About Us

What is the Nanka Ehime Kenjinkai?

The Nanka Ehime Kenjinkai is a community of people from Ehime Prefecture, Japan, along with their families and friends, living in Southern California.
Founded in 1910, our association is one of the oldest Kenjinkai (prefectural associations) in North America, celebrating its 115th anniversary in 2025.

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Our Mission

• Foster friendship and fellowship among members

• Preserve and share the traditions and culture of Ehime

• Build bridges between younger generations and their ancestral homeland

• Contribute to both Ehime Prefecture and the Japanese American community
   

Main Activities

• Annual General Meeting and New Year’s Gathering

• Anniversary celebrations and milestone events

• Cultural programs and food exchange events featuring Ehime specialties

• Joint events with the Southern California Japanese Prefectural Association

• “Hometown Ehime” tours and support for exchange students
   

Our Journey

Originally formed to provide mutual support for first-generation immigrants, the Kenjinkai has evolved through the Nisei, Sansei, and beyond. We continue to cherish cultural heritage while embracing new members. Our contributions include support to Ehime University and various hometown-related initiatives.

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Invitation

If you have roots or connections to Ehime Prefecture, we warmly welcome you to join us.
Let’s share the charm of Ehime together in a community full of friendship,