A Legacy of Culture: Honouring Yoko Matsuno-sensei

Yoko Matsuno-sensei was a beloved dance master whose smile and graceful moves were part of the Japanese Canadian community and beyond. Master of the Nishikawa School of Japanese Dance and the head of Satsuki-kai based at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, Yoko-sensei began dancing at the age of four. After years of intensive study, she received her Natori (professional name), Kayo Nishikawa, in 1962, and Shihan (master teacher) in 1978.

After immigrating to Canada in 1973, Yoko-sensei began teaching Japanese dance and performing at cultural events. In 2011, she founded the Satsuki-kai dance group where they practice at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, further deepening her teaching and community outreach. Yoko-sensei and Satsuki-kai are invited every year to perform at community events such as the Nikkei Matsuri, Nikkei Community New Year’s Celebration, and the Powell Street Festival, where they share the spirit of traditional performing arts and teach dance steps that invite audiences to participate and experience the joy of Japanese dance firsthand. On stage, Yoko-sensei’s bright smile and elegant presence captivate audiences; behind the scenes, she upholds high standards, guiding her students to excellence. Under her mentorship, five Satsuki-kai dancers have earned Natori status.

Yoko-sensei has also led cultural activities for Nikkei National Museum’s education program, where children experience Japanese dance in kimono—thanks to her donated kimono collection and the support of Satsuki-kai members. The group also performs regularly at the Robert Nimi Nikkei Home, where Yoko-sensei even created seated movements for residents to enjoy alongside the performers. Their outreach extends to other seniors’ residences and community events, where their performances continue to be warmly welcomed.

In recognition of her decades-long contributions to cultural exchange and community building, Yoko-sensei received the Nikkei Place Community Award in 2016.

We are deeply grateful for her enduring legacy and the countless lives she touched through dance, culture, and community.

In Memory of Ian Miki

Ian Noboru Miki

A dedicated Board Director and pillar of the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, Ian Miki, passed away in May 2024. His family’s internment during WWII in Greenwood, BC, inspired his dedication to preserving Japanese Canadian history and heritage for future generations. Serving since 2012, Ian volunteered his time and expertise to Nikkei Place, playing a key role in fundraising, development, and caring for the Nikkei Centre facility and Nikkei Garden. His kindness and positive spirit were truly remarkable, and he is dearly missed by everyone who was touched by his life.

A celebration of life was held on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre.

In the Nikkei Garden, a bench has been dedicated in memory of Ian, facing the pine tree he gave to Nikkei Centre on their 20th anniversary. This lasting tribute will forever celebrate his leadership, compassion, and commitment to the community.

Ian Miki Obituary ~ From His Loving Family

12 AUGUST, 1971 – 11 MAY, 2024

Ian Noboru Miki, born August 12, 1971, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 11, 2024.

Ian will be remembered with love by his wife Chieko, son Brian and daughters, Emily and Sophia. He will be deeply missed by his mother, Tsuneko, sister, Evy (Albert) and niece, Christina, as well as his in-laws and many extended family members, including uncles, aunts and cousins. Ian was pre-deceased by his father Robert Toru Miki.

Ian was born and raised in Surrey, BC. He went on to study civil engineering at UBC and started his career at the BC Ministry of Transportation, working in Prince George and Victoria before moving back to the Lower Mainland. After 8 years with the ministry, Ian moved to the private sector, working in various roles at FortisBC for 22 years. Ian had a very rewarding career and cherished the relationships he built with his co-workers.

As an adult, Ian settled in Burnaby and made many good neighbourhood friends. He wished to thank all the families on McKee Street and the surrounding areas for being great, supportive neighbours for over 20 years.

Ian was an active volunteer in the Nikkei community. As a result of his father and his family being interned during the second world war in Greenwood, BC, he was interested in his family history and supporting the preservation of Japanese Canadian history. Ian volunteered his time at the Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Center and was a volunteer director for over 10 years.

Ian’s life-long hobby was kendo. He started kendo at the age of seven and continued until his illness. He cherished the many friendships he made through kendo and is also proud that his son, Brian, continues this tradition.

Ian was diagnosed with lymphoma in September, 2023. He fought a long battle and passed away peacefully at St Michael’s Centre, surrounded by his loving family.

Ian accomplished much in his 52 years and appreciated the many friendships he developed through his work, hobbies and volunteering.

In accordance with Ian’s wishes, in lieu of flowers and koden, please consider a donation to the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre Maintenance Fund in Ian’s memory.