The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre is embarking on a transformative journey to ensure its long-term sustainability and enrich visitor experiences. Through our capital campaign, Nikkei Next, we are investing in critical infrastructure upgrades, reimagining shared spaces, and creating new immersive cultural experiences. This initiative aims to preserve the Japanese Canadian cultural heritage while fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment where history, arts, and community come together.

Each enhancement is carefully planned to support the needs of our growing community, from essential building improvements such as roof and HVAC system upgrades to revitalizing Hayashi Hall, our Resource Centre Library, and outdoor gardens. Additionally, we are proud to introduce our Immersive Cultural Space, transforming our Tatami Room into a spot that authentically reflects Japanese tradition and aesthetics, offering a serene and educational space for cultural appreciation.

A ROOF OVER OUR HERITAGE

Roof replacement, our top priority, is underway to safeguard the integrity of the building. With this essential replacement, we are strengthening the foundation of our community hub and protecting all that occurs within the Nikkei Centre.

STORIES & ART COME TO LIFE ONSTAGE

Hayashi Hall will receive much-needed upgrades, including curtain repairs, improved lighting, and new sound equipment, enhancing the experience for performances, lectures, and community gatherings.

SERENE SPACES

A key aesthetic improvement is the creation of a new Japanese garden along Hawthorn Lane by Robert Nimi Nikkei Home, and the addition of a Japanese garden fence to our existing Nikkei Garden. These improvements reflect our commitment to preserving Japanese tradition while creating a dynamic space for future generations.

IMPROVED SHARED SPACES FOR ALL

Beyond infrastructure, we are revitalizing shared spaces to enhance comfort and accessibility. This includes upgrades to the lobby entrance, walkways, and multi-purpose rooms. This will create a more welcoming and safe atmosphere for building connections, sharing stories, and experiencing cultural activities.

CLIMATE CONTROL + HISTORY PRESERVATION

FUNDED

A major priority is replacement of our aging HVAC system, which will enhance heating, cooling, and air quality throughout the building, including humidity controls within the museum gallery and vault where invaluable historical items and documents are preserved.

A REFRESHING CHANGE

FUNDED

Two new eco-friendly water fountain stations installed thanks to an anonymous donor.

Nikkei Centre is undertaking an exciting renovation project to transform our Tatami Room into a fully immersive space that authentically reflects Japanese tradition and aesthetics. Be transported to Japan in this beautifully crafted space intended for the community and public to gather, attend varied cultural programs, host private functions, and simply appreciate its cultural significance. This unique space aims to strengthen and foster community connections, showcase Japanese arts, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.

The public will have access to a fully equipped and authentically designed tea room, available for rent to host lessons, conduct demonstrations, and share the art of tea with students and the community. This space offers an opportunity for people to grow their practices in a setting that respects and enhances the Japanese traditions of tea culture.

Preliminary design subject to changes through further consultations.