A craftsman from Japan demonstrates the making of a sash called an obi that is used to wrap around a kimono. The style is called Hakata-Ori and was brought to Japan from China during the 13th century. A sash with an elaborate design can be priced as high as $10,000.
A young girl takes on all challengers at the game of go.
Commodore Matthew Perry and his Black Ships arrived on Japanese shores in 1853, effectively ending the Shogun's self-imposed policy of seclusion. This year's Japan Expo marks the 150th year of U.S.-Japan relations with a pictorial exhibit.
The exhibit consisted of images capturing Perry's arrival from both Eastern and Western points of view. You can view the exhibit online.
Netsuke are tiny carved figures of animals and mythological creatures. These pieces are made from red coral off a tiny island in Shikoku and are used to decorate cell phones.
The anime section is always crowded at the Japan Expo. Here the Sailor Moon Jamboree pose for a photo before going on stage to perform their anime-inspired dance routine.
Mochi is a popular Japanese treat made from sticky rice and filled with sweet red bean paste. Shown here is Brian Kito making mochi. His family has operated the Fugetsu-do sweets shop in Little Tokyo for 100 years.
Various prefectures (like a state) come to the Expo to promote food and crafts from their part of Japan. At the booth from Okinawa, a local vegetable called goya or bitter melon is used to make different products like tea and noodles.
Pachinko is one of the biggest businesses in Japan. It's a form of gambling that involves trying to hit the right slots with tiny metal balls. This used machine was on sale at the Expo and the kids were having fun trying to win, but don't worry, they weren't playing for money!
The Japan Expo took place at the Los Angeles Convention Center on November 15 and 16, 2003. You can find more information about the Japan Expo at japanexpo.org.
