We are pleased to announce that Benkyoukai will be held again on the following dates!
Registration will open in early January.
What is the "Benkyoukai?"
The Japan Bowl® of California “Benkyoukai” is a virtual study and cultural exchange program hosted by the Japan America Society of Southern California for high school students participating in the National Japan Bowl® (April 17–18, 2026).
For 2026, the Japan America Society of Southern California offered the "Benkyoukai" sessions to student of ALL LEVELS (Level 2, 3, and 4) free of charge!
Session Schedule
Session 1: Friday, February 6 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Session 2: Friday, February 13 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Session 3: Friday, February 20 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Cultural Day: Friday, February 27 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
*Schedule subject to change
Session Details
Each session will feature original lectures by Japanese university students on a wide range of topics related to Japanese society, culture, and current trends.
After each presentation, participants will be divided into small breakout rooms by language proficiency level to enjoy Japanese conversation with the university students and other attendees.
Who Can Participate in the "Benkyoukai?"
High school students currently studying Japanese and living in Southern California are eligible to participate in Benkyoukai.
Due to limited capacity, registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is "Cultural Day?"
Cultural Day is the final session of Benkyoukai, designed for participants to enjoy a fun and engaging cultural lecture as a reward for all their hard work. We invite a special guest speaker from either Japan or the U.S. to present on a fascinating topic related to Japanese culture.
