Registration opens in mid-December 2026
What is the "Benkyoukai"?
The Japan Bowl® of California "Benkyoukai" is a free virtual study and cultural exchange program hosted by the Japan America Society of Southern California for high school students studying Japanese.
For 2027, the Japan America Society of Southern California is offering Benkyoukai sessions to students of all proficiency levels (Levels 2, 3, and 4), free of charge.
While Benkyoukai is designed to support students preparing for the National Japan Bowl®, any high school student studying Japanese is welcome to participate, regardless of whether they plan to compete.
Session Schedule
Session 1: Friday, February 5 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Session 2: Friday, February 12 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Session 3: Friday, February 19 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
Cultural Day: Friday, February 26 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM (PT)
*Schedule subject to change
*Students are welcome to participate even if they cannot attend every session.
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 practice conversational Japanese with the university students and other attendees.
Who Can Participate in the "Benkyoukai"?
Benkyoukai is open to high school students across North America who are studying Japanese.
Due to limited capacity, registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please Note:
Benkyoukai is mainly intended for students studying for the National Japan Bowl®. While some parts of the presentations may be challenging for beginners, conversation practice will be organized by proficiency level.
*The content of Benkyoukai may be recorded and could be shared externally.
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.
▼ Cultural Day Guest Speaker
Misato Wheeler
Founder of IKIGAI MATCHA®, a Japan-born matcha lifestyle brand
Misato Wheeler is the founder of IKIGAI MATCHA®, a Japan-born matcha lifestyle brand. Through the Japanese concepts of ikigai and matcha, she inspires people to nurture both mind and body while embracing a healthier, more meaningful lifestyle.
A mother of two, Misato will relocate to Maryland, USA, in Spring 2027. She is the Founder and Representative of the International Matcha Advisor Association, a Certified Kanagawa Prefecture Tour Guide, an Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan exhibitor, and an Ambassador for the Kanagawa–Maryland Sister State Relationship. She also has extensive experience collaborating with luxury brand events.
Program Sponsors
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