There are a variety of regular events to engage and inspire members.

Social Programs
Connections hosts day, evening, seasonal and themed events from September through May, including a holiday luncheon in December and an Oscars watch party each March.

Monthly Connections
Three forums for meeting and mingling:

• Coffee Connections
  Held on the last Monday of the month, this relaxed gathering allows Tokyo newcomers and longtime residents to connect, share experiences and enjoy coffee with friends.
• Culture Connections
  Held on the first Monday of each month, this international get-together allows for guided conversations on timely topics. Learn about other cultures and customs, practice your language skills and enjoy new companions in a welcoming environment.
• Cocktail Connections
  Held on one Wednesday each month, this is a fun, informal happy hour with complimentary appetizers. New Connections members and those celebrating their birthdays during the month receive a complimentary glass of happy hour wine or beer.

International Bazaar
The International Bazaar, held in November, is a multiday shopping extravaganza that brings together dozens of vendors and specialists. Shoppers can explore a wide range of items, including crafts, clothing and jewelry, all while enjoying the vibrant and multicultural atmosphere of the bazaar.

One of the key highlights of the International Bazaar is its charitable aspect. Net proceeds from the event are donated to various charities, supporting important causes and making a positive impact on communities. This event not only provides a fantastic opportunity for holiday shopping but also allows attendees to contribute to charitable initiatives.

Tokyo 101: An Expat's Guide to Living in Japan
A comprehensive two-day orientation program held yearly, Tokyo 101 features practical presentations on local healthcare, dealing with emergencies, cultural adjustment, Japanese culture and cuisine, travel, shopping and more.

This is an opportunity for newcomers to learn how to make the most of their time in Tokyo from local experts and expats.

Find a new passion or expand your skills through the wide range of spring and fall enrichment classes led by experienced instructors and guides:

● Art & Crafts
● Culture & Excursions
● Language & Lifestyle

The ¥3,500 class registration fee is waived for Connections members. Class and material fees vary.

Connections organizes an annual calendar of fun and educational tours, from day trips to overnight excursions.

Tours have included festivals, Tokyo neighborhoods, hikes, outlet shopping, cultural destinations and gardens.

Connections members enjoy advanced registration and discounted tour fees.

Connections supports a number of local charities that have insufficient fundraising resources or government support.

For 2024, Connections’ charitable focus is “Hungry and Homeless,” and its donations totaled ¥7 million to the following recipients:

• Japan Association for Refugees (¥1 million)
  Provides housing, language and livelihood support to refugees and asylum seekers in Japan.
• Japan Legal Support Center (¥1 million)
  Provides consultation and services from attorneys and other professionals to resolve legal problems.
• Moyai Support Centre for Independent Living (¥1 million)
  Provides weekly food pantry, counseling and housing support to people in need.
• Ryozenkai (¥1.5 million)
  Provides mental, lifestyle and employment support to women released from prisons or juvenile training schools.
• Tokyo Juvenile Association (¥1.5 million)
  Assists in the rehabilitation of juvenile delinquents on home probation and supports their guardians.
• Victim Support Center of Tokyo (¥1 million)
  Provides support to victims of crimes, their families and bereaved families.

Additionally, funds are used for immediate disaster relief efforts. This year, two donations totaling ¥3.46 million were made through the Japanese Red Cross Society in response to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake on New Year’s Day, 2024.

Connections also participates in charity events for organizations such as the Moyai Support Centre, the Salvation Army and Sanyukai.

To learn more about the charities or to find out how you can donate directly, please contact Lina Raffone, director of charities, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Connections board oversees the activities of the organization.

President
Jillian Tattle

Vice President
Christa Wallington

Director of Administration
Nela Amaral

Director of Finance
Scarlett Guanyu Li

Director of Communications
Blanka Kobayashi

Director of Community Relations
Marieann Machida

Director of Membership
Janet Ferrett

Director of Charities
Lina Tanaka-Raffone

Director of Fundraising
Ilka von Witzendorff

Director of Cultural Enrichment
Yoko Yanagisawa

Director of Cultural Tours
Ikuko Suzuki