The much anticipated Japan Day flourished with thousands of spectators lined up along the parade route on Central Park West from 81st St. down to 72nd St. Some very colorful dresses were on display along with important cultural representations. As usual, the mounted police signaled to the crowd the parade was about to begin. To get the festive day started was an amazing group of kabuki dancers holding traditional objects while slowly dancing. This art form began well over 400 years ago and displayed as part of the vast wealth of Japanese culture. Proudly waving to the crowd was the first Asian-American Winter Olympics Figure Skating champion, Kristi Yamaguchi. She was selected to be this years parade Grand Marshal.
A definite crowd pleaser were the dance group, Yosakoi Dance Project, which combined dance moves with martial arts. Several other groups made their way down the parade route, but the ones gathering the most applause was the all female New York Kyoto Club with a fine display of kimono dresses. The thunderous joy came from the all female drum group of Tokio Marine America. Of course the Hello Kitty life size character got all the applause from the little kids. A large group of Lolitas dressed in Japanese anime style got lots of attention. Towards the end of the parade route, several kiosk were set up to sell Japanese food to add to the flair of the very successful Japan Day Parade and Celebration that continued into Central Park. It was a fun time had by all. Here are the best highlights of the parade.
NYC Parade Life 
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