Japanese Resources in Union County

The Japan-America Society of Central Ohio (JASCO) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting Japanese and American communities in Central Ohio. With a mission centered on cultural exchange, education, and business outreach, JASCO hosts signature events such as the Ohio Speech Contest, the Ohio Japan Bowl, and the beloved annual summer festival, Japan FestOH!. JASCO offers adult language courses in Japanese, business seminars, and language meet-ups to promote cross-cultural communication.

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is a government-related nonprofit that offers pathways for investment and collaborations with Japan. JETRO specializes in promoting inbound investment into Japan, supporting Japanese businesses in global markets, and providing trade and business services. Through market research, trade fairs, seminars, business matching, and industry events, JETRO connects international companies with opportunities in Japan.

Central Ohio Japanese Association of Commerce (COJAC) is a nonprofit community organization that facilitates information exchange, business networking, and mutual assistance. COJAC hosts a variety of community-focused events, from traditional Japanese celebrations like mochitsuki (rice cake pounding) to casual gatherings like golfing, picnics, and seasonal fruit-picking. In partnership with the Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit, COJAC also organizes periodic consular outreach services (領事出張サービス) in the Columbus area. These events offer convenient local access to services such as passport applications and other official documentation.

Greater Columbus Sister Cities International (GCSCI) connects Columbus with ten sister cities around the world. Through cultural programming, GCSCI brings international art, food, and traditions to the Columbus Region. GCSCI offers education and youth initiatives such as student exchanges, delegations, and the CIRCLE leadership program.For professionals and businesses, GCSCI facilitates international trade missions, economic partnerships, and networking opportunities. By combining culture, education, business, and community resources, GCSCI helps position Columbus as a vibrant international city.

Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit serves as the primary diplomatic and consular office for Michigan and Ohio, including Columbus, as there is no consulate located directly in our state. Located in the GM Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit, it provides services such as visa application processing, passport and travel document issuance, notarial services, and civil registrations. The Consulate also actively supports cultural and educational ties between Japan and Ohio. Its jurisdiction includes coordination with Honorary Consul David W. Cook in Columbus, who promotes U.S.–Japan relations and assists local Japanese residents.

XpatHomes specializes in assisting expatriates and business travelers from Japanese and Korean companies in finding rental properties, property management, home search support, and expat support services. XpatHomes streamlines the rental process and provides a manual explaining the local housing market. By providing a safe and comfortable environment, XpatHomes supports Japanese and Korean companies and contribute to the economic development of the local community.