Local Community Resources

International Community Centers

International community centers serve as vital hubs for foreigners in Japan, offering various services and support to help integrate into Japanese society.

What They Offer

• Multilingual consultation services (legal, visa, housing, etc.)
• Cultural exchange events
• Information about local services
• Translation assistance
• Meeting spaces

Major Centers

• Tokyo International Communication Committee (TICC) - Located in Shinjuku, offers consultations in multiple languages
• Yokohama International Association - Provides support in over 10 languages
• Osaka International House Foundation (I-House) - Comprehensive support for foreigners in Kansai
• Kyoto International Community House - Cultural programs and support services

How to Find Your Local Center

Most prefectures and major cities have international associations. Search for “[your city name] + international association” or check with your local ward office (区役所/kuyakusho).

Free Japanese Language Classes

Learning Japanese is essential for daily life, and there are numerous free or low-cost options available.

Community Volunteer Classes

• Usually held at community centers (公民館/kōminkan)
• Taught by local volunteers
• Casual atmosphere, focused on practical conversation
• Often available on weekends or evenings
• Small donation (¥100-500) may be requested per session

Municipal Classes

• Organized by city governments
• More structured curriculum
• May require registration for a full term
• Usually free or minimal cost

Online Resources

• Japan Foundation’s Minato - Free online Japanese courses
• NHK World Easy Japanese - Lessons for beginners
• Nihongo e-Na - Directory of Japanese learning resources

Finding Classes

• Check bulletin boards at your local ward office
• Visit your nearest international association
• Look for flyers at libraries and community centers
• Join Facebook groups for your area

Foreigner-Friendly Social Groups and Clubs

Joining social groups is one of the best ways to make friends and build a support network in Japan.

Language Exchange Groups

• Language Exchange Meetup - Regular gatherings in cafes or public spaces
• Tandem Language Exchange - One-on-one language partners
• English Conversation Clubs - Often welcome foreign participants

Special Interest Clubs

• SIEJ (Society of International Exchange in Japan) - Organizes cultural activities and trips
• International Women’s Club - Support network for foreign women
• TELL (Tokyo English Life Line) - Mental health support and social activities
• Outdoor Clubs - Hiking, camping, and nature exploration groups that welcome foreigners

Sports Clubs

• FujiSports - Multi-national sports clubs in major cities
• Tokyo Gaijins Rugby Club - Rugby team welcoming foreigners
• International Futsal/Soccer Leagues - Available in most major cities

Professional Networks

• Foreign Chambers of Commerce - Networking events for professionals
• JMEC (Japan Market Expansion Competition) - Business training program
• FEW (For Empowering Women) Japan - Professional women’s network

Finding Groups

• Meetup.com - Search for “international” or “English” groups in your area
• Facebook Groups - Join local expat communities
• Bulletin boards at international supermarkets
• Ask at your workplace or school

Digital Resources

Useful Apps

• Japan Guide - Comprehensive information about living in Japan
• Safety tips - Disaster alerts in multiple languages
• LINE - Essential messaging app for connecting with Japanese friends and groups

Online Communities

• Reddit r/japanlife - Active forum for foreigners in Japan
• City-specific Facebook groups - “Foreigners in [City Name]”
• GaijinPot Forums - Discussions on various aspects of life in Japan

Emergency Support

Multilingual Helplines

• AMDA International Medical Information Center: Medical interpretation (03-6233-9266)
• Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL): Mental health support (03-5774-0992)
• Japan Helpline: 24/7 nationwide emergency assistance (0570-000-911)