Matsuda Iminkan

Matsuda Iminkan is an association and integrative school based in Macaé, Brazil, bringing together sport, culture, health and philosophy. It promotes Japanese cultural traditions and strengthens understanding and friendship between Brazil and Japan, while preserving local stories of Japanese immigration, including the lesser-known period before the arrival of the Kasato Maru in 1908.

The association offers judo and Japanese-language activities, alongside cultural events and community projects. Its Banzai judo project provides social support to children experiencing hardship, using sport to encourage discipline, respect, solidarity and personal development. The project has been approved under Brazil’s Federal Sports Incentive Law and is seeking support. Matsuda Iminkan also organizes a monthly Solidarity Yakisoba event to raise funds for its social initiatives, featuring Japanese food, a small shop with Japanese sweets and cooking products, and karaoke. Through its programs and events, the association connects community service with Japanese arts, customs and cuisine, and invites the public to participate, contribute and help support its work.