Konbanwa!

As catchy hook-laden Japanese pop music gave way to thunderous Taiko drums, Japan Night was well underway Monday night in a packed-to-capacity Smith Memorial Student Union Ballroom.

Organized by the newly formed Japanese Student Society, Japan Night is an evening filled with food, music and Japanese culture meant partially as a thank you to Portland State.

“Many of ourselves came here as exchange students,” said Hajime Kauwayama, president of the Japanese Student Society. “Many of the people were very kind to us and helped us. Before we leave we want to give back to the Americans that helped us.”

Portland State has more than 220 Japanese students–more than any other Oregon university–and the majority of them are exchange students. Kauwayama, 22, and event planner Ryo Suzuki, will return to Waseda University in Tokyo this December.

“This event’s concept is we want to introduce our traditions and pop culture,” Kuawayama said. “We prepared interactive performances and shows.”

The night featured a performance by Takohachi, a Taiko group from Portland, a speed-eating contest, traditional Japanese food from Bush Garden and a dance performance.