International Women’s Day (IWD) is a holiday celebrated annually on March 8 with a focal point in the women’s rights movement. Here at Savvy Tokyo, we wanted to share with our readers some ways this day can be celebrated in and around Tokyo! First, get to know the history of IWD in Japan, from its early beginnings here in 1923. Then, read on for Tokyo’s many IWD events where you can celebrate the history and victories of women’s rights in Japan and learn what work still needs to be done to advance gender equality. While you’re at it, why not consider volunteering for a Japan-based organization focusing on women’s empowerment?

The History of International Women’s Day in Japan

© Photo by iStock: Vittorio Gravino

While the first International Women’s Day was held on March 11, 1911 in several European countries, its roots lay in the United States a few years earlier. In 1909, the Socialist Party of America organized the first National Women’s Day in New York City to protest the poor labor conditions facing female garment workers. During World War I, these marches also became key sites for anti-war protests across the globe. March 8th became the official day when Russian women protested against food shortages, the war and the czarist government.

In 1923, the feminist socialist group, Akarankai organized Japan’s first International Women’s Day march to call for women’s liberation. As with other marches around the world, socialism’s critiques against capitalism’s enslavement of women drove the protest’s messages. The protest was violently suppressed by the police and the next International Women’s Day wouldn’t be held in Japan again until 1947. Since then, annual marches have taken place to call for gender equality and world peace. In recent years, marches have focused on ending war, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and closing the gender pay gap.

International Women’s Day Events in Tokyo for 2026

To celebrate International Women’s Day in Tokyo this year, join like-minded people at the exciting events below. Whatever angle of IWD interests you, you are sure to find an event of interest in Tokyo this March!

Happy Woman Festa Tokyo 2026

© Photo by Happy Woman Festa Tokyo 2025

The Happy Woman Festa 2026 is a series of events organized to celebrate IWD across Japan. The theme this year is Towards a future where happiness circulates. Make sure to reserve your seat in advance!

• Date: March 8, 2026
• Times: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.(Happy Woman Festa 2026)
• Address: United Nations University, 5-53-70 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!
• Note: The dress code for the Happy Woman Festa 2026 is yellow, the official color for IWD.

College Women’s Association of Japan’s Celebrates International Women’s Day

© Photo by College Women’s Association of Japan

CWAJ marks International Women’s Day with a special staged reading of Mimoza Ways. The performance explores 100 years of Japanese women’s history, from the Seito Movement led by feminist pioneer Hiratsuka Raicho to the present day, blending reflection with moments of humor. A Japanese-French co-production that has received acclaim since its 2022 premiere, Mimoza Ways is the first Japanese production to trace a century of women’s experiences in this way. The reading is directed by Yu Yamagami and features Tsurumatsu Matsukuma, Yuko Ueno, Rena Koto and Yu Yamagami. Following the performance, a talk session with producer and translator Namino Rivoal Hori, along with the director and cast, will offer further insight and discussion. The event will be in Japanese.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Address: Theater X, Ryogoku City Core 1F, 2-10-14 Ryogoku, Sumida, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥4,000

The Yellow Walk & Mimosa Day Award Party

Dress in yellow and join a vibrant celebration that will turn Tokyo into a moving field of mimosa! On March 7, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ)’s Yellow Walk kicks off at the Italian Embassy, winding through the city in a powerful tribute to International Women’s Day before arriving at the iconic Tokyo Tower. The celebration doesn’t stop there either. Afterward, you can join the exclusive Mimosa Day Award Party, where you’ll enjoy live DJ music, signature cocktails and finger food while soaking in the classic high-rise view of Tokyo.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Meeting time: 5:45 p.m.
• Walk time: 6-9 p.m.
• Address: Tokyo Tower Main Deck 1F, 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo
• Cost: Free to walk; Yellow Walk + Mimosa Day Award Party (includes a ticket to Tokyo Tower Main Deck, all-you-can-eat buffet and drink); ICCJ Members: ¥6,600; Non-Members: 8,800; Mimosa Day Award Party only: ICCJ Members: ¥8,800; Non-Members: 11,000
• Note: Dress as yellow as possible!

International Women’s Day Breakfast & Panel Discussion Australian Embassy Tokyo

The Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ANZCCJ) invites you to Pullman Tokyo Tamachi for IWD 2026. This year’s theme is “Give to Gain” and will feature a panel discussion with several senior business leaders. Over breakfast, these panelists will highlight single mothers and single-parent households living in Japan.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Time: 8 a.m.-9 a.m. (doors open at 7:30 a.m.)
• Address: Pullman Tokyo Tamachi ​Banquet Room 9F, 3-1-21 Shibaura Minato, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥10,000 (ANZCCJ members), ¥12,000 (non-ANZCCJ members)
• Note: Attendees must register by Feb. 27, 2026

Women’s March Tokyo 2026

As with other IWD events globally, the Women’s Day March in Tokyo will be one of this year’s main events. This event has been held in the city since 2017. The one-kilometer march will begin and end at Jingu-dori Park in Shibuya Ward and all participants are invited to the after-party. Attendees who don’t want to be photographed can gather together behind a “no photos” sign during the event. Come join others to call for gender equality and an end to violence.

• Date: March 8, 2026
• Meeting time: 5:30 p.m.
• Start time: 6 p.m.
• Address: 6-22-8 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!

Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s International Women’s Day Specials

Grand Hyatt Tokyo Hotel will be offering a variety of IWD specials. At the Mimosa Dinner – The French Kitchen, between March 1 and 8, offer the women in your life the stunning Mimosa Mousse Cake, designed by women patissiers. Whether you are sampling their seafood saffron nage or digging into a mimosa rare cheesecake, mark this year’s IWD with upscale dining!

• Date: March 1 – 8, 2026
• Address: Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Cost: Prices vary depending on the dish or course.

Mimosa Week

For up-to-date information about the state of women in Japan alongside beautiful illuminations, head to the Former Kunitachi Station. Inside this historic building, you can learn about recent developments in women’s issues on poster boards. Join a workshop on the eighth on how to make mimosa badges to show your support for women’s equality. Also, read up on several gender-related case studies exploring the experiences of women. As a special treat, there will be an illumination event featuring using yellow lights, the official color of IWD.

• Date: March 5- 10, 2026
• Address: Former Kunitachi Station Building, 1-1-69 Higashi, Kunitachi, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!

BCCJ’s International Women’s Day 2026

The British Chamber of Commerce in Japan (BCCJ) will be hosting talks over dinner for International Women’s Day. Her Excellency Julia Longbottom CMG, British Ambassador to Japan, will speak on explring leadership and her experiences leading the UK-Japan relationship alongside voices from business and civil society. Offering an opprotunity for open dialog and collaboration, this event is open to all genders.

• Date: March 18, 2026
• Time: 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
• Address: PwC Tokyo, 1-2-1, Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥5,000 (BCCJ members); ¥8,000 (non-members)

We hope you enjoy your International Women’s Day in Japan! How are you planning on celebrating?

With various online publications touting the next-best Tokyo event and influencers on TikTok and Instagram sharing trending cafes and restaurants, the freedom to explore the city’s many highlights has never been easier. While general gatherings are a great way to socialize and network, finding art or creator-focused activities in Tokyo has proved to be more difficult.

Luckily, this writer and artist has scoured the streets of Tokyo in search of the best activities and resources to pull inspiration from for your next artistic endeavor, whatever that may be.

1. Shop For Art Supplies

© Photo by Michele Tanabe

Prior to moving to Tokyo, I heavily relied on ordering art supplies from Amazon or making rare trips back home during the holidays to pick up colored pencils and markers. It wasn’t until I ventured out to Shinjuku in search of a proper watercolor sketchbook that I found Sekaido.

Sekaido is truly Tokyo’s mecca of art supply shops. Shinjuku’s flagship multi-story store is dedicated to serving artists at all levels of their creative careers.  Each floor is dedicated to a specific type of art or craft, and one can spend hours browsing through their massive selection.

At Sekaido, you’ll find items such as: 

• Acrylic, oil and gouache paints
• Watercolor paper, paints and pencils
• Paint brushes of all types, including Japanese calligraphy brushes
• Pre-stretched and primed canvas in varying sizes 
• Assorted sketchbooks and paper types
• Pencils, charcoal, erasers, sharpeners and shading products
• Manga and comic inking supplies
• Markers, soft pastels, chalk pastels, crayons and crafting clay

For artists who aren’t fussed over specific supplies and are looking for something basic, I recommend stationery staples like Muji, Loft or Tokyu Hands. These shops make it easy to find grab-and-go products such as markers, notebooks, craft paper and other basic art supplies. For an extended list of places to check out, see our article Where To Find Art Supplies in Tokyo.

2. Take A Trip To An Art Exhibition

© Photo by iStock: South_agency

One of the best ways to get the ballpoint pen rolling is to venture into urban Tokyo and visit an art exhibition. I often enjoy taking a solo trip when I’m stuck on a concept for a painting or drawing.

One spot I frequent is the National Art Center, Tokyo or NACT.  Here you’ll find a fast-rotating schedule of art installations surrounded by dreamy architecture that one can’t help but pull inspiration from. Currently, two special exhibitions are on display at NACT, available for viewing until mid-December:

• Prism of the Real: Making Art in Japan 1989-2010: Until Mon, Dec. 8, 2025
• ​​Bvlgari Kaleidos: Colors, Cultures and Crafts: Until Mon, Dec. 15, 2025

With exhibitions like these, and many more shared in Savvy’s very own Tokyo Art Scene articles, you’ll be filled to the brim with ideas for your next project. If you want an extended list of places to frequent, check out our list of Tokyo’s Top 10 Art Museums, Tokyo’s Top 10 Offbeat Museums, 10 Interactive Art Museums To Visit In & Around Tokyo, and 7 Free Art Galleries in Ginza.

3. Share Your Work Through Competitions

© Photo by iStock: mixetto

Although somewhat intimidating, sharing your work is a great way to showcase your art while connecting with others who share the same interests. If you’re a competitive person and eager to showcase your creations, I suggest exploring the numerous competitions available both in Japan and internationally.

Listed below are a few contests and events you can submit your work to:

• Kyoto Writing Competition (English Application)
• Tokyo Midtown Award Art Competition (Japanese Application)
• Canon Graphgate Photo Contest (Japanese Application)
• Boit! International Illustration Contest (English Application)
• Ploughshares Emerging Writers Contest (English Application)

Our friends at GaijinPot also host an art/photo contest at their annual GaijinPot Expo, offering cash prizes to the winners. Anyone in any Japanese prefecture can apply, so keep an eye out for the next submission period to open.

4. Attend An Art Event Or Sketch Meetup

© Photo by iStock: recep-bg

If a competition isn’t up your alley but you still want to share your work, an art event or sketch meetup is a great way to collaborate, create and socialize!

I recently attended a live sketching event through a Meetup group called Art Jammers. At their most recent event, I had the opportunity to sketch the surrounding nature and city architecture while making friends with people who share my interest in drawing. At the end of our session, we shared our work and highlighted things we liked in each other’s pieces.

© Photo by Michele Tanabe

I walked away from that event with newfound motivation and even pocketed useful tips from experienced sketchers to help improve my drawing skills!

Artedly Tokyo‘s monthly meetups are also a great resource for those looking to connect with Tokyo’s creatives in a more casual setting. Not only that, but Artdely helps connect artists and photographers with cafe exhibitions at a low cost. If you’re looking for a way to display your art, this is definitely worth considering.

5. Participate In An Art Class

© Photo by Art Bar

Classes are ideal for budding artists who prefer learning under the guidance of an instructor. Even advanced artists can benefit from classes when learning a new medium, say, transitioning from acrylic to oil paints. Add a little alcohol to the mix, and you’ve got ArtBar.  

Artbar is Tokyo’s first “paint & sip” studio that offers classes on varying styles, such as paint pouring, gold accents, impressionism and recreating famous works of art like Monet’s famous water lilies. Many of Artbar’s instructors are also fluent in English and classes are offered frequently for those with busy schedules.

For those interested in delving into figure drawing with a live model, consider attending the Wednesday Night Sketch Club hosted at the BnA Hotel in Nihonbashi. Co-founder Keigo Fukugaki is fully bilingual and welcomes artists from all walks of life and levels. Ticket prices include a drink, supplies and model fees.

Tokyo might initially shy away from showcasing its artistic side, but those who seek it will eventually find their way into the creative world when they are ready and willing.

On May 15th, 2024 the College Women’s Association of Japan (CWAJ) celebrated the achievements of six outstanding scholars who received a total of 12 million yen in scholarships at their annual scholarship award ceremony. Two scholarships were awarded in each of the following categories: Graduate Scholarships for Japanese Women to Study Abroad, Graduate Scholarships for Non-Japanese Women to Study in Japan, and CWAJ Scholarship for the Visually Impaired to Study in Japan.

© Photo by College Women’s Association of Japan

Congratulations to the following 2024 scholars:

• Aya Tsutsui (CWAJ Cultural Exchange Graduate Scholarship for Japanese Women to Study Abroad)
• Tomoko Nakano (CWAJ Cartier Scholarship)
• Areum Ryu (CWAJ Graduate Scholarship for Non-Japanese Women to Study in Japan)
• Sarah Sherweedy (CWAJ Cultural Exchange Graduate Scholarship for Non-Japanese Women to Study in Japan)
• Hayato Kishira (CWAJ Scholarship for the Visually Impaired to Study in Japan)
• Haruna Tomaoki (CWAJ Scholarship for the Visually Impaired to Study in Japan)

In addition to the 2024 scholar introductions, past CWAJ scholar, Professor Yukiko Fukagawa of Waseda University, gave a guest lecture and spoke about the “Changing Japan-U.S. Economic Partnership in East Asia.” June Miyachi, president and CEO of Cartier Japan, also spoke and presented the CWAJ Cartier Scholarship, which is funded by Cartier Japan. Lunch was then enjoyed with the scholars, special guests and CWAJ group members.

© Photo by CWAJ

© Photo by CWAJ

© Photo by CWAJ

Meeting the 2024 Scholars

© Photo by Shelley Smith

Before the scholarship luncheon, Savvy Tokyo chatted with three of this year’s scholars: Sarah Sherweedy, Areum Ryu and Tomoko Nakano. Read on to learn more about them.

Sarah Sherweedy

© Photo by Shelley Smith

Sarah Sherweedy is an Egyptian scholar who has lived in Japan for six years. Initially supported by a three-year Mext Scholarship, she is currently pursuing her PhD in International Japanese Studies at the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. Sarah’s passion lies in unraveling the intricacies of Japanese literature and translation. Specializing in the works of Japanese author Osamu Dazai, she examines Dazai’s narrative styles while navigating the complexities of translating his work.

Areum Ryu

© Photo by Shelley Smith

Originally from Korea, Areum Ryu has lived in Japan for six years. Armed with a master’s degree in International Relations and motivated by the challenges posed by COVID-19 to struggling small and medium businesses, Areum decided to resume her studies. She is currently in her second year of a PhD program in International Trade and Economics at Waseda University. With her expertise, she aims to empower smaller businesses and make a meaningful difference.

Tomoko Nakano

© Photo by Shelley Smith

Tomoko Nakano is an entrepreneur-in-training. Having graduated from Keio University, Tomoko is now preparing for an exciting new chapter at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where she will embark on a two-year MBA this September. Tomoko has been working at her father’s finance and consulting business where she’s confronted with issues such as Japan’s aging population and the lack of succession planning. Determined to find solutions, Tomoko is eager to leverage her education and experience to address these challenges head-on.

How did you come across this scholarship?

Sarah: A friend of mine actually got the scholarship last year and recommended it to me. What stuck with me was how the scholarship started—created by women to support other women. It’s now gone beyond that to support more people from diverse backgrounds. This vision aligns with my aspirations as I try to make a mark as an Egyptian woman in Japan, representing my country, religion and family.

Areum: I came across an exhibition in Daikanyama, which happened to be the CWAJ Print Show. I looked into the organization and was inspired to learn that it started shortly after World War II with a mission to support women passionate about their education. This struck a chord with me as my grandparents are survivors of the Korean War. They instilled in me the belief that while war can take everything away, knowledge and education endure, passing down a legacy of passion for learning in our family.

Is studying here in Japan any different from studying abroad?

Sarah: Japan is a great environment to grow as a researcher and an individual. These scholarships are a great example, but there are also many grants for when you want to travel for academic conferences.

Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

Tomoko: I aim to eventually transition into entrepreneurship, focusing on selling businesses under my name. I want to utilize my expertise and personality to make a mark in the field, whether that be an entrepreneurship or brokerage company.

Areum: While the future holds uncertainties, I’m passionate about globally related work. I plan to continue my work in related economic sectors to encourage mutual understanding among countries. I want to empower others through my knowledge and create a trustworthy environment for everyone.

Sarah: Despite once disliking literature, I’ve discovered a passion for it and want to redefine how it’s approached. I enjoy teaching quite a lot and am currently a part-time lecturer at Takushoku University. I plan to pursue a career as a university professor. Other plans include continuing my research and publishing two books—one on my study and another featuring a collection of translations.

What are your hobbies outside of studying?

Sarah: I make pottery every week! One day I want everything in my house to be handmade. I make a lot of pots and plates now and plan to make all my tableware myself.

Tomoko: I’m a yoga practitioner! Yoga is amazing because following poses is universal. Every time I travel, I try to join a yoga class. When I first visited Chicago, joining the American community as an international student was hard, but yoga helped me do that.

Areum Ryu: I love yoga, too, but I also love food and cooking! I especially enjoy making yogurt using the yogurt machine in my room. Since coming to Japan, I’ve been participating in many cooking workshops.

College Women’s Association of Japan (CWAJ)

© Photo by College Women’s Association of Japan

Since its founding in 1949, CWAJ has supported education, the arts, and community among Japanese and non-Japanese women. From cultural events to educational initiatives like the scholarship program, CWAJ offers a variety of activities where you can make a positive impact in the local community alongside others. If you want to join a supportive community in Tokyo, consider checking out CWAJ and connecting with diverse women with community-focused values.

67th CWAJ Print Show

© Photo by College Women’s Association of Japan

Discover a diverse selection of prints created by artists worldwide at the next CWAJ Print Show. Proceeds from the print show support CWAJ’s scholarship and community projects. For those interested in CWAJ, this event is an excellent opportunity to meet and chat with some of the current members.

• Date: Oct. 16-20, 2024
• Location: Daikanyama Hillside Forum, Hillside Terrace Building F, 201 18-8 Sarugakucho, Shibuya City, Tokyo
• Online: Check out the online gallery.

CWAJ Special Exhibition 2024: Trailblazers

Check out the works of five women artists who paved the way for future generations: Shinoda Toko, Yoshida Chizuko, Iwami Reika, Yanagisawa Noriko and Tatsuno Toeko.

• Date: Oct. 8-Nov. 5, 2024
• Location: Tokyo American Club, 2-1-2 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo

Visit CWAJ’s official website to join, donate, or learn more about its scholarship program.

Tokyo American Club, Tokyo’s premiere international private club, has opened an exclusive satellite club on the sixth floor of the Nihonbashi Muromachi Mitsui Tower for busy Tokyoites seeking a personal downtown hub. The satellite club offers dining, entertaining and fitness venues in a compact space, and the same world-class service as the Azabudai location but at a fraction of the price that appeals to singles and couples. 

The Nihonbashi club is within walking distance from Tokyo station and Tokyo’s international business center, making it a prime location for achieving more during your busy day and networking with the wider international community. The adults-only atmosphere allows working parents a relaxing getaway with convenient services and amenities that allow for some much needed “me time” before or after work, such as  getting a workout, having lunch with clients or colleagues, and drinks with friends—all in one place.

Relax, unwind or reconnect

Escape from the rigors of Tokyo living in the Muromachi bar and lounge that offers a calm space for you to enjoy your morning coffee, a light breakfast or talking through the day’s events over a cocktail with colleagues or friends. 

Squeeze in a workout that suits you

For many businesswomen in Tokyo, finding a place and time to fit in a workout can be a real struggle—especially for working moms who have difficulty finding time for themselves. 

The fitness center at the Nihonbashi club offers a dedicated space to get in some quality cardio and weight training time, plus locker rooms with a sauna and jacuzzi. Personal training services are available for you to start the day with a supportive morning workout or anytime throughout the day whether you want to pop in during your lunch break or break an afternoon sweat.

Or you could always just come for the jacuzzi and melt away the stress with a nice relaxing soak. 

Classic yet inventive American eats

From nutritious breakfast options to a dinner menu that delights and satisfies in equal measure, dining at Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi has all your dining needs covered—from early morning pick-me-ups to help you take on the day to late night eats that nourish and placate the hunger after a long day.

Head to the in-club restaurant, American Room for cuisine with a contemporary twist, including strip loin with smoked eggplant purée and Spanish mackerel with risotto and Japanese relish. 

You can also sample signature bites like their classic American cheeseburger with Somerset cheddar and maple-caramelized onions or steak pinchos with shiso leaf chimichurri at the bar. 

Whether it’s a business meeting over coffee, a solid lunch for a busy day’s work or a quick pit stop for a few bites and libations at the Muromachi bar and lounge on your way to an event, there are plenty of options for any occasion.

Choice pours with a stunning view

Looking for a chic bar with exquisitely crafted cocktails and drinks (not to mention design, furnishings and ambiance)? The Nihonbashi club’s Muromachi bar and lounge can be used for all social occasions—whether it’s a girls night out, celebratory drinks with colleagues or just a quiet tipple alone at the end of the day.

Whether you need reservations for dinner, accommodations for an upcoming trip or anything in between, Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi’s service specialists can assist. Experienced staff members are available to handle all your needs in both English and Japanese. 

With a warm contemporary design and welcoming home-away-from home atmosphere, Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi is the perfect place in which to refresh your body and mind.

If you’re looking for a base to help with setting up business in the city or a meeting place to network and unwind, contact Tokyo American Club’s membership office to set up a visit and see for yourself.

Becoming a member

A Nihonbashi club membership will get you up to four hours free parking at Nihonbashi Muromachi Mitsui Tower, as well as access to more than 150 private clubs worldwide through Tokyo American Club’s reciprocal club network.

• Entrance fee: ¥500,000 (limited time)
• Refundable deposit: ¥100,000
• Monthly dues: ¥17,500 (single) | ¥26,250 (couple)

The Deets

Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi

• Address: Nihonbashi Muromachi Mitsui Tower 6F, 3-2-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• Hours: Mon–Fri: 6 a.m.–10 p.m. (adult members and guests only)
• Tel: 03-4588-0687
• Membership office: 03-6262-6976
• Email: membership@tac-club.org

For almost 100 years, Tokyo American Club (TAC for short) has been a lifeline of the international community, offering a true home away from home for expatriates and their families living in Japan. Today, around 4,000 members from over 50 nations benefit from the club’s exceptional array of facilities, services, and programs—all designed to enable foreign residents to survive, and thrive, in their new environment.

A facility for the whole family

Current TAC member Iain Jamieson moved to Tokyo with his family of four to oversee Visa Inc’s Tokyo 2020 Olympic project.

Since he’ll only be living in Japan for a relatively short period of time, the Term Regular Membership was the perfect choice as it offers all the services and benefits that the club has to offer without having to apply and pay for a lifetime membership.

Iain with his family in Tokyo.

For Iain, the benefits are as wide-ranging as the facilities themselves.

“Everyone in our family likes to do or try different things, and TAC offers diverse options that actually meet all of our needs,” he says.

The rooftop swimming pool at Tokyo American Club.

“Whilst I mainly use the club for the gym and dining facilities, my wife has expanded the type of exercise she does and is also a frequent visitor to the spa. Our two boys are very active sportsmen too, with swimming and karate being their favorite pastimes,” he says.

The spa at Tokyo American Club offers a variety of treatments for men, women, and teenagers.

Iain’s family also make the most of the club’s popular restaurants.

“The restaurant options both on the family side and the formal side of the club suit all our tastes and are very reasonably priced. The Rainbow Café’s cobb salad is a staple favorite of ours!” he says.

 

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There’s also an additional unexpected benefit to the Term Regular Membership for Iain in the form of the club’s visiting tailor.

“I must mention the Suit Connoisseur, Vinod, who visits the club every month. I was in need of some new suits and since meeting him in January and seeing his offerings, I’ve become a devoted client,” he says.

“It shows that TAC goes just that little bit further on the options and offerings for its members,” he adds.

You can make use of the club’s spacious and modern facilities for work and play.

When asked if he would recommend the membership to friends and colleagues, he replied: “For anyone who knows they will only be based here for a limited amount of time, I would certainly recommend this type of membership, as you get access to an amazing array of recreational and sporting options—which cannot be beaten in Tokyo—at great value for money.”

Tokyo American Club is a fantastic way to grow your personal and professional local network.

“The staff at the club are also extremely professional and friendly. They now know our children by their first names and can anticipate their dining choices—all within six months of joining!” he says.

How much is the Term Regular Membership and what are some of the benefits?

A membership at Tokyo American Club is an invaluable chance to enrich you and your family’s Japan experience in a way that, really, no other place can.

Previously, memberships for incoming expats were limited to “Resident” and “Company” options, valid for an unlimited time period. This meant that anybody coming to Tokyo and planning to stay for just a year or two would have to pay the same entrance and monthly fees as a long-term foreign resident in Japan for a decade.

 

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The new Term Regular Membership addresses the needs of those moving to the capital for a short-term secondment and makes for a great opportunity to connect with Tokyo’s vibrant international community as soon as they land in Japan.

The Term Regular Membership allows immediate access to the same variety of top-notch facilities for up to three years, the only other difference being that the fees are much lower when compared to the standard Resident and Company memberships.

• Entrance fee: ¥750,000
• Refundable deposit: ¥200,000
• Monthly fees: ¥40,000 (Single), ¥45,000 (Couple), ¥50,000 (Family)
• Six-month extension fee (After three years): ¥250,000

Special Summer Offer 

Tokyo American Club is now running a special campaign to help new members get the most out of their memberships right off the bat. If you complete your application before September 26, you’ll receive a generous gift of ¥40,000 Club voucher to spend as you like.

So what are you waiting for? Find out more and apply to the Term Regular Membership here.

The Deets

Tokyo American Club (TAC)

Address: 2-1-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0041
Tel: 03-4588-0381

Membership Office

Hours: Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Weekends and Holidays: 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Tel: 03-4588-0687
Email: membership@tac-club.org

June is a lonely month: it rains all the time, it’s humid and drowsy, and on top of that it’s the only month in the year without a public holiday — yet! But that is exactly why it’s also our favorite month here at the Savvy headquarters — we get a bit more creative in finding ways to have fun!

In a bid to lift your (and our) pre-tsuyu spirits, Savvy Tokyo has partnered with the popular organic store and restaurant Crayonhouse in Omotesando to organize an exclusive Vegetarian Night for our readers, supporters and friends!

Join us on the evening of June 25 (Mon) from 6 p.m. at Crayonhouse’s organic restaurant Hiroba where guests will enjoy a full vegetarian all-you-can-eat buffet and natural wine. The menu will include a great variety of savory and sweet dishes cooked with ingredients from local farms, including stuffed Goya with soybean meat, sautéed highland cabbage with lemon, salad bar, coconut curry with summer vegetables, grilled potatoes with vegetarian cod roe and mayonnaise, desserts and So.Much.More!

The event will be a great chance to meet fellow Savvy readers and contributors, as well as professionals in Japan’s organic industry in Tokyo.

The event costs ¥2,000 for the buffet (a discount of the usual ¥2,700) and all drinks will be just one coin (¥500) per glass. Guests will pay at the door. To assure that there’s enough food (and seats) for all guests, we would kindly ask you to register by Fri, June 22 using the form below including the details of your guest in case you are bringing someone along! 

Please note that since the restaurant has limited seats, guests will be welcomed on a first-come-first-serve basis. You will receive a confirmation email when you register for the event. Please be ready to show this at the door!

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About the venue

Founded in 1976 by author and activist Keiko Ochiai, Crayonhouse is one of Japan’s largest organic specialty shops and bookstores selling organic food, cosmetics, wear, baby items and women’s accessories with branches in Tokyo’s Aoyama and Osaka’s Suita city. Crayonhouse Tokyo has four floors: a children’s bookshop on the 1st; toys on the 2nd; cosmetics, clothes and books for women on the 3rd, and an organic restaurant “Hiroba” and market at the basement floor.

Hiroba is one of Japan’s very few certified organic restaurants. It partners with farmers in Japan to deliver safe and high-quality products to the Tokyo community. The restaurant also holds regular Vegetarian Nights on Mondays.

The Deets

When: Mon, June 25, 2018, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Venue: Organic Restaurant Hiroba, Crayonhouse B1F, 3-8-15, Kita-aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Five minutes walk from Omotesando station’s A1 exit
Cost: ¥2,000 (includes a full all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet). A cash bar serving natural wines and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will operate throughout the event for those who wish to sample the restaurant’s other beverages. All drinks cost ¥500 per glass.
Dress Code: None

If you have any questions about this event, please leave us a comment below or contact us at editorial@gplusmedia.com

We can all agree that Tokyo is one of the most amazing cities to spend your life (or at least part of it) in, but it’s also undeniable that it can occasionally be a lonely place — especially if you’re a newcomer who has just landed and barely speaks Japanese. It is in times like this when we are most anxious to meet new people, find places that offer access to multiple life-supporting facilities, join social groups — and have the luxury of dining at some of the best places in the city that give us a taste of back home.

Tokyo American Club has been such a place for Japan’s international community since its establishment in 1928. Today, with about 3,800 members from over 50 nations (yes, you don’t need to be an American to join), the club offers a diverse range of cultural, business, recreational activities and facilities that anyone can benefit from. Here are our six picks of how the club can enrich your life and make your stay in Tokyo more vibrant and engaging.

1. Stay fit: Take unique sports classes and have regular access to a state-of-the-art gym

Japan’s 24-hour accessibility to food is among the first things you’ll experience as a newcomer and though you may like it in the beginning, you may also soon find the need to hit the gym. While Tokyo has no shortage of sports centers, classes and even public places to train at, the club gives its members access to all that combined. Starting from a massive Fitness Center (open from 5:45 a.m. until 11 p.m. daily) that offers personal training and regular challenges to keep you motivated, the club also has a six-lane pool (with a great view of Tokyo Tower), two golf simulators, three squash courts, regular group sports nights (including badminton, basketball, volleyball and table tennis), as well as a long list of fitness classes you can take: from adult and child aikido, krav maga, ballet, boot camp and golf, to some less-common ones, such as Iyengar Yoga, Kindermusik, and the cardiovascular workout Masala Bhangra (how do you even pronounce this?!).

2. Stay entertained: Read, learn, play, join events, travel

Whether you’re into playing music, reading, painting, joining group sport activities, throwing parties for someone or taking part in them, or even traveling, the club has your back covered. The library on the 2nd floor has over 10,000 books in English for adults and children, in addition to regular “Meet the Author” evenings, seasonal reading programs and a monthly book group. It also has two soundproof rooms where you practice your instruments (you probably won’t be able to do this at your Japanese apartment); regular organized travel tours that will help you get to know Tokyo and Japan better; a six-lane bowling room and exclusive bowling parties; various enrichment programs, including cooking classes and cultural events (ever wanted to learn about the cultural significance of tofu?) and a chance to attend other club-organized parties — or even have your own private party there! Did we also mention it has a spa and a beauty salon?!

3. Stay connected: Be part of the city’s most vibrant international community

With an average of three to five events taking place every day at the club — be it a restaurant promotion, an ikebana class, an art exhibition or an annual charity gala — there’s always something exciting happening there. The club has been a hub for major socializing events happening within the foreign and international community in Japan throughout its history, and now that the membership keeps growing, even more so.

From special events and classes, to business, social and seasonal gatherings, the club gathers the international community at any given time throughout the year. It regularly hosts special seasonal gatherings and members’ parties, including an Independence Day Event, a Family Christmas Show, the annual Member Bonenkai (end of year party), and of course, regular orientation sessions for newcomers, which are great opportunities to get acquainted with like-minded people from all over the world.

4. Stay empowered: Join the club’s Women’s Group

Speaking of staying connected, the Club’s Women’s Group founded in 1949, is a social circle that not only gives you access to a number of events, business networking opportunities, hobby ideas, fundraising events, and certainly even long-lasting friendships, but is also a bottomless well of information and resources — (and late night cocktails!).

The Women’s Group organizes events on a regular basis, from “Coffee Connections” luncheons to cultural activities and trips in Japan and neighboring countries. It’s a networking group formed by women members from all over the world, including many bilingual Japanese, who share common interests and are always looking for ways to spice up their Tokyo life. The Women’s Group is also behind some of Tokyo’s best-known charity and fundraising events, including the annual Asian Home and Furnishings Sale and The International Bazaar, all proceeds of which benefit local charities.

5. Stay calm: Have unlimited access to family-friendly venues

From a giant Jungle Gym and Kids’ Water Park to Kids’ and Teens’ Lounges, the club has unlimited family-friendly facilities and resources. Whether they’re interested in swimming in the pool, taking a sport class, borrowing a book from the library, or simply playing together with other kids, the club has a wide range of opportunities to keep the little ones entertained and the parents calm.

The club also has certified birthday party professionals who can help you arrange the perfect birthday bash for your children — including clown and magic shows, bowling parties, and playroom madness! The annual “Camp Discovery,” a summer day camp for kids, for example, is also one of the club’s most popular activities, especially among working mothers.

For busy mothers, the club also has a professional childcare center, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with after-hours services extendable until as late as 9 p.m. upon reservation — which makes it possible to take a class, work an hour extra at the office, or have a business meeting over dinner at the club while the kids are in safe hands nearby.

6. Stay satisfied: Cater to all your culinary needs at the club’s eight diners

The club’s dining facilities are a major attraction point for members — the options just don’t run out. Its eight restaurants include an American steakhouse, a modern teppanyaki grill, a trendy bar, and the Rainbow Cafe, a spacious family-friendly restaurant with adjunct playrooms for the kids. All dining facilities are spacious, cozy, and managed by fully bilingual staff. Whether it’s just a business meeting over coffee, a solid lunch with the whole family, or just a quick stop by for a few bites on your way to an event, there are plenty of options for any purpose. The salad bar at Rainbow Cafe, for example, offers vegetable options that are rarely seen in Japan (yup, beets), and a carrot cake you’ll never forget.

If the occasion calls for a more private atmosphere, the third floor is also equipped with several private dining options for larger or smaller groups depending on the occasion — including The Terrace with a stunning view of Tokyo Tower.

So, this and much more is what awaits you at the club. It certainly doesn’t come cheap, but it’s an investment that comes with a great return — and you’ll enjoy every bit of it!

For more information on Tokyo American Club and membership options, read here. 

The Deets

Tokyo American Club

Address: 2-1-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Tel: 03-4588-0381

The three-day international women empowerment forum, Global Summit of Women, which gathered a record attendance of 1,300 women from across the globe in Tokyo from May 11, ended on Saturday, highlighting global — and Japan’s — efforts to close gender gaps in the economic sector and improve women’s roles in leadership positions.

The event brought ministers, CEOs, business women and men from over 60 countries in the largest gathering to date since its launch in 1990, and through various discussions provided hands-on tips of what countries need to do to empower its women population. Here are the highlights of the event as the Savvy Tokyo team observed. 

© Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

Members of the Global Summit of Women’s Tokyo host committee and participants listen to a panel discussion during the event, which was held in Tokyo from May 11 through May 13, 2017. | Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

Spotlight On Japan

For the good and the bad, the event put Japan and its government in the spotlight, reminding the country that the world is watching its next steps. The largest in the summit’s history of 27 years, the Tokyo event gathered over 300 extra participants since last year when it was held in Poland. The Tokyo host committee, led by Noriko Nakamura, the CEO of babysitting company Poppins Inc., made an extra effort to introduce Japan’s culture to all guest in its best light, while also presenting the reality of the country’s pressing issues concerning women, and offered a place for discussions on their solutions.

Noriko Nakamura (fourth from left), the chair of Global Summit of Women’S Tokyo host committee welcomes guests at the State Guest House (Geihinkan), lit-up in various colors exclusively for the event, on May 11, the first day of the summit. | Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

On the first day of the event, guests were welcomed to the State Guest House (Geihinkan) in Akasaka, an enormous achievement on the side of the Tokyo organizing committee. Geihinkan is an exclusive place where non-state organized events are rarely welcomed. “The fact that we could welcome everyone there means a lot for Japan,” Nakamura told Savvy in an exclusive interview, clarifying that this signifies that the summit was supported on a governmental level — even though it took over nine months for the committee to receive a concrete “yes.”

The gathering was a success — it introduced Japanese culture through kimono trials, taiko drum performances and Japanese food and contributed to a quick boost of interest in the Japanese culture. “We had several ministers and company leaders who already started making connections, calling for an introduction of Japanese culture in their countries,” Nakamura said. “As a hosting committee, we were happy to see this happening.”

A powerful taiko drums performance welcomed Global Summit of Women guests to the Guest State House on May 11, 2017. | Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

By doing this, the Tokyo committee — which included politicians, company, and university presidents — sent a very clear message to the government: “One of the three main reasons why I took the position as a chair of the Japan host committee is to make sure that this summit serves as a catalyst for the prime minister’s achievement of his (women empowerment) policy,” Nakamura said, referring to Abe’s goal of boosting women (Japanese and non-Japanese domestic employees) in managerial positions to up to 30% by 2020.

© Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe walks alongside Noriko Nakamura, right, the chair of Global Summit of Women’s Tokyo Host Committee, and Masako Mori, left, former Minister of Gender Equality and a vice chair of the Tokyo Host Committee, prior to the acceptance of his Global Women’s Leadership Award on May 11, 2017. | Photo by LIFE.14 K.K.

Earlier on that day, Abe was awarded the summit’s Global Women’s Leadership Award, an event that to many living in Japan came as a surprise (as he is better known of being a speaker rather than a doer when it comes to women’s empowerment). But to the crowd listening (and hopefully to his cabinet), the award serves as a reminder that his so-much talked about “Womenomics” is still to be implemented and he needs to start addressing the issue right away.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe accepts the summit’s Global Women’s Leadership Award.

Japan In Numbers: Still A Disappointing Reality

In 2016, Japan was ranked 111th in the World Economic Forum’s 2016 Global Gender Gap index, in what Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike referred to as “a shameful result” at a speech during the event. It was also ranked  165th out of 190 countries on the World Classification of Women in Parliaments index as of March 2017. Abe, who likes to say that he wants to make Japan “a country where women shine,” has only three women ministers out of 20 and one state minister out of 25. On a capital level, there are only 25 of 127 seats taken by women in the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly as of present — an issue that governor Koike has vowed to change by appointing as many women as possible in the next Tokyo assembly election in July.

The summit serves as a reminder for Prime Minister Abe that his policies need to be implemented and the world is watching his actions. From left to right are: Henryka Bochniarz, president of the Polish Confederation of Employment and chair of the 2016 Summit in Poland, Irene Natividad, president of the Global Summit of Women, Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, vice president of Vietnam, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Noriko Nakamura, chair of the Global Summit of Women in Tokyo, and Leni Robredo, vice president of the Philippines.

The data is far from being rosy. According to a recent survey by the Yomiuri Shimbun, as of April 2017, the number of women in managerial positions in the leading 116 Japanese firms that answered the survey stood at 8.3%, a slow rise from the 7.5% in 2016 in the same survey. Another survey conducted by Teikoku Databank in August 2016 on 10,285 nationwide companies in July 2016, showed that women in managerial positions stood at an average of 6.6%, a slight increase of only 0.2% from the previous year. The results in both surveys are still a far cry from the 30% that Abe promises to enforce. That is why we believe that he was called up on that stage to receive an award — not for something he has done, but as a strong reminder of what he has yet to do.

The World Is Watching: A screenshot of the video introducing Prime Minister Abe’s policy to boost women’s participation in leadership roles by 30% by 2020, which was shown to the audience prior to presenting Abe the Global Leadership Award. 

Awards And Recognitions

Apart from Abe, two other influential leaders were awarded during the summit: Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike received the Japan Women’s Leadership Award, while Joyce Banda, the former president of Malawi, was awarded the Global Women’s Leadership Award. Koike was awarded for her achievement in becoming the capital’s first woman governor — and for her endless efforts into putting herself in the position despite not being supported by any parties, including the LDP led by the prime minister himself. She was also awarded for her struggles to tackle the lack of daycare options, one of the key reasons why women are unable to actively join the workforce.

Chair of the Tokyo host committee Noriko Nakamura (right) awards the Japan Women’s Leadership Award to Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike (left) on May 12, 2017. 

During the nearly one year since Koike’s election last July, she has aggressively focused on the increase of daycare facilities and daycare staff’s salaries, and on significantly reducing the number of taiki jido — children on the waiting list for daycare. She has implemented a ¥138.1 billion budget — the largest ever — for fiscal 2017 to tackle daycare issues and has set up a goal of zero taiki jido by the end of fiscal 2019. During the two times she appeared on stage during the summit, she openly spoke about the major steps that Japan has to still address toward a real implementation of women empowerment. “Women’s power is not well utilized in Japan,” she said. “It’s a shame … female participation in politics is very small.” “I’d like to remove the burdens women have, not only materially but also (through a change of) the mindset, the mindset of the traditional old-fashioned stubborn Japanese men — this is what I’m challenging right now. Some people say this is a glass ceiling.” Koike’s award, as well as this of Banda invited applause from the audience, in recognition of the two women who have fought to break the status quo in their own countries. Banda, a longtime advocate for female representation in politics, was the second female president of the African country and has been at the forefront of the fight for equal rights for decades.

Joyce Banda speaks at the Global Summit of Women in Tokyo shortly after she was awarded the summit’s Global Women’s Leadership Award on May 12, 2017.

Role Models For Future Generations

One of the major highlights of the summit was the invitation of 200 female students from various Japanese universities who took active part in a number of discussions throughout the event. One of the most influential ones was the Youth Forum on May 12, which introduced three young women working in leading positions at startup companies in Australia, France and Japan. The speakers were Marita Cheng, founder and CEO of 2MarRobotics in Australia, a company which created a robotic arm for disabled people; Evelyne Raby, COO of Cybelangel, a French cybersecurity startup founded in 2013, a company that helps major international companies detect data leaks on the Internet; and Chika Tsunoda, founder and CEO of Anytimes Inc., a skill-sharing service platform, a company she founded at the age of 28. The three shared the process of founding their companies and offered practical tips for fundraising, promotion and know-hows of company operation. The students in the audience were clearly inspired, and many were quick to follow up with how-to questions on starting one’s own company or climbing the ladder in a male-dominated corporate world.

Chika Tsunoda, founder and CEO of Anytimes Inc., speaks at the Global Summit of Women’s Youth Forum on May 12, 2017.

Throughout the event there were a total of 24 discussion sessions, excluding networking breakfasts and dinners, and all students actively attended. The speeches focused on various topics and most included at least one Japanese speaker: from doing business with Japan, women entrepreneurs forums, building your personal brand, recovering from business setbacks, accelerating women’s access to board seats, re-defying a balanced work/life, accelerating women’s corporate leadership, building collaborations with men, equalizing the pay gap, and more. The topics of all sessions addressed something all women joining the workforce soon — or building their companies — will face, and equipped them with ideas and practical means on how to deal with them.  

We need to eradicate the stereotypes we have created through publicity, through media, through advertising.

Changing The Public Mindset

A constant topic throughout all panel discussions and speeches was the need to change the society’s mindset about gender roles, a topic that Japan (and certainly many other countries) still struggles to acknowledge in its society. “One of the three ways France is changing this is by tackling stereotypes: the idea that business is for men,” said Muriel Penicaud, the CEO of Business France and the Ambassador for International Investment in her opening remarks to the “Accelerating Entrepreneurship” forum, which also included Emiko Sasaki from Ernst & Young Shinnihon LLC Japan and Haruka Mera, the CEO and founder of ReadyFor, a crowdfunding platform, and which was moderated by Kumi Sato, President and CEO of Cosmo Japan. The discussion was also enforced in the “Reaching Women Effectively as a Market” forum on May 13, in which Mercedes Erra, the founder and executive president of Havas Worldwide, a French-based multinational advertising and public relations company, said that we all carry the responsibility of educating our children in a way that will break boundaries and make true change. “We need to be careful how we educate our children. We have raised (our daughters) thinking they only have half of the rights of the boys. We need to eradicate the stereotypes we have created through publicity, through media, through advertising,” she enforced in a message to all politicians in the room.

Mercedes Erra, founder and executive president of Havas, addresses the audience of the importance of children’s education toward achieving a true gender equality on May 13, 2017, the last day of the summit.

But it’s also essential to educate our boys to treat women as their equals; to expect equal care from their mothers and their fathers, and raise them into men who will bring equality in their homes and businesses. It was a breath of fresh air when a man rose his hand after the speech and said, “I want to raise my son into a man my daughter would marry.” Like in the ad below, which was shown in the same session.

Savvy Says…

The Global Summit of Women was not ideal. It could have incorporated working mother’s forums; members of women’s labor unions, workers at daycare centers and unemployment offices who tackle cases, including single mothers’ unemployment and other factors. It could have addressed issues Japanese women still face in 2017, such as their inability to choose their surname upon marriage, or have a child within six months after a divorce — or why Japan is not ready to welcome a crown princess, something that Abe and his cabinet are vocally against of.

But it opened a door for discussion and put Japan at the frontline of vocally addressing issues that prevent women from making a choice and finding opportunities to meet their needs. It put the government in the spotlight, making sure that the world is watching and the country can’t continue providing shameful results on international gender gap surveys. It also inspired young women in the audience to know that they shouldn’t be held back and that there are other women who have taken initiatives to take control of their lives. The event was just a beginning — but just like the women’s marches across the globe and just like the election of Governor Koike, we believe it serves as an example of not being afraid to unite and share our voice — whether one is a woman or a man. 

Amid the enormously disappointing news last year that Japan was ranked No. 111 on the World Economic Forum’s 2016 Global Gender Gap index — dropping 10 spots from the previous year’s No. 101 ranking — the country is on a mission to rank higher on the global gender agenda. Last year, we observed the first-ever election of a female governor of Tokyo, Yuriko Koike, while Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has spoken of his goals to have women 30 percent of leadership positions in Japan by 2020. This January, over 600 women marched on a cold winter night in one of the very first global women’s marches following the election of Donald Trump as the new president of the United States. Now, Tokyo is getting ready to host the Global Summit of Women 2017, an event that promises to address issues concerning women not just in Japan, but across the globe.

Panelist discussion at the Global Summit of Women 2016 in Warsaw, Poland.

What Is The Global Summit Of Women?

Organized by GlobeWomen, a Washington-based, non-profit organization led by Irene Natividad, which aims to enable women in the public and private sectors, as well as non-profit organizations to work together toward expanding possibilities for women in business, the annual summit serves as a leading global business and economic forum to get together and tackle women-related issues. Its main goals are to invite women in leadership positions from across the globe to hold discussions on women’s opportunities in business, as well as provide global networking opportunities. Held since 1990, the summit — often referred to as the women’s version of the World Economic Forum — is held in a different country every year and draws thousands of  participants, including renowned political figures, CEOs and influential businesswomen.

Goals Of 2017’s Global Summit of Women In Tokyo

Following last year’s successful event in Warsaw, Poland, the Summit comes to Tokyo for the very first time this year, drawing the largest participants list ever — a total of 1,400 people will be joining from 95 countries, a significant increase from last year’s 1,000 participants.

Delegates from Japan invite 2016 Summit participants to the 2017 Global Summit of Women in Tokyo, Japan at the end of last year’s Summit in Warsaw, Poland. 

Under the theme “Beyond Womenomics: Accelerating Access/Increasing Impact,” the summit will tackle practical strategies and practices in improving women’s economic status through the perspectives of the three critical triggers for change — government, business and civil society. The Summit will also recognize women’s achievements in an award ceremony and showcase various initiatives developed in different parts of the world to speed up women’s access to corporate leadership roles.

It will further offer opportunities for participants to gain an insight into doing business with Japan and the Asia-Pacific region through a number of sessions on leadership skills, business and network.

Noriko Nakamura, sixth from left, poses with participants and world leaders at last year’s Global Summit of Women in Warsaw, Poland.

The Tokyo Summit will be chaired by Noriko Nakamura, the CEO of Poppins Corp., a major babysitting and daycare company that has continued to address Japan’s need for improvement of maternity needs and support for working mothers. A well-known businesswoman, a former announcer and a winner of multiple business awards, Nakamura says she undertook the chair position with hope that the Summit will serve as “an agent for Prime Minister Abe’s goal to increase women’s leadership proportion to 30 percent by 2020; to increase global involvement and knowledge of Japan and provide future opportunities for business cooperations, as well as to provide role models for future young women leaders in Japan.” The hosting committee has invited 200 female university students to participate in the Summit with the aim of equipping them with better knowledge of the world and to provide them with opportunities for future business development. Nakamura says she believes that women are the key to global change and hopes that the Summit will serve as a trigger for domestic and international awareness.

Summit Program & Key Participants

The three-day event, held from May 11 through May 13 in Tokyo’s Minato ward, is broken into various sessions, networking events and panels tackling a wide array of issues. Day one will include dedicated sessions to doing business in Japan, followed by a special forum by Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and an opening ceremony. The second day will introduce global and regional economic megatrends, a women entrepreneurs’ forum, several breakout sessions and panels, a youth forum and the Global Women’s Leadership Awards Gala Dinner. The third day includes a debate forum on work-life balance, a women CEO forum in accelerating corporate leadership, an introduction of successful global campaigns toward equalizing gender pay gaps, and other issues. The full program can be viewed here.

From left to right: Noriko Nakamura, Chair of Global Summit of Women 2017, Irene Natividad, head of GlobeWomen, the organizer of the Summit, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Masako Mori, former Minister of Gender Equality and a Vice Chair of the Summit’s Tokyo Host Committee.

Among the key participants from Japan (in addition to Governor Koike and Poppins CEO Nakamura) will be Fumiko Hayashi, Mayor of Yokohama, Masako Mori, former Minister of Gender Equality, Hiroko Koshino, founder of fashion brand Hiroko Koshino, Kathy Matsui, Vice Chair of Goldman Sachs, Haruno Yoshida, President of BT Japan, as well as several male representatives of top Japanese corporations, including Masahiko Uotani, President and Group CEO of Shiseido and Masaru Onishi, Chair of Japan Airlines.

International guest participants include renowned names and political figures, such as Leni Robredo, the Vice President of the Philippines, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Undersecretary General and Head of UN Women, Maitha Al-Shamsi, UAE’s Minister of State, Angela Mackay, publisher of Financial Times, Henryka Bochniarz, President of Poland’s Confederation of Employers, and Anja Kopak Mrak, Slovenia’s charismatic Minister of Family, Labor and Social Affairs.

Savvy Says…

The fact that such a large-scale global event is happening in Tokyo is already a huge step not only in recognizing Japan’s positive actions to improve women’s business and status conditions, but also in furthering Tokyo’s involvement with global agendas. The largest ever participation also shows the global rise in interest in Japan and women’s issues. Those are all positive aspects that need recognition and praise.

“Women are the key to global change,” says Noriko Nakamura, the Chair of Tokyo’s Summit. Here participants at last year’s Summit are seen taking selfies during a photo session at the event.

Prior to the opening of the event, we hope that the Summit will focus on providing actual solutions to gender gap issues, including pay, employment, healthcare and leadership, as well as purely women’s rights. Networking is a key to raising awareness, but we hope the organizing committee and each participant joins with a clear agenda of what needs to be done to get involved and move toward actual implementations following the event. We also wish that both Japanese and international media in Japan will become more involved in the event and report just as intensely as it does for other international gatherings happening here in Tokyo. So far, unfortunately, this hasn’t been the case.

The Summit will take place between May 11 and May 13 at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa in Tokyo’s Minato ward. For more information on the event, see here. Savvy Tokyo will be reporting live through Facebook and Instagram on the event and will follow up with a post-event report.

Oh, what a night! On Thursday, Feb. 16, Savvy Tokyo hosted GPlus Media’s first major networking party of the year, After 7 — and by all accounts, everyone had a fantastic time.

Around 160 guests from 15 different countries and even more businesses and organizations based in Japan joined the party, creating an inspiring and friendly international atmosphere we all enjoyed immensely.

The event included a special Tottori video screening and sake tasting, a live band, some groovy dancing (we admit, members of our team were involved), a prize raffle, and plenty of eating, drinking and mingling with inspiring people.

A big thank you to our sponsors: Tottori Prefecture, Azabu Gardens, Domino’s Pizza and the Grand Hyatt Tokyo for some wonderful prizes that helped make the evening a rousing success! These included:

• ¥5,000 Domino’s pizza vouchers
• Two bottles of award-winning Louis Roederer Cristal & Cristal Rose Champagne from Azabu Gardens
• A one-night stay at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo
• A dinner for two at Xex Nihonbashi
• A ¥50,000 voucher for the Misasa hot spring in Tottori Prefecture
• Three packages of class-A Tottori Prefecture beef

Congrats to all the winners!

It was wonderful to catch up with our contributors, readers, clients and guests, and a great opportunity to meet new people and make new connections. A big thank you to all who made it out — it was pleasure to have you all! Stay tuned for details about our next GPlus After 7 networking event.

It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of living in a big city. We rush from train to train, from one assignment to another — and all of that in between the million other things we do on a daily basis. But studies show that having a vibrant support network of other like-minded women can benefit you in countless ways. Whether it’s a casual chat over Of coffee or a tap on the shoulder during rough times, we all need some girl-to-girl time for ourselves.

Finding female friends can be difficult in the fast-paced world of Japan, but it’s certainly not impossible. You can start by joining one (or more) of the following women’s groups and resources in the city and build up your support network.

For Empowering Women (FEW)

Top of the list for women’s groups in Japan is FEW. Founded in 1981 as an organization for “Foreign Executive Women” (when such were indeed few, as they say), FEW has long been a stable source of support and learning for international women in both the Tokyo and Kansai areas. Its diverse members, strategic and community service partners offer endless opportunities to learn, connect and be inspired.

FEW is an exceptionally active and ever-growing Tokyo-based nonprofit business and social networking organization whose mission is to “enable internationally-minded women in Japan to achieve their full professional and personal potential.”  

Every year, FEW offers an exciting line-up of personal and professional development workshops and opportunities, including various monthly speeches by women versed in various fields — as well as loads of fun social events that all work to support women’s empowerment.

The College Women’s Association of Japan (CWAJ)

The College Women’s Association of Japan is a nonprofit, volunteer organization for Japanese and non-Japanese women alike who are interested in education, cross-cultural exchange and friendship. The group’s focus has been to create and offer enriching events for members to share cross-cultural experiences with peers in Japan.

Whether it’s a casual chat over coffee or a tap on the shoulder during rough times, we all need some girl-to-girl time for ourselves.

CWAJ creates connections through a wide range of activities in and around Tokyo and at its informative and interesting monthly luncheon meetings held at the Tokyo American Club.

One of their most popular events each year is an annual print show and contest, which awards prizes to artists and promotes the ongoing trends and historical art of printmaking in Japan. The print show has a celebrated history that goes back over 60 years and was established with the support of publisher Charles Tuttle and the Yoseido Gallery.

Tokyo Mothers Group (TMG)

© Photo by Tokyo Mothers Group

Moms need a network, too. The TMG group is where mothers in Tokyo can go for support, information, resources and friendship. Started as a niche group by a new mom who was navigating the trials of living in the city with a newborn, TMG has now grown to over 200 members. It’s an English-speaking group but the members come from every corner of the globe. They gather to share parenting resources and programs and attend regular meetings, events, practical advice and useful information.

TMG is a nonprofit association run by volunteers and is always looking for new members, volunteers and ideas. If you have inside information of your own that would be helpful to other moms in Tokyo, why not contact the group and join up. Everyone is welcome!  

Meetup Groups for Women

A great resource for women looking for new friends, business support or with an interest in learning new skills in a supportive environment is the growing list of groups and organizations focused on women’s issues and interests on the website Meetup.com.

Many new women’s groups have bypassed the traditional setup of membership clubs and operate using Meetup.com’s many resources and promotional tools. From learning tech skills, self-defense classes, language exchange to women’s small business support, wining & dining groups and even dating, you’re sure to find something right up your alley. A simple search will help you find the ideal group that fits your goals and schedule. Here are some Meetup groups focused on women in Japan.

So, as we head into March and celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, why not meet others and build new connections with one of these fabulous groups? Share your own knowledge and find support with a savvy sisterhood that includes other like-minded women here in Tokyo and across Japan.