Turning Japanese

It’s time to master your chopsticks skills—and not the key-striking piano variety. More than 10,000 pounds of chicken teriyaki, 1.5 tons of rice and 500 pounds of noodles will be available at the 62nd annual Buddhist Church Bazaar this weekend. Although the bazaar began in 1947 as a venue for members of Sacramento’s Japanese-American community to share food, memories and friendships, it has grown to include more than 40,000 people every year who wish to experience a little bit of Japanese culture. Artistic demonstrations such as flower arranging, calligraphy and embroidery, as well as a tea ceremony and the thunderous drumbeats of Saacramento’s Taiko Dan will be featured. Other food items include 1,500 pounds of beef, 400 pounds of shrimp, 150 gallons of soy sauce, 500 pounds of sugar and 100 pounds of salt for seasoning. Admission is free.