Magical Malbec
The Club uncorks Argentina’s winemaking artistry
HIGH ROLLERS
FLEET FEET
OBSERVER EFFECT
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MAGICAL MALBEC
The Nihonbashi Club uncorks Argentina’s best bottles at this month’s Malbec World Day mixer. 22
OBSERVER EFFECT
Member Jason Hatchell explores the paradoxical nature of abstract art ahead of his Frederick Harris Gallery exhibition this month.
GLITZ AND GIVING
The Club’s inaugural Charity Gala promises to be a blowout for the ages—all for a good cause.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Representative Governor Jesse Green (2025)
First Vice President Nils Plett (2025)
Second Vice President Agnes Ouellette (2026)
Secretary Lin Shi (2026)
Treasurer Hiroshi Miyamasu (2026)
Governors Ginger Griggs (2025), David Hackett (2026), Geoffrey Kamizuru-Bowman (2026), Justin Negrón (2026), Dean R Rogers (2026), Reiko Saito (2025), Nathan Schmidt (2025), Rune Sølvsteen (2025), Vanessa Thomas (2025)
Statutory Auditors Paul Kuo (2025), Alok Rakyan (2026)
Parentheses denote term limit.
CLUB COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Compensation Nils Plett
Culture, Community & Entertainment Matthew Tappenden (David Hackett)
Finance Dennis Hubbs (Hiroshi Miyamasu)
Food & Beverage Douglas Schafer (Nathan Schmidt)
House Martin Zotta (Justin Negrón)
Human Resources Ken Cogger (Reiko Saito)
Membership John Sasaki (Lin Shi)
Nihonbashi Rike Wootten (Ginger Griggs)
Nominating Neil Bevan
Recreation Shinji Yamasaki (Agnes Ouellette)
Parentheses denote Board liaison.
INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER
Nori Yamazaki
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
Business Support Lian Chang
DIRECTORS
Facilities Toby Lauer
Finance Naoto Okutsu
Food & Beverage Gerard Bonenfant
Human Resources Jason Dominici
Interim Nihonbashi Koji Kaneko
Marketing & Communications Shane Busato
Member Services Jonathan Allen
Operations Thomas Zaleski
Recreation Susanna Yung
INTOUCH
Managing Editor C Bryan Jones
editor@tac-club.org
Communications Editor Alec Jordan
Assistant Editor Kathy Russo
Designer Kohji Shiiki
Designer/Photographer Clara Garcia
CONTRIBUTORS
Writers
Phoebe Amoroso
Shane Busato
Chi Guillemette
Tim Hornyak
Reiko Saito
Photographers
Yuuki Ide
Kayo Yamawaki
Illustrator
Tania Vicedo
INTOUCH is printed on Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper, harvested from sustainably managed forests.
ADVERTISING IN INTOUCH
Explore the Club’s range of advertising possibilities by talking to the Club’s exclusive advertising agency, Custom Media.
Custom Media CEO Robert Heldt
Custom Media Publisher Simon Farrell
Sales Director Edvard Vondra
advertising@tac-club.org 03-4540-7730 | custom-media.com
JOINING TOKYO AMERICAN CLUB
To arrange a tour of the facilities, contact the Membership Office.
Tokyo American Club 2-1-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8649
membership@tac-club.org 03-4588-0687 | tokyoamericanclub.org
All prices referenced in INTOUCH include consumption tax.
Building a Stronger Community
WORDS REIKO SAITO IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI
The Club has fully regained its vibrancy after the trying times of the pandemic, but keeping up with the energy and changes can be hard for our staff. Turnover, diverse cultures and the post-Covid “new normal” all present challenges. Add to that mix the fact that the Club must search for its future direction, and the task becomes even greater.
As a Board member who has worked closely with the Human Resources Committee since 2019, I have witnessed staff working hard during the most difficult and scary times to protect our Club and provide the best service to Members.
With my work background and experience in talent development and team-performance consulting, I’ve been thinking of ways to support our staff. Finally, last summer, I was able to customize and donate a threemonth leadership workshop for the Club’s food and beverage managers.
The themes were professional talent development, motivation, empathy, problem-solving, meaningful engagement and leadership—all essential skills for fostering a strong Club culture.
As a second-generation Member, I am grateful that my knowledge and experience could contribute to a workshop that was effective in strengthening Club leadership.
Beyond general leadership skills, one essential learning unique to our staff is that service in a membership club differs from that in a hotel or restaurant. It involves community, safety, belonging and creating an atmosphere that makes us feel at home away from home. This is one of the reasons Members choose to join. Passing this approach on to new staff, while balancing tradition with new mindsets, requires constant communication and a deep understanding of the Club’s core values.
Surveys of staff show that they love working at the Club because of connection, friendship and a sense of belonging—very similar to what Members feel. Receiving positive feedback in talent development boosts motivation and encourages continual improvement. We must not forget that we can all be a part of this journey by submitting an online Tell TAC through the Club website to show appreciation when we experience excellent service or thoughtfulness from staff.
The next step for the Long-Range Planning Strategic Task Force, as it enters its second year, will involve everyone at the Club. The mission is to build a solid foundation and mindset for management and staff as we approach the Club’s 100th anniversary in 2028.
Guided by tradition and history, the Club is preparing to enter a new century and to evolve with changing times. This cannot be done solely through the efforts of staff, but only with each Member playing a part in building a community culture that makes our Club the premier international club in Japan.
Reiko Saito is a Club governor.
“Surveys of staff show that they love working at the Club because of connection, friendship and a sense of belonging—very similar to what Members feel.”
Daytime Delights
Launched last month, lunch service at 51 East offers Members an elevated take on the midday meal.
Curated by celebrated chef Mario Frittoli—who also oversaw the revamp of the third-floor eatery’s dinner lineup—the lunch menu features dishes that highlight the culinary traditions of Italy and America, such
as Gorgonzola gnocchi drizzled with truffle oil and honey, fresh tagliatelle wagyu Bolognese and a hearty chicken cacciatore. Weekly sandwich and pasta or risotto specials are also on offer, and diners can add a daily appetizer, a petite dessert and coffee or tea to their meal.
Drop by 51 East Bar on weekdays from 11:30am to 3pm to savor it for yourself. AJ
CAMPAIGN
Share What You Love
With the Nihonbashi Club celebrating its fourth anniversary as a vibrant downtown hub, you can help grow the thriving community—and reap the rewards.
If you introduce someone by April 30 who joins the Nihonbashi Club, you’ll receive a ¥20,000 Club voucher and be entered in a drawing for great prizes—including a ¥150,000 travel voucher, a dinner for two at the American Room or a private Cocktail Hour for four in the Muromachi Lounge.
New Members must be approved by the Board of Governors by the end of June. For full terms and conditions, and to fill out an online introduction, visit the Club website. SB
KAYO
YAMAWAKI
From the Shelves
Born in France, Member Philippe Auvaro started to learn English and Japanese at age 18, studying in Paris before completing his degrees in Japan. An early interest in philosophy and anthropology still influences his reading. Forty years later, he can be found searching the shelves of the secondfloor Library for tales of other worlds and places in time.
What was your favorite childhood book?
Like many French boys of my generation (I turned 60 last summer), my first contact with books was actually through comics, such as Tintin and Milou and other characters who gained fame in those days. These were mostly by European authors; I barely read any American superhero comics.
What inspired your love of books?
I think the first “real” book I ever read was Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. I remember how the cover made me really want to read the book. I read it in French. It was great, a real immersion into a fantasy universe. Not all my reading experiences have been so rewarding, but I like the feeling of being “swallowed” into a book.
What genre do you most enjoy?
My borrowing history must be puzzling to most. There are two large segments—fiction and nonfiction—but over the years there have been more, especially connected to my work in the healthcare industry. But when I have time for an entertaining read, I would say that science fiction comes out on top. I remember the amazing experience of reading Dan Simmons’ Hyperion cycle.
What are you currently reading?
The Oathbreakers by medieval historians David M Perry and Matthew Gabriele. It was a somewhat random selection, but I had read a book about the history of pandemics and I noticed that I knew very little about the early Middle Ages. SPQR by Mary Beard also reinforced my curiosity about the end of the Roman Empire and how it relates to the buildup of European nations.
When were you last unable to put down a book?
The last time I had this feeling of immersion was when reading Laurent Binet’s The Seventh Function of Language. Funnily enough, I picked up the French version of Binet’s novel after reading another of his novels, Civilizations, in English. I recommend both for sure.
Leap into spring with the new facial treatment on offer at The Spa, which couples cupping with ultrasound technology to deeply infuse vitamins into the skin, promoting regeneration, enhancing hydration and restoring youthful radiance. The addition of cupping massage stimulates internal responses, boosts lymphatic drainage and leaves your skin feeling firmer and more toned.
This month, experience this ultimate treatment that targets both the inner and outer layers of your skin while enjoying a 20 percent discount. Contact 03-4588-0714 or spa@tac-club.org to book your 60-minute (¥13,200) session and experience this deeply relaxing therapy. CBJ
CLARA GARCIA
Fresh Face SPA
Philippe Auvaro
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INTERIOR DESIGN TO FULFILL YOUR DREAMS
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RECOGNITION
Shear Gratitude
Member Betsy Rogers has been getting her hair cut at the Club for years. When you find someone who always makes you look your best, you stick with them. That’s why Rogers has been visiting The Salon’s Naomi Miyazaki for almost two decades.
“When I met Naomi, she had long, long hair. She was so suteki—and she still always is, wearing a cool pair of fashionable jeans or donning the latest hairstyle,” says Rogers. “Over the years, she has always looked at my face, looked at me, and then gone to work styling my hair to fit my age and look.”
Miyazaki, too, has enjoyed their connection. “We understand each other with just a few words. I always look forward to her visits. When I first met Betsy’s daughter, Maya, she was just a little girl. Over time, we were able to have conversations, and I enjoyed cutting her hair. I remember how difficult it was when she was small because she kept moving. It’s a fond memory.”
Beyond scissor skills, it’s Miyazaki’s smile and calm demeanor that Rogers especially loves. “She approaches every client with a keen eye and determination to style appropriately—whatever that means to each person.”
After the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, Rogers found herself in the US for more than five months. Without Miyazaki nearby, she went without a cut until she returned to Japan. And when she went back for seven months last year, she made sure to get a fresh trim before leaving.
When Rogers learned that Miyazaki will be leaving the Club in May after 27 years, she asked to recognize her in INTOUCH for decades of incredible service. “I speak on behalf of all her clients when I say thank you, Naomi, for helping us feel more confident in ourselves, redefining what beauty is, pampering us and making us smile.” CBJ
Members can recognize Club staff by submitting an online Tell TAC through the Club website.
WINE
Sakura Sips
With Japan’s famed cherry blossoms forecast to begin opening in Tokyo on March 21 and reaching full bloom by the start of April, it’s that time of year to imbibe a glass of chilled rosé—or maybe even two. I’ve chosen three bottles available in The Cellar to help you make the most of this rite of spring.
The first stop is Tavel, a town in Southern Rhône that exclusively produces rosés. Relatively hard to come by in Japan, the 2023 M Chapoutier Tavel (¥2,800) is a fine example of the appellation. Darkhued with a brilliant purplish pink, this wine features scents of crushed stone, cherries, raspberries and cream, capped off by a refreshing hint of citrus. Highly recommended.
From New Zealand’s North Island comes the 2023 Ata Rangi Rosé (¥3,000), a vibrant watermelon-pink blend of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec from Martinborough that pairs perfectly with hanami otsumami snacks.
Lastly, for the budget-conscious, the 2021 Sunny with a Chance of Flowers Rosé (¥2,100) from Monterey delivers aromas of strawberry and toast with a hint of earth. Crushed rock on the palate gives way to a texture that relents into light cherry flavors. Real value.
Andrew Heffernan is a member of the Club’s Wine & Beverage Committee.
For the month of April, receive a 10 percent discount on purchases of at least three bottles of any of these recommended Cellar wines.
WORDS ANDREW HEFFERNAN
IMAGE CLARA GARCIA
CLARA GARCIA
(l–r) Naomi Miyazaki and Betsy Rogers
What’s on in
APRIL 1 Exhibition: Masakazu Takahashi
Artist Masakazu Takahashi says he first lost track of time while crafting in high school. “I was making fishing floats for my hobby of Herabuna fishing. The floats were made by grinding the thick shaft of a peacock feather into a streamlined shape and pasting it onto the body, which was then painted with lacquer.”
He recaptured that experience years later when he sought an escape from the day-to-day of work life and began creating ceramics.
Balancing utility with artistic innovation is central to his style. “What I find particularly interesting about the world of ceramics is that clay changes shape even at the touch of a baby’s finger,” explains Takahashi, who creates simple forms and brings them to life in vibrant hues using wood ash and celadon glazes.
Since beginning his creative journey 45 years ago, Takahashi has held more than 60 solo exhibitions across Japan. His works will be on display for the first half of April at the Frederick Harris Gallery. CBJ
Members are invited to attend the opening reception on April 1 at 6:30pm.
Moment I realized I wanted to become an artist.
I don’t recall a specific moment. Even now, I question calling myself an artist. It wasn’t inspiration, but a growing urge to leave my office job and create things myself.
What I would tell my 20-year-old self.
You were so lost and in so much pain with everything around you, weren’t you?
My perfect creative environment. Being free from the constraints of everyday time, surrounded by nature.
Artist, living or dead, I’d most like to share a meal with. Potters from the Jomon period.
• Through April 13 • Frederick Harris Gallery
• Artworks available for purchase through Member Services • Details online
1
Closest to the Pin Contest
Put your golf mettle to the test in a virtual challenge and win great prizes.
• Through April 28 • The 19th Hole • ¥1,650 (30 minutes); ¥2,750 (60 minutes) • Ages 17 & above • Details online
1
Brunch Buffet
Enjoy an eye-popping selection of brunch classics and Club signatures.
• Weekends & holidays • 11am–3pm
• Rainbow Café • Adults: ¥4,200; ages 12–17: ¥3,400; ages 7–11: ¥1,600; ages 6 & under: free • Details online
2 & 17
Ladies’ Squash Clinic
Learn the fundamentals or boost your game with Club pro Rico Cheung.
• 9:30–11:30am • Squash Courts 1 & 2
• Free • Sign up online
4
Movie Night
Club kids enjoy pizza and flicks while moms and dads celebrate sakura season at First Friday.
• 6–9pm • Washington & Lincoln rooms
• ¥2,750 (guests & walk-ins: ¥3,300)
• Ages 5–12 • Sign up online
7
Culture Connections
Discover practical health tips with Dr Ariel Thorpe’s hands-on demonstrations.
• 10–11:30am • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • Connections members: free (non-Connections members & guests: ¥1,000) • Details online
9
Cocktail Connections
Head to the Club’s third-floor watering hole for this popular mixer.
• 5–7pm • 51 East Bar • Connections members: free (non-Connections members & guests: ¥1,000) • Details online
10
Step into the Charm of Koreatown
Experience the buzz of Shin-Okubo, home to Tokyo’s thriving Korean community, on this tour organized by Connections.
• 10am–1:30pm • Connections members: ¥1,000 (non-Connections members and guests: ¥1,100) • Details online
1–5 Greek Mythology Week
If Harry Potter had a favorite Greek goddess, it would probably be Athena. She often has an owl by her side, whispering knowledge in her ear, and this companionship gave birth to the phrase “wise as an owl.”
Many of the themes found in JK Rowling’s wondrous world find their roots in the timeless legends of Greek mythology, and the second-floor Library invites Members of all ages to explore these epic tales of Athena, Zeus, the Titans and more all week long.
Each day celebrates one of the Olympian gods, and Olympus Fest—a special event on April 2 and 5—summons a special storytime with crafts, games and prizes. Saturday’s gathering is for Zeus’s dad, Kronos, who led the Titans in their war with the Olympians, while Wednesday’s focuses on Hermes, messenger of the gods and patron of scribes. Along with Athena, he was revered for wisdom and the power of words, making him the perfect connection to the Library.
Members are encouraged to dress as their favorite Greek deity and take part as we climb to the mountaintop palace for mythical tales and heroic adventures! CBJ
Olympus Fest
• 4–5pm (April 2) • 2–3:30pm (April 5) • Library • Free • Members only • All ages (children 7 & under must be accompanied by an adult) • Details online
10 & 22
Squash Night
Enjoy casual games on the second Thursday and final Tuesday of the month.
• 5:30–7:30pm • Squash Courts
• Details online
11
Cub Scout Meeting
Elementary school kids are introduced to the exciting world of Scouting through the Clubsponsored Pack 51.
• 6:30–8:30pm • Free • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms
• Details online
12
Moyai Food Pantry
Volunteering
Help those in need and see the immediate impact of your efforts at this hands-on opportunity to support your local community.
• 12:40pm–3:10pm • Tochomae Underground Plaza • Free • Ages 15 & above • Sign up online
13
Swim Clinics with Olympians
Former Olympians Miguel and Bruno Ortiz-Cañavate turn Club swimmers into freestyle stars.
• 4:30–6pm • Sky Pool • ¥11,000 (¥8,800 for each additional sibling) per session • Sign up online
15
Premium Champagne and Rosé Wine Tasting
Sample more than 60 wines and place orders at a special price during this one-day event hosted by the Club’s Wine & Beverage Committee.
• 5–7:30pm • Manhattan III • ¥3,600 (guests: ¥4,600) • Limit four guests per Member • Sign up online
17
Book Lovers’ Group
Join the Club’s band of bibliophiles for a discussion of Salman Rushdie’s Knife.
• 11am–12:30pm • 51 East • Free
• Details online
4
First Friday: Hanami Night
Making merry under a canopy of fleeting pink and white blooms is one of Japan’s most beloved traditions, and would-be revelers anxiously check the cherry blossom forecast to plan their parties.
This year, the Club’s hanami soirée looks timed to meet the peak of the season with all the ingredients for an unforgettable evening, including a delectable array of Japanese dishes complemented by an assortment of sakura-themed libations. A culinary highlight will be a live tuna-cutting show, put on in collaboration with Kanagawa Prefecture’s Miura City.
Adding to the traditional ambience in the Winter Garden will be the dynamic rhythms of Shuichi Hidano’s taiko drumming. This master of the art has performed at the FIFA World Cup and on stage with musical luminaries like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock.
So, don your finest yukata kimono and get into the spring spirit. But sign up soon—the first 100 to register will be entered into a prize drawing for two 60-minute rejuvenating treatments at The Spa.
And the fun isn’t just for moms and dads: kids can have a blast at Movie Night, catching flicks and munching on their favorite snacks. AJ
• 7–9pm • Winter Garden • ¥2,750 (walk-ins: ¥3,850); guests: ¥7,150 (walk-ins: ¥8,250) • Adults only • Sign up online
Easter at the Club
Hop into a basketful of egg-citing activities as the Club serves up springtime fun. Whether you’re looking to get in touch with your creative side or do a bit of feasting, there’s something for everyone. AJ
6
Easter Basket Workshop
• 2–3:30pm • Gymnasium • ¥4,950 (guests: ¥5,940) • Sign up online
12
Easter Candy Workshop
• 1–4:45pm • Shinoda Suite • ¥2,310 (guests: ¥2,772) • Sign up online
20
Easter Grand Buffet
• 11am–3pm • New York Ballroom
• Adults: ¥9,200; ages 13–17: ¥5,500; ages 4–12: ¥2,450; 3 & under: free; all-you-can-drink package: ¥3,300 • Sign up online
Family Spring Festival
• 9am–3:45pm • Gymnasium, O-Zone • Ages 2–14: ¥2,750; participating ages 2 & under: ¥2,200 (guests & walk-ins: ¥3,300); ages 15 & above: free • Sign up online
Underwater Easter
• 3–5:30pm • Sky Pool • ¥2,200 (guests: ¥2,750) • Sign up online
Easter Fun Facts
1.5 million
The approximate number of Peeps marshmallow candies eaten by Americans every Easter.
1878
The year that the first White House Easter Egg Roll was held.
78
The percentage of people who eat the ears of a chocolate bunny first.
$22 billion
The amount Americans spent on Easter-related expenses in 2024.
10.39 meters
The height of the world’s tallest chocolate egg, made in Tosca, Italy, in 2011.
19
Charity Gala at Tokyo American Club
An evening of black-tie elegance, exquisite cuisine and thrilling casino games—all in support of a worthy cause. Read more on page 18.
• 6–10pm • New York Ballroom
• ¥25,000 (guests: ¥30,000) • Table for up to 10: ¥250,000 • Price includes ¥5,000 in gaming money • Nihonbashi Club Members welcome • Limit nine guests per Member • Adults only • Dress code: Black-tie attire recommended • Sign up online
21
Coffee Connections
Expand your social circle and discover the local impact of charitable programs in Minato Ward.
• 10–11:30am • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • Connections members: free (non-Connections members & guests: ¥1,000) • Details online
22
Cocktail Hour
Budding mixologists learn to craft a paloma, a blend of Patrón Silver tequila, lime and grapefruit juices, soda and salt.
• 5:30pm • Muromachi Bar • ¥2,200 • Members only • Sign up online
26
Youth Toastmasters Club
Youngsters learn public speaking and how to engage an audience.
• 3–4pm • Beate Sirota Gordon & Haru Reischauer classrooms • ¥1,100 (guests: ¥1,320) • Sign up online
26
Family Dinner at 51 East
Relax and unwind together with elevated cuisine and a “bambino” appetizer plate for the kids one Saturday each month.
• 5–9pm • 51 East • Details online
Check the Club website for the most up-to-date information on events and programs.
YUUKI
Passion for Education, Community at Heart
Shinagawa
International
School o ers an international education rooted in strong ties among students, faculty and parents.
Shinagawa International School (SIS) isn’t just a place to learn— it’s a multicultural community where students, parents and staff truly feel at home. The school’s student-first approach is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and places an emphasis on curiosity, critical thinking and global citizenship. The close-knit community is fostered through SIS’s small class sizes. By ensuring that every student receives individual attention and support, SIS creates a learning environment where diverse ideas and perspectives are championed.
English serves as both the primary language and a tool for inclusion, bridging cultural and linguistic backgrounds to create meaningful connections. The faculty, which comes from all over the world, brings international perspectives into the classroom, enriching the learning experience. Parents are also an active part of the SIS community, joining workshops on IB learning, multilingualism and student well-being, as well as events such as the International Culture Festival and coffee mornings with school leaders.
REAL-WORLD CONNECTIONS
SIS extends learning beyond the classroom, offering students opportunities to expand their community engagement through partnerships with organizations
like Second Harvest and Roots & Shoots. These collaborations allow students to apply what they’ve learned in real-life situations while fostering a strong sense of social responsibility. Service learning is a key part of SIS curriculum, encouraging students to develop leadership skills while connecting their education to the wider world.
Field trips are thoughtfully designed to enhance academic and personal growth. From residential trips within Japan to international experiences such as the Yale Model United Nations in South Korea, SIS students gain new perspectives and firsthand exposure to different cultures. IB Diploma students also benefit from partnerships with universities and industry organizations, ensuring they’re well prepared for higher education and future careers.
LIFELONG LEARNING
At SIS, curiosity drives learning. The school’s inquiry-based approach encourages students to explore big ideas across multiple subjects through transdisciplinary themes in the Primary Years Programme and interdisciplinary learning in the Middle Years Programme. This method helps students develop strong problemsolving and critical thinking skills while making meaningful connections across subjects. Themed assessments, such as Poetry Slam, Shark Tank, Invention Fair and SteamPunk, challenge them to dive deeper into learning.
Cultural exchange is also woven into everyday life at SIS. Events like Japanese Culture Day, Literacy Week and the International Cultural Festival celebrate diversity and multilingualism, helping students appreciate different traditions and perspectives. Through this rich, inclusive environment, SIS prepares students not only for academic success but also for a lifetime of global engagement.
For families looking for a nurturing, internationally minded school in Tokyo, SIS offers an environment where children are challenged to succeed and supported in their growth, paving the way for them to become the global citizens of tomorrow.
sistokyo.jp
NIsland Bliss
estled on the pristine shores of Ishigaki Island, Fusaki Beach Resort offers an unforgettable getaway that blends breathtaking natural beauty with a relaxing stay steeped in authentic local culture. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be embraced by a harmonious mix of modern comforts and traditional island charm.
RELAXATION BY THE SEA
Among the resort’s many amenities, the beachside pool is a must-visit spot to watch the sun set over the sea, perfectly blending with the island’s stunning coastline. For families, Splash Park features one of the largest water slides on the island. Explore the subtropical sea aboard a glass-bottom boat that lets you enjoy the vibrant underwater world without ever needing to change into a swimsuit. For those who prefer a swim, the emeraldgreen sea is home to myriad tropical fish and coral reefs. After exploring all the island has to offer, guests can unwind at the resort’s spa, which incorporates traditional Ryukyu wellness practices, such as a foot bath with Ishigaki salt.
Experience unmatched luxury and nature at Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas. www.fusaki.com/eng
Ishigaki Island and the Yaeyama region to craft a unique culinary style that blends Japanese and Chinese cuisine with techniques, seasonings and spices from Southeast Asia. For a casual beachfront experience, the seasonal restaurant Beachside Grill Kachibai promises a perfect setting for sunset dining.
TIMELESS ISLAND CHARM
Fusaki Beach Resort offers a true immersion into Ishigaki culture. The Garden
Villas, built in the traditional Ryukyu style, transport guests back in time with their coral hedges, red-tiled roofs and picturesque gardens. Guests can explore the vibrant surroundings, including the serene Ayapani garden area, where tropical plants and trees such as hibiscus and bougainvillea create a peaceful haven.
Dining at Fusaki Beach Resort is a deep dive into Ishigaki’s flavors. The hotel’s signature buffet restaurant, Ishigaki Bold Kitchen, offers a feast of around 80 dishes featuring not only Okinawa cuisine but also flavors from around the world. Ryukyu Shintenchi offers à la carte and course menus that make excellent use of local ingredients, including Ishigaki beef (wagyu) and fresh seafood. For a more intimate meal, Hanaré, the resort’s fusion restaurant, delights with a seasonal course menu, using ingredients sourced mainly from
At Fusaki Beach Resort, every moment invites you to reconnect with nature. The island boasts one of the clearest night skies in Japan, and the resort provides the perfect environment for you to enjoy a peaceful evening under a canopy of stars. As soon as you step outside your room, you’ll be greeted by a natural planetarium that invites you to linger and admire the sky for hours. Surrounded by lush landscapes and steeped in local culture, it’s the ideal retreat to unwind and embrace the natural wonders of Ishigaki Island.
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Strengthen
your leadership muscles with Paul Dupuis, renowned leadership coach, facilitator and best-selling author.
Effective leadership begins with self-awareness, fueled by a constant desire to learn, grow and be “better than yesterday.” Crafting a compelling vision and then bringing it to execution with impact is especially challenging. That’s why Paul Dupuis, a global executive with nearly 30 years of leadership experience across Japan, India and APAC, created the Future Ready Leadership Gym. Through immersive workshops and 1:1 coaching, Dupuis helps leaders and their teams train the key leadership “muscles” they need to lead with confidence and clarity.
NEW KIND OF WORKSHOP
to simply not be there—giving the team freedom to move, experiment and take action,” says Dupuis. His Future Ready Leadership Gym focuses on interactive workshops and personalized coaching.
Traditional leadership coaches focus on theory. Dupuis takes a different approach, treating leadership development like a fitness program. Just as building physical strength requires targeted training, becoming a more effective leader requires focused effort to strengthen specific skills. Drawing from the principles of his bestselling book The E5 Movement, Dupuis works with clients to identify and strengthen under-utilized “muscles” that he believes are paramount to being an effective leader. But leadership isn’t just about personal development—it’s about enabling others to thrive, which requires strong selfawareness. “The leader as ‘enabler’ requires the ability to know when to be at the front and set the pace, when to move to the back into a supportive role or when
Future Ready Leadership Workshops
These half-day or full-day customized sessions challenge leadership teams to think differently and apply practical strategies through exercises and tailored discussions. Dupuis hosts the workshops at the Club or off-site locations, for both Japanese and global companies.
1:1 Coaching with Paul
For leaders seeking deeper transformation, personalized coaching sessions offer clients the opportunity to work one-on-one with Dupuis to identify and train specific leadership skills.
THE REAL DEAL
Many leadership coaches talk about the challenge of balancing vision and execution—Dupuis has lived it. Having led both a significant business turnaround in India and aggressive growth in Japan, he knows firsthand the challenge of balancing big-picture vision with the discipline of execution.
Drawing from the expertise of his mentor and friend Marshall Goldsmith, Dupuis incorporates the Stakeholder Centered Coaching approach, ensuring real-time feedback from stakeholders so that leadership growth isn’t just theoretical, it’s actioned and measured. His extensive experience in M&A and post-merger integration advisory in Japan, India and across APAC gives him a rare depth of understanding in highstakes leadership. Having been on both sides of the M&A process, he knows that successful leadership isn’t just about systems and processes; it’s about people, culture and trust.
By putting leadership principles learned from real-life experiences into practice, Dupuis’ expert guidance and specialized program help clients develop a deeper understanding of cross-cultural leadership in action, with the ultimate goal of taking a vision to execution.
To arrange a conversation with Dupuis, connect with him on LinkedIn or email: pauldupuis@take5-global.com
Inspired Infusions
WORDS C BRYAN JONES
IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI
Although afternoon tea got its start in England, the midday delight has evolved over the centuries as global culinary influences have inspired creative combinations. The Winter Garden’s rendition reflects the Club’s diverse community, with inspirations from France, Australia, New Zealand and, of course, Japan.
The savory bites include smoked salmon canapés and warm pumpkin cappuccino, while banoffee pavlova, pistachio brûlée and lemon lavender scones are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Steven Smith Teamaker’s celebrated handcrafted blends perfectly complement these treats with their natural, highquality ingredients. And if you’re keen on a bit of bubbly, add a glass of NV Charles Lafitte Brut.
• Winter Garden Afternoon Tea • ¥8,400 (two-person set)
• Reservations required
GLITZ
The Club’s inaugural Charity Gala promises to be a blowout for the ages—all for a good cause.
WORDS TIM HORNYAK
AND GIVING
In these turbulent times , when nothing seems certain, it takes an extra measure of courage and compassion to help those in need. That’s why Members of both the Azabudai and Nihonbashi clubhouses are gathering in April for a black-tie extravaganza to benefit five local charities working on youth and education issues. It’s a chance to make a real difference in the lives of community members while enjoying an unforgettable evening of tapas, Champagne, raffles, gaming and jazz.
Building on last year’s gala celebrating the 75th anniversary of Connections, the group has teamed up with the Culture, Community & Entertainment Committee (CCEC) to organize the Club’s inaugural Charity Gala. All proceeds will go to the five charities, which will continue to receive support from the Club throughout the fiscal year.
For those unfamiliar with Connections, it is a community within the Club that brings Members together through social events and charitable initiatives to make an impact in Tokyo and beyond.
“For whatever we organize—tours, enrichment classes or bigger events—all proceeds go to the charitable
organizations,” explains Blanka Kobayashi, the group’s director of communications. “My hope is that through this gala and collaboration with the CCEC, everybody will see how Connections is working for the Members, the Club, the community and the people of Japan.”
The charities that will benefit from this month’s gala help people with special needs and those in difficult situations.
Do-It Japan is a project affiliated with the University of Tokyo’s Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology that is aimed at fostering leaders among
Andrea L Hopkins-Borroni
Make a difference for these organizations and the people they help while also enjoying an unforgettable evening.
children and young people with disabilities and illnesses. Established in 2007, Do-It Japan offers opportunities such as experiencing campus life and independent living after entering university, internships and overseas training. Through these, participants can interact and exchange information with adults with diverse values as well as peers of the same generation.
Bridge for Smile is a nonprofit founded in 2004 that supports foster children who cannot count on parental support due to abuse, neglect, incapacity, incarceration or other reasons. Through seminars, internships and other activities, the group teaches kids the skills they will need to live independently once they turn 18 and leave their foster homes.
For children of divorced parents, maintaining a relationship with the non-custodial parent is often impossible—only last year did the Diet amend the Civil Code to allow joint custody for divorced couples. Set up in 2017, the Tokyo Visitation Support Center is an NPO dedicated to facilitating visitation between children and parents who are separated or divorced. It provides a space where parents and kids can come together while striving to reduce financial burdens.
Art de Vivre is a creative space for people with disabilities in Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, whose aim is to provide “an environment where each and every one of us can feel at ease and connect our work to society.” It traces its history to 1990 with Hiyoko no Kai, a group of parents of children with Down syndrome. Opened in 2022, the current facility serves as an art studio, gallery and café.
Finally, Comhbo is an organization that helps people with mental health issues. Its goal is to create a society where people with mental illness and their families can regain their confidence and achieve self-fulfillment. It
promotes evidence-based, high-quality mental health services and awareness activities including mental health literacy in schools.
Members attending the Charity Gala on April 19 will make a difference for these organizations and the people they help while also enjoying an unforgettable evening.
Tapas and smoked Hiroshima oysters will serve as a prelude to a lavish multicourse dinner featuring Kamaishi sea scallops, Snow Country pâté de campagne, paccheri pomodoro and filet of beef with Creole barbecued lobster tail. A decadent dessert buffet will delight the sweet tooth while a whiskey and rum bar serves up smooth sips.
The entertainment, emceed by the effervescent Mai Shoji of J-Wave and NHK, will include a sizzling jazz performance led by Member vocalist Andrea L Hopkins-Borroni and an exciting auction guided by the always engaging Stuart O. Prizes include a two-night stay at the Hard Rock Café Miami and an intimate Chef’s Table experience at 51 East, the Club’s third-floor Italian-American eatery. A silent auction and a raffle will offer even more rewards.
Those who fancy themselves high rollers can try their hand at games of chance for a good cause. Get lucky at roulette, craps or blackjack and trade in your winnings for vouchers to enter a prize drawing for everything from bottles of fine wine to hotel stays. Players must first exchange gaming money they receive at reception for chips. Apart from betting, chips can be traded for prize vouchers.
“For me, this is really important because it helps us give back to the community,” says Kobayashi, who is also cofounder of Nagareyama L.E.A.D., an NPO focused on entrepreneurial education for children in Japan. “We are all blessed to be able to do this and to help.”
Charity Gala at Tokyo American Club
• April 19 • 6–10pm • New York Ballroom • ¥25,000 (guests: ¥30,000) • Table for up to 10: ¥250,000 • Price includes ¥5,000 in gaming money • Nihonbashi Club Members welcome • Limit nine guests per Member • Adults only • Dress code: Black-tie attire recommended • Sign up online
MAGICAL
MALBEC
The Nihonbashi Club uncorks Argentina’s best bottles at this month’s Malbec World Day mixer.
WORDS PHOEBE AMOROSO
IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI
Argentinian wines are somewhat of a rarity in Japan. Yet with their rising acclaim in international competitions, it would be a crime for oenophiles to overlook these elegant South American bottles.
The Nihonbashi Club will introduce Members to these treasures at a special mixer event on April 17, teaming up with Kaoru Kitayama, an importer of rare Argentinian wines, to bring six enticing selections to the Muromachi Bar & Lounge and the American Room. The occasion is Malbec World Day—not a misnomer but a global celebration, now
in its 14th year, created to spotlight Argentinian Malbecs on the world stage.
“Argentinian wine has a long history,” Kitayama explains as we sit back in the American Room, glass in hand. “Wine has been made there since the 16th century thanks to its ideal environment for grape cultivation.”
Several grape varieties are grown in Argentina, but Malbec has surged in popularity since arriving from France in the mid-19th century to become the “national variety.” Today, Malbec plantations cover almost 100,000 acres, mostly in central-western Mendoza province.
The environment, Kitayama says, couldn’t be more perfect for growing Malbec. “It’s very sunny, the fields are at high altitudes and it’s separated on the Chilean side by the Andes, which blocks the humid air of the Pacific Ocean. So the region is very dry. It’s said to have a continental climate, but it’s like having vineyards in a desert.”
The water shortage stresses the vines, she explains, producing tastier grapes with a higher sugar content than those grown in France. This results in wines with smoother, mellower tannins and a deep fruitiness that has helped
Kaoru Kitayama and Geoffrey Kamizuru-Bowman
propel Argentinian Malbecs to global prominence.
Kitayama’s love affair with Argentinian wine began during her 23-year career as a civil servant. Working for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, she was stationed at the Japanese Embassy in Lima, Peru, in 2017. Fully diving into the local culture of home barbecue parties with plenty of bold red wines to match the meat, she was amazed at the range and quality of Argentinian wines available.
A tour of Casarena, a winery in Luján de Cuyo in Mendoza, would change the course of her life. The winery owns four estates in Luján, each named after the family’s grandchildren: Naoki, Lauren, Owen and Jamilla. The name Naoki caught her attention, and she soon learned that the owners’ son had married a Japanese woman.
Stumbling across a connection to home in such an unexpected place made a huge impression on Kitayama. She began to wonder why Japanese importers weren’t bringing these delicious Argentinian wines into the country.
“My encounter with Casa Naoki was so strong that I knew I absolutely had to bring this wine back to Japan. I felt a sense of mission and decided to take a different path in life.”
In 2020, she launched her import business, Kitayama Shoji. She is highly selective about the wines she works with, and several in her lineup have won international awards.
In fact, it was one of her award-winning wines that caught the attention of Member Geoffrey KamizuruBowman, a Club governor and former chair of the Nihonbashi Committee. Bowman was attending the James Suckling Great Wines World Tokyo Flagship Wine Tasting last October when he came across Kitayama’s booth. There, he spied a wine that had earned a perfect score from two major critics. One taste surpassed all expectations.
“It was wonderful,” says Bowman. “I’m a big fan of fullbodied reds, and I’ve been a fan of the Mendoza region for
a long time. I’m a big steak lover, too, and these reds go really well with steak. I also tried an Argentinian Pinot Noir that I had never tried and was blown away by its quality.”
This serendipitous encounter led to this month’s Malbec World Day event, at which Members can try a mix of reds and whites selected by Kitayama.
In her lineup is—of course—a stunning DNA Malbec from Casarena, the winery that sparked Kitayama’s import business. Made from Malbec grapes harvested from the best plots across the vineyards, it’s a sophisticated wine with black fruits on the nose and subtle vanilla and chocolate notes from French oak aging.
Then there’s an Argentinian wine that made history: Gran Enemigo Gualtallary’s Single Vineyard, a blend of 85 percent Cabernet Franc and 15 percent Malbec. Its 2013 vintage was the first South American wine to receive a perfect score of 100 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, the highest rating ever. On offer at this Club event is the 2019 vintage, which retained its perfect score and also ranked second in James Suckling’s Top 100 World Wines 2023 list.
Kitayama’s flagship wine, the Casarena ICONO Blend, is a 2016 limited production vintage of 60 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 40 percent Malbec. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were sourced from the winery’s 90-yearold vines, producing a concentrated, juicy wine that lives up to its iconic name.
White wine lovers are also in for a treat. The elegant and structured El Enemigo Chardonnay from Bodega Aleanna employs a rare production method of biological aging, often associated with sherry. Unlike traditional Chardonnay, which ages through oxidation, this wine develops under a layer of flor, a wild yeast that forms on the surface of the liquid. This technique protects the wine from oxygen and is notoriously difficult to master.
Last but not least is a white wine crafted from Torrontés, a grape variety unique to Argentina. Casarena Torrontés surprises with its fruity aroma and hints of white flowers and violets, yet is intriguingly dry on the palate with a spicy minerality.
Kitayama hopes her selection will give Members not just a taste for Argentinian wines, but also an appetite to learn more about their origins.
“I think there’s a tendency to think the world revolves around the Northern Hemisphere,” she says. “But in fact, South America has a truly unique culture, and you can’t really understand it until you go there. I want people to know more about South America.”
Nihonbashi Mixer
• April 17 • 6–7:30pm • Muromachi Lounge • ¥3,000 (walkins: ¥3,500); guests: ¥4,000 (walk-ins: ¥4,500) • Ages 20 & above • Limit two guests per Member • Sign up online
“My encounter with Casa Naoki was so strong that I knew I absolutely had to bring this wine back to Japan.”
Argentinian wines selected for the Malbec World Day mixer
OBSERVER
Member Jason Hatchell explores the paradoxical nature of abstract art ahead of his Frederick Harris Gallery exhibition this month.
EFFECT
Jason Hatchell has been performing his whole life. Born into a family of musicians and performers, it was only natural that he would find himself singing on stage by age 5.
“Getting on stage and making myself uncomfortable has always been a means of challenging myself,” explains the Club Member. “For me, it’s important to be uncomfortable.”
From coming to Japan, learning Japanese and getting into business here, putting himself in new situations has been a constant for Hatchell. That journey has cut a path towards paint and canvas. “As I got older, the thrill of the stage gave way to the quieter pull of visual art,” he says. The results of that journey will be on display this month at the Frederick Harris Gallery.
Bringing his paintings to the Club is a return home of sorts. Hatchell’s family not only has deep roots in the arts but also in Japan. “My grandparents were missionaries in Osaka after World War II. My mother was born and raised in Japan, along with her four brothers.”
WORDS C BRYAN JONES
Images: (clockwise) Jason Hatchell; “Long Cape Peace”; “Jinni”
As the third generation of his family to live and work here, Hatchell arrived in 1995 on the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme, better known as JET. A year later, he wanted to pursue an MBA, though realizing that he would first need some real-world experience, he joined a small Japanese company. However, it quickly became clear that the ceiling for advancement “was not glass, but rather brick,” so he tried doing something else uncomfortable: stand-up comedy. In Japanese. In Tokyo.
To support himself in the comedy world, Hatchell joined the recruitment industry. While reasonably successful in comedy, performing in NHK Hall as well as on TV and radio, he compared his earnings in comedy to the recruitment industry. “I looked at what a first-year MBA, a top recruiter in Tokyo and a comedian earn and I was like, okay, I’m going to stick with this recruiting thing!”
The art he creates there reflects a world view that has evolved from his adventurous path through life.
“Abstract art is often misunderstood, dismissed as a chaotic mess of lines, shapes and colors that just don’t make sense,” notes Hatchell. “However, the true beauty of abstract art lies in its open-endedness, its willingness to embrace uncertainty and its ability to reflect the very essence of what it means to be human: searching for meaning in an inherently senseless world. To view abstract art is to engage with this unknown, just as living fully in the moment means embracing the reality that we exist within the confines of the inherently unknowable.”
Using Schrödinger’s cat as a metaphor, Hatchell likens the creative process to opening the box to check the condition of that famous feline, whose state is determined only by observation.
“For me, it’s important to be uncomfortable.”
That turned out to be a good choice; 25 years later, his success in the recruitment industry speaks for itself. And while Hatchell keeps one foot in Japan every day, for the past seven years he has managed his recruiting business and Tokyo-based team from his home in Oregon, where he has a studio filled with every imaginable paint, tool and canvas to unleash his creativity.
“The creation of abstract art is an act of simultaneously existing within multiple possibilities, where the creator isn’t bound by the logical constraints of representation,” he says. “It’s the space where everything and nothing are true at once, and where the artist must trust that the meaning will unfold as they engage with the canvas—just as Schrödinger’s cat exists as both alive and dead, and yet is neither until seen. The act of creation itself—not the final product—becomes the point of exploration.”
The abstract artist, Hatchell continues, must push beyond what they already know, questioning assumptions, breaking boundaries and living in the moment of transformation. “Art is not static—it evolves, just as we must.”
Abstract art is a reminder that we cannot always make sense of everything, he adds. “The magic happens when we stop trying to impose meaning and instead allow it to emerge from the raw material of the moment. Perhaps, in that, we find our truest form of freedom: the ability to live amid chaos, to embrace uncertainty and to create meaning out of the world as we see fit—as utterly impossible as that is.”
In that way, the artist, like the philosopher, like the person living fully, is in a constant state of becoming, Hatchell says.
“The endless pursuit of meaning is the essence of sentience. Cease doing so, and you are no longer alive, no longer human. The true beauty of both art and life lies not in the final product, but in the journey. I know that’s a pithy statement, but based on my own journey, I find it to be empirically true.”
Members are invited to find their own meaning in Hatchell’s works at this month’s exhibition and to meet the artist at a reception on April 15.
Exhibition: Jason Hatchell
• April 15–30 • Frederick Harris Gallery • Reception: April 15 at 6:30pm • Artworks available for purchase through Member Services • Details online
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Run Like the Wind
Trading his bike for running shoes, Member Jonathan Kushner is racing through a marathon of milestones.
I played basketball and tennis in high school, but it wasn’t until I was living in Singapore, around 2005, that I got into endurance sports. Friends encouraged me to cycle with them, and the camaraderie really got me hooked.
Apart from the great friendship, one thing I noticed when I started cycling is that the weight came off. Quickly. I used to be about 40 pounds heavier than I am now. It just melted away. I started learning more about eating healthy and training regularly to bring balance to my life.
I enjoyed cycling for many years, but then I got involved with triathlon. I wasn’t really a runner or a swimmer, but I did all the lessons and worked very hard. And what I found after doing that for several years and competing was that I actually had a bit of talent for running. I enjoyed running so much that it replaced cycling as my main sport.
I ran my first marathon in 2018, the Tokyo Marathon. McDonald’s is a sponsor, and I had just joined the company the year before, so I ran to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities. I didn’t really have any expectations for a time, but I finished in 3 hours, 39 minutes. It felt good. It was fun. So I decided to keep running.
During the pandemic, I really started to ramp things up. I got more serious and started reading a lot about how to get faster through nutrition and different types of training.
I was able to cut my time significantly between my first Tokyo Marathon and my second one, which I ran in 2022. I shaved off nearly 30 minutes, and the time qualified me for the Boston Marathon. I was really excited to have the chance to run that famous race in 2023, especially as both of my daughters were in Boston studying.
In Boston, I recorded a 3:08—my personal best at the time—and qualified for the Age Group World Championship for ages 50 to 54. That year it was in Chicago. My goal has been to complete the original World Marathon Majors circuit: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin,
Chicago and New York. I have one to go—New York—and I’ll be running it in November.
Before that, I’m heading back to Boston in April. I’m training for it now and aim to break the three-hour mark. I don’t know whether that’s realistic for Boston, but if I don’t get it there I’ve got another six months to train for New York.
To build toward that, I mix running outside with time on the treadmills in the Fitness Center, both at Azabudai and Nihonbashi. I also do strength training by lifting weights once a week and conditioning once a week. The Club trainers have been very helpful, walking me through what I should and shouldn't be doing and providing suggestions on how to do things in a safe way that won’t damage my back or put too much stress on my knees.
Beyond staying fit and achieving my time goals, physical activity for me is also part of mental health and having an outlet for stress. When you’re doing things like this, there’s so much that is mental and you’ve got to get through that. But it’s very difficult to do it alone. Family support has been critical. And having a group of friends to run with and provide stimulus has made it more fun. That’s what got me hooked at the start, and it keeps me going today. We inspire one another.
As told to INTOUCH’s C Bryan Jones.
Jonathan Kushner at the 127th Boston Marathon in April 2023
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Homat Viscount
AZABUDAI
USA
Srijit & Sawa Banerjee
Jennifer Bellman Walt Disney Attractions Japan
Michael Case & Miho Saito Josys Inc.
Michael Clemons & Shinji Suzuki Sakura K.K.
Paul & Arisa Cox Cox Enterprises Inc.
Charles Cuthbertson & Yasmine Soiffer Morgan Stanley
Christina Desbiez PK’S List
Peter Foo & Diana Kitaji Google Japan
Kenneth Guilfoyle BDO Tax Company
Albert Holmes II & Celia Holmes Morgan Stanley MUFG Securities
Jerry Hsiung & Chih-Yu (Annie) Le Capital Markets Trading
Kevin Hsu & Jasmine Wong AIP Healthcare Japan GK
Yu Huang & Jie Li DataMesh
Melissa Kuwahara (Melissa K) Woven by Toyota
Michio Montgomery & Saori Kato (Montgomery) Global Step Academy Inc.
David & Mariana Nguyen Gilead Sciences
Colby & Maura Penzone FIL Investments (Japan) Limited
Alan Roth & Blair Perilman Amazon Business Japan
Edward Sung & Nancy Lan Lan Ma Citigroup Global Markets Japan Inc.
George Synan & Yuko Takeo Jones Dairy Farm
AUSTRALIA
Rett & Mayo Anderson GLBB Japan K.K.
Michael & Melissa Golden MORI Hospitality Corporation
Emil Gorgees KK Tokyo Family
BRAZIL
Ryo Misago da Fonseca & Nanami Misago Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
CANADA
Bruce & Melissa McDonald AbbVie GK
John Warren Vena Energy Japan
CHINA
Chengjun Hou & Yohei Fujiwara Rowmount K.K.
Miao Dan & Jingtian Wu Bach Option Limited
New Members
Nuo Yan & Jin Wang Mercari, Inc.
Xiaoqian (Vivien) Yu & Zhongjie Li Unji Co., Ltd.
Chenghuan Zhang & Xuemei Shen MEGA HIT, Inc.
Yuanyuan (Jessica) Zhou & Carl Moser Prudential Holdings of Japan, Inc.
FRANCE
Philippe El Asmar & Mami Ogawa JPMorgan Asset Management HK
GERMANY
Jurgen Schweigert & Kate Varley Global Atlantic Financial Group
HONG KONG
Chun Ho Chan Rowmount K.K.
ITALY
Daniele & Kimberly Ann Gatti Volkswagen Japan
JAPAN
Keiji & Mayumi Hattori Brookfield Japan K.K.
Hiroki & Hideyo Inoue Inoue Corporation
Ken Manabe
HSBC Securities (Japan) Co., Ltd.
Motohiro Mizusawa Mizusawa Electric Co., Ltd.
Ichiro & Mizuki Nagata
SNBL
THE NETHERLANDS
Martijn Steegers & Yukari Ikeda The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
NEW ZEALAND
Jonathan Good Philip Morris Japan Limited
SINGAPORE
Arjun Sarwal & Samantha Low Bytedance Japan K.K.
SOUTH KOREA
Chung Oh Bang & Juyun Lee Chosun Broadcasting Corporation
SWITZERLAND
Stefan Gspurning & Mami Taguchi Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
TAIWAN
Hsinhsuan Chiang & Wailun Lee
Essentia Herbs Japan Co., Ltd.
Kuo-Ching Liang & Megumi Honda Ingenta, Inc.
UK
Kristian Bradshaw
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
(l–r) Zoe, Gregory, Tiffany and Arie Olson
AZABUDAI
USA | Gregory & Tiffany Olson
Apollo Management Japan Limited
“After living in New York City for many years, we made the big move to Tokyo. Joining the Club has been one of our best decisions. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed by a wonderful and supportive community. Whether through social events, family activities or casual conversations, we’ve already made some great friends. The Club has quickly become a home away from home. We look forward to meeting everyone!”
Jonathan Cockayne & Anri Nakamura
Village Cellars K.K.
Marc Cooke & Ai Katsuoka
Earlgrey LLC
Nathan Cumberlidge
Jones Lang LaSalle K.K.
Jonathan & Erena Haines
Athene Japan K.K. (subsidiary of Apollo Global Management)
Benjamin & Miyuki Jolley
Herbert Smith Freehills GJBJ
Jamie Wigfield & Kazuko Ishibashi
Ishibashi Sangyou Kaihatsu
NIHONBASHI
USA
Robert Muravez Jones Lang LaSalle K.K.
JAPAN
Yoshinori Jinno
Shinkin Central Bank
Yumiko & Takashi Kanai
Integral Element Ltd.
Yuki Tabata
Workato K.K.
Ryosuke Tsugaru
JERA Co., Inc.
The Art of Kogei Craft
Explore the rich heritage of traditional Japanese artistry at this month’s Living National Treasures exhibition in Ginza.
Throughout history, the Japanese people have held deep respect for nature and emphasized living in harmony with the natural world in their craftsmanship. This appreciation for functionality, beauty and tranquility is embodied in yo-no-bi, the beauty found in practical objects.
This spirit is at the heart of the 10th The Art of Kogei Craft: Living National Treasures Exhibition, which offers a rare opportunity to experience a wide range of exceptional works from April 3 to 20 on the sixth floor of Seiko House, an iconic Ginza landmark.
The Living National Treasure designation is awarded by the Japanese government to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional mastery of an intangible cultural property, such as the disciplines featured in this exhibition as well as performing arts, and are recognized as essential to its preservation and transmission to future generations. The designation was created under the 1950 Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties, which helps preserve traditional arts and crafts at risk of fading due to modernization or a lack of successors.
This year, 39 artists from five traditional craft disciplines— ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, metalwork and wood/ bamboo crafts—will present their works, and six will give gallery talks on Saturdays and Sundays during the exhibition’s run.
Though the materials vary, each artist’s work reflects an ongoing dialogue with their medium that brings their artistic vision to life and embodies the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship, a cultural treasure not only for the country but the world.
The works on display at this year’s exhibition marry time-honored techniques with contemporary sensibilities. We invite you to explore these exquisite pieces, learn more about these centuries-old traditions and experience the pinnacle of craftsmanship.
Club Members can enjoy a private tour—up to two groups per day. Please use the QR code to make a reservation.
Images
1. Smoked bamboo Flower basket with “Miyabi (Elegance)” by Seiho Kibe
2. Nanryo chashinko tea jar, “Moon Palace” by Yukie Osumi
3. Chinkin lacquer box “Border privet flowers” by Katsuhiro Nishi
4. Obi fabric “Concerto” by Sachiko Arakaki
5. Blue-glazed vase, stripe design by Iwao Shinno
6. Flower vase with a striped pattern in unglazed metallic maki-e by Kazumi Murose
EXHIBITION
April 3–20 • 11am–7pm (closes at 5pm on April 20)
GALLERY TALKS
April 5
Iwao Shinno (ceramics)
April 6
Nobuo Matsubara (dyeing and weaving)
April 12
Yukie Osumi (metalwork)
April 13
Kazumi Murose (lacquer art)
April 19
Noboru Fujinuma (wood and bamboo crafts)
April 20
Kenji Suda (wood and bamboo crafts)
Gallery talks start at 2pm and are conducted in Japanese.
Spring Flourish
Class
Easter Flower Arrangement
As symbols of renewal and hope, flowers have been intertwined with Easter for centuries. In many cultures, yellow flowers like daffodils and tulips are seen as harbingers of new beginnings, while in Japan, daffodils symbolize respect and are among the first to bloom, signaling the arrival of spring. This makes these vibrant blossoms a natural choice for Easter décor.
Celebrate the season by crafting your own “garden” of yellow blooms and greenery in this hands-on floral arrangement class organized by Connections just in time for Easter. Students will learn how to group flowers and plants in a meadow-inspired basket arrangement to create a design sure to add a splash of spring color to your holiday celebration.
Instructor Chikako Yoshimoto
With a diplôme d’animation florale artistique from France’s Floral Art Association, Chikako Yoshimoto specializes in Frenchstyle flower arrangements. The longtime Connections member has trained in European floral design in Britain and France.
Easter Flower Arrangement
• April 16 • 10:30am–12pm • Beate Sirota Gordon and Haru Reischauer classrooms • ¥3,850 plus ¥6,600 materials fee • Sign up online
Image is for illustration purposes only.
Learn more about the full range of enrichment classes on offer by visiting the Connections area of the Club website.
February 15
Cultural Exchange with Miharu Kids Ambassadors
The Club hosted young learners from Fukushima for a day of cultural exchange filled with creative presentations and lively bowling.
IMAGES KAYO YAMAWAKI
February 17
Nihonbashi Chef’s Table
Members enjoyed a night of culinary excellence, Duckhorn Vineyards wines and captivating conversation at the Nihonbashi Club’s first Chef’s Table of the year.
IMAGES KAYO YAMAWAKI
March 1
Meet & Greet with Pro Golfer
Momoko Ueda
LPGA legend Momoko Ueda shared expert tips and thrilling tales from the links with Club golf enthusiasts.
IMAGES YUUKI IDE
March 7
First Friday: 007 Night
A daring mission of espionage played out in the Winter Garden with a dazzling Bond bash complete with legendary music and martinis—shaken, not stirred.
IMAGES YUUKI IDE
March 10
International Women’s Day Luncheon
The Connections group highlighted women’s achievements with inspiring speeches and a rousing taiko drum performance.
IMAGES YUUKI IDE
Shooting for the Stars
WORDS CHI GUILLEMETTE ILLUSTRATION TANIA VICEDO
Growing up in a family that prized education above all else, I have always understood its value—not just as a means of personal achievement, but as a stepping stone to a better life.
My family, like so many Asian and migrant families, saw education as the singular path to opportunity, advancement and security. When we moved from Vietnam to Australia, my sibling and I were able to succeed in our new country, in large part because we could easily access education.
This belief, coupled with being the mom of three girls, led me to support the Asian University for Women (AUW), an institution in Bangladesh that embodies the transformative power of education for young women. The majority of students receive full scholarships, with priority given to those from the most challenging backgrounds, including refugees, displaced persons and students from conflict zones.
One of the defining moments in my journey with AUW took place in the summer of 2022. I traveled to Boston and had the opportunity to meet Afghan alumnae. Some had recently fled their country on one of the last flights out when the Taliban returned to power. Others had been accepted into graduate programs in the US. These women were once again unable to live out their dreams in their home country.
These women had faced immense hardships to get to AUW. They shared stories of walking hours just to attend
school, taking English lessons in secret to avoid punishment and isolation from certain friends and family who couldn’t understand their pursuits. And once they got to AUW, their grit and hunger to learn took them far.
Their stories were all unique, shaped by different paths and struggles, but their resolve was strikingly similar. How could there be any other option but to wield its power and totally reimagine their lives? And they do. This incredible group of women always succeeds—finding their voice, purpose and place in the world. And with this success come incredible ripple effects that extend way beyond any one country or region.
As one of 50 dedicated volunteers who comprise AUW’s Japan Committee, I’m honored to help raise funds for scholarships, create mentorship opportunities and support internships in Japan. We share one powerful goal: to build a supportive network here in Japan to uplift women across Asia.
But the need for support is greater than ever. When the US State Department recently suspended millions in funding for a new cohort of Afghan students at AUW, it sent a chilling message: access to education for these young women is now at risk. AUW has diverse funding sources, but this unexpected loss is a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
On April 10, we’re hosting our 14th annual fundraiser at the Club. Titled Shooting for the Stars, the event will feature astronaut Naoko Yamazaki and an inspiring AUW alumna. Every year, hearing a graduate’s story reaffirms why I continue to volunteer—to ensure more young women can access the education they deserve. This is more than a fundraiser; it’s a chance to stand in solidarity with women who have overcome extraordinary challenges to pursue their dreams. Your support—whether by registering to attend at asian-university.org/japan, donating or spreading the word—can make a real difference.
Chi Guillemette is a Member of the Club.
