How long have you been a member of the Japan Society of Boston?
I have been a member of JSB for about four months now. I’m still a new member.
What drew you to JSB?
My family and I moved to Boston from New York in 2018. I wanted to join the Japan Society of Boston it was the oldest Japanese cultural club in the United States, as well as its relation to people like Kakuzo Okakura, Earnest Fenollosa, and William Bigelow.
[Masayo’s album ピリオド / Melty from 1982]
How would you describe yourself and what you're passionate about?
I’m a freelance journalist for Japanese TV. I’ve even visited 48 of the U.S. states as a reporter. I love to travel, having visited places such as Indonesia, South Korea, New Zealand, and many countries in Europe. I’m passionate about cooking and traveling, and I also love rabbits and flowers. When I was at university in Tokyo, I majored in Theater and Drama and became a singer and songwriter. I decided to work in media such as TV and radio. I’m currently a member of the Screen Actors Guild. I’m also a wife to a scientist and a mother to a 22-year-old son who’s attending graduate school in Boston.
Do you have a favorite event or program that you have participated in with JSB?
My favorite events are the language exchanges and cooking programs. I volunteered to conduct several of the cooking classes such as makizushi, kamo nanban soba, and onigiri. I also really enjoyed the “Connect with JSB” event from this past April. I got to meet the JSB staff and other nice and friendly people who are interested in Japanese culture.
What about JSB makes it special from other groups within the Boston area?
The Japan Society of Boston is special because of its history and the diversity of its members.
What would you say to somebody who is considering joining JSB?
I highly recommend joining and helping us spread Japanese culture in Boston! The director,
Naoko Takayanagi, is very supportive of all of the members. It’s great to know and be involved in JSB.
Check out Masayo's YouTube channel!
https://www.youtube.com/@MasayoKawaguchiChannel
Interested in becoming a JSB Member? Click here or reach out to info@japansocietyboston.org for more details.