Upcoming 学LEARN
What's ‘in’ in Japan 06: Bilingual Exchange Session "Social Norms"
What's ‘in’ in Japan 06: Bilingual Exchange Session "Social Norms" ◆ Date Tuesday, February 23rd | RESERVE ◆ Time 7:30pm~ 10:00pm (the class STARTS at 7:30pm!!) ◆ Venue Cafe la Voie 1-23-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo ◆ Participation Fee 500 yen *Please be advised that you will need to purchase a drink (and/or snack) upon arrival. ◆ A SOCIAL NORM is a cultural product which represents individuals' basic knowledge of what others do and think they should do. In a society that depends on social obligation, social norms, or mores, are not just peer pressure but a requirement to live a harmonious life. Social norms are large & small, from lifelong employment to being quiet on the train. To people from other culture, the social norms of another country, especially an island nation like Japan can come as a shock for those that aren't accustomed to it. While not good or bad, some social norms become adopted by those that appreciate the culture. ◆ QUESTIONS ・Do you know any unique social norms? ・What is the difference between a social norm and a tradition? ・Have you adopted any social norms from other cultures? ◆ SOCIAL NORMS ・Being quiet on the train ・Young marrying age ・"Shy" personality ・Train oshiya "pushers" ・Not walking while eating/drinking ・Toilet slippers ・Not pouring your own glass ・Loitering in bookstores ・Counting one hand ・Receiving things with two hands ------------------------------------------------------------------- ◆ What’s ‘in’ in Japan - is a monthly bilingual session (usually the 2nd or 4th Tuesday night in Tokyo) for Japanese and Non-Japanese people in Tokyo to get together and learn about various topics related to JAPAN from its history to the latest trend/culture where you feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. There is always a hidden backgrounds for that hot issue, which may be the cultural things, customs, people's minds, Samurai spirits, weather and so on... Let's share ideas in a cozy atmosphere and meeting new people, and feel more Live and Real Japan! ◆ Language Any language ◆ Timetable - Open 7:30pm Lighting Talk (Self-Introduction), Language Exchange - Around 8:00pm Fun Conversation and discussion with slides - Around 10:00pm Close ◆ RESERVE |
What's ‘in’ in Japan 05: Bilingual Exchange Session "Open Discussion"
What's ‘in’ in Japan 05: Bilingual Exchange Session "Open Discussion" ◆ Date Tuesday, January 26th | RESERVE ◆ Time 7:30pm~ 10:00pm (the class STARTS at 7:30pm!!) ◆ Venue Cafe la Voie 1-23-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo ◆ Participation Fee 500 yen *Please be advised that you will need to purchase a drink (and/or snack) upon arrival. ◆ ICT wants to hear from you! For our next What’s ‘in’ in Japan discussion we would like your input on what to discuss. As an open discussion on all things current and relevant, topics ranging from culture to music and more are all welcome. If you have an obscure interest or hobby please share it with us whether is western or Japanese. We want to incorporate your ideas into What’s ‘in’ in Japan since you all live IN Japan. ◆ Questions ・What’s the topic you want to discuss? ・What aspects of Japan are you interested in or would like to know more about? ・Any troubles, customs (like/not like), or unique experiences to share with others? ・What Japanese things (unique culture, excellent food, amazing hospitality) have fascinated and inspired the rest of the world? Any advantages aspects of Japan? ・Are there any things that are popular in the west that you are surprised Japan hasn’t adopted? ------------------------------------------------------------------- ◆ What’s ‘in’ in Japan - is a monthly bilingual session (usually the 2nd or 4th Tuesday night in Tokyo) for Japanese and Non-Japanese people in Tokyo to get together and learn about various topics related to JAPAN from its history to the latest trend/culture where you feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. There is always a hidden backgrounds for that hot issue, which may be the cultural things, customs, people's minds, Samurai spirits, weather and so on... Let's share ideas in a cozy atmosphere and meeting new people, and feel more Live and Real Japan! ◆ Language Any language ◆ Timetable - Open 7:30pm Lighting Talk (Self-Introduction), Language Exchange - Around 8:00pm Fun Conversation and discussion with slides - Around 10:00pm Close ◆ RESERVE |
What's ‘in’ in Japan 04 : Bilingual Exchange Session "City Living"
What's ‘in’ in Japan 04 : Bilingual Exchange Session "City Living" ◆ Date Tuesday, December 8th | RESERVE ◆ Time 7:30pm~ 10:00pm (the class STARTS at 7:30pm!!) ◆ Venue Cafe la Voie 1-23-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo ◆ Participation Fee 500 yen *Please be advised that you will need to purchase a drink (and/or snack) upon arrival. ◆ December’s focus: "City Living" Tokyo is the most highly populated city in the world. Living here can be a dream for many foreigners and Japanese, alike. However, city life in such a unique and culturally rich city brings it’s own particular challenges and rewards. There are countless quirks to being in such a great city. Join us as we discuss trials, tribulations, and master tips. ・Low profile vs. high furniture ◆ Questions ・What’s the difference between an apartment, condo, or mansion? ------------------------------------------------------------------- ◆ What’s ‘in’ in Japan - is a monthly bilingual session (usually the 2nd or 4th Tuesday night in Tokyo) for Japanese and Non-Japanese people in Tokyo to get together and learn about various topics related to JAPAN from its history to the latest trend/culture where you feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. There is always a hidden backgrounds for that hot issue, which may be the cultural things, customs, people's minds, Samurai spirits, weather and so on... Let's share ideas in a cozy atmosphere and meeting new people, and feel more Live and Real Japan! ◆ Language Any language ◆ Timetable - Open 7:30pm Lighting Talk (Self-Introduction), Language Exchange - Around 8:00pm Fun Conversation and discussion with slides - Around 10:00pm Close ◆ RESERVE |
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 08 "The World’s Most Popular Brand: Japan!"
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 08 "The World’s Most Popular Brand: Japan!" ~ Interactive Style Class ~ ◆ Topic This time we will discuss the topic, "The World’s Most Popular Brand: Japan" – Japanese goods have a certain flavour and quality that people worldwide love. We’re going to talk about what makes Japanese things so appealing, how Japan can reach more people worldwide, and why Japan has earned its place as a top-tier brand. We always have late tea/dinner together after the class! ◆ What is BCC? BCC is a series of open discussion groups where we talk about aspects of Japanese and international business culture. It is a place where Japanese and foreigners can get together and discuss the best of both world, and to find out what we can learn from each other. You don’t have to be in business to join; you just have to be interested! ![]() ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 【Date】 Saturday, November 14 【Time】 11:00am ~ 1:00pm *the class will START at 11:00pm 【Fee】1,000 yen (includes venue fee, drinks and light snacks!!) *Please bring your own food/drinks and enjoy free talk time together! 【Past Classes】Report for BCC ![]() |
What's ‘in’ in Japan 03 : Bilingual Exchange Session "Money -The Mystery of "Cash in Japan"-
What's ‘in’ in Japan 03 : Bilingual Exchange Session "Money -The Mystery of "Cash in Japan"- ニッポンの現金主義" ◆ Date Tuesday, October 27th | RESERVE ◆ Time 7:45pm~ 9:45pm (the class STARTS at 7:45pm!!) ◆ Venue Yotsuya Chiiki Center (四谷地域センター)Room 2 (集会室2) 87,Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 5-minute walk from 2 exit, Shinjuku Gyoenmae station, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line ◆ October’s focus: "Money -The Mystery of "Cash in Japan"- ニッポンの現金主義" E.g.
◆ Questions - Why do Japanese people prefer to carry cash? - How often do you go to the ATM? - Do you prefer cash, check, travelers' checks, debit cards, or credit cards? - Do you prefer to go into the bank or bank online? - Do you have a debit/credit card? - How do you carry money abroad? - What do you think of Japan being a "cash society" as opposed to America which is a "credit society"? - Do you think more places in Japan are making a switch to accept forms of payment other than cash? To get some perspective on the subject, check out: "Why do Japanese people on Cash basis?" (from 18:46m~), which shows the mystery and background of "Cash in Japan"! *Rediscover Japan : http://www.tbs.co.jp/nippon-deban/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ◆ What’s ‘in’ in Japan - is a monthly bilingual session (usually the 4th Tuesday night in Ebisu) for Japanese and Non-Japanese people in Tokyo to get together and learn about various topics related to JAPAN from its history to the latest trend/culture where you feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. There is always a hidden backgrounds for that hot issue, which may be the cultural things, customs, people's minds, Samurai spirits, weather and so on... Let's share ideas in a cozy atmosphere and meeting new people, and feel more Live and Real Japan! ◆ Language Any language ◆ Participation Fee 1,000 yen *Please bring your own drinks and food (dinner) * We don’t want your tummies rumbling :) ◆ Timetable - Open 7:45m Lighting Talk (Self-Introduction), Language Exchange - Around 8:00pm Fun Conversation and discussion with slides - Around 9:40pm Close ◆ Schedule (on every fourth Tuesdays night) - October 27th : Money - November 24th : Lifestyle * Schedule and topics are flexible.. |
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 07 "Working in a Mixed Culture Office"
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 07 "Working in a Mixed Culture Office" ~ Interactive Style Class ~ ◆ What is BCC? BCC is a series of class to discuss and learn some of the key Japanese business culture which would provide not only the typical business manners but the real voices of business person working in Japan. ◆ Topic This time we will discuss the topic, "Working in a Mixed Culture Office" How many different countries are represented in your workplace? Next Business Culture Class, we will explore the challenges and rewards of Working in a Mixed Culture Office. Whether you work in a domestic or international work environment, please join us on September 12th! We always have late tea/dinner together after the class! ◆ Before Class: RSVP We would like to have each of you sending the question about the topic when signing up for the class. (Of course you can send us additional questions after signing up or even in the class!) Email Jojo at info@intlcentertokyo.com ◆ In the Class
![]() ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 【Date】 Saturday, September 12th 【Time】 3:00pm ~ 5:00pm *the class will START at 3:00pm 【Fee】1,000 yen (includes venue fee, drinks and light snacks!!) *Please bring your own food/drinks and enjoy free talk time together! 【Past Classes】Report for BCC ![]() |
What's ‘in’ in Japan 02 : Bilingual Exchange Session "Unique Japanese Fashion"
What's ‘in’ in Japan 02 : Bilingual Exchange Session "Unique Japanese Fashion" ◆ Date Tuesday, September 15th | RESERVE ◆ Time 7:30pm~ 9:30pm (the class STARTS at 7:30pm!!) ◆ Venue Terakoya Buddha LAB (寺子屋ブッダLAB) 3-23-3, Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 4-minute walk from West exit, Ebisu station, JR or Hibiya line ◆ September’s focus: "What is Unique Japanese FASHION?" - How do you stay on trend when fashion is constantly changing? - The evolution of fashion in Japan has transitioned from traditional style to western influence. - Tokyo is seen as a fashion capital of the world but no one is ever quite sure if the trends radiate from the city center or if outside trends become famous in the fashion mecca. Come discuss Japanese fashion from wafuku to Harajuku street style. KEY WORDS ・Wafuku (Kimono, Yukata, Jinbei) ・Street fashion (Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Aoyama, Shirogaze) ・Fast fashion (ZARA, H&M, Gap and Uniqlo) ・High brands fashion (Yoji Yamamoto, KENZO, Hanae Mori etc) ・School fashion (uniform, bag, socks etc) ・Kawaii vs. Cool ・Ganguro ・Hippie ・Bohemian ・Modern ・Lumberjack ・What is New trend? - Fascinating Japanese Fashion http://www.tokyofashiondiaries.com/fascinating-japanese-fashion/ - A foreigners take on Japanese fasihon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy7QHy1B8yI - How have fashion trends changed over the years in your home country? - Do you keep up with current fashion trends? - Where do you like to shop in Japan? - What Japanese fashion trends have shocked you? - How do you define your individual style? ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ◆ What’s ‘in’ in Japan - is a monthly bilingual session (usually the 4th Tuesday night in Ebisu) for Japanese and Non-Japanese people in Tokyo to get together and learn about various topics related to JAPAN from its history to the latest trend/culture where you feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. There is always a hidden backgrounds for that hot issue, which may be the cultural things, customs, people's minds, Samurai spirits, weather and so on... Let's share ideas in a cozy atmosphere and meeting new people, and feel more Live and Real Japan! ◆ Language Any language ◆ Participation Fee 1,000 yen *Please bring your own drinks and food (dinner) * We don’t want your tummies rumbling :) ◆ Timetable - Open 7:20pm Lighting Talk (Self-Introduction), Language Exchange - Around 8:00pm Fun Conversation with slides - Around 9:30pm Close ◆ Schedule (on every fourth Tuesdays night) - September 15th : Fashion - October 27th : Money - November 24th : Lifestyle * Schedule and topics are flexible.. ◆ How to Reserve | HERE ◆ Our Partners 寺子屋ブッダ : http://www.tera-buddha.net/ まちのお寺の学校 : http://www.machitera.net/ ![]() |
What's ‘in’ in Japan 01 : Bilingual Exchange Session "FOOD"
What's ‘in’ in Japan 01 : Bilingual Exchange Session "FOOD" ICT has restarted its new casual bilingual discussion sessions "What's ‘in' in Japan," launching this month in Ebisu! What’s ‘in’ in Japan is a bilingual session where you can feel free to speak your native language or Japanese in a multicultural setting. July’s focus: "What is Japanese onigiri?" Do you know why Japanese started making rice balls or why onigiri a.k.a "omusubi" is so popular? Can you guess how many onigiri are sold one day? Onigiri is a Japanese staple but there is a science to such a simple snack. What delicious finger foods is your country or hometown known for? Come to join us for a lighthearted chat in a comfortable environment and have a fun night with ICT members! To get some perspective on the subject, check out: "Why do Japanese people eat "ONIGIRI" made with bare hands?" (from 19:30m~/26:04m~) , which shows the mystery and background of Japanese onigiri culture! (Rediscover Japan : http://www.tbs.co.jp/nippon-deban/) ◆ Before class: RSVP We would like to have each of you to send a question about the topic when signing up for the class. (Of course you can send us additional questions after signing up or even in the class!) Email Jojo at info@intlcentertokyo.com ◆ Schedule (on every fourth Tuesdays night) - August 25th : Fashion *Schedule and topics are flexible. ------------------------------------------------------- ◆ Date Tuesday, July 28th ◆ Time 7:30pm~ 9:30pm (the class STARTS at 7:30pm!!) ◆ Language Any language ◆ Participation Fee 1,000 yen First session exclusive DISCOUNTS
- Open 7:20pm - 7:30pm Icebreaking Game, Language Exchange (Coffee time) ◆ How to Reserve | Required *Attendees: min 6, max 20 ◆ Venue Terakoya Buddha LAB (寺子屋ブッダLAB) Our Partner 寺子屋ブッダ : http://www.tera-buddha.net/ ◆ Information Contact: Email Jojo at info@intlcentertokyo.com |
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 06 "Gender equality in the workplace"
【学LEARN】Business Culture Class (BCC) 06 "Gender equality in the workplace" ~ Interactive Style Class ~ ◆ What is BCC? BCC is a series of class to discuss and learn some of the key Japanese business culture which would provide not only the typical business manners but the real voices of business person working in Japan. ◆ Topic This time we will discuss the topic, "Gender equality in the workplace" This month we tackle a big issue in Japan and around the world. We will look at how perceptions and expectations of gender affect workplace equality. How fair is the workplace really? What can we do to improve things? Come out and join us in an open-minded discussion of these questions and more. We always have late lunch together after the class! ◆ Before Class: RSVP We would like to have each of you sending the question about the topic when signing up for the class. (Of course you can send us additional questions after signing up or even in the class!) Email Jojo at info@intlcentertokyo.com ◆ In the Class
![]() ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 【Date】 Saturday, July 11th 【Time】 4:00 ~ 6:00pm *the class will START at 3:45pm 【Fee】1,000 yen (includes venue, drinks and snacks!!) 【Program】 Business Cuture Class (BCC) 06 Introduction, Presentation, Discussion and Q&A time *Please bring your own lunch/drinks and enjoy free talk time together! 【Past Classes】Report for BCC ![]() |
【学LEARN:ZEN】ZEN AWAKENING 2 : Zazen (坐禅) and Zengo (禅語) Who is the True Man Without Rank?
【学LEARN】ZEN AWAKENING 2 : Zazen (坐禅) and Zengo (禅語) Who is the True Man Without Rank? *This workshop is held in ENGLISH!! ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ◆ Date | RESERVE HERE 3:30pm ~ 5:00pm, Saturday, June 27th *Assemble at the entrance at 陽岳寺 (Yogakuji) at 3:15pm, the workshop will start at EXACT 3:30pm. ◆ Event Details If you were asked in the street: Who is this true man without rank? what would you answer?
Long long time ago a Zen Master sat in the middle of the assembly and said: 'you all are mere lump of red flesh but there is a true man without rank who is always going in and out of the face of every one of you!
So I ask you now: Who is this true man without rank?
Well, if you still falter, do find out for yourself and come to ZEN AWAKENING, regular zen meeting with a bit of ancient zen wisdom as well as a bit of zen meditation. ◆ Schedule 3:15 OPEN 3:30 ~ 3:50pm Talking about Zengo 禅語の話 例)平常心是道、一無位真人などの禅語を例え話と交えます! 3:50 ~ 4:20pm Introduction to Zazen "坐禅" 4:20 ~ 4:40pm Zazen "坐禅" Time 4:40 ~ 5:00pm Q&A Time ◆ Zen Buddhist ![]() 法純(Hojun) Profile: http://unsui.net/poland/ Born in 1981 in Poland. Brought up in a Catholic family. At the age of 17 converted to Buddhism. In 2005 graduated English Studies (2005) as well as Japanese Studies University (2013) in Poznan, Poland. In 2010 ordained in a Japanese Soto Zen School. Practiced in various zen centres in Poland (the abbot of Engakuin Zen temple in Poznan, Poland) and monasteries in Japan. In 2011 was granted a Yokohama Zenkoji Scholarship for International Buddhist Study studying Zen Buddhism at Komazawa University in Tokyo. In 2014 finished the monastery training in Daiyuzan Saijoji temple. An active Buddhist interpreter and translator. In his practice joins both Soto and Rinzai Zen styles. ![]() 曹洞宗僧侶。 仏教経典の翻訳者。通訳者(大谷哲夫老師、鈴木包一老師、山本龍広老師など)。 1981年、ポーランド生まれ。カトリック教徒の家族に育ち、17歳の時に三帰依。坐禅に出会う。 2005年、英語学科修士課程修了。 2010年、日本学科学士課程日本学専攻修了。 2010年に得度。ポーランドのシチエチン市にある三宝院という曹洞宗のお寺、ポズナン市にある円覚院という禅センターで座禅を指導する。 また、日本の天竜寺(福井県)、静岡県の般若道場(釈迦牟尼会)、東京の桐ケ谷寺で参禅。 2011年、横浜善光寺の留学僧を得る。 2011年から2012年、駒沢大学にて仏教(禅研究、道元研究)の研究をする。 2013年、ポーランドの日本学科修士課程日本学専攻修了。 2014年、大雄山最乗寺の専門僧堂で修行。 現在、四ッ谷にある東長寺にて勤行をしている。 ◆ Things to Bring Just bring yourself!
◆ Venue 東京都江東区 陽岳寺(Yugakuji) Address: 2-16-7, Fukagawa, Kotoku, Tokyo Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 3 or 5, Monzen nakacho (門前仲町) station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line), 3-minute walk from Exit 6, Monzen nakacho (門前仲町) station (Toei Oedo Line)http://www.machitera.net/tokyo-koto-yougakuji/outline/access/ (Japanese) Max to 20 ◆ Fee 2,000yen |RESERVE HERE * Pay at the door, included drinks and small snacks. * Please DO NOT change your attendance status after June 25th. If you have to cancel the event after June 25th, please email Jojo at info@intlcentertokyo.com ◆ Co-Organized by ◎ まちのお寺の学校: http://www.machitera.net/ ◎ The International Center in Tokyo (ICT) |