Welcome to the 33rd National Japan Bowl!
We are so happy you’re joining us for this year’s National Japan Bowl! This page is for Participants and will be your resource for schedules, announcements, updates, and more throughout the two days of the competition.
Available Now
Important Dates
Team Shokai and Haiku
Before the competition, we have a bit of homework – しゅくだい if you will – for competing students. Download and read the descriptions of the Team Shōkai and Team Haiku and note that the Team Haiku is due on Monday, March 17, 2025.
Event Schedule
The 33rd National Japan Bowl schedule is available!
We’re thrilled to offer transportation to an optional evening excursion after the Closing Ceremony on Saturday, April 5 – the Petalpalooza® festival! This lively event, part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, features live music, interactive art, hands-on activities, and a spectacular fireworks show over the waterfront. Please note that participation in this event is entirely voluntary.
The shuttle bus will leave the venue at 7:00pm, after the Closing Ceremony on Saturday. It will transport us to Petalpalooza, where participants are welcome to explore freely. Then, the bus will pick us up again at 9:15pm to return to the hotel.
The Japan Bowl and the Japan-America Society of Washington DC are solely providing transportation to the event and are not affiliated with its planning, programming, or supervision. Once participants arrive at the venue, they are no longer under the care or responsibility of the Japan Bowl or its staff. We assume no liability for any incidents, injuries, or other matters that may occur at or as a result of attending this separate event.
We encourage all participants and their chaperones to review the details of the event in advance and make the decision that best suits their individual circumstances.
You can read more about the festival here: Petalpalooza® Event Page
Digital DC Guide
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a DMV local, we hope the Japan Bowl DC Guide will help you find ways to connect with Japan and maximize your time while you’re with us in Washington DC.
