Central Japan Legacy | Castles, Samurai & Travel Adventures

This special program shines a spotlight on Central Japan, a region where history, tradition, and artistry meet. It highlights Gifu Prefecture, whose city of Gujo Hachiman is celebrated as the birthplace of food sample craftsmanship in Japan, an art form featured in the “Looks Delicious!” exhibition at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. Travelers from around the world are drawn to the Sample Village Iwasaki, where the meticulous art of food replica brings Japan’s culinary culture vividly to life.

The creativity and precision found in this craft reflect the spirit of Central Japan’s artistry and innovation, inspiring visitors to explore the region’s cultural and travel treasures.

Presented in collaboration with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the program expands beyond Gujo Hachiman to explore Central Japan’s castles, samurai heritage, and masterful craftsmanship. Attendees will discover the historic beauty of Gifu Castle and the legendary Battle of Sekigahara—both closely connected to Japan’s Sengoku era and the globally acclaimed SHOGUN series—along with artisanal traditions rooted in samurai culture, including the precision and artistry of Japanese sword making.

Discover the heritage and artistry of Central Japan through dynamic presentations and performances designed to inspire travel and exploration.

Program Highlights

• “Travel to Central Japan” Presentation by Ms. Rose Lifschitz
  Embark on a visual journey through Central Japan’s most captivating destinations. Ms. Lifschitz shares firsthand travel experiences, expert insights, and practical tips, inspiring audiences to explore the region’s cultural and historical landmarks.
• “Castles in Central Japan” Presentation by Mr. Yasuyuki Suzuki
  Discover the stories, architecture, and legacy of Japan’s iconic castles. Mr. Suzuki highlights sites such as Gifu Castle and others, offering engaging perspectives on their historical significance and tourism appeal.
• Sword & Iaido Performance & Talk by Mr. Kaz Kobayashi
  Experience Iaido—the art of drawing and cutting with a Japanese sword—and Ta Te, traditional Japanese sword combat, in a live performance by Hollywood-based actor Mr. Kaz Kobayashi. Through skillful demonstrations and engaging storytelling, he brings samurai culture to life while sharing the principles of Bushido.
• Special Sweepstakes by Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel and Central Japan Railway Company
  One winner will receive a one-night stay for two at the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel and two Chubu Area Japan Rail Passes.

Rose Lifschitz

Rose Lifschitz is the Marketing Coordinator at JNTO’s Los Angeles office, with nearly ten years of experience living and working in Japan. She moved to Japan in 2013 on the JET Programme, teaching in public schools and working with local government to provide guidance to fellow participants adjusting to life in Japan. She later moved to Tokyo to work as an information concierge and tour guide, providing general resources, translation services, and educational tours of the Nihonbashi area to tourists and locals alike. She returned to the United States in 2022 and soon after joined JNTO, expanding on her previous duties of introducing small local areas to instead focus on Japan as a whole.

Rose’s passion for promoting tourism in Japan has directed her throughout her career. She has presented to Assistant Language Teachers in Japan on topics such as effective intercultural communication and navigating culture shock. She has also shared her knowledge with travel professionals across the United States on topics such as Japan 101, recommended itineraries, cruising destinations, and regional charms.

Yasuyuki Suzuki

Former Kintetsu employee and President of Miyako Hotels, Mr. Suzuki has visited over 100 castles and historical sites across Japan. As a resident representative of Kintetsu Enterprises Co., the company’s U.S. subsidiary, he was stationed in San Francisco and Los Angeles, overseeing the operations of hotels including the Miyako Hotel. After retirement, he served as a board member of Asahi Gakuen for four years and has volunteered at JANM (currently on hiatus).With a strong interest in history and castles, he has traveled extensively across Japan, exploring existing castles, reconstructed castles, and castle ruins.

Kaz Kobayashi

Kaz Kobayashi is an actor, sword-fighting performer, and fight choreographer with a strong background in Japanese sword martial arts and Tate (Japanese stage combat). His career spans film, television, theater, and solo performances in both Japan and Los Angeles, including work on major productions such as Rurouni Kenshin Part II: Kyoto Inferno. He views acting as deeply connected to Japanese martial arts and has devoted himself to both disciplines. Kaz teaches a unique method that emphasizes realistic expression combined with powerful, flexible, and graceful movement.

Now based in Los Angeles, he performs at events such as Anime Expo and provides training, acting, and choreography across various genres — including anime, film, and stage productions. In addition to sword-fighting and action performance, he also acts in dramatic roles as an actor. He has expanded his work to other states in the U.S., such as Texas, continuing to grow his presence and influence nationwide.

Co-Presented by

JNTO

Supported by

Visit Gifu

Japan Foundation Los Angeles

Special Thanks

JR Central and Marriott Nagoya Associa Hotel

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