​Help Hakone Build a “Bridge to the Future” at Fundraising Gala

SARATOGA, CA (Sept. 6, 2018) – Hakone Estate and Gardens, one of the oldest Japanese gardens in the United States, will host its 2018 Hakone Gala on Sept. 16 from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Hakone Foundation, which maintains the gardens and cultural buildings, and provides programming to preserve and generate awareness around Japanese culture.

This year’s gala theme, “A Bridge to the Future,” will include a brief overview on where Hakone—which recently celebrated its centennial—will move forward in the future with community support.

“Now is the time to look at where Hakone is going in the next century and how we can all preserve this cultural treasure for future generations,” said Hakone Executive Director Shozo Kagoshima. ”With the support of the community, Hakone can continue implementing its master plan to enhance the visitor experience, from renovating the pond to promote better Koi health to building a new entrance, gift shop and new tea room.”

The gala, with Master of Ceremonies Robert Handa of NBC Bay Area, will begin with a welcome reception and feature an exciting evening of Japanese entertainment, including Koto, Taiko and Jazz. Le Papillon will prepare an elegant menu, and Hakone will host a silent auction with items ranging from Kimonos and sake to a private sailing experience on the Bay, Sharks tickets, Day on the Delta, and gift baskets filled with local wines, dinner certificates, and more. A special awards ceremony will honor Cole Wilbur, Trustee and Past President of The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, who played a key role in establishing the Hakone Foundation in 2000.

Tickets cost $200 per person ($95 of which is tax deductible) and can be purchased in the Hakone Gift Shop or online at http://2018hakonegala.eventbrite.com/.

For more information on Hakone’s fascinating history and other upcoming programs visit www.Hakone.com.

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EDITORS: Photos of the gardens are available.