Celebrate the Japanese New Year with Kagami Kai, an acclaimed mochi group, as it presents the colorful and exciting New Year tradition of mochi pounding to make delectably sweet rice cakes, with lively music, energetic dance and traditional costumes. Plus you can make folded paper cranes for luck and prosperity in the new year.   

Schedule and more details:

Paper Crane Folding + Omikuji
11 AM–2 PM
North Court

Mochi Pounding Celebration
12–1 PM 
Samsung Hall

Please note, the annual Mochi Pounding ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 20, the same day as the Women’s March. The museum will be open on Jan. 20 and will host the program as planned from 11 AM-2 PM, with the Mochi Pounding ceremony itself from 12-1 PM. The Women’s March speeches begin at 12 PM across the street from the museum in Civic Center Plaza. The march begins at 2 PM.  

Although the Civic Center will be impacted by street closures and crowds, SFMTA and BART are increasing service to the Civic Center, so public transportation remains the best option for getting to the museum. Check the city’s website for detailed maps, routes and other information.   Interested in attending both Mochi Pounding and the Women’s March? Head into the museum before the march and maybe you’ll be picked to pound mochi as part of this annual new year tradition!  

Through programs and exhibitions, the Asian Art Museum promotes learning about Asian art and culture, respecting diverse cultures and ways of thinking. We aim to be a place where visitors of all ages, backgrounds and abilities feel welcome, where people connect with themselves and each other.