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[E-mail us your information about community-related events, clubs and associations]
CHARITY
Marunouchi Ekiden long-distance relay race returns Sat., March 18, around the Imperial Palace's outer garden, inviting runners aged 20+ to race in 160 teams of four. This year's race supports 3/11 recovery efforts in Tohoku. Registration period from 11 a.m., Wed., Feb. 1, to 6 p.m., Wed., Feb. 29. For details and registration, visit www.tokyo-event.jp/ekiden/ (Japanese only)
Share Your Christmas: Embrace Transition (Jacinta Hin (Dutch) and Angela Jeffs (English) ) and friends (regular ET contributors Jeffrey Jousan and James Howard (American both)) have started a campaign to help spread the goodwill of Christmas to the children (and adults) of Tohoku. It's called "Share Your Christmas." The idea is to share one of the presents you receive on Christmas Day and send it to us. We will then hand-deliver them to Tohoku throughout January into February. We now have a home page (www.shareyourchristmas.org) in English, Japanese, French, Hindi and Chinese, and a Facebook page (Share Your Christmas With Tohoku, Japan)
Oxfam shops: This winter, not one but two brand-new Oxfam Shops will open in Tokyo for a limited period, selling good-quality donated items alongside fair trade goods and original Oxfam Japan products. The new Shimokitazawa store closes on Sun., Jan. 29, the Kichijoji shop on Sun., Feb. 12. For details, see oxfam.jp/en/2011/10/first_oxfam_shops_in_japan_ope.html
Music funds for Tohoku schools: We have funds available for Japanese schools and music programs! Relief International, an international humanitarian NPO based in Los Angeles, is offering up to $5,000 to schools in Iwate, Fukushima and Miyagi to support the recovery of their music programs through the collaborative "Jam 4 Japan" Music Education Grant. Please visit our website (www.ri.org/jam4japan) to learn more about this project. We would greatly appreciate your help in identifying disaster-affected schools with existing music programs, active musicians and/or bands, or any schools in need of musical instruments. Email brianna.pierce@ri.org
Today, We Are All Japanese: Artists will donate works for an exhibition and fundraiser in Tokyo. All profits go to the Tohoku relief efforts. The show will be an eclectic get-together of artists from around the world, illustrating that "together we can make a difference." For more info, visit today-we-are-all-japanese.com/Welcome.html or on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Today-We-Are-All-Japanese/111966155551742
Help the flood victims in Thailand by donating 50% of the price for a traditional Thai massage. Available in Tokyo and Kanagawa. For info, visit sango-massage.info/home.html
Fukushima Future is a young NPO based in France also with a network in Japan. We are working for a better future in Fukushima Prefecture and the rest of Japan. Please help by joining us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Fukushima.Future. Phone: +33 (0) 6-4980-5731. Email: fukushimafuture@hotmail.com. Twitter: twitter.com/FukushimaFuture
Operation Tohoku: The Japan Emergency Team has been in the Fukushima, Sendai and Kesennuma areas of northern Japan since the day after the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11, bringing in food, blankets, water and other supplies in its 85th disaster operation since 1989. The way the Emergency Assistance Service operates is simple: Go to www.jhelp.com and click "help." Supplies provided and assistance needed, individuals wishing to help on-site and other requests are matched with current needs. Currently the most-needed supplies include wat er, canned and instant food, blankets, sleeping bags, tents and used laptop computers. Donations can be made online at www.jhelp.com or via Postal Furikae 00160-7-162438 Nihon Kinkyu Enjotai. The team can be reached on-site 24 hours a day on (090) 3080-6711 or (090) 7170-4769
Tohoku quake multilingual support: The National Managerial Council for Multicultural Information and Assistance NPO has been established to support foreign victims of the earthquake of March 11. We aim to provide and gather multilingual information about foreign residents in the disaster area. For further information, please visit eqinfojp.net
Tsunami fundraising art project by artist Yuko Adachi, who says: "To contribute as an artist to the global efforts toward rebuilding Japan, I created a piece called 'Prayers for Japan,' of which 100 percent of sales profits will be donated to Japan relief efforts." To purchase prints and for more info, visit www.PlanetMOMEKO.com
Knit for Japan is an initiative to collect and distribute hand-knitted/crocheted items, yarn and knitting tools to victims of the Tohoku earthquake. This can be a woolly hat, pair of socks, a scarf or some gloves. For more info: knitforjapan.com
We offer our home to two or three children as a free holiday. The children pay their way to and from Japan, but their stay with us will be free. Length of stay may vary from a few weeks to a few months to a year or two should the need arise. We are located in the small town of Winchester, Ontario, Canada, approximately 35 km south of Ottawa. We have a dog, a separate bedroom for each child, a pool, a garden, a really nice, quiet, large home. No tsunami, no earthquakes and no radioactive fallout! If interested, please contact us at john_pollock_is_@hotmail.com for further details
Essays required: MGS-Publications is planning to write a book of short stories about the lives of children in need. The book will be titled "This is Me." Anyone under the age of 18 can take part. Essays must be between 500 and 1,000 words, and they can be fiction or nonfiction. All proceeds from the book will go to children's charities. Send entries to: mgs-publications@hotmail.com
Aid for Iraq: The Japan Emergency Team asks the community to help with its efforts by donating used laptop computers for use in Baghdad, Iraq, to assist in resettlement and relief efforts for the nearly 500,000 refugees. Any used laptop computer with Wi-Fi function can be sent to: Operation Baghdad, The Japan Emergency Team, Box 65, Tokyo 106-8691. E-mail help@jhelp.com for more information
Heartfelt lanterns: Molo is currently making 50 special limited edition lanterns with the Japanese "sun-disc" hand painted on the lantern and its packaging. The numbered, limited edition "heartfelt lantern for Japan" is $150, with full proceeds being donated to Architecture for Humanity's relief efforts in Sendai. Available at molostore.com/heartfelt-lantern.html
A Dream a Day in Tokyo provides weeklong, expenses-paid vacations to kids with life-threatening illnesses and their families. We welcome volunteers and supporters. For more information, please mail m-uehara@guesthouse.or.jp or see www.guesthouse.or.jp/english
Amnesty International: AITEN is an English-language AI group based in Tokyo (formerly Group 78). We organize educational meetings, campaign work, letter writing, fundraising, etc. For further information, please see www.aiten.org
Fundraisers wanted: To help the homeless of Tokyo, we'll be collecting funds and providing services around the city. Train fare contributions and snacks provided to participants if needed. For those who cannot participate, we are providing telephone English conversation lessons where 30% of the fees will be donated to the homeless. See brendalesenglish.web.fc2.com or call Chris on (080) 3219 1997 for more information
Stop Nukes Japan: APC Japan (an NGO in Japan working with two major national networks and social movements) provides relevant information to the world in English, and has set up a joint project, Stop Nukes Japan, on Twitter at twitter.com/nonuke_jp. It includes information in English from Citizens' Nuclear Information Center, Green Action, Friends of the Earth, Japan, NINDJA (Network for Indonesian Democracy, Japan), No Nukes Asia Forum, Japan, The Takagi Fund for Citizen Science, Alternative People's Linkage in Asia (APLA). Updates on the Fukushima nuclear crisis can be found at 2011shinsai.info. I hope you can help us by letting your friends know and following nonuke_jp on Twitter
Peace Boat is a Japan-based international NGO/NPO that works to promote peace, human rights, equal and sustainable development and respect for the environment. Peace Boat seeks to create awareness and action based on effecting positive social and political change in the world. For more information, visit www.peaceboat.org
CLASSES
Introduction to Christianity class is being hosted by St. Paul International Lutheran Church, Tokyo, starting Sun., Feb. 12, at 11 a.m. following our 9:30 worship service and time of fellowship. We'll be exploring themes such as: the existence of God, who is Jesus, and the Christian life. For more information, please email alleluia@gol.com. For a map to the church, please visit www2.gol.com/users/alleluia/. All are welcome!
Tibetan Buddhism Teachings: Do Ngak Sung Juk, a Tibetan Buddhist center in Tokyo, offers teachings with Geshe Thubten Sherab, visiting from Nepal's Kopan Monastery. Teachings are in English with Japanese translation and at various venues. Sat., Feb 18, to Sun., Feb. 19: "Instead of Trying to Change the People Around Us, Why Not Just Transform Our Mind?"; Tue., Feb. 21 on the "Daily Vajrasattva Purification Practice"; Wed., Feb. 22, Tibetan New Year will be an "Animal Liberation"; and Sat., Feb. 25, to Sun., Feb. 26, is an overnight "Powerful Mitrugpa Deity Practice Retreat." In Osaka on March 3-4 will be Dzambhala Puja and the "Buddhist Approach to Death & Dying." All teachings are suitable for beginners to advanced practitioners. For more info, visit www.fpmt-japan.org
Comedy Juku: Interested in trying out standup comedy? Join our comedy jukus! It's an open forum of comedians talking about their jokes, giving feedback or critiques and performing small sets to a limited audience. In this relaxed atmosphere, you can meet other people who are interested in comedy and fine-tune ideas you have. We hold the juku the last Wednesday of every month (Feb. 29) at the Pink Cow, Shibuya, 7-9 p.m. See www.madcowscomedy.com
Aikido in English: Join Seidokan Aikido of Tokyo, a modern style of aikido taught in English every Saturday, 1-3 p.m. We welcome men and women, foreign and Japanese. The first month of instruction is free. In Itabashi Ward, on Toei Mita/Saikyo lines. See www.tokyoseidokan.com. Email dojo@tokyoseidokan.com for details
Feature-writing classes for those interested in newspaper, magazine and blog writing. Practice how to conduct inspirational interviews, how to refine your writing and then enhance your skills with photojournalism. Come ready to jump into a topic that you're passionate about! Classes held in central Tokyo by journalist with 25 years' publishing experience. Call (090) 4122-6626
Photography classes in English: Do you want to take photos or make photos? Creative photography (three 2-hour lessons) and portrait photography (three 2-hour lessons) courses and glamour photography workshop (4 hours) at studio in Kayabacho, Tokyo — 4 mins from station. More information: facesandplacesjapan@live.com
Let's cook tasty Thai dishes! Do you like tom yam kung? Do you like Thai cuisine? Do you want to cook it yourself? If your answers are "yes," "yes" and "yes," why not start cooking it now! Have fun while learning Thai cooking. Individual lesson at home or small group lessons (3-5 persons) at home are provided. You will learn how to cook Thai dishes and about Thai cuisine and culture. Contact me at surintorn@hotmail.com or (090) 6346-2930 for more info, and please visit oishii-thai.blogspot.com
Daily meditation at 7 a.m. in very beautiful, peaceful surroundings in Tokyo. Learn in easy, practical steps to achieve quietude and perhaps a little more. Underlying principles are based on yoga and Hinduism (we are a yoga studio) but our ultimate objectives are beyond religion. These sessions are therefore appreciated by seekers of all denominations and atheists too! Donation of ¥500. E-mail to reserve a place: paola@yogasan.net. Notes on meditation here: www.yogasan.net
Knightly combat and culture: Discover the lost arts of medieval Europe. Study two-handed sword as well as sword and buckler. You can even fight as an armored knight. Other courses include dancing, costume making and calligraphy. Show off your skills at our regular theme parties! Where: Castle Tintagel, Mejiro, Tokyo. Phone (080) 3690-8657 or e-mail jnoyes@castletintagel.com. Check out www.castletintagel.com
Cooking classes: Enjoy learning French and Italian dishes with a native teacher in Shibuya. You will cook three dishes with recipes that anybody can do. Lesson taught in basic English but feel free to speak Japanese, Italian or French. Reservation needed. For details, mail cookingfriends@hotmail.fr
Experience the power and excitement of Japanese "taiko" drumming. For more information on meetings, check out www.akaonidaiko.com
Chinese brush painting began about 6,000 years ago. Rivka Sue teaches Chinese brush painting in Tokyo. Join her class and you will explore the joy of Chinese brush painting. Please contact Rivka Sue at rivkasue@hotmail.com
Cooking friends meet monthly to prepare and eat European food in Shibuya. Learn about cooking with a professional native teacher and speak French, Italian, English or Japanese. Reservations are needed for those who wish to attend. For more info, mail italiancookingfriends@hotmail.it
The Tokyo Comedy Store offers workshops in improvisational comedy and a whole lot more in Azabu Juban. For more information on shows, check out www.tokyocomedy.com/english
Drawing and painting: Tokyo's leading center for intuitive art studies offers drawing and painting classes for artists of all backgrounds from our fully equipped and convenient downtown Okachimachi studio. Discover how to draw out and gain confidence in your creative wisdom within! See www.genesiscards.com for details
Creative photography classes held in English with an experienced British photographer in Urawa City, Saitama Pref. (www.facesandplaces.jp). You have a digital camera and you know how to use it. Now learn to take great photos! For further information, please call (080) 1234-7475 or mail claxtonmcmc@hotmail.com
Choir practice takes place every Thursday 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Tokyo Metro Church in Tachikawa. Each session includes English pronunciation practice by native speakers, breathing techniques and lots of singing. No experience necessary. For more info (in Japanese), please call (042) 548-0132, or (in English) e-mail englishattmc@yahoo.com
Yoga lessons: Would you like to try our yoga lessons in small groups and in a beautiful, cozy and relaxing setting? We already have a keen following of Japanese and non-Japanese students who love our caring approach and delicious (free) chai. It's also an excellent and very cheap way to improve your English and meet new people. There is plenty of time after the lessons for chat and language practice. See www.yogasan.net. Mail for brochure: paola@yogasan.net (Japanese/English)
Photography classes: Learn the art and craft of photography from a leading international expert. Studio courses with professional fashion models and makeup artists at Harajuku Studio, plus outdoor location shoots in central Tokyo are offered. To register or for further information, please contact timporter.tokyo@gmail.com
CLUBS
English discussion group meeting: The East West Discussion Group presents a discussion on "Republic of Cuba" following a presentation by Mary Dougherty on Thu., Feb. 9, 7-9 p.m. Venue: Room 104, Waseda Hoshien Seminar House, 2-3-1 Nishiwaseda, Shinjuku Ward 169-8616 (phone (03) 3205-5411). See www.hoshien.or.jp. ¥700 Japanese, ¥500 non-Japanese and students. For details, mail Shigetomi Imai at sigetomii@yahoo.co.jp
Breakfast Toastmasters Club: Are your communication and leadership skills keeping you ahead or behind in today's economic climate? Your confidence and effectiveness as a public speaker can grow in the supportive atmosphere of Breakfast Toastmasters. We are an English speaking club that meets 8 a.m. every second (Feb. 9) and fourth Thursday at the Dai-Ichi Hotel in Shimbashi, Tokyo. Prior reservation required. For more info, visit breakfast.freetoasthost.org
Pioneer Toastmasters Club welcomes you to join club meetings as a guest. An NPO for education, the club is part of Toastmasters International, which helps people of various backgrounds improve their communication and leadership skills using a proven education system. We meet every second (Feb. 10) and fourth Friday at Aoyama Lifelong Learning Center, Omotesando (A4 exit), Tokyo. Visit pioneertoastmasters.ning.com for further details
International Computer Association (ICA) third Thursday meeting (Feb. 16) will be held in Yurakucho, Tokyo, on the subject of social media, with James Hollow of Alien Eye. See icajapan.jp for details
SCBWI Tokyo Writers' Night: This Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators event features Claire Dawn-Marie Gittens, with "Brick by Brick — Building your Blog," and Trevor Kew with "Less Talk, More Action — Achieving Balance between Action, Dialogue, and Description in Your Children's Book" on Sat., Feb. 18, 6-8:30 p.m. at Tokyo Women's Plaza, Conference Room 1, 5-53-67 Jingumae, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo (by the Children's Castle and United Nations University). For a map, see www.scbwi.jp/map.htm. Fee: ¥1,500 SCBWI members, ¥2,000 nonmembers. Reservations: RSVP contact@scbwi.jp by Fri., Feb. 17
Kokubunji Toastmasters Club, an international English-language public speaking club, welcomes people to its monthly meetings, which are held on the third Saturday night (Feb. 18) of each month. E-mail: yamaumi@hotmail.com
Tokyo Book Group: A casual discussion of fiction from around the world is held in Shibuya once a month. Discussions will be based on: "Chess Story," a novella by German-language writer Stefan Zweig (Sun., Feb. 19); "Motherless Brooklyn" by Jonathan Lethem, an inventive detective novel (Sun., Mar. 25); and "The Changeling," by Scottish author Robin Jenkins (Sun., Apr. 15). For further information, contact jeffdjp@yahoo.com
Tokyo Spring's next film/discussion will be held on Sun., Feb. 26, at Cafe Lavanderia in Shinjuku from 4 p.m. Map: cafelavanderia.blogspot.com/search/label/MAP. We will show the documentary "Battle in Seattle." Event is free of charge. Tokyo Spring is a leftwing political gathering. Tokyo Spring blogspot: tokyospring.blogspot.com. Twitter: @sulejmansulejma. Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Tokyo-Spring/241175539265215
Tokyo International Debating Society will conduct a debate on the first Wednesday (March 7) of each month. Venue: Room No.3, Aoyama Life Long Learning Center, 4-18-17 Minami Aoyama, Minato Ward, Tokyo. For further information, please email nixonjoseph@live.com
Tokyo Art Collectors Group: Join with us on our bilingual tours and casual discussions as we discover new art galleries and artists in Tokyo. Chance to see behind the scenes, see the works of many artists, and meet the gallery owners. Join our group on Facebook and Linked In. Our next event will be in February, when we will tour galleries in Asakusabashi and Nihonbashi. No fee for membership. For more information, contact Bob Tobin at Tobin Ohashi Gallery, 1-4 Yokoyama-cho, Nihonbashi (near Kodenmacho station), or email to rtbn@gol.com. Tel: (03) 5695-6600
Tokyo PC Users Group: Japan's largest English-speaking personal computer club is for technology enthusiasts of all sorts, from beginners to seasoned professionals. We normally meet on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Tokyo Union Church in Omotesando. See www.tokyopc.org for event details and map
International societies: Inexpensive Japanese language classes, international events and free consultations (legal, doctor info., etc.) — local government-supported NPOs ("international societies") throughout Japan offer these services. For details, see www.tokyo-international.org
Wine-tasting club: Monthly meeting to learn about wines with a native teacher and enjoy a gourmet dinner in a nice restaurant. Lesson includes learning about wine-making, production, grape varieties and how to coordinate with food. You will taste five kinds of wines with your French dinner. Mail frenchwinefriends@hotmail.com
English-speaking women's group: College Women's Association of Japan (CWAJ) is an organization for women committed to education, crosscultural exchange and friendship. CWAJ holds monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and has several special interests groups such as hiking, Japanese conversation, trips and tours, music and ceramics. It's a great way to meet new people and become involved! See www.cwaj.org
Wine-tasting club: We meet monthly in Tokyo. Learn about wines with a native teacher, enjoy a gourmet dinner and speak English, French or Japanese in a friendly, international atmosphere. Enjoyable, interesting and cultural wine-tasting for everybody. Mail frenchwinetasting@hotmail.com
Love Shakespeare? Amateur group in Tokyo meets once a month to celebrate our love of the Bard. Come to read or just to listen. All nationalities welcome, and no experience is necessary! Visit groups.yahoo.com/group/Shakespeare-sama
The Nippon Australian Football League is the largest non-race-based football league in Japan. We have the (Osaka) Kinki Kangaroos, Nagoya Redbacks, Kyoto Kockatwos, Hiroshima Cranes, Nagano Kumas, Kobe Crocodiles. Anyone willing to take up a position as player or coach please contact us. We also have a women's team, the Kinki Koalas. Visit www.nafl.jp, send a mail to nafl@hotmail.co.jp or call Andy on (090) 4299-2202
Square and Compass Masonic Lodge #3 meets Sundays in Kunitachi, Tokyo. Meetings begin 1 p.m. with lunch at 12 p.m. For info, contact Wm. W. Burgos at wm@square-compass3.org
Tokyo American Club: The Tokyo American Club has been a home away from home for Americans in Tokyo since 1924. A special resolution was passed in 1981 entitling all Americans living in Japan to qualify to join the club. Please call (03) 4588-0381 to put a membership plan together for you and your family or visit www.tokyoamericanclub.org
Tokyo Canadian Club for Canadians and friends of Canada. Join the club for events with Canadian nostalgia and a monthly pub night. Visit our Web site at: www.tokyocanadianclub.com
The American Village in Misaki, Kanagawa Pref., is seeking new members. Located on the water only one hour from Tokyo, the Village is perfect for sailing, beach and family time for the international community. For further information, e-mail amakusashiro1@msn.com
The British Embassy Choir in Tokyo sings a wide variety of music and performs at many venues. Open to anyone, its international members donate their time and energy to help worthy causes and charities through singing. The choir is open to new members and can be contacted by email at renbran@gmail.com or www.bec.ac
EDUCATION
Lakeland Lecture: "Hafu" with Marcia Yumi Lise, researcher and cofounder of The Hafu Project, on Wed., March 7, from 7 p.m. This lecture asks the very question of what it is to be a "half" in Japan from a sociological perspective. Lakeland Lectures are a forum for researchers, students and members of the public to discuss contemporary issues affecting Japan. Location: 5-7-12 Shinjuku, Tokyo, 1F. See www.lcjapan.com/lectures for map. Tel: (03) 3225-0425
Bilingual English telephone lessons throughout Japan from Brendales Communication — even if you just want to talk to someone. See brendalesenglish.web.fc2.com or call (080) 3219-1997 for more information
English conversation: Are you comfortable to speak English in front of people? Gems English Language Club teaches conversational English, phonics, pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and intonation to all age groups and non-English language speakers in Kanagawa. Gems also organizes special English conversational language group lessons for doctors and nurses in Kanagawa. Speak English and talk to everyone. For further information (English/Japanese), e-mail georgemenns@hotmail.com or call (090) 1265-1042
The Association of Small English Schools seeks owners or managers of schools with less than 100 students. Contact Louis at (090) 4453-1080 or see www.ne.jp/asahi/eigo-de/karaoke/assess.htm
International appeal: I'd like to practice languages and hope to spend time with new international friends with whom I can speak in both English/Spanish and Japanese. Emails welcome, to cooltokyojin@yahoo.com
Sensei Club: Find teachers and students (Tokyo and Japan) — for English and other subjects! Contact teachers or students directly. It's free! Visit us at www.senseiclub.com
Akasaka Nihongo Club is offering a beginner's and intermediate-level Japanese class taught by volunteer instructors every Saturday in Tokyo, 10-11:30 a.m. Venue: Akasaka Iki-iki Plaza, a four-minute walk from Exit 6 of Akasaka Station, on the Chiyoda subway line. To sign up for membership, please call (080) 5432-4306 or (03) 3401-4306 (evenings only). For further information, please visit www.speakjapanese.jp
University teachers: Uncertain times at work? Isolated? Don't know where to turn? We're stronger if we stand together. Contact the University Teachers Union (National Union of General Workers Tokyo Nambu) via www.utu-japan.org
Chinese Class: Do you want your children to learn Chinese? Rivka Sue teaches Mandarin Chinese to children aged 3-5. If you are interested in taking the lesson, contact rivkasue@hotmail.com
Playing in English for children in Meguro, Tokyo: Every Saturday, all foreign and Japanese children are welcome to play, communicate and learn together. Groups: less than 3 years old, 3-5 years, 6-8 and over-8s. Sessions last 90 minutes. You can stay with your kids or leave them alone with the teachers. Activities include singing, playing games, reading stories, etc. If you are a native English speaker, you can apply to become a teacher as well. For more information, please e-mail eigodeazobo@gmail.com
SOCIAL
Tokyo Professionals is having a business networking event on Tue., Feb. 7, at the Conrad Hotel in Shiodome. We welcome business professionals from all different Industries. We will also have various local Tokyo businesses offering various prize giveaways — don't miss it! For more information, visit www.tokyoprofessionals.net
The Mike Price Jazz Orchestra (www.mikepricejazz.com) will perform Fri., Feb. 10, at Someday in Shinjuku, at 7:45 and 9:15 p.m. Venue: someday.net/shinjyuku. Phone: (03) 3359-6777. Charge: ¥3,990. "Someday" is located a few feet from Yasukuni Dori, very near to Kosei Nenkin Kaikan. Address: Shinjuku Ward, Shinjuku 1-34-8, Shinjuku Gyoenmae Biru B1, in basement of Yayoi shop. The closest stations are both on the Marunouchi Line, either Shinjuku Gyoenmae (exit 1) or Shinjuku San-Chome (exit C7)
Improv-A-Go-Go! What: Tokyo's awesomest improv free-for-all and sketch comedy jam fest. When: Every third Wed. (Feb. 15), starting 8 p.m. (doors 6 p.m.) Free! Why: To chill with a martini and burrito with the up-and-coming improvisers of Tokyo. Also, see what treats the Tokyo Comedy Store have lined up. At: The Pink Cow, Shibuya. Tel: (03) 3406-5597. Web: www.thepinkcow.com
Freelancing in Tokyo meets monthly every third Thursday (Feb. 16) at Kimono Wine Bar in Minami Aoyama. Call (03) 6438-1685. Network, eat, drink, introduce yourself or your firm, enjoy. ¥2,000 charge. RSVP to lauren@kimonowinebar.com. More info at www.freelancingintokyo.com
Standup comedy: Mad Cow presents the "Big Night Out" — an English-language night of comedy at The Pink Cow in Shibuya — on the first Saturday of every month (March 3). Show time is between 90 minutes and two hours. ¥500 happy hour drinks until 7:30 p.m. Admission ¥1000 with 1 drink. Please check out our website at www.madcowscomedy.com for further information
Open Mic Night: Every Thursday night from 8 till 1:30, CoZmo's Cafe in Shibuya comes alive with local and talented musicians. Free. Musicians, singers, dancers and poets are welcome to take the stage, and music lovers are welcome to listen to new, talented artists. Sign up on arrival — no reservations. Alternatively, just come to listen and enjoy. For more info, send a mail to info@cozmoscafe.com, call (03) 3407-5166 or check out www.cozmoscafe.com
Tokyo Social Network: Free site — find new friends, partners, language teachers, students. Job networking. Create groups and events to meet new people. See www.tokyosocialnet.com
The Canadian Alumni Association in Japan (CAAJ) holds monthly events that are designed for networking between people who have studied in Canada and those who are interested in doing so. For more info, contact (03) 3224-0944, e-mail membership@caaj.jp or check out www.caaj.jp
Need a good laugh? There's standup, open mike, improv and more! The Tokyo Comedy Store hosts four shows this month in Shibuya and Asakusa, with the entrance fee ranging from free to ¥2,000 (drinks included). Reserve by mailing Chris Wells (chris@tokyocomedy.com) or visit www.tokyocomedy.com/schedule
Ladies' golf: Gaijin Golfers, a free online community of golfers in Japan, has launched a women's league. This league is all about connecting women of all nationalities to learn, play and enjoy golf for business and enjoyment. Golf is a great way to socialize, expand your circle of friends, business connections, enjoy nature and have fun. For details, go to www.gaijingolfers.com
Chicks' Music Night is a free open-mike event held every Tuesday at CoZmo's Cafe in Shibuya. Singers, songwriters, musicians, DJs, bellydancers, salsa dancers — all women are invited to participate in this new collaborative musical event. Please call or e-mail for booking. Happy hour all night for girls! For more info, send a mail to info@cozmoscafe.com, call (03) 3407-5166 or check out www.cozmoscafe.com
The Japan African-American Friendship Association (JAFA) is a group with chapters located in both Tokyo and Osaka that promotes educational and cultural exchange activities between Japanese people and African-Americans. For more info, check out www.jafa.org
DigitalEve Japan, a supportive international community of women interested in digital technology, hosts DigitalEVEnings, workshops and DigitalEVEnts. Free membership. Mail info@digitalevejapan.org or see www.digitalevejapan.org
Association of Foreign Wives of Japanese supports foreign women with Japanese partners. See www.afwj.org for more information
Sing with a live band: You can sing the song of your choice at the next From Music to English event. Let me know the song you'd like to sing and the band will prepare it. Call (090) 4453-1080 or mail largelouis@gmail.com
OTHERS
The Unitarian Fellowship of Tokyo meets at 3 p.m. every second Sunday (Feb. 12) of the month (except in July and August) for stimulating discussions on topics of faith and social justice at International House, near Roppongi or Azabu-Juban stations. Contact us for more info on (03) 3470-4611 or at unitarianfellowshipoftokyo@gmail.com
Oedo Antique Fair: Japan's largest fair of international antique goods takes place every third Sunday (Feb. 19) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission free. The fair takes place at Tokyo International Forum. Please contact (03) 5221-9035
Writers conference proposals sought: This year the Japan Writers Conference returns to Kyoto and the beautiful Imadegawa campus of Doshisha Women's College. It will take place Sat., Nov. 10, and Sun., Nov. 11. All published writers, translators, editors, agents and publishers who would like to lead a session are invited to submit proposals. Please see our website for details: www.japanwritersconference.org
The 2nd Africa Heritage Festival 2012 — with live show, food court, African bazaar, workshop, fashion show, photo exhibition, charity, reception, etc. Date: Sat., March 24, and Sun., March 25, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Location: Fuchinobe Park (3-1-6 Yaei Chuo Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa). Free! Organized by the Africa Heritage Committee and supported by Sagamihara International Communication Lounge. For more information, call (042) 724-6695, fax (042) 703-4001, email africaheritage@j01.itscom.net or visit africah.web.fc2.com
Marunouchi Cafe Seek — a center for international cultural exchange — opens in Tokyo hosting a variety of events, and offers free Wi-Fi services, tourism literature and other resources for international travelers to Japan. Located on the 2F of the Shin Tokyo Building on Naka-dori Ave., above the JNTO Tourist Information Center. The "Beautiful Fukushima" Japanese calligraphy exhibit runs through March 31 in support of 3/11 recovery efforts. Info: (03) 3212 5025
International Buddhist Congregation holds Sundar service in English every Sunday at 11 a.m. at Fumon-kan (2-6-1 Wada, Suginami Ward, Tokyo), 10 mins from Honancho Station's West Exit on the Marunouchi Line. Friendly atmosphere. Tel: (03) 5341-1230. Website: www.ibc-rk.org
"The Expat's Guide to Japan" is an online guide that covers all the basic yet essential info to help make living in and around Tokyo and Yokohama more pleasant and convenient. Printed copies also available free of charge. Contact info@mais.co.jp or see expatsguide.jp
For Your New Year's resolution, read The Japan Times and Dr. Stim at adventuresofkimi.blogspot.com and physiciansnotebook.blogspot.com
Faith & Victory International Church Yokohama has services in both English and Japanese. Activities: Sunday Worship (from 3 p.m.), Gospel Choir Practice (7 p.m. Wednesdays), Leadership Training Program (Sundays), Variety Night (7:15 p.m. Fridays). Place: Yokohama Nishi Ward, Minamisaiwai 2-16-20, Ochuu Yokohama Building 9F (5 mins walk from Yokohama Station, West Exit). Telephone: (045) 479-5060/(090) 9813-3545 or mail naokiatanda@yahoo.com
Overeaters Anonymous can be contacted on (03) 5605-9425, by e-mailing oatokyo@yahoo.com or visiting www.oaintokyo.org
Learn to meditate: Looking for a spiritual element in everyday life, without having to embrace dogma or established religion? All instruction is based entirely on our experience, common sense and standard yoga practices. Our yoga studio has an easy startup plan that provides practical sets of instruction to beginners. We are based around Hindu/Buddhist beliefs but the essential method is suitable for all belief systems and for nonbelievers. For more on class times, please mail paola@yogasan.net or check out www.yogasan.net
Animal welfare/rights: choicesfortomorrow. org is a site with comprehensive information in Japanese and English about animal welfare and animal rights. Choices for Tomorrow strives for a cruelty-free lifestyle and aims to provide beneficial content for you. We would like many people to know about the current condition that animals are facing every day. Please check out www.choicesfortomorrow.org and mail inquiries to info@choicesfortomorrow.org
The Free Choice Foundation cordially invites you to join our online petition for the rights of non-Japanese and naturalized citizens residing in Japan. Now is your chance to join your voice with ours in petitioning the government on issues such as dual citizenship, equal parental rights, fingerprinting, discrimination and more. The issues you choose to support on our multi-petition form are your free choice. You can even create you own petition! Please visit www.freechoice.jp
The Japan Helpline — From anywhere about anything, anytime: Go to www.jhelp.com and press "help" or call (0570) 000-911
Tokyo Theatre for Children has been bringing the magical world of musical theatre to kids, young and old, for over 35 years! We are an English-speaking, adult community theatre troupe and nonprofit always looking for volunteers. Can you paint? Build? Act? Sing? Sew? Dance? Want to work backstage? No experience? No problem! How about being a patron of the arts? Production costs are extremely high. Please help us keep Tokyo Theatre for Children alive and bring the world of make-believe to life! Please contact Gerri at ttfc.japan@gmail.com or check out www.tokyotheatreforchildren.blogspot.com
Kamigamo Shrine in Kita Ward, Kyoto, offers daily tours with English-speaking guides. Participants should be at the shrine at 9:30 a.m. Tours at other hours available on request. Cost: ¥500. Please check in advance that tour for the day will take place. Please call (075) 781-0011 or visit www.kamigamojinja.jp for details
Shinjuku Shalom Church has an English Service every Saturday from 3 p.m. at Shinjuku Ward, Nishi-Shinjuku 7-9-6 Kotobuki Bldg., Rm 201. Phone (03) 3371-7558. With ice-breaking, singing, messages and refreshments. This is a chance to practice English and get some spiritual food
Washington office available: Office in Washington, D.C., across from Union Station/Capitol Hill with kitchen, conference room, gym available for Japan-based organizations and individuals to use when in Washington. Contact help@keikyo.com for further information
Animal welfare/rights: choicesfortomorrow.org is a site with comprehensive information in Japanese and English about animal welfare and animal rights. Choices for Tomorrow strives for a cruelty-free lifestyle and aims to provide beneficial content for you. We would like many people to know about the current condition that animals are facing every day. Please check out www.choicesfortomorrow.org and mail inquiries to info@choicesfortomorrow.org
International Village: Cabins and homesites on the water at Aburatsubo, home of Japan's first yacht club, available to the international community. 55 minutes direct to Tokyo by train or car. Next to beach, onsen, stores, 10 mins to station, completely private. For info, call (03) 3435-8017 or mail aburatsubobythewater@gmail.com
See Tokyo through the eyes of an English-speaking native! Our guides might not speak perfect English, but their hospitality, spirit and cultural insight will make your Tokyo experience heart-warming and memorable. They'll show you around your favorite neighborhood for free. Call Kimi Information Center on (03) 3986-1604. Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Support the Tokyo Sinfonia: We welcome anyone who is interested in supporting the Tokyo Sinfonia as volunteers. There is one area where the assistance of a volunteer would be extremely helpful. We would love to hear from someone who would like to keep our website updated every couple of weeks. If you are interested, please contact (03) 3588-0738. For tickets or further information, please email tickets@tokyosinfonia.com. Website: www.tokyosinfonia.com
Petition the White House on abduction: Publicly press Japan to return abducted children, provide immediate access to foreign parents, take part in transparent dialog between the two countries and provide an open accounting of the U.S. Department of State's "official" case count. To participate, please visit wh.gov/gKV
Marunouchi opens TIC: Mitsubishi Estate and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) opened the first international Tourism Information Center (TIC) in Marunouchi on Jan. 2 on the first floor of the Shin Tokyo Building. The TIC's second floor will host a variety of seminars, workshops and art galleries in partnership with local outlets and governments in the area. PC/Internet and travel/tourism literature also available
KANSAI
Ohatsu Tenjin Flea Market: Interesting antique shops will be available at the flea market, held every first and third Friday (Feb. 17) of the month, offering a wide variety of items from Western antiques to antique toys. The quality and variety of the goods are quite high and you'll find a good bargain here. Free admission. Venue: Tsuyunoten Shrine (Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine), 2-5-4 Sonezaki, Kita Ward, Osaka City. For more information, contact: (06) 6311-0895
Swing & Latin Jazz Night: Vida Latina Dance Co. Japan presents a "Swing & Latin Jazz Night" on Sat., Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m.-midnight, at Suiko Building 301, 1-17-13 Jusohigashi, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka, featuring Australian swing/Latin jazz duet Kimberly and Rowan. Tickets: ¥3,000 in advance (with 1 drink) and ¥3,500 on the day (1 drink). For more information, call (090) 8574-3272, email vidalatinajapan@hotmail.com or visit www.vidalatinajapan.com or www.facebook.com/events/305119606201513/
Writers conference proposals sought: This year the Japan Writers Conference returns to Kyoto and the beautiful Imadegawa campus of Doshisha Women's College. It will take place Sat., Nov. 10, and Sun., Nov. 11. All published writers, translators, editors, agents and publishers who would like to lead a session are invited to submit proposals. Please see our website for details: www.japanwritersconference.org
Australian football in Osaka. We are the Osaka Dingoes Australian Football Club. We hold weekly training at Osaka Castle Park. We have regular games with teams from Tokyo and Osaka. Male and female teams. See www.osakadingoes.com or mail osakadingoes@hotmail.com
Osaka YMCA language center in Tosabori is seeking volunteers to teach language and culture in charity lessons in order to benefit victims of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Mail tosabori.language@osakaymca.or.jp or visit www.oylc.org
We Are One Japan is a voluntary event-organizing group that connects internationally minded individuals in the Kansai area through a wide range of smoke-free events and activities. Visit their website at www.weareonejapan.com. Email: we.are.one.japan@gmail.com
The Kobe Regatta and Athletic Club (KR & AC) serves as an oasis for the international community in Kansai, offering its members a range of sporting and social activities. With two bars, restaurant, indoor sports hall and gym, event space, meeting rooms and various indoor recreational activities, the club ensures easy access and enjoyment for members from all over Kansai. Email events@krac.org or visit www.krac.org
Labor consultations: Interested in improving your working conditions? Have questions about labor rights? Our offices in Osaka (please e-mail consult@generalunion.org) and Nagoya (mail tokai@generalunion.org) are open for consultations. Website: www.generalunion.org
Kobe Club is a nonprofit, private-membership club serving Kansai's international community. Featuring fine dining and a wide range of events and activities, it is a center of social, cultural and family life for the transient and long-term expatriate as well as the internationally minded local resident. Email kobeclub@office.email.ne.jp or check out www.kobeclub.org
Bridges is a year-round program for non-Japanese who want to experience Japan, offering monthly events covering a wide range of subjects. With programs that include Japanese language education and development of international volunteers, the Osaka YWCA runs Bridges and has centers in Umeda and Kita Senri. Email info@osaka.ywca.or.jp or please visit osaka.ywca.or.jp/english/activities.html
FEW Kansai is a networking organization for foreign women in Japan. Dinner meetings feature a variety of guest speakers, usually held at the Hilton Hotel Osaka in Umeda on the last Thursday of each month. The organization also organizes monthly events that provide professional and personal support. Email info@fewkansai.com or visit www.fewkansai.com
CHUBU
Nagoya International Personal Computer Club meets at noon on the third Saturday (Feb. 18) of the month in Hibino, Nagoya. Call (070) 5152-2662 or visit www.nipcc.org for details
Hike, walk, bike Nagano: "Hiking, Walking and Biking Nagano: 20 Nature History and Culture Tours in Chikuma City" by Peter Ninnes provides a new and enchanting way to experience the beauty of Nagano, just two hours from Tokyo. Detailed English maps and route descriptions provide many interesting facts about the area. Ebook for iPhone, Windows phone, Blackberry, iPad, iPod, etc., available at www.smashwords.com/books/view/109305
Nagoya International Club was founded in 2005 to promote a vibrant foreign community in the Chubu/Nagoya area that offers an alternative to the bar scene, gives people an opportunity to make friends outside of their work-centered worlds, and introduces them to the many interesting places, people and sites in the Chubu region. Visit rayproper.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3bf6417dab012a9c54b228877&id=23afec8f86
The Aichi Goodwill Guides Network (AGGN) offers five free English-speaking tours of sightseeing spots around Nagoya. Guides are free but entrance fees are to be paid by participants. Tours include Nagoya Castle, Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, Atsuta Jingu shrine, Osu Shopping Arcade and Arimatsu. For further information and to make reservations, contact the AGGN at guide-desk@aggn.jp or (0561) 75-6977
Labor consultations: Interested in improving your working conditions? Have questions about labor rights? Our offices in Osaka (please e-mail consult@generalunion.org) and Nagoya (mail tokai@generalunion.org) are open for consultations. Website: www.generalunion.org
Chubu Philippine Friendship Association: CPFA is a volunteer group mainly for Filipinos living in the Chubu area. Founded in 1981, it fosters cooperation and networking between Filipinos and Japanese with the support from people of all nationalities. Visit cpfa-nagoya.blogspot.com or www.facebook.com/CPFA.Nagoya for more info
KYUSHU
Kyushu Cycling Club welcomes cyclists of all abilities, nationalities. Rides start in Dazaifu, Ohori Park, and Tenjin. See www.kyushucyclingclub.com or contact ericromney@hotmail.com
International Christian worship: Meinohama Christian Center in Fukuoka has an English worship service every Sunday night at 6 p.m. A 10-minute walk from Meinohama Station (subway Airport Line), 3-19-3 Meinohama Eki Minami, Nishi Ward, Riverside Noda Bldg. 2nd Floor. Call (092) 215-1530 for info. Please join us!
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