Tokyo International Party is Japan's largest, longest running and most popular international party network in Japan. Networking parties are held regularly in different parts of Tokyo, such as Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku or Roppongi etc. Every month quite a number of Japanese people and foreigners from all over the planet join this party, since it is a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, find language or cultural exchange partners in a nice and relaxed environment.
For people who are new to Tokyo, I would highly recommend these gatherings because it is a fantastic way to get started in the big city and to socially connect with others from different parts of the world, including Japanese of course. The people joining the party enjoy meeting others face-to-face instead of just connecting through the various social network channels and the internet. Many also confirm that it is a great way to practice their foreign languages, to put into practice what they have learnt.
These parties occur once a week at different bars and restaurants, usually from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Last weekend we were at Dogenzaka 119 Shibuya, which is just a 3-minute walk from Shibuya station. The entry fee depends on who you are: Japanese guys pay ¥2000, Japanese girls ¥1000 and foreigners ¥1000. If you add another ¥1000 you can get your "all you can drink" wristband. And if it is your birthday that month, you get a free entry; all you have to do is to show your alien registration card or other photo identification card. Visit their website to keep yourself up-to-date about the party schedule, or join their Facebook page. On the website you can also register for the next party, which I recommend, as it is cheaper than at the door.
For someone like me who is new to the city, this party proved to be a great opportunity to meet new people, to know about new places to visit, to learn about Japanese culture and language while having fun at the same time. Weekends are not always so far, so check for the next party location and go ahead make some new friends in Tokyo!
