Cranes

Let’s make origami cranes… In Japanese culture one thousand origami cranes strung together symbolises hope, peace and healing. We thought it would be a good way to bring people virtually together, to commemorate ten years on from the Great East … Read More

Aid For Japan 2020 : The Year In Review

Braving a tough year… 2020 has proved to be a very tough year, particularly with the advent of the Covid-19 crisis. As well as having an impact on so many lives on a personal basis, it also affected businesses and … Read More

Orphan’s Christmas Presents 2020

In the wake of the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, hundreds of children also lost their parents and families. Aid For Japan was founded by Akemi Solloway to support the orphans of this tragedy. In the short-term, the charity lends … Read More

Event Postponement

Dear All, It is with regret that after discussion with the Aid For Japan team and also with the venue, we have taken the decision to postpone the commemorative event originally scheduled for Saturday 14th March. In recent times, decisions … Read More

Japan Club’s Christmas Sale raises fund for Aid For Japan

Last year, the students at Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls in Elstree staged a Japanese cultural event to raise funds for Aid For Japan (see our previous report). This fundraising initiative was coordinated via the school’s Japanese Club, which regularly … Read More

Aid For Japan 2019 : The Year In Review

A year in charity work… 2019 marked the 8th Anniversary of the 2011 Japan Earthquake/Tsunami, a year in which Aid For Japan continued to do the work that it had set out to do since its formation. Once again, the … Read More

Orphan’s Christmas Presents 2019

In the wake of the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, hundreds of children also lost their parents and families. Aid For Japan was founded by Akemi Solloway to support the orphans of this tragedy. In the short-term, the charity lends … Read More

Doki Doki 2019 Report

This November saw the return of the annual Doki Doki (“heartbeat”) Japanese Culture Festival (http://www.dokidokifestival.com) in Manchester. Once again, Doki Doki welcomed Akemi Tanaka as a guest speaker – and also featured Aid For Japan as the event’s selected charity. … Read More

Maria’s Summer Visit 2019

An important part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also … Read More

Elizabeth’s 10 Mile Run in Portsmouth

Much of Aid For Japan’s ability to help the orphans of the 2011 tsunami/earthquake is through the work of volunteers and fundraisers. Grassroots initiatives help to raise funds so that the charity can continue its vital work. Elizabeth Morgan is … Read More

Japanese Club Fundraiser

Students at Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls in Elstree recently staged a Japanese cultural event to raise funds for Aid For Japan. Some students at the school have formed a Japanese Club that regularly stages activities for the younger pupils … Read More

Paul Algar 1943 – 2018

We are sad to report that one of Aid For Japan’s trustees, Paul Algar, has passed away after a long illness. Paul was a tireless supporter of the charity and had regularly offered his services at many of Aid For … Read More

Aid For Japan – 8th Anniversary Event Review

This year saw the 8th Anniversary of the 2011 Japan Earthquake/Tsunami. It provided an opportunity to pause and reflect on the losses that the country had faced, but also the optimism of building for the future. On 11th March 2011, … Read More

Aid For Japan – 8th Anniversary

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

Aid For Japan – 8th Anniversary Event

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

Aid For Japan recognised by Prime Minister

Aid For Japan founder Akemi Tanaka has been recognised for her work with the charity by the Prime Minister as part of the Points Of Light campaign. Points of Light are outstanding individual volunteers – people who are making a … Read More

Orphan’s Christmas Presents 2018

In the wake of the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, hundreds of children also lost their parents and families. Aid For Japan was founded by Akemi Solloway to support the orphans of this tragedy. In the short-term, the charity lends … Read More

Doki Doki Report

On the 10th of November 2018 (Saturday) the annual Doki Doki (“heartbeat”) Japanese Anime festival (http://www.dokidokifestival.com) was held in Manchester at the Sudgen Sports Centre. The day-long festival included demonstrations of martial arts, kimono, dancing and folk music and a … Read More

Maria’s Autumn Visit 2018

Part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also beneficial for … Read More

Aid For Japan at Doki Doki 2018

Aid For Japan founder Akemi Solloway will be a guest at the forthcoming Doki Doki Manchester Japanese Festival on the 10th November. The organisers of the event have also selected Aid For Japan as their charity of choice for this … Read More

Aid for Japan Charity Dinner Tsurumi, Japan

The charity dinner was organized by Aid for Japan to raise funds to help orphans of the 2011 Tsunami. The event was held in June at the Ten no In temple in Tsurumi near Yokohama city. The temple was founded … Read More

Maria to visit the UK this summer

Part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also beneficial for … Read More

Tokyo Diner Charity Dinner Report

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

A February Tea Ceremony

As part of Aid For Japan’s fundraising initiatives, Akemi Solloway stages Japanese cultural events throughout the year. The Japanese Tea Ceremony is always a popular event, with Akemi explaining the history of the tradition, which dates back to the 15th … Read More

Tokyo Diner Charity Diner

Enjoy tasty Japanese food – and help support Aid For Japan! Next month, Tokyo Diner will be hosting a Charity Dinner to support the orphans of the Japanese Tsunami of 2011. This dinner will feature a 30 minute introduction to … Read More

Japanese Tea Ceremony for Aid For Japan

Japanese cultural lecturer, Akemi Solloway Tanaka, will explain the history and philosophy of the Japanese Tea ceremony dating from 15th century. She will teach you how to eat Japanese sweets and drink powdered tea (Macha). All the proceeds will be … Read More

Aid For Japan 2017 : The Year In Review

2017 proved to be a busy year for Aid For Japan, a year which marked the 6th Anniversary of the tragic earthquake/tsunami that had led to the charity’s formation back in 2011. One of the sources of Aid For Japan’s … Read More

Orphan’s Christmas Presents

Every year, Aid For Japan arranges for Christmas presents to be sent out to Japan for the orphans of the Tsunami. These gifts would not be possible without the kind support of the people who donate to the charity. Thank … Read More

A November Tea Ceremony

As part of Aid For Japan’s fundraising initiatives, Akemi Solloway stages Japanese cultural events throughout the year. The Japanese Tea Ceremony is always a popular event, with Akemi explaining the history of the tradition, which dates back to the 15th … Read More

Aid for Japan at Doki Doki 2017

Doki Doki is an annual Japanese cultural event held in Manchester. It’s an event that combines both traditional Japanese culture as well as anime, manga, music and cosplay. This year, the event once again chose Aid For Japan as its … Read More

Doki Doki Festival 2017 to support Aid For Japan

Doki Doki – The Manchester Japanese Festival is an annual event held in Manchester celebrating both traditional and modern Japanese culture. The organisers of the event have once again selected Aid For Japan as their charity of choice for this … Read More

Charity Event: Japanese Tea Ceremony

Japanese cultural lecturer, Akemi Solloway Tanaka, will explain the history and philosophy of the Japanese Tea ceremony dating from 15th century. She will teach you how to eat Japanese sweets and drink powdered tea (Macha). Akemi’s introduction can be found … Read More

Ojiya Study Abroad

This summer, one of Akemi’s students visited Japan and helped to raise funds for Aid For Japan Ojiya Study Abroad is a non-profit organisation aimed at helping international people learn the Japanese language and learn about Japanese culture on a … Read More

Maria in the UK

Part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also beneficial for … Read More

Orphans in the UK 2017

Part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also beneficial for … Read More

Aid For Japan July Fundraiser

On the 3rd July 2017, Aid For Japan partnered with the Japan International Cultural Exchange Foundation (JICEF) to stage a Japanese Culture event in London to raise awareness of the charity and also raise funds. JICEF is a Japanese-based initiative … Read More

Aid For Japan & JICEF Fundraiser

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

Icons of Time: Memories of the Tsunami that Struck Japan

The recently restored Fitzrovia Chapel turns gallery for a photography exhibition that commemorates six years since a devastating earthquake and tsunami hit Japan’s northern coast on 11th March 2011. Photographer Tomohiro Muda’s images are a poignant record of objects and … Read More

‘Sleeping Beauty’ Fundraiser Success!

One of the sources of Aid For Japan’s funding is from volunteers devoting their time to raise money for the charity through a variety of activities. When Emile Goldberg was told by his daughter that her ballet school wanted to … Read More

Thai Cooking Course Donation

London’s 101 Thai Kitchen recently arranged a special cooking course with proceeds going to support Aid For Japan. The classes had been organised for people keen to learn the art of preparing Thai dishes in the style of Isaan cuisine. … Read More

Ohanami 2017 – Cherry Blossom Viewing

On a recent visit to the Fukushima region of Japan, Aid For Japan founder Akemi Solloway caught up with developments. On the 1st April we gathered at Fukushima railway station and took the bus to Hanamiyama Park for cherry blossom … Read More

Support for Aid For Japan from Geek Girl Brunch

Enjoy Japanese cuisine, celebrate anime, manga and Studio Ghibli at this special event on the 21st May 2017 organised by Geek Girl Brunch. Proceeds from this event will go to Aid For Japan. This event is being organised by the … Read More

Support from TransIndus

Aid For Japan is pleased to have support from TransIndus, a travel agency that takes care to ensure their holidays have a positive impact on the countries that they visit. This includes support for schools, communities and conservation initiatives. The … Read More

Aid For Japan – 6th Anniversary Event Review

This year saw the 6th Anniversary of the 2011 Japan Earthquake/Tsunami. It provided an opportunity to pause and reflect on the losses that the country had faced, but also the optimism of building for the future. To commemorate the anniversary, … Read More

Join a Thai Cooking Course – and support Aid For Japan!

It’s not surprising that Thai cooking presents some of the tastiest food available. Now London’s 101 Thai Kitchen is offering an opportunity for you to learn the art of preparing some of these dishes in the style of Isaan cuisine. … Read More

6th Anniversary Event

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

Aid For Japan 2016 : The Year In Review

2016 proved to be an eventful year for Aid For Japan, marked by the 5th Anniversary of the tragic earthquake/tsunami that had led to the charity’s formation back in 2011. But 2016 brought with it some unexpected support and assistance … Read More

Aid For Japan at Doki Doki Festival

Earlier this month, Manchester hosted the third Doki Doki Festival – an annual event celebrating both traditional and modern Japanese culture. “doki doki” is a Japanese phrase that refers to the sound of the heart beating, usually used in the … Read More

Autumn Report 2016

One of Aid For Japan’s regular tasks revolves around visits to Japan to forge partnerships and also to help raise awareness of the charity and its goals. In the autumn months, Aid For Japan founder Akemi Solloway flew out with … Read More

Doki Doki Festival to support Aid For Japan

Doki Doki – The Manchester Japanese Festival is an annual event held in Manchester celebrating both traditional and modern Japanese culture. The organisers of the event have selected Aid For Japan as their charity of choice for this year’s festival. … Read More

The History Of The Kimono

Exploring the history and tradition of Japanese clothing. The Japanese word kimono (着物) translates to “thing to wear” (着 ki “wear” and 物 mono “thing”) but this simple definition is eclipsed by the many different variations and styles that the … Read More

Preview: The History Of The Kimono

Akemi Solloway will be hosting a special event this Thursday revolving around the the History Of The Kimono as part of a fundraising exercise for Aid For Japan. The presentation will explore the history of the traditional Japanese attire through … Read More

Orphans in the UK : Alex’s Story

When the orphans recently visited the UK, they were accompanied by some of Aid For Japan’s volunteers – who had done an amazing job in Japan earlier this year in helping to raise awareness of the charity. One of these … Read More

Orphans In The UK

Part of Aid For Japan’s mission is to reach out to some of the orphans from the tragic events of 2011. While the charity aims to connect with these children through the annual summer residential courses, it’s also beneficial for … Read More

Welcome Party Report

At the end of July, Aid For Japan staged a special event to welcome some of the Japanese orphans to the UK. Aid For Japan has made a point of organising UK visits for the orphans on a regular basis … Read More

Orphans Welcome Party

A reminder that tomorrow sees Aid For Japan hosting a special Welcome Party for the orphans visiting the UK. During this evening event 3 of our volunteers, who have been in Japan raising funds and promoting the charity, will be … Read More

A Visit To Kyoto

Our three volunteers in Japan, David, Alex and Zak, continue their adventures as they visit Kyoto. Among the activities that the team undertook was a visit to Nijo Castle, a manga museum, Kyoto tower and a zen garden. The reports … Read More

Fundraising in Osaka

As part of our volunteers visit to Japan, David, Alex and Zak took part in a fundraising event in Osaka. Prior to this, the boys took the opportunity to visit Osaka castle to enjoy both its history as well as … Read More

Beaches, Museums and Aubergines

Our three volunteers in Japan, David, Alex and Zak, continue their adventures – which included a trip to the historic Himeji Castle. For their most recent report, the boys visited a beach before making a museum trip – which featured … Read More

Aid For Japan at HiiroCon 2016

Hiirocon is one of the more recent anime conventions to become established in the UK. Based in Reading, the event based its title around the Japanese term for the colour of fire hiiro. Aid For Japan were kindly given a … Read More

Volunteers In Japan

This summer, Aid For Japan will be bringing some of the orphans of the 2011 tsunami/earthquake to the UK. As part of this plan, three young volunteers have flown out to Japan as part of a mission to help raise … Read More

The History Of The Kimono

Akemi Solloway will be hosting a special event in September revolving around the the history of the kimono as part of a fundraising exercise for Aid For Japan. The presentation will explore the history of the traditional Japanese attire through … Read More

Orphans Welcome Party

This summer, Aid For Japan will be bringing some of the Japanese orphans of the 2011 tsunami/earthquake to the UK. As part of this plan, Aid for Japan will be hosting a small welcome party for the children at a … Read More

Japanese Orphans In The UK

This summer, Aid For Japan will be bringing some of the orphans of the 2011 tsunami/earthquake to the UK. As part of this plan, three young volunteers have flown out to Japan as part of a mission to help raise … Read More

Tea Ceremony at Wasoukan

Aid For Japan recently staged an event to invite people to take part in a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. The event was designed to help raise funds for the charity, but also helped to introduce people to a fascinating aspect … Read More

Aid For Japan Tea Ceremony Experience!

Would you like to join a 15th Century style traditional Japanese tea ceremony? Sit in a real Tatami mat room and, taste matcha and try dorayaki sweets before learning to drink tea to Japanese etiquette. Tickets are just £20. The … Read More

Relief Volunteer Interview : Jen Sno

Experiencing the relief effort in Tohoku from one of the volunteers on the ground… Part of the recovery effort in Tohoku involved the services of NPOs operating through the generous actions of volunteers. Jen Sno worked with It’s Not Just … Read More

Hanami in Japan

Akemi reports on her recent trip to Japan… At the beginning of April, I and some of our volunteers travelled to Japan to visit some of our Tsunami orphans. We went with the children and their carers to see the … Read More

Hanami with Aid For Japan

Aid For Japan staged a hanami event recently in Regent’s Park to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Hanami is a traditional Japanese custom of viewing the cherry blossoms – and Aid For Japan (in association with its social … Read More

Aid For Japan – 5th Anniversary Event Review

This year saw the 5th Anniversary of the 2011 Japan Earthquake/Tsunami. It provided an opportunity to pause and reflect on the losses that the country had faced, but also the optimism of building for the future. To commemorate the anniversary, … Read More

Aid For Japan in The Telegraph today

In their coverage of the 5th Anniversary of the 2011 Earthquake/Tsunami, The Telegraph spoke to Aid For Japan founder Akemi Solloway on the challenges facing Maria – one of the many orphans that Aid For Japan supports. “Like so many … Read More

Aid For Japan in The Guardian today

As part of their coverage of the 5th Anniversary of the 2011 Earthquake/Tsunami, The Guardian newspaper has an in-depth feature by Justin McCurry looking at the plight of orphans in post-tsunami Japan. Among the people the newspaper spoke to was … Read More

‘Washing Over Me’ to raise funds for Aid For Japan

With the 5th Anniversary of the Japan Earthquake/Tsunami almost upon us, author Benjamin Brook has kindly offered to donate proceeds form his novel Washing Over Me to Aid For Japan. Set against a backdrop of the Great East Japan Earthquake … Read More

Aid For Japan in Fukushima

Last summer saw Aid For Japan take a team of volunteers to Japan as part of our annual residential course. The charity’s Japanese representative Sumika Hayakawa was on hand to help and provided her own personal take when they visited … Read More

Summer Residential Visit 2015

Last summer saw Aid For Japan take a team of volunteers to Japan to meet some of the orphans and to learn more about their stories. Emile Loveday was one of the volunteers and he wrote of his experiences on … Read More

Aid For Japan 5th Anniversary Event

On 11th March 2011, a disaster unlike any seen in modern times swept across Japan, claiming almost 20,000 lives and creating over 300,000 refugees in the Tohoku region. Among these were 236 children who lost everything – their homes and … Read More

BeCreative Charity Fundraiser

Get involved in the #BeCreative movement and support a fantastic cause this Christmas at “London’s first Happy Cafe”. On Tuesday 15th of December, the Canvas Cafe will be host to the #BeCreative fundraising event which is being coordinated by clothing … Read More

Orphan’s Christmas Presents

Every year, Aid For Japan arranges for Christmas presents to be sent out to Japan for the orphans of the Tsunami. These gifts would not be possible without the kind support of the people who donate to the charity. Thank … Read More

Aid For Japan Cultural Evenings Report

Last month saw Aid For Japan founder Akemi Solloway present talks and demonstrations celebrating Japanese culture. Over two days, Akemi offered up her knowledge to attendees at venues supplied by WeWork. Japanese snacks were also sold at the event. All … Read More

Aid For Japan November Events

We have two events coming up this month with a strong focus on Japanese Culture. On 24th November we have a Japanese Cultural Evening. Japanese cultural lecturer Akemi Solloway will show how you can wear Kimono. You will also learn … Read More

Aid For Japan at Doki Doki

Earlier this month, Angela Shaffer attended the Doki Doki event on behalf of Aid For Japan and reported back on her experiences… The Doki Doki Festival is an annual Japanese culture event that takes place in Manchester. For this year’s … Read More

Kimono & Culture Evening

Aid For Japan staged a special Kimono & Culture Evening on 30th October in Richmond… The successful event not only offered attendees the opportunity to learn about the kimono, but also treated to sushi and sake against a background of … Read More

Doki Doki- The Manchester Japanese Festival 2015

Aid For Japan is being supported by DOKI DOKI – the annual Japanese Festival held in Manchester. The next event is scheduled to take place on Saturday 7th November 2015 and will celebrate both traditional and modern Japanese culture. Throughout … Read More

Support Jackie Thomas’ Half Marathon Run

Aid For Japan is supported by the people who tirelessly volunteer their time to help. People such as Jackie Thomas, who will be running in the Bournemouth Half Marathon next month to raise funds for Aid For Japan. As Jackie … Read More

Japanese Cultural Talk in Support of Aid For Japan

Akemi Solloway will be conducting a lecture on Japanese Culture later this month at St John The Baptist in Kingston Vale, London. The event takes place on Sunday 27th September and the talk will focus on the traditional Japanese religion … Read More

Kimono & Culture Evening

Help us raise money for children orphaned by the March 2011 tsunami by enjoying an evening of Japanese kimono, food and music. The tickets are just £40 each and all proceeds go to Aid for Japan. The Kimono & Culture … Read More

Support Chris Pickering’s Marathon Run

Aid For Japan is helped by volunteers who help raise funds both at home and abroad. Chris Pickering is taking part in a marathon in Japan to show his support. Chris lives and works in Niseko, Japan and explains why … Read More

Summer Residential Course 2015

Every year, Aid For Japan organises a special Summer Residential Course in Japan. The course offers a chance for English volunteers to directly support the orphans that the charity was set up to help with a series of activities and … Read More

Aid For Japan at MCM London Comic Con

To raise awareness for the charity, Akemi Solloway and volunteers from Aid For Japan are a regular sight at many events across London and the UK. On the 24th May the team stopped off at the hugely popular MCM London … Read More

Aid For Japan at Collectionaires

In the run up to Christmas, Aid For Japan was kindly invited to partake in a day of Japanese culture at a special pop-up shop in London’s fashionable district of Chelsea by Collectionaires. Collectionaires offers an exclusive selection of luxury … Read More

Little Dom’s Big Adventure

Little Dom’s Big Adventure involved a motorbike journey from the UK to Japan to help raise funds and awareness for Aid For Japan. Ahead of setting off on his journey, Dominic Farwell-Cooke was the focus of an Aid For Japan … Read More

Indie game 9.03m raises funds for Aid For Japan

Independent game developer Space Budgie launched the captivating game ’9.03m’ last year and donated nearly £5,000 from the proceeds to Aid For Japan. ’9.03m’ is a first person art/empathy game for PC. The setting is Baker Beach in San Francisco, … Read More

Retrospective Blue Tiles

Kensuke Nakata is a third year student at Central School of Saint Martins, studying ceramics. Recently, Kensuke embarked on a project called Retrospective Blue Tiles to raise money and awareness for Aid for Japan. “As a ceramic artist, I am … Read More

Aid For Japan at LuckyCon

Aid For Japan was part of the LuckyCon anime convention which took place April 26-27 2013 at The Priory Centre, Lincoln. The photos show some of the activities at the event, which included a “Human Charity” where a lucky attendee … Read More

Shinto and Bushido at Sunnycon in Sunderland

On 24th & 25th March Akemi attended the Sunnycon anime convention in Sunderland as a guest to host Japanese cultural events and classes, as well as raising awareness for Aid For Japan. Akemi’s activities over the weekend included a performance … Read More

Bunkasai Event

On the 11th March 2013 Aid For Japan hosted another Bunkasai event with around 60 people attending. The event marked the 2 year Anniversary of the Tsunami/Earthquake tragedy in Japan. Attendees who viewed the latest video said they found the … Read More

Aid For Japan at Minamicon

Aid For Japan had a presence at the recent Minamicon event which took place on the 5th – 7th March 2013. Akemi Solloway attended to help raise awareness for the charity and extends her thanks to the Manga and Anime … Read More

Congratulations to David Vickers

Congratulations to David Vickers who ran in the 2013 Tokyo Marathon for Aid For Japan. He completed the Marathon in 6.5 hours (despite damaging his knee) and raised £314.18 via donations on the JustGiving website. As David commented on his … Read More

Bunkasai Event 11th March 2013

11th March 2013 marks the 2 year Anniversary of the Tsunami/Earthquake tragedy in Japan. Aid For Japan will hold the event Bunkasai to mark this occasion. Aid For Japan is a charity set up for the Tsunami orphans; 2 of … Read More

Experience in UK by Kana in 2012

15th December (Saturday) We stayed one night at Yukie’s house in Abiko (near Narita airport). Many friends of this family have visited. Everybody was kind and interesting. Children were so cute. This was warm family. 16th December (Sunday) Move from … Read More

December Party Cosplay Competition

Aid For Japan is staging a very special Welcome Party on 18th December for two of the children who lost parents and family members in the tragic Japan earthquake/tsunami disaster of last year. The Party will also feature a Cosplay … Read More

Jazz for Japan

A special fundraising night in aid of Japanese tsunami orphans taking place at The Ram Jam Club on 22nd November 2012. The event will feature Fiona Coffey, Toni Green and Mark Nesbitt accompanied by The Ian Anderson Trio. Tickets are … Read More

Welcome Party for Tsunami Orphans

We will be staging a special Welcome Party this December for two of the children who lost parents and family members last year. The event will feature the Scots Guards Brass Quintet, flute (Emi Yamamoto) and violin (Yasufumi Otsuki) performances, … Read More

Classical Concert + Japanese Dance

An enchanting evening with music and dance. Featuring reknowned musicians Fumi Otsuki(violin), Ai Sakabayashi (vox) & Wezi Elliott (lute), Ayaka Yanase (p) and The Honjo Sisters (violin). Plus traditional Japanese dance by Akemi Solloway. Thursday 6th September 2012 Doors : 6:10, … Read More

Aid For Japan at London Mela Festival

Now an established highlight in the capital’s cultural calendar, the London Mela is an artistically led celebration of Asian culture and creativity, inspired by South Asia and the Diaspora. Aid For Japan will have a presence at the festival this … Read More

Aid For Japan finds success at AmeCon

AmeCon is the UK’s largest residential convention dedicated to the celebration of Japanese Animation and Comics and took place over the weekend of 10th-12th August 2012. Every year, AmeCon supports a charity and they have generously chosen Aid For Japan … Read More

Japanese Cultural Afternoon for Tsunami Orphans

Saturday 4th August 2012 A charity event featuring talks, Kimono and Tea Ceremony presentations, piano performances, traditional Japanese dance, Origami, Calligraphy and much more. “Ball Room” 1st Floor 43 Lancaster Gate London W2 3NA This event is designed to raise … Read More

Classical Concert + Japanese Dance

An enchanting evening with music and dance. Thursday 6th September 2012 Doors : 6:10, Start : 6:30 Lumen Church & Cafe 88 Tavistock Place London, WC1H 9RS Tel:020 7833 1080 web:www.lumenurc.org.uk The nearest tubes : Kings Cross St Pancras and … Read More

Jazz + Japan

Fundraising for Japanese orphans from Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami An evening of Japanese influenced jazz music and straight ahead standards Thursday 30th August 2012 Doors: 7pm, Start: 7:30pm Jazz On The Hill 214-216 Railton Road London, SE24 0JT Tel: 0207 … Read More

Aid for Japan – Diary of events December 2011

The report – our activities in Japan in December 2011 20th December We arrive at Narita Airport. Before we left the UK, we had contacted several Japanese NPOs (non-profit organisations). They had given us a lot of good advice and … Read More

Fundraising at Earls Court

Fund raising activity on the 1st and 2nd October 2011 at London Earls Court At this event we raised money by selling customised jewellery, drawing Japanese tattoos and anime portraits!! Please join us and help support a fabulous cause. Thank … Read More

Japan Matsuri Festival

Japan Matsuri Festival – 18 September 2011 at London County Hall Thank you for your help: Sumika, Yusuke, Yosuke, Daniel, Kinberley, Yuko, Jessie.

Debut Bunkasai Club Meet-up

Thanks so much for coming! With a mix of interesting anecdotes, some film and anime discussion, a bizarre English pronunciation lesson and a lot of good will all around, the Bunkasai Club got off to a pretty good – if … Read More

Welcome to Aid For Japan

On the 11th March 2011 the most powerful earthquake ever to have hit Japan with a magnitude of 9.0 Mw occurred off the Tohoku east coast. This earthquake, which has become known as the Great East Japan Earthquake, happened at … Read More