Toyama Cup Virtual Japanese Speech Contest

Toyama Cup showcases the excellence of Japanese language programs all over Oregon, providing students in our community many local options if they choose to pursue their love of the Japanese language in higher education institutions. The Japan-America Society of Oregon continues to work to support this community of students, teachers, and programs; and equally, the sister-state relationship with Toyama that brings greater richness and opportunity to all.

University and college students in Oregon and SW Washington, currently studying Japanese, are eligible to participate in this online Japanese Speech Contest. Contact info@jaso.org to be notified when the 29th Annual Toyama Cup registration opens!

Read this year’s press release here:

2024 LV 2 Winner Faith Adler
2024 LV 1 Winner Athena Yates
Zoom Screenshot of Participants and Judges
2024 Group Photo of Toyama Cup participants, judges, and guests.

Please read Toyama Cup Guidelines carefully:

2024 Event Day Schedule  

4:00-4:15 PM
4:15-4:20 PM
4:20-4:25 PM
4:25-4:55 PM
5:00-5:30 PM
5:30-6:10 PM
6:10-6:40 PM

Welcome and Zoom Etiquette
Greeting from Toyama
Toyama Cup Guidelines
Level 1 Speech
Level 2 Speech
Networking with Japan guests
Judges Evaluation and Commentary, Presentation of Awards

Results and Publications

2024 Winner – Faith Adler from University of Oregon Read speech here.

2023 Winner – Lucas Carmichael-Tanaka from Reed College Read speech here.

2022 Winner – Ada Martin from Willamette University Read speech here.

2021 Winner – Tanner Arakaki from Pacific University Read speech here.

2020 Winner – Rey Takahashi from Willamette University Read speech here.

2019 Winner – Ronan Hall from Lewis and Clark College

2018 Winner – Jack Glenn from Willamette University

2017 Winner – Natasha Milligan from Willamette University Read Natasha’s Trip Blog here.

Thank you to our Gold Sponsors:

Thank you to our Silver Sponsors:

Thank you to our Bronze Sponsors:

Thank you to our Supporters:

Mr. Stu Sawai