Explore and experience the cultural roots and contemporary influences of Japan through live performances, visual arts, hands-on activities, foods and games. This feast for the senses features Taiko drumming and artisan demonstrations. This year, the Festival will attempt to create a Guinness World Record with the Japanese Abacus Challenge of the Super Computer.

The 38th annual Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival focuses on the theme of Numbers. Did you know that the name "Google" was adopted from the word "Googol," which signifies the number digit - One, followed by 100 zeros? Do you know how many zeros a "Nivenonagintillion" contains? The Festival delves into these and other numeric fascinations. It also will attempt to create a new Guinness World Record involving a challenge between a Japanese Abacus device called Soroban and the Super Computer.

• U.S. premiere – TOHOKU Through the  Eyes of Japanese photography exhibit, sponsored by Japan Foundation;
• Aquaphoto Concert by underwater photographer-singer, Hiroshi Takano of Osaka, Japan, sponsored by Japan Foundation;
• Dance and music by the Nago Minori troupe of Okinawa, Japan;
• Over 60 traditional arts and crafts;
• Over 30 traditional performing arts / martial arts including Taiko Drummers;
• Many child oriented hands-on activities including The Kid’s Passport;
• Japanese foods including:  curry-rice (Japanese style curry), Takoyaki (octopus dumplings), Gyudon (beef bowl), Japanese hot dog, Bento-Box, Manju sweets and gourmet cookies;
• Updates on the 2011 Erthquake/Tsunami recovery.