About Azuki Foundation

Founded in 2012, Azuki Foundation is dedicated to bringing the essence of Japanese culture to diverse communities across the UK. Our mission is to share the richness of Japanese traditions, arts, and ways of seeing the world — not only as a cultural offering, but as a path to wellbeing, lifelong learning, and connection across generations.

While our roots are in social engagement, our focus is on creating opportunities for people to experience the depth and beauty of Japanese culture in ways that enrich lives, foster curiosity, and encourage new perspectives.

Azuki Foundation was founded by Akiko Yanagisawa, an experienced producer of Japanese arts events in the UK. She recognised that traditional arts programming often fails to reach local communities — especially those with limited access to cultural experiences due to financial, educational, or social barriers. Azuki Foundation was created to bridge that gap.

Since 2013, we have delivered over 150 workshops and events in Islington, Camden, and Hackney, working closely with local authorities, community centres, and grassroots organisations. These programmes, designed with professional Japanese artists and workshop leaders, introduce people of all ages to cultural practices such as traditional dance, Noh theatre, origami, traditional games, tea cerempny, crafts, and music.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive — participants describe our events as uplifting, eye-opening, and deeply rewarding. By engaging with Japanese culture, many have found new forms of expression, gentle physical activity, and a greater sense of community.

As we continue to grow, we aim to bring Japanese cultural experiences to wider audiences across the UK — opening doors to new ways of thinking, feeling, and connecting.

“I don’t know how it happened now. But a couple of years ago the Akuki Foundation made contact with Alsen Day Centre, but for us it has been a marriage made in heaven. Their projects is steeped Japanese culture which has been very interesting for our service users.”  (Lloyd Coombes MBE, Manager of Alsen & New Park Day Centres)

“The Bon dance and Noh movement as well as Ayatori and Otedma workshops encouraged older members to participate in gentle movement which was particularly beneficial to those who are generally inactive.  It also provided some entertainment and insight into Japanese culture.”  (Katie Clark.  Over 55’s Programme Manager, St Luke’s Community Centre)

 “The Japanese Arts and Crafts workshops were extremely well organised. The team had excellent communication skills, a creative way of working, fantastic content in the workshops and a sensitive and productive way of working with the participants. The members from the Azuki Foundation were professional and efficient with Claremont staff, co-ordinating clearly with us and building strong relationships. I would highly recommend the Azuki Foundation. ”  (Dr Claire Marshall Clinical Manager & Centre Manager Claremont Project).