Do I have to be Japanese or Japanese American to join?

No — NSU explicitly welcomes students of all backgrounds who are interested in Japanese American heritage and culture.

What makes NSU unique compared to other cultural clubs?

NSU is described as 'one of a kind' in that it specifically focuses on Japanese American heritage — not just Japanese culture — blending identity, history, and community in a way that reflects the distinct Japanese American experience.

How long has NSU been on campus?

NSU was founded in spring 2002, making it one of the longer-standing cultural organizations at UC Berkeley.

Nikkei Student Union

East Asian·By Culture

UC Berkeley's biggest Japanese-American interest organization, founded in spring 2002. NSU melds interests in Japanese American heritage with social and community events — and you don't have to be Japanese to join. Members connect around shared cultural identity while participating in events that celebrate and explore the Japanese American experience on campus.