Websites for background information:

• Toys
• Traditional Japanese toys-- Excellent guide to traditional toys in Japan, including a virtual fukuwarai game. From Kids Web Japan
• Traditional Japanese toys-- Information website of Japanese toys, by an MIT student
• Modern Japanese toys-- More information from MIT about modern toys, with an annotated links page to other websites about modern toys in Japan
• Japanese Robot Toy Gallery-- Comprehensive picture encyclopedia of Japanese robots... nearly every model of robot by every company
• Sanrio-- The makers of Hello Kitty, perhaps the most popular character toy in Japan
• Games
• List of Japanese Games-- Traditional Japanese games and how to play them. From answers.com
• Jan Ken Pon (Rock, Paper, Scissors)-- Comprehensive overview of the history of this simple game and its variations around the world
• Sports
• Japanese Games and Sports-- Information about traditional games, sports, modern sports, and famous individuals relating to games and sports in Japan.
• Kendo-- Informational page about this swordfighting martial art, from Kids Web Japan
• Judo (interactive)-- Learn about Judo and try your hand at "virtual judo."  From Kids Web Japan.
• Sumo (interactive)-- Learn about sumo, and try playing "virtual sumo!"  From Kids Web Japan

Sample activities planned for Ohanashi festival:

• Learn to play a Japanese game
• Various Japanese toys
• Watch sumo!
• Display: Pictures, posters, toys, games

Contact person: Stacy Brinkman