Member Highlight: Cuiboguan (Bowen) Wang

Bowen (left) and a friend at Cape Sata, the southernmost point of mainland Japan

How long have you been a member of the Japan Society of Boston?

Hi, I’m Cuiboguan Wang, but most people call me Bowen. I joined the Japan Society of Boston in 2023, around the end of my sophomore year at Connecticut College, where I study East Asian Studies. I came across JSB while browsing online, and right away I was intrigued by all the events and resources they offer.

A little later, I noticed they had a summer internship program and thought, “Why not give it a try?” Unfortunately, I applied too late that year, so I missed out. But since I was heading to Kyoto for study abroad that fall, I reached out to JSB and ended up contributing as the photographer for a series of Instagram blog posts, which was such a fun way to get involved.

What drew you to JSB?

Honestly, the variety of events blew me away. JSB has everything from online language rooms to film and book clubs, plus in-person cultural experiences. I especially love the online language room and the monthly clubs — they’re such a nice way to connect with people. And then there are special events, like private MFA tours. I haven’t made it to one yet, but it’s definitely on my list.

How would you describe yourself and what you're passionate about?

I’ve been fascinated by Japan and its culture for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Dalian, a city in northeastern China that has a lot of Japanese companies and one of the largest Japanese-speaking communities in the country. Growing up, Japanese media, food, and culture were just part of my everyday environment, and that left a big impression on me.

These days, I’m passionate about traveling, photography, and practicing iaido. In fact, right after I graduated college in the summer of 2025, I traveled all the way through Japan — from Cape Sata in Kagoshima, Kyushu to Cape Soya in Wakkanai, Hokkaido. That was definitely one of the highlights of my life so far.

Bowen and a friend at Cape Soya, the northernmost point of mainland Japan

Do you have a favorite event or program that you have participated in with JSB?

It’s hard to choose because I’ve enjoyed every event I’ve joined, but if I had to pick, I’d go with the monthly film club. I love movies, but sometimes I’ll watch one and have no one to talk about it with. The film club gives me a chance to dive deeper, hear different perspectives, and learn things I never would’ve picked up on my own. Sometimes JSB even brings in guest speakers who share really thoughtful, academic takes on the films. Hearing those insights pushes me to see the movie in a whole new way.

What about JSB makes it so special from other groups within the Boston area?

For me, it’s the inclusivity. JSB is truly welcoming, it doesn’t matter what your background is, how old you are, or whether you know much about Japan to start with. At every event I’ve attended, people have been kind, open, and willing to help if I had questions. That kind of atmosphere makes you feel like you belong right away.

What would you say to somebody who is considering joining JSB?

If you live in the greater Boston area and you have an interest in Japanese language or culture, I think you should definitely start participating in JSB events! It is probably the best way to connect with like-minded people, both in an online and in-person setting!

Thank you, Bowen, for sharing with us!

Interested in becoming a JSB Member? Click here or reach out to info@japansocietyboston.org for more details.