A close-up of the Japanese flag waving in the wind against a clear blue sky

Living in Japan

If you’re living in Japan, you most likely want to meet all kinds of people—Japanese people to really start building your own community, foreigners from around the world to hear about different life experiences, or even people from your own country so you can have a little bit of home in what is now your new home.

As someone who has lived in Japan for 9 years now, it can be a very special thing to make deep connections, and I’m proud to say that I’ve done so over the years, both in person and online. I think one opportunity that people don’t always think about when trying to meet new people in Japan is language exchange meetups, as well as a few other options that I’m happy to cover in this article.

If you’re searching for how to make friends in Japan, language exchange Japan, or even expat life in Japan tips, this article will be great food for thought.

A smiling woman holding a cup of coffee while having a conversation in a relaxed indoor setting

 What is a language exchange Meetup?

A language exchange meetup is an opportunity to interact and meet with people in a setting where you can practice each other’s language. Usually, there is about an equal number of Japanese people and people who speak English (or other languages) attending these events.

I see many that are online, but just as many are held in person at cafés or event spaces, where you typically have about 30 to 40 minutes to talk in your group before switching and meeting new people. It’s a great way to practice conversation while also socializing.^^

I’ve attended a few in the past and have really enjoyed them. You’ll mostly find these language exchange events in Japan in big cities like Osaka, Tokyo, and Kyoto.

 

Some worth mentioning are:

Will.Osaka Let’s Make Friends at Umeda, Osaka & Kansai Tour

What’s great about Will’s events is that he manages to bring people together in such a natural way. He is very knowledgeable about different countries and genuinely enjoys helping people connect.

Will hosts events not only at cafés but also around Kyoto and Osaka, giving people the chance to meet in more fun and relaxed settings, like walking around Osaka Castle or having a picnic in Kyoto. His events are always changing, which makes them exciting and easy to join if you’re looking for Osaka language exchange meetups or social events in Kansai.

A row of worn and vintage books lined up on a wooden shelf with visible aged textures

Storybook Cafe Community

If you’re looking for a calmer and more intimate setting, you can try going to one of the events held at Storybook Cafe. I’ve been to one of their events where you read for an hour or so and then discuss what you’ve read afterward, and I fully enjoyed the experience.

Not to mention, the wonderful hostess Livia holds all kinds of events outside of reading, such as board games and even painting. It’s held in a great and comfortable space, and also a very aesthetically pleasing café in Nakatsu.

 

Meetup

There are all kinds of events that you can find on apps like Meetup, but I definitely would have been remiss if I didn’t recommend some that I’ve personally attended and fully enjoyed. Through both of these events, I made some lifelong friends with whom I have traveled and meet regularly. (You might even spot some of them in my other blog posts ^-^)

If you’re a bit shy like me, don’t hesitate to go to these events—you can really make meaningful friendships, both with Japanese people and other foreigners.

A laptop placed beside a cup of black coffee on a wooden desk, creating a cozy workspace scene.

Online Meetups

 Sometimes it’s a bit difficult to find time or go out and meet people in person. If that’s the case, there are plenty of online language exchange meetups that you can join.

As I mentioned earlier, many events are hosted through platforms like Zoom, but there are also apps that are commonly used to make friends and practice languages. Some popular apps include:

* Tandem

* HelloTalk

* italki

 

These apps are often used because you can easily talk with people from all around the world. If your goal is to practice Japanese online for free, this is a great option.

However, if you are looking for deeper connections or long-term friendships, keep in mind that these apps can feel a bit less personal, and it may take time to find the right match. Still, they are amazing tools, especially if you’re busy or just starting your Japanese language learning journey.

Happy People Meeting!

A simple illustration of two girls holding hands, wearing patterned dresses and traditional-style sandals.

Honestly, the best thing you can do is search online for any activity that you are already interested in and then throw yourself into it. If you’re interested in pottery, go to a pottery event where you can meet people who enjoy the same thing. If you’re interested in dancing, there are so many dance studios around where everyone is excited to welcome new members and learn from each other.

The best thing you can do for yourself is to put yourself out there and be yourself. (It may also be helpful to learn some basic Japanese conversation starters before going to an event!) Whether you choose offline meetups in Japan or online language exchange apps, you’re bound to grow and meet amazing people along the way.

Either way, you’re bound to have a great time if you give yourself the opportunity. I really hope that this article helped you and that you enjoy your time in Japan!

Until the next article, please stay happy, healthy, and curious as well!

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