Making Friends In Japan

A new country, a new environment, and a new culture are all things that you have to get used to a new country, environment, and culture, as well as meeting new people. But don’t worry. We’ve put together a few tips on how you can meet new people and make friends more easily. Just follow these recommendations!

Coto Academy is a Japanese language school located in Tokyo and Yokohama. With its small class sizes and flexible course schedule, we ensure the students find their community here in Japan and learn practical and useful daily-life Japanese by focusing on conversational practice.

A Quick Jump To…

5 Recommendations for Making Friends in Japan 

Sport Classes

gym in japan
Photo by: Journal Review

Breaking a sweat together, even with strangers, can be the perfect icebreaker. Engaging in a sports class promotes fitness and allows you to connect with others who share your interests. With regular classes, you’ll have the chance to build long-lasting friendships over time. 

If you are into yoga, we recommend  Nami Yoga Studio. They also offer classes in English. 

  • Price: depending on membership; ¥11,000/ month

If you need gym recommendation, AnyTimes Fitness is a good choice!

  • Price: Varies by location; ¥7,000

Check out our blog- A Guide To Gyms In Japan. Here, you will find valuable tips regarding gyms in Tokyo. 

Food Tours

Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Tour

food tour
Photo by: byFood

Food brings people together and is communicative, so why not take a food tour? There are numerous offers by byFood. Here, you can book many different tours and do whatever you like. For example, go as a group to various restaurants with a local guide who knows all the spots and has insider tips. This allows you to get to know lots of people and the food culture at the same time. Additionally, bonding over shared culinary experiences can create memorable moments. 

  • Price: starting from ¥3000

Join A Japanese class

Coto Japanese Academy
Photo by: Coto Academy

Joining a Japanese language course, such as those offered by Coto Japanese Academy, goes beyond learning vocabulary and grammar. Communication is critical to forming meaningful connections, and what better way to connect than through language? 

By immersing yourself in Japanese language classes, you will acquire the language skills necessary for daily life in Japan and gain insights into the culture. Spending time together in the classroom will also help you find many common interests with your classmates. 

Whether you prefer intensive, part-time, or online courses, Coto offers options tailored to everyone’s schedule and learning.  

Apps – Bumble For Friends (BFF)

Bumblebff
Photo by: studiomococo

Apps like Bumble offer another way to make friends in Japan. Most people have probably heard of Bumble, but you may not know that Bumble For Friends is specifically designed for connecting with people who are not about dating. It is about meeting up, interacting, and forming friendships. Whether new to the city or just looking to expand your social circle, Bumble For Friends provides a platform to connect with others who share your interests and hobbies. Why wait? Just grab your phone, download the app, and start connecting with potential friends in Japan. 

Meet-Ups

Anime Meetup

Anime Meetup
Photo by: TimeOut

Another idea to meet people who share similar interests as you is the platform meetup. You can enter any activity and do it as a group. For example, a group for going on walks or how about an anime meeting? That fits perfectly with Japanese culture. Just look around the website; there are many great options—for example, cultural events, meetups, and exhibitions. 

Tips – Do not rush

It sounds like a statement you don’t want to hear, but everything takes time. Getting to know people is particularly difficult initially, but with time, perseverance, and courage, it is possible to meet people. Try it, and with time, your social circle will naturally expand, enriching your experience in Japan in ways you never imagined. 

Ready To Make New Friends? 

As you embark on this journey of adapting to life in Japan, remember that building connections and forming friendships is a rewarding and essential part of the experience. Whether bonding over shared interests in a sports class, exploring the Japanese Kitchen on a food tour, or immersing yourself in Japanese language classes, each interaction brings you closer to finding new friends in your new home. So, embrace each opportunity to connect, and don’t be discouraged by the initial challenges.

You Might Be Wondering…

What are some common challenges when making friends in Japan, and how can they overcome them?

The biggest and most common challenges are cultural differences, language barriers, and unfamiliar customs. Overcoming and understanding these challenges requires patience, openness, willingness, and curiosity. For example, language courses with Coto can help with this.

How can we overcome language barriers when participating in social activities or events in Japan, especially if they're still learning Japanese?

One approach is to use translation apps, learn basic phrases, and be willing to learn. Some translation apps include. Additionally, practicing active listening and non-verbal cues can bridge communication gaps during social interactions.

Are there any cultural differences or etiquette rules to consider when interacting with locals in social settings in Japan?

There are cultural things to consider in Japan, such as bowing and removing shoes indoors. These actions can help one adapt and integrate oneself into the culture. Following these 

practices can assist in adjusting and integrating into the culture. Moreover, respecting traditions and adhering to social norms can enhance interactions with locals.

Are there English menus available in restaurants during the food tour?

It depends on the establishment. However, a solution to this is translation apps like Google Lens. Additionally, the guide also speaks English, so you can always ask for assistance.

Follow our social media channels for updates on upcoming events, special offers, and useful information about Japan.

Want to learn more about Japanese language and culture?
Book a free level check consultation with us to join!
Want to learn more about Japanese language and culture?
Book a free level check consultation with us to join!

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