A Guide for Expats and Foreigners to Make Friends

Key Takeaways

Tokyo's global resurgence makes social integration a priority: with foreign residents "returning in droves" post-pandemic, building a community in Tokyo is more important than ever.

Widespread upcoming events: Dozens of meetups and cultural exchanges happen weekly in Tokyo. For example, WelcomeTokyo alone hosts ~40–60 expat events every week.

Affordable networking: Many intercultural events and language cafés are low-cost (often ¥500–¥2,000 per session). For instance, language cafes start around ¥500 for 60 minutes, while international mixer parties typically charge ~¥1,000–¥2,000 with drinks included.

Proactivity is key: Waiting for friends to find you rarely works. Experienced expats stress that structured social events (with organizers facilitating introductions) are essential – otherwise language barrier and cultural barriers make friendship unlikely.

2026 trend: Tokyo's expat scene is rebounding. With offices calling workers back, rents rose ~8% year-over-year by 2025, signaling an influx of foreigners. More people = more international gatherings, so now is a prime time to plug into community in Tokyo networks.

Why Making Friends in Tokyo Matters in 2026

Tokyo's famous Shibuya Crossing at night (above) captures its energy and diversity. In this ever-busy city of 14+ million, expats often face isolation without a social support network. Tokyo is actively evolving into a more international city – government and Tokyo Metropolitan initiatives have expanded multilingual services and events since the 2021 Olympics. As a result, foreign residents are returning "in droves" drawn by Japanese culture and easier navigation of city life.

At the same time, living in Tokyo can be high-pressure (long work hours, big commutes), so having friends in Tokyo makes daily life smoother. Before the pandemic, expats relied on chance meetups; now that offices are filling and meetup events have resumed, newcomers have many more opportunities to connect. The contrast is stark: today's Tokyo is bustling again with international festivals, language exchange events, and social clubs – far more than in early 2020. In short, with more newcomers arriving in 2026 and social events back in full swing, forming friendships isn't just nice, it's necessary for feeling at home when living in Tokyo.

Understand the Local Social Culture

Making friends in Tokyo starts with cultural awareness. Japanese society often emphasizes group harmony, subtle communication, and respect for rules. It's common, for example, for conversations to be polite and indirect, or for people to wait for an invitation rather than boldly intrude. Key tip: learn a few Japanese phrases and customs to break the ice – even a simple "おはようございます" (good morning) or bow goes a long way. When you do meet Japanese people, ask open-ended questions about their interests or hometown, since sharing common experiences (like the ubiquitous konbini or festivals) helps build rapport.

Common pitfall: expecting friendships to work exactly like back home. For instance, hugging new acquaintances or using overly casual language can surprise locals. Instead, observe first (maybe join a language exchange group where others are in the same boat) and mirror the politeness you see around you. Learning from expats who've succeeded, one practical move is to attend structured exchanges where even those with limited English and Japanese can participate. As one foreigner noted, organizers at exchange parties often prepare programs to help newcomers mix – making them more effective for shy or unpolished speakers.

Use Expat Networks and Online Communities

Start your social search online – Tokyo has vibrant expat networks. Websites and apps let you tap into groups by interest or nationality. For example:

• Meetup.com: There are dozens of Tokyo-based groups (language exchange, hiking, coding, book clubs, etc.). Sign up and RSVP to upcoming events. Popular groups include Tokyo Language Exchange and Tokyo International Friends & Events (TIFE).
• Couchsurfing & InterNations: Contrary to hotel-booking myth, Couchsurfing has a "Hangouts" feature where you can arrange one-on-one meetups with travelers and locals nearby. InterNations organizes regular expat mixers for late-20s to 40-somethings.
• Facebook/Craigslist/LINE: Search for "Tokyo expat" or your home country's group. You'll find many casual meetup announcements. (One caution: always meet strangers in a public place and let friends know your plans.)

Using these platforms is essentially free (entry fees cover drinks at mixers, or you can simply chat at a café). Pro tip: write a friendly introduction for your profile (mentioning your hobbies and that you want to meet people). Experienced expats suggest reaching out to group organizers if you're nervous – they can introduce you to others. And once you attend even one event, follow up by adding new contacts on social media or messaging apps. This balances the online and offline worlds so connections don't fizzle out.

Attend International Events and Language Cafés

Tokyo hosts a constant stream of multicultural local events – join them. Weekly calendars include standing parties, pub crawls, walking tours, and picnics in English. For example, groups like Welcome Tokyo run 40–60 diverse events 東京国際交流会 each week (everything from cooking classes to campus tours). By showing up to things like Halloween pub crawls or Cherry Blossom meet-ups, you'll meet people and make new friends in a single evening. Organizers often shuffle seating or provide ice-breaker games so that even newcomers end up chatting.

Language exchange cafés are another goldmine: Tokyo has many spots where Japanese and foreigners living in Japan swap tongues in a casual setting. These cost as little as ~¥500 for an hour. For example, Cafeliz in Shibuya lets you practice English/Japanese with partners in a comfortable café environment. Newcomers report these cafés are "perfect" for sharing culture while making friends. Likewise, eikaiwa (conversation) schools – like the British Council or Berlitz – often have group classes or events.

A casual izakaya scene in Tokyo's Nakameguro shows how expats and locals mingle naturally. Even impromptu bar gatherings like this build bonds, reflecting Roppongi's "truly cosmopolitan feel" with many foreigners and active networking.

Common pitfalls: Don't try to do everything at once. If one big party feels overwhelming, start smaller: a language café or volunteer class can be more intimate. And if English-only events frustrate you (since many attendees are also learning English), look for バイリンガル・ミートアップ or "Japanese-only" groups where you can speak Japanese. But even in English events, most Japanese people attending know basic English – they attend to meet foreigners, too. Be patient and friendly: sharing food, drinks, or even just introducing yourself (with a smile and a nod) is often enough to get a conversation started.

Join Clubs, Sports Teams, and Volunteer Groups – Best Way to Make Friends

Leverage your hobbies or passions to find people. Tokyo has sports teams (rugby, softball, futsal, running) where expats and Japanese people play side by side. For instance, the Tokyo Crusaders rugby club and various weekend soccer leagues welcome all skill levels. If you like running, clubs like Namban Rengo meet regularly – an easy way to make friends while bonding over fitness. Joining a gym or yoga studio can also pay social dividends, since many make new friends by attending classes or running into neighbors.

Volunteer organizations connect like-minded people. Helping at a soup kitchen (e.g. Second Harvest Japan) or teaching English to kids lets you give back while meeting caring individuals. Creative hobby clubs exist too – Tokyo Art Lovers & Creators (meetup), photography outings, coding workshops – where the Japanese language isn't the only common ground.

If you have specific community ties, tap into those. Tokyo's expatriate clubs (Tokyo American Club, British Chamber, etc.) and cultural associations host events open to non-members. There are international faith communities as well: for example, English-language services at Tokyo Baptist or St. Alban's Church often include social gatherings. Women's groups are active too; the College Women's Association of Japan has hundreds of members hosting cultural programs.

Key tip: Commit to at least one group activity per month. Consistency builds friendships in Japan. If you meet people you like, suggest forming a regular meet-up (weekly language table, monthly potluck). As one guide reminds us, "show up, say hi" – once you start attending events or clubs, you naturally become part of a "tight-knit community" within Tokyo's vast cityscape.

Leverage Work, School, and Your Neighborhood

Finally, maximize organic opportunities around you. If you're working in Tokyo, don't skip out on after-work nomikai (drinking parties) or company sports clubs – these are prime networking forums. Even if you're just one of the few foreigners living in your office, taking part in team lunches or seasonal outings can spark friendships. If you're a student, sign up for campus clubs (部活) or orientation events – Japanese universities often have English-friendly international groups. Parents should attend school events or local playgroups (for example, the Tokyo Mothers Group offers playdates that mix local and expat families).

Look around your neighborhood too: frequent the same cafés, markets, or parks. Japan's personal touch (a free drink service at your local café, neighborhood sports day, or shrine festival) gives you conversation starters with neighbors. Community centers and ward-run intercultural events (like language tables or cooking classes) are sometimes advertised on local bulletin boards. Don't underestimate chance encounters: even chatting about the weather, sports, or food with a local at a train station café can grow into acquaintance over time.

Common mistake: sticking strictly to the expat bubble. Yes, connecting with fellow foreigners feels easy, but branching out to make Japanese friends enriches your experience. Even if you don't speak Japanese fluently, you can bond through shared activities (like a cherry blossom picnic). Attend a language exchange or cultural program at an International Association (e.g. Minato International Association classes) – these are explicitly designed to help expats meet Japanese people and vice versa.

Best Practices and Tips for Making Friends

Avoid these common pitfalls and follow pro tips for each:

Mistake: Being a "couch commuter." If you only swipe on apps or stay home, you'll remain lonely. Remedy: Set a goal (e.g. attend one meetup or café meetup per week) and stick to it. Even if it feels awkward at first, consistent presence (like showing up to the same language café monthly) helps people recognize you.

Mistake: Zero language effort. Expecting others to speak your language can stall relationships. Remedy: Learn basic Japanese phrases and body language norms. For example, even simple "ありがとうございます" (thank you) and "よろしくお願いします" (nice to meet you/please treat me well) show respect. Enroll in a beginner class (many have mixed Japanese and foreigners) – this not only teaches language but introduces you to classmates from around the world.

Mistake: Skipping cultural customs. When you came to Japan, things like punctuality, taking off shoes indoors, and sorting trash are social rules. Ignoring them can offend new acquaintances. Remedy: Do quick research on etiquette (e.g., say "いただきます" before meals) and watch what locals do. When in doubt, follow your host's lead. This courtesy makes locals more comfortable to befriend you.

Mistake: Only socializing with own nationality. While it feels safe, this limits you. Remedy: Balance your circle. Join some meetings aimed at Japanese–expat exchange (language classes, cooking or tea ceremony workshops). This shows Japanese people that you value their culture – which often creates curiosity and genuine friendship.

Mistake: No follow-up. Meeting someone once isn't enough. If you don't exchange contacts or suggest the next meetup, friendships fizzle. Remedy: Always ask for contact info (LINE, WhatsApp, email) before leaving, and propose a concrete plan (e.g. "Let's grab coffee next week"). Mark it on your calendar. If organizing feels hard, invite someone to a public event (like a festival or free museum day) rather than a private venue.

Risk/Mistake	Impact	How to Avoid
Expecting friends to find you	Prolonged loneliness	Actively join events weekly. Introduce yourself to someone at each event.
Ignoring Japanese etiquette	Social friction (unintentional offense)	Observe and imitate local norms. Learn basic courtesy phrases.
Only using online platforms without in-person outings	Shallow or no real connections	Balance online with face-to-face meetups and follow-up chats.
Isolating within own expat group	Limited cultural understanding	Mix with locals via language exchanges and community events.
Skipping follow-up after first meetup	Friendships fizzle out	Always exchange contact info and suggest a concrete next meeting.

Checklist

Identify your interests and needs. List your hobbies (sports, music, food, etc.) and language goals. This guides which groups to join.

Set up online accounts. Sign up for platforms like Meetup, InterNations, Couchsurfing, Tandem/HelloTalk and browse Tokyo groups. (Join at least 2–3 groups that match your interests.)

Browse event calendars. Look at upcoming events on Meetup, Facebook groups, or Tokyo community boards. Choose one friendly event in the next week (e.g., a language café, walking tour, or mixer).

Attend your first event. Be punctual and bring a small gift (like a box of cookies) or business card – this is a common ice-breaker in Japan. Introduce yourself to at least 2–3 people: ask where they're from and what they like about Tokyo.

Follow up promptly. Before leaving, exchange contact info. Later that week, message your new acquaintances ("Great meeting you! Want to grab coffee next weekend?"). Suggest a public place or casual meetup.

Join a regular group/activity. Pick one club or class (e.g., weekly soccer game, yoga class, cooking workshop). By attending routinely, you'll see the same people and bond over shared routines.

Explore mixed cultural settings. Go to local festivals, temple fairs, or international food events. Try small-group workshops (like calligraphy or tea ceremony) where you meet both Japanese and expats.

Use work/school connections. If working, join after-hour company clubs or social outings. Students should join campus clubs or study sessions. Parents can attend PTA or playgroup gatherings.

Stay consistent and patient. Building meaningful friendships can take weeks. Continue attending events, learn from each experience (What conversation topics worked? What cultural cues did you miss?), and adjust your approach.

FAQ

Q: Do I have to speak fluent Japanese to make friends? – Not necessarily. Many Tokyoites are eager to practice English with foreigners, so conversational Japanese (even a few phrases) is enough to start. Attend language exchange meetups – you'll often find Japanese who speak some English. Over time, speaking Japanese more (even through apps or classes) will deepen your connections, especially with local friends.

Q: Are international meetup events safe? – Yes, most events are quite safe. Stick to well-known groups (Meetup.com, InterNations, university-affiliated clubs) and public venues. These organizers often vet participants and sometimes charge a small fee, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere. Always meet first-time acquaintances in a group or populated setting.

Q: How do I meet Japanese (not just other foreigners)? – Use the resources geared to intercultural exchange. For example, the Minato International Association runs Japanese-English exchange classes and outings where you meet local families and expats alike. Community classes (like cooking or art) and volunteering with a Japanese organization also open doors. Being polite and curious about Japanese culture encourages friends with Japanese locals.

Q: I'm shy; should I bring a friend to events? – If possible, yes. It's less intimidating to start with a buddy who can introduce you around. However, don't let shyness stop you: try one smaller meetup or language class on your own. Many platforms (like Couchsurfing Hangouts) even focus on one-on-one or small-group chats, which might feel more comfortable than large parties. Once you have one acquaintance, it's easy to make friends easily at future events.

Q: What about safety with meeting strangers? – As with anywhere, use common sense. Meet in public (cafés, community centers), and inform someone about your plans. Japanese meetups tend to be quite safety-conscious. If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can politely excuse yourself. Reputable expat guides recommend sticking to official events and not traveling with strangers you've just met.

Conclusion

Making friends in Tokyo requires initiative and patience, but the city offers countless avenues – from language cafés to rooftop mixers – for expats to connect. By understanding local customs, joining diverse upcoming events, and following up consistently, foreigners living in Japan can build a vibrant support network and truly enjoy living abroad in one of Asia's most vibrant cities in Japan.