So Happy
Singer Aisha sets the tone for the Club’s biggest Independence Day Celebration yet
CROSSING CULTURES BY THE BOOK
LANE LEADERS
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BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Representative Governor Nils Plett (2026)
First Vice President David Hackett (2026)
Second Vice President Agnes Ouellette (2026)
Secretary Justin Negron (2026)
Treasurer Hiroshi Miyamasu (2026)
Governors Vibhu Jain (2027), Geoffrey Kamizuru-Bowman (2026), Ren Kuroda (2027), Gregory Lyon (2027), Justin Negrón (2026), Dean Rogers (2026), Reiko Saito (2027), Douglas Schafer (2027), Christa Wallington (2027)
Statutory Auditors Alok Rakyan (2026), John Sasaki (2027)
Parentheses denote term limit.
CLUB COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Compensation Justin Negrón
Culture, Community & Entertainment Matthew Tappenden (Vibhu Jain)
Finance Dennis Hubbs (Hiroshi Miyamasu)
House Mike Foley (Ren Kuroda)
Long-Range Planning Ron Lenore (Reiko Saito)
Membership Yan Fan (Lin Shi)
Nihonbashi Rike Wootten (Geoffrey Bowman)
Nominating Steven Greenberg
Recreation David Lee (Agnes Ouellette)
Parentheses denote Board liaison.
GENERAL MANAGER
Dustin McAvoy
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
Nori Yamazaki
DIRECTORS
Brand Marketing & Communications Shane Busato
Facilities Richard Woods
Finance Naoto Okutsu
Food & Beverage Gerard Bonenfant
Human Resources Jason Dominici
Member Services Jonathan Allen
Operations Thomas Zaleski
Interim Recreation Menya Hinga
INTOUCH
Managing Editor C Bryan Jones
editor@tac-club.org
Communications Editor Alec Jordan
Social Media Specialist Avery Devlin
Lead Designer Kohji Shiiki
Support Designers
Aya Harada
Anna Wong
CONTRIBUTORS
Writers
Tim Hornyak
Ron Lenore
Chris O’Neal
Photographers
Shane Busato
Avery Devlin
Yuuki Ide
Kotaro Matsushita
Satomi Nuga
Takumaru Suzuki
Noriyuki Yamamura
Kayo Yamawaki
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.
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Suhyun
From Planning to Choice
WORDS RON LENORE
Over the past year, the Long-Range Planning Committee has asked a simple but important question: What kind of club should we become over the next decade?
That question has now moved from discussion to direction.
By the time this column is published, the Board of Governors will have reviewed the long-range planning work and considered the recommendations to be shared with Members ahead of the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The details may continue to evolve, but the next stage is clear: Members will be invited to understand the proposed direction, ask questions, and provide comments before making their choice.
For much of the past year, the work has been about understanding the Club as it is today. That meant reviewing survey results, financial data, facility needs, committee input, management perspectives, staff concerns, Member comments, and outside benchmarking. The purpose was not to create a list of every possible improvement. It was to identify what matters most to Members.
Those choices are now coming into focus.
The long-range plan is expected to address several connected areas: financial sustainability, facility reinvestment, staff development, dining, membership strategy, Club identity, governance, communications, and the overall Member experience. Each topic matters on its own, but the real issue is how they fit together.
A better dining experience depends on staffing, training, financial decisions, space planning, and clearer expectations. A stronger fitness or family experience depends on capital investment, usage patterns, Member behavior, and operational discipline. A more vibrant community depends not only on events but on communications, programming, standards, and a shared understanding of what the Club is meant to be.
This is where the discussion becomes more practical. What should be done first? What should wait? What should be preserved? What should be changed? How much investment is required, and what benefits should Members expect in return?
These are not abstract planning questions. They affect the daily experience at the Club: the restaurants we use, the facilities we rely on, the way children and adults share space, the way staff are trained and supported, the way standards are maintained, and the way the Club pays for its future.
We are planning to provide Members with opportunities to learn more through information sessions, videos, Q&A, and other communications ahead of the AGM. Members should take the time to understand what is being proposed, why certain priorities were chosen, what trade-offs are involved, and what level of investment may be required.
Not everyone will agree with every recommendation. That is expected. A Member-owned club should welcome thoughtful challenge. But the conversation now needs to move from “What do I personally want?” to “What direction will make the Club stronger for the next decade?”
Ron Lenore is chair of the Club’s Long-Range Planning Committee.
“Members should take the time to understand what is being proposed, why certain priorities were chosen, what trade-offs are involved, and what level of investment may be required.”
THE CELLAR
All-American Merch
Looking for the perfect way to celebrate America’s milestone birthday and look sharp at the same time? The Cellar has you covered. This 100-percent cotton tee comes in white, is printed with the Club’s iconic America 250 commemorative logo on the front and the Tokyo American Club logo on the back, and is available in a variety of sizes, making it ideal for the whole family. But supplies are limited, so make sure to pick some up in time to wear to the Independence Day Celebration on July 4 and show off your star-spangled spirit. AJ
FOOD & DRINK
Brews with a View
Located on the terrace outside Café Med, the TAC Beer Garden offers an unbeatable spot for taking in the cityscape along with a lineup of beers and other libations. Lovers of craft brews won’t want to miss the selection that rotates daily, with rare domestic beers, fine American ciders, and IPAs. You can also pair your drink of choice with a range of food, from light bites like warm pretzels to flavorful double lamb chops and artisanal pizzas. Drop by from 4pm to 8pm, whether you’re finishing up a workday or easing into a weekend evening. AJ
SHANE BUSATO
From the Shelves
Member and Mexican American author-illustrator Judith Valdés B. carried books everywhere as a girl growing up in Mexico. Though she became an avid reader at a young age, there was one thing missing. “There were few characters that looked like me or shared experiences like my own,” she says. That inspired her to pursue a degree in illustration. Her award-winning debut picture book, An Ofrenda for Perro, can be found in the Children’s Library.
What was your favorite childhood book?
One that I remember fondly is Owl Moon by Jane
SPA
A Cool Idea
One of the newest treatments available at The Spa, the cutting-edge Cryosauna uses exposure to extremely low temperatures to support wellness. Invigorating, yet comfortable, three-minute sessions in the cryotherapy unit have been shown to boost muscle recovery and reduce soreness, burn calories, stimulate collagen production, trigger endorphin release, and strengthen the immune response.
Cryotherapy has boomed in popularity among athletes and celebrities around the world, but there are only a few locations in Japan where you can experience it for yourself. Contact 03-4588-0714 or spa@tac-club.org to book your session at The Spa for ¥13,200. Offer available for a limited time. AJ
Yolen. In fact, I still have my original copy. The quiet beauty of the story and its illustrations have stayed with me ever since I first read it.
What inspired your love of books?
I grew up in a small town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, which often attracted visitors from Canada, the United States, and Europe. Many left books behind when they returned to their countries. My desire to read them inspired me to improve my English, as I had until that time considered French my second language. Reading became a way of traveling, long before I ever had the opportunity to see anything outside of Mexico.
What genre do you most enjoy?
I am drawn to literary fiction and memoirs, especially books that introduce me to a new, unknown culture, people, or place, whether through historical fiction, magical realism, or personal narratives. I love stories that help me understand the lives and experiences of others different from my own.
What are you currently reading?
I have a habit of reading more than one book at a time. Living in Japan has deepened my interest in Japanese literature, so lately, I have focused on works by Japanese authors and books to help me better understand their culture and history. My current list includes Bushido: The Soul of Japan by Inazo Nitobe, Butter by Asako Yuzuki, and Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami.
When were you last unable to put down a book? One book I found difficult to put down was Kokoro by Natsume Soseki. I was captivated by its emotional depth and exploration of loneliness, friendship, and human connection, even when there were aspects that left me with unanswered questions. I also loved Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto, which combines simplicity and beauty.
Judith Valdés B.
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Meet Menya Hinga
With Recreation Director Kaitlyn Giguere’s departure in May, the Club is pleased to welcome Menya Hinga to fill the role as interim recreation director in addition to serving as area fitness manager.
Many Members may already know Hinga from his work within Tokyo’s health and fitness community, where he has built a strong reputation and loyal client base through his coaching, wellness programs, and leadership initiatives. With more than a decade of experience in fitness, health coaching, and corporate wellness, he brings tremendous energy, innovation, and community-minded leadership to the Club.
“I’m most looking forward to connecting directly with Members and understanding what they’re looking for from their time at the Club,” he tells INTOUCH. “Having spent years in Tokyo’s fitness community, I know how much of a difference the right environment and programming can make, and I’m excited to bring that experience here.”
Making fitness and recreation feel approachable and connected to everyday life, not just something done in isolation, is a key focus of Hinga’s philosophy. “That means thoughtful programming, better use of our spaces, and creating opportunities for Members to engage with movement and community in ways that fit naturally into their schedules,” he explains. “I’d also love to see more cross-generational programming that brings families and different age groups together.”
So if you see Hinga in the Fitness Center or around the Club, be sure to say hi. “I’m honored to be stepping into this role and grateful for the warm welcome from the team and Members so far. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone and working together to make the Club’s fitness and recreation offerings even better.” CBJ
Cherry Cheers SIPS
Few things say summer in America quite like cherries, and Members will have a chance to taste the best at this month’s Nihonbashi Mixer on July 15.
Rainier cherries, imported exclusively by preorder through limited air shipments, are a premium product rarely found in Japan. With delicate creamy yellow skin and a pinkish blush, these cherries, brought to the Club by Wismettac Foods, are a taste sensation not to be missed.
A hybrid of Bing and Van varieties prized for their extraordinary sweetness, Rainier cherries are often considered the Champagne of cherries. These delicate orbs—the size of a ¥500 coin—were created in 1952 at Washington State University by breeder Harold Fogle and named after Mount Rainier.
The Muromachi Bar mixologists will be serving up two special cherry cocktails. Try a Cherry Old Fashioned, a smooth and approachable twist on the classic Old Fashioned featuring rich bourbon balanced with sweet American cherry syrup and Angostura bitters, served on the rocks.
For an alcohol-free option, ask for the Cherry Tea Fizz, a sparkling mocktail combining black tea tannins, bright citrus, and sweet American cherry notes for a refreshing and sophisticated sip.
Members and their guests can also sample the fresh fruit one by one and enjoy a spread of original cherryinspired appetizers. CBJ
Nihonbashi Mixer
• July 15 • 6–7:30pm • Muromachi Lounge • ¥3,000 (walk-ins ¥3,500); guests ¥4,000 (walk-ins ¥4,500) • Ages 20 & above • Limit two guests per Member • Sign up online
What’s on in
JULY
4
Independence Day Celebration
IMAGES TAKUMARU SUZUKI
Mark America’s milestone and celebrate 250 years of independence with a full day of holiday excitement and family fun.
The packed slate of exciting activities and festive flavors starts with a family parade around the Azabudai Club before R&B singer Aisha kicks off the grand opening ceremony with a rousing rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” and some of her biggest hits (read more about Aisha on page 20). The party continues into the night with the Member-favorite music and light show, featuring projection mapping fireworks, and an after-party in 51 East.
Along the way, Members can enjoy an afternoon of Wild West fun on the hardwood, aquatic thrills in the Sky Pool, music and magic acts on the outdoor main stage, and much more. Want to show off your moves? Jump, dance, and feel the heat as DJ Celly and MC Gonzalez bring the ultimate vibes.
Looking for an authentic taste of this all-American holiday? Head up to Splash! for some Texas barbecue or visit the Winter Garden for a 1950s-era eatery experience. But leave space if you want to take home the title of “watermelon warrior” in the Club’s own version of an Independence Day tradition. CBJ
Activities
Family Parade
• 11am • Club entrance
Grand Opening Ceremony
• 11:30am • Club entrance
Wild West Family Fun
• 12–12:45pm, 1:30–2:15pm & 2:30–3:15pm
• Gymnasium, O-Zone
Wild West Splash-A-Round
• 12–12:45pm, 1:30–2:15pm & 2:30–3:15pm
• Sky Pool
GellyBall
• 12–3:15pm • O-Zone
Candy Making Workshop
• 12–12:45pm, 1:30–2:15pm & 2:30–3:15pm
• The Studio
Magic Show
• 1pm • Gymnasium
Family Bowling Tournament
• 1–3:30pm • Bowling Center
Family Summer Dance Jam USA!
• 2:30pm • Club entrance
Music and Light Show
• 7:30pm • Club entrance
Independence Day After-Party
• 9–11pm • 51 East
Main Stage Lineup
11am Welcome Remarks
Eats
Food Truck Park
• 11am • Club entrance
Splash! Texas BBQ
• 12pm • Splash!
Watermelon-Eating and Seed-Spitting Contest
• 3:30pm • Club entrance
American Diner Buffet
• 3:30pm & 6pm • Winter Garden
Beer Garden
• 4:30pm • Club entrance
Independence Day Live (Nihonbashi)
• 5–10pm • Muromachi Bar & Lounge
11:30am Grand Opening Ceremony featuring Aisha
12:15pm Pink Riot
1:15pm Memories Band
2:30pm Family Summer Dance Jam USA! featuring DJ Celly and MC Gonzalez
4:30pm Tokyo Mississippi Blues Band & The Rebels
7:30pm Music and Light Show featuring Philip Woo’s Band
1
1673 VIP Promotion
Host a breakfast, lunch, or dinner in the Nihonbashi Club’s VIP space and receive a dining voucher worth up to ¥44,000.
• Through September 30 • Details online
1
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
1 & 15
Toastmasters Luncheon
Hone your public speaking and presentation skills with the Club’s cohort of Toastmasters.
• 12–1:30pm • New York Bridge • ¥2,420 (guests: ¥2,900) • Sign up online
4 Young Librarians Program
Club kids discover what it’s like to work behind the scenes in a library. Learn more on page 18.
• Continues through July 31 • Library
• Members only • Ages 9–16 • Sign up online
5
Introduction to Squash Club instructor Rico Cheung leads families through the basics.
• 4:30–6:30pm • Squash Court 1 • Free
• Members only • Ages 6 & above • Sign up online
6
Language Exchange with Morning Tea
Brush up your conversational English or Japanese skills over a relaxing cup of tea with new friends.
• 10–11:30am • New York Bridge
• Connections members: free (nonConnections members: ¥1,000) • Adults only • Details online
8
Cocktail Connections
Celebrate hump day at this fun evening of mingling over drinks.
• 5–7pm • 51 East Bar & Lounge
• Connections members: free (nonConnections members & guests: ¥1,000)
• Details online
1–27 Exhibition: Sachiko Yamaguchi
Tokyo-born artist Sachiko Yamaguchi started learning oil painting when she was just 10. As a student at Jissen Women’s University, she began exhibiting her works in Japan and abroad—an experience that shaped her artistic journey. “I was troubled by the fact that the artists around me were so great, and I wondered if I could ever become a painter like them.”
Exploring oils, watercolors, and etching, she did just that. Today, she builds on this by using a distinctive encaustic approach that combines beeswax, sumi ink, and mineral pigments to create richly textured pieces that reflect Japanese artistic traditions while offering a contemporary perspective for global audiences.
“Many people are experiencing heartbreak, uncertainty, and difficult circumstances due to disasters and troubling events around the world,” she says. “I believe that it is at times like these that art can provide comfort.” CBJ
Moment I realized I wanted to become an artist.
When I exhibited my works in Japan and abroad and received positive feedback.
What I would tell my 20-year-old self.
It’s okay, the art world will warmly support you.
My perfect creative environment.
A place where I can breathe freely, surrounded by inspiration and able to pursue my passion.
Artist, living or dead, I’d most like to share a meal with.
Yoko Ono.
• Through July 27 • FH Gallery • Artworks available for purchase through Member Services • Details online
26
Nihonbashi Bridge Cleaning
A cornerstone of the Nihonbashi Club is building connections with the historic district it calls home, and one way in which Members do that each July is by helping keep Nihonbashi Bridge sparkling.
More than just a neighborhood cleanup, the annual summer activity began in 1971 as a project of the Famed Nihonbashi Bridge Preservation Society. The nonprofit was founded three years earlier to ensure the preservation of the landmark, first built in 1603, that serves as the zero-kilometer marker from which all distances in Japan are measured.
The current stone bridge—an upgraded version of the wooden structure—dates from 1911 and was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1999. The annual cleaning was launched to help preserve the bridge’s beauty for future generations while fostering community involvement.
In recent years, more than 1,500 people—from local residents to schoolchildren to businesspeople and members of organizations like the Club—have braved the heat each summer to keep history shining.
The morning will start with a ceremony in which a water-sprinkling truck splashes the 50-meter-long bridge. So grab a brush and join this community tradition that has been running for more than 50 years. CBJ
• 9–11am • ¥2,200 • Members only • Adults only • Sign up online
10
WCBF Baseball Camp with Munenori Kawasaki
Little sluggers learn the basics from a former pro player.
• 9–10:30am (Ages 4–10); 11am–12:30pm (Ages 11–15) • Gymnasium • ¥1,000
• Sign up online
12
Swim Clinic with Olympians
Former Olympians Miguel and Bruno Ortiz-Cañavate turn Club swimmers into freestyle stars. Learn more about the brothers and the clinic on page 26.
• 4:30–6pm • Sky Pool • ¥11,000 (¥8,800 for each additional sibling) per session • Sign up online
15
Nihonbashi Mixer
Enjoy an evening of seasonal tapas and cocktails featuring American Rainier cherries from Orville Orchards, plus allyou-can-drink wine and beer.
• 6–7:30pm • Muromachi Lounge
• ¥3,000 (walk-ins: ¥3,500); guests: ¥4,000 (walk-ins: ¥4,500) • Limit: two guests per Member • Sign up online
18–20
TAC Premier Classic
Club players put their skills to the test against the country’s best at the Club’s annual pro squash tournament.
• July 18 (9am–9pm); July 19 (10am–7pm); July 20 (10am–7pm)
• Squash Courts • Details online
25
Family Dinner at 51 East
Relax and unwind together with elevated cuisine and a “bambino” appetizer plate for the kids.
• 5–9pm • 51 East • Details online
25
Floating into Sound
Let the day’s stress go as soothing tones wash over you.
• 7–7:45pm • Sky Pool • ¥1,100
• Members only • Ages 16 & above
• Sign up online
Check the Club website for the most up-to-date information on events and programs.
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A Taste of the States
Among the caravan of food trucks at the main parking area during the Independence Day Celebration will be the Club Smokehouse, where you’ll find a delectable lineup of dishes, like smoked beef brisket and corn on the cob loaded with an array of tasty toppings. Make sure to drop by during the star-spangled festivities—and bring your appetite!
The Club Smokehouse tent • July 4
WORDS ALEC JORDAN
IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI
Urban Life, Natural Living
Introducing the lifestyle at Azabudai Hills Residence B serviced apartments.
An urban lifestyle comes with built-in luxuries: convenience, high-end local amenities, and an array of entertainment options close at hand. Nowhere is this more true than in Tokyo, but the tradeoffs can be difficult to adapt to. A lack of nature to unwind from the pace of the city can feel stifling, and the city’s notorious space constraints can make it difficult to spread one’s wings. It is that very need for freedom that Azabudai Hills Residence B addresses with its concept of the “modern urban village.”
A LIVING NATURE SANCTUARY
The first thing residents notice is the size and space of the verdant courtyard. The centerpiece of the development is the 6,000-square-meter Central Green, with a manicured 1,200-square-meter field only broken by flowing rivulets to create an oasis in the heart of one of Tokyo’s most popular residential neighborhoods. It is only part of the 24,000 square meters of landscaped greenery that forms the heart of the development, with the residences woven through the natural spaces. Living in Residence B
feels akin to having a personal nature sanctuary, right on the threshold of a metropolis.
The focus on nature is one of two pillars that defines Mori Building’s philosophy for Azabudai Hills: Green and Wellness. The gardens are not just for display, but designed to offer daily perks to residents’ health. To see this in action, visit the Orchard, where fresh mandarins and blueberries grow when in season, or the Edible Garden, with an array of community-led events. For more active residents, the Central Green
will host running and fitness sessions led by qualified trainers from Nike and other fitness experts, turning the natural beauty of the space into an active boost to residents’ physical and mental health.
THE HALLS OF URBAN LUXURY
Walking through the atrium doors, away from the verdant space, residents are reminded of the quiet luxury of urban life within Residence B. Unique to the Azabudai Hills develop ment is their access to the Azabudai Hills Market, an entire 4,000-square-meter shopping space with seasonal produce, premium meat and fish, and a wide selection of international ingredients. For busier days, the non-residential areas of the complex house restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, alongside boutique stores, art galleries, museums, and even an international school, keeping the benefits of urban life close without intrusion.
The pinnacle of Residence B’s convenience and luxury is found, however, as residents leave the public areas to move into their private serviced apartments. A hybrid bridge between a standard rental and a high-end hotel experience, comfort begins from day one with a “suitcase-only move.” Each apartment is fully furnished with a suite of appliances, furniture, tableware, and any other amenity a resident may need. This extends beyond the door as well, with a 24-hour bilingual concierge service, complimentary breakfast, semiweekly housekeeping, and access to the Hills Spa. At Azabudai Hills Residence B serviced apartments, residents can smoothly begin a comfortable, homey life with just a single suitcase.
CREATING COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION
Within the communal spaces of Residence B, Mori Building combines elements of space and convenience. Designed to seamlessly integrate into daily life, the communal areas of the tower feel like natural extensions of a resident’s apartment and vary to accommodate every individual’s lifestyle. For social occasions, residents have access to the elegant lounge space, which is spacious and well-lit through the expansive windows, creating a bright, welcoming environment for a private gathering. For more personal occasions, such as hosting overnight visitors, residents can reserve one of the building’s three guest rooms. This provides an intimate and comfortable stay for friends or family traveling from afar—
the panoramic Tokyo skyline just beyond the windows.
For families staying in the serviced apartments, study rooms create a sanctuary of focus outside the home, while the theater room provides a familyfriendly space to watch movies together. Meanwhile, the Wellness concept is given its share, with a fully outfitted gym, alongside residents having access to the health consultation room and the Hills Spa. Whether residents choose to stay active or relax, both options are interwoven into Residence B, just as nature and urban living are. It is the modern urban village, realized.
To find out more, visit: moriliving.com/en/sa
BEYOND
Club kids get a behind-thescenes look at life among the shelves with the Young Librarians Program.
WORDS CHRIS O’NEAL
For many Members, finding a new book in the second-floor Library is a highlight of the week. But for budding bibliophiles, the intrigue goes beyond the story. Where do all those tomes come from, and how can such a massive collection be maintained? The Club’s Young Librarians Program gives them the chance to find out.
During the monthlong offering, participants are paired with staff to explore responsibilities such as shelving and organizing books, assisting with cataloging, helping patrons with inquiries, and supporting Library events.
Library Manager Alexandria Albanese says the program gives young Members the opportunity to develop real-world skills through hands-on experience. “Because the Library is centered around knowledge and service, it’s a great setting for them to experience educational, structured tasks while still having fun.”
Atsushi Watanabe fell in love with reading adventure books when he was 4 years old. Now 12, he says that once he gets a hold of a book, it’s hard to put it down. Visiting his school’s library daily sparked an interest in wanting to become more involved. “I’d always wanted to know what it was like to work in one,” he says.
Atsushi joined the Young Librarians Program last year, attending the weekly sessions and working alongside the librarians and his peers. A typical day included organizing and checking books in as well as playing games to learn something different about the Library.
“One thing that surprised me was working on cataloging new books, because I never thought I would get to do that,” Atsushi explains, adding that it was much harder than he had imagined it would be. In spite of the difficulty, he says that it was his favorite part “because it required thinking, and I got to learn about new books and the process that they go
THE BOOKS
Though he can’t attend the program again now that he is 17, Hugo says he is grateful for what he took away from it. “It taught me a lot about responsibility, organization, and community service.”
through to get put onto the shelves for everyone to read.”
The program has two tracks, based on age. Juniors (ages 9 to 12) take part in a two-and-a-half-hour session once a week on Saturday or Sunday, while seniors (ages 13 to 16) have a four-hour session once a week on Wednesday or Thursday.
Eleven-year-old Poul Solvsteen says that he thought it would be a fun way to spend his summer. Having first fallen in love with reading through graphic novels and a spy novel series called Cherub, Poul says that what a librarian actually does beyond checking out books came as a surprise to him. “It’s so much more than that,” he says.
In addition to crafting for reading sessions, reshelving, and retrieving books, there is a children’s storytime, which Poul says he didn’t feel that he was qualified for at first. “But it was quite fun when I actually did it.”
Finding and returning books proved to be a challenge, too, he adds. But by utilizing a small map and spending time memorizing the names of books, he gained skills he now puts to good use. “When I have to find a book, I don’t have to ask the librarians as much.”
Hugo Zhou joined the program in 2025 as a way to help the community. The effort and preparation put into the Library’s activities for children and the care it takes to ensure books are not lost among the shelves are things that took some time to get used to. “I learned that even small tasks matter,” he says. “I still think about that in school, sports, and everyday life, because doing small things carefully shows responsibility.”
For Atsushi, the experience changed the way he sees librarians. “Before the program, I thought librarians just fixed and checked out books,” he explains. “I learned they do way more and really help people. By the end, I had a lot of respect for the job.”
Albanese says that the kids “really step into the role of librarian with a surprising level of confidence and responsibility.” She particularly enjoys watching them create Readers’ Advisories—creative displays used to help Members select books—and talking to Members to help them choose their next read.
Another surprise was how collaborative the participants proved to be, not only with each other, but also with the Members they assist. “I think it’s a wonderful chance for other young Members to get book recommendations from librarians their own age,” Albanese adds.
Having always wanted to be a librarian herself, Albanese says that “it’s a real privilege to share that world with them.”
“The kids have also shown enthusiasm that extends beyond the program itself, frequently asking to come back or continue helping in some capacity,” she notes. “That ongoing interest has been one of the most encouraging and heartwarming outcomes.”
Young Librarians Program
• July 4–31 • Library • Free • Members only • Ages 9–16
• Sign up online
(l–r) Poul Solvsteen presents storytime; Atsushi Watanabe checks in books; Processing returns; Hugo Zhou reshelves titles
YUUKI
Japanese American recording artist Aisha brings her vocal fireworks to the Club’s Independence Day Celebration.
WORDS CHRIS O’NEAL
Aisha
“I feel so lucky to be Japanese American.”
Before Aisha ever stepped onto a stage , music had already shaped her life. Her American father and Japanese mother met in Tokyo while performing. Dad was a touring trombonist who had worked with Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Diana Ross. Mom was a singer and cancan dancer. “They met at Disneyland,” she says with a laugh. “I’m like a Disney baby.”
The music never stopped. Her singles “Shy,” “Candy Love,” and “Liar” have collectively surpassed 100 million streams and 20 million YouTube views, while her voice has reached millions more through soundtracks for anime and video games, including Naruto: Shippuden and Guilty Gear Strive. Now, Aisha will take the stage at the Club’s Independence Day Celebration on July 4.
Born in Yokohama, Aisha attended an international school in Japan and summer school each year in upstate New York, having flown there from as young as first grade.
“I feel so American when I’m in America, so Japanese when I’m in Japan,” she says. “I feel so lucky to be Japanese American. There are so many things I love about both cultures.”
In 2000, Aisha spent the Fourth of July in Hawaii, where she had an experience like none before. “I just remember that moment forever, looking into the sky, looking at the fireworks, and seeing everyone so happy—and feeling so happy to be American.”
Aisha reveals that it had always been her dream to live in America. Two years ago, she set her sights on Los Angeles. She says it was the scariest decision she had ever made. “But I wanted to know more about the other half of me.”
songs, I like to share what I’m going through and let the audience in on who I am,” she explains. “I’d never done that in English before.”
Expressing herself and showing love for her home countries runs through Aisha’s creativity. Her video for “Tokyo Love Story” featured interracial, same-gender, and mixed-race couples. “Let’s show that Japan isn’t just samurai and yakuza,” she told her director. “Let’s show a romantic side of Japan.”
Her arrival in America also gave her a taste of idol culture—something she says that she had never quite experienced in Japan. Performing in Los Angeles at the Guilty Gear Strive Live Concert in 2024, she got an overwhelmingly positive response. “I had no idea how popular it was,” she says. “People from all over the world sent me emails and letters.”
In July of the same year, she performed the National Anthem at Dodger Stadium for Japanese Heritage Night. And in 2025, she stepped onto the court for Japanese Heritage Night at an LA Clippers basketball game to do it again—only this time, with a special guest in attendance.
Before taking the leap, she spent a week with a producer friend exploring the city. On day two, she found herself scrolling through Instagram. A photo of singer and actress Jennifer Hudson caught her eye, posted by a girl Aisha had known in high school who was now working on Hudson’s TV show. One comment led to an invitation to a concert.
At the end of the show, Hudson walked into the crowd, microphone in hand. She stopped when she saw Aisha in tears in the front row. “She comes over, hugs me, and starts belting the highest note possible. And I just cried my eyes out.”
That week only confirmed what she already felt. “Every time I go to LA, these huge miracles happen.” Not long after, she made the move permanent.
For all her years performing in Japan, moving to America meant learning to be herself in a different language, literally. “What I do in my shows, in between
“Someone came into my dressing room. They were like, ‘Aisha, I love your outfit, but is it okay if you wear tights underneath? Because we have someone really special coming tonight.’ And then, as a joke, I said, ‘Like Obama?’ And they were like, ‘How did you know?’”
That special guest was, indeed, former President Barack Obama. Backstage, her hands were shaking. But the moment she stepped to the microphone, spotlight on her at midcourt, everything changed.
“Of course I was scared,” she recalls. “But, you know, I love doing this. This is what I enjoy. And it felt like a dream come true.”
Aisha will bring that same energy to the Club’s Independence Day Celebration, performing both the American and Japanese national anthems as well as a mix of her original songs for a community that, much like herself, calls more than one culture home.
“When we watch the news, it can feel like the world is so divided and people are turning against each other. But at the end of the day, we’re all human beings and I truly believe it’s all love. I hope that when people hear me sing the anthem, it brings a sense of unity and reminds us of what we have in common rather than what separates us.”
Independence Day Celebration • July 4 • 11am–11pm • Details online
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FUTURE READY LEADERSHIP STARTS HERE
Healthcare That Cares About You
How preventive medicine’s approach takes the stress out of your health.
Healthcare can often fall victim to a busy schedule and not be given the attention it truly deserves—not out of neglect, but because the break in routine from a clinic visit, testing times, and hurried explanations rarely feel worth the disruption. The Keio University Center for Preventive Medicine follows a different philo sophy: that healthcare should integrate smoothly into a busy life, and that your health is best addressed before it demands your time and attention.
Dr. Hiromasa Takaishi, the director of the center and himself a Club Member, is an advocate of preventive medicine over a reactive approach. Designed to be personalized, convenient, and clear, this style of medicine focuses on regular health checkups and detailed, datadriven testing to catch potential problems before they impact quality of life, and to manage potential health risks effectively
The hallmark of their approach is the expertly crafted Personalized Executive Health Program: a tailored one or twoday selection of key tests, supplemented by further testing at your request. Everything is conducted in private with a team of healthcare professionals so you feel assured and understand each step of the process.
The program begins as you step into the sleek lobby of the center, located on the fifth floor of the Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower. Just a short walk from the Club doors, the location offers convenience and fits into a busy schedule for the international community. In the lobby, you are greeted by a concierge, who walks you through the upcoming process and sees you through to a private consultation room.
Here, a certified nurse holds a detailed consultation with you. This is a chance to
express your concerns, but also to ask for recommendations and highlight longterm goals, so that the center can tailor their support to you. Once complete, you’re guided through the tests efficiently, but with clarity at every step. The calm flow is only broken by lunch served at the Dining 33 restaurant.
Finally, your results are thoroughly evaluated by your physician, who provides a detailed explanation and advice on achieving your healthcare goals. If any issues are detected, a sameday results consultation with a physician lays out an efficient path to recovery. As Dr. Takaishi explains, treatment, like every step of the center’s process, “is tailored to your needs to take the stress out of your care.”
BUILDING BRIDGES THAT LAST
The Club’s Fukushima support program marks 15 years of cultural exchange.
WORDS TIM HORNYAK IMAGES YUUKI IDE
As you walk toward the Club entrance , you’ll notice a cherry tree in the little nook just outside Traders’ Bar. A descendant of the Miharu Takizakura, a breathtaking 1,200-year-old weeping higan cherry, the sapling was a gift to the Club and was planted by Members and Miharu town officials in January 2023.
It’s a powerful symbol of the bonds forged between Fukushima and Club Members, but mutual ties go back much farther. A town of some 15,000 in central Fukushima Prefecture, Miharu is the ancestral home of the Akita samurai clan. During the Edo Period (1603–1867), the clan occupied the land in Azabudai on which the Club now stands.
Fifteen years ago, after a cataclysmic earthquake and tsunami ripped through Fukushima on March 11, the Club formed a relationship with the prefecture and established a cultural exchange program that has been generating friendships and memories ever since, with Members visiting Fukushima and, since 2023, a group of students from Miharu making a trip to the Club.
This year, Members visited the newly established Shoryo Mandatory Education School in Fukushima City on January 30 to hear presentations from the students, enjoy a traditional Japanese school lunch, and hold an English-language workshop. The next day, they conducted a family program at the Fukushima City Center after staying overnight at the Yamenaya ryokan in Tsuchiyu Onsen Village.
Member Sunny Kim-Bather went up to Fukushima with her son Benjamin because she wanted to break out of the “expat bubble” and have a more authentic connection with Japanese people and experience a side of Japan that many in the international community don’t often see.
“I was especially impressed by the students,” says Bather. “They were incredibly welcoming, open, and friendly, and I admired their willingness to communicate with us in
(opposite)
English, even when it pushed them outside their comfort zones. I loved hearing about their families, hobbies, and daily lives.”
Benjamin, 10, adds: “I learned that even after hard times, people can still be in good spirits. The vibe in Fukushima was so happy and calm. I wish I lived there.”
Through the program, local children have not only been exposed to everyday English, but have learned to appreciate diverse values, according to Hidemi Sato, superintendent of education for Fukushima City.
“For them, the cultural exchanges with the Club have truly been a ‘window to the world,’” says Sato. “The bonds formed through these interactions have become a bridge connecting Fukushima with the wider world, and they are an irreplaceable gift to our children.”
In February, Bather’s daughters Callie and Meg helped host students from the town of Miharu at the Club. They enjoyed an American lunch, played games in English, danced the traditional Miharu Bon Odori folk dance, and even bowled a few frames together. Callie, 6, says she didn’t need to know much Japanese to have fun.
“I learned how to be more confident talking to people I don’t know,” says her older sister Meg, 12. “When there’s a language barrier, a shared smile goes a long way.”
“For me, visiting the school and the students was the most memorable, especially with the students being so enthusiastic about learning English,” says Sophie Sidharta,
14, who visited Miharu with her mother Julie. “It was a great environment where I could speak and play games in English [with Japanese kids] while having fun, and it was really nice that I could tell that the students were enjoying it.”
Students from Miharu were equally sanguine about the exchange.
“This was my third and final visit, and it was a very special time and warm experience for me,” says Yua, one of the visiting students. “I’ve been participating since I was in sixth grade and, over the past three years, I’ve gained [friends in] people from different countries. I’m truly grateful for your kindness. I’ll cherish these memories. I hope to visit again someday. I love you.”
Eighth-grader Shizuka says in a message to Members: “We enjoyed lunchtime and a Jeopardy-style game show with you. Also, we want to study English with more interest.”
“For many of our children, opportunities to speak directly with people from overseas are rare in their daily lives,” says Shunichi Endo, Miharu’s program manager for youth international understanding education. “I hope that their experience at the Club will inspire them to study English more deeply and broaden their horizons as they move forward in life.”
Fusaichi Saito, deputy mayor of Fukushima City, emphasizes the long-term impact of the program.
“When Fukushima was struck by the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear disaster in 2011, our children faced many restrictions and challenges,” says Saito. “During those difficult times, the Club’s Members generously provided a variety of programs, from respite activities to music and English, and created invaluable opportunities for interaction. We remain deeply grateful for the support you extended then, and for the continued commitment you have shown over the years.”
So, the next time you see the cherry sapling at the Club, remember its origins in Fukushima and the bonds of friendship that continue to grow through these annual visits.
“The bonds formed through these interactions … are an irreplaceable gift to our children.”
Members with ambassadors from Miharu in front of the cherry tree sapling; (above l–r) Learning the Miharu Bon Odori folk dance; Students give a presentation in English
STRONGER
The Ortiz-Cañavate brothers discuss their passion for swimming and helping Members reach their goals.
WORDS TIM HORNYAK
TOGETHER
Sibling rivalry is a source of stress for many families. In the case of Miguel and Bruno Ortiz-Cañavate, it produced a competitive environment that led them all the way to the 2016 Olympics.
Miguel and Bruno are well known to Members as instructors for the Swim Clinics with Olympians held in the Sky Pool. Aimed at youth swimmers of various levels, from those building confidence in the water to more advanced swimmers, the clinics focus on different stroke skills through demonstration, drills, and fun races. The brothers recently sat down with INTOUCH and discussed how they got their start in competitive swimming and what they have learned from the sport.
Miguel was born in Madrid in 1991 but only lived there for about seven months before the family moved to Tokyo, where Bruno was born in 1993. The brothers grew up in the Japanese capital and developed their ties to Spain through visits to relatives there. The transformational experience in their lives, however, was getting wet.
“Before I even learned how to swim, my mother said I jumped into a pool and somehow managed to survive while enjoying myself, so I think I was naturally drawn to the water,” says Bruno. “My brother and I joined a swim club when we were children. When I saw him win a medal at a competition, I became jealous and decided that I wanted to compete as well. That was the beginning of my
competitive swimming journey.”
The rivalry fueled an ambition to swim internationally, and so after high school, the brothers honed their swimming skills under coach Mike Bottom at the University of Michigan. That was where they learned about the superhuman levels of physical and mental stamina that it takes to compete at the highest levels.
“The University of Michigan was where I truly learned that swimming is a team sport,” explains Miguel. “At Michigan, I learned humility, selflessness, and how to think about what is best for the team. I learned how to push myself, but also how to be part of something bigger than myself. I grew not only as a swimmer, but also as a person.”
One of the biggest achievements at Michigan for the brothers was winning the 2013 NCAA national championships together. The Wolverines had last won a national title in 1995, and it happened in the same pool as the 2013 final. Every day, the brothers would look at a locker room photo of the 1995 team holding the trophy and imagine themselves
“Swimming can be a lifelong journey, and if you stay open to learning, it can continue to give you something new at every stage of life.”
standing on the same podium. When they clinched the trophy, the brothers cried tears of joy.
They also learned to overcome challenges through swimming. Bruno suffered a shoulder injury in high school that kept him out of the pool and focused on rehabilitation until he could swim again. Miguel went through a slump where hard training was not producing any results. He stepped back, concentrated on his studies and work, and was finally able to improve his time by 0.01 second at the Olympic trials. That kind of
determination propelled the brothers to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, where their team placed 13th and set a national record for Spain for the men’s 4x100-meter freestyle relay.
Miguel and Bruno have brought the lessons they learned in competitive swimming to their Club clinic. With an emphasis on freestyle, butterfly, and sprinting, they teach various programs, including Masters, Technique Development, Swim Fit, Distance, and Race Pace Development. Each program has a different purpose, but all share the same foundation of helping Members become more confident, efficient, and motivated in the water.
“When I was a swimmer, I never really understood what it meant to give back to the community,” says Bruno. “Now, when I teach swimmers of all ages, I feel like I am passing on the knowledge I have accumulated over the years, and it gives me a satisfaction I never felt before.”
Members have shared their experiences from the various programs the brothers coach at the Club. Some have achieved personal goals or won competitions, and one participant couldn’t swim a lap when she began at the Sky Pool and can now swim for kilometers at a time. It’s all part of the brothers’ individualized approach and commitment to help each swimmer progress in a way that aligns with their own objectives.
“Swimming has been one of the greatest teachers in my life,” Miguel reflects. “It has taught me discipline, patience, resilience, teamwork, and the importance of enjoying the process.
“Whether your goal is to swim faster, feel healthier, recover from injury, compete, or simply enjoy the water more, I hope we can help you take that next step with confidence. Swimming can be a lifelong journey, and if you stay open to learning, it can continue to give you something new at every stage of life.”
Swim Clinic with Olympians
• July 12, August 16, September 6, October 25, November 29 • 4:30–6pm • Sky Pool • ¥11,000 (¥8,800 for each additional sibling) per session • Members only • Sign up online
YUUKI IDE
Botox treatments (wrinkle removal, hyperhidrosis, migraines)
Ultherapy, Titan, Laser Genesis, IPL
Mole, tattoo, skin blemish removal
Liposuction, mesotherapy (fat-dissolving injection)
Facelift, breast augmentation/reduction
Laser (for tattoos, hair removal, broken veins)
Foreign insurance accepted
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USA
Clark Robert & Amy Lynn Jones
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Christopher Levine
Stanley Lok Fu Ling Shoji
Hiroshi & Hiroko Masuda Masuda & Associate LCC
John & Mariko Nylin Ericsson Japan
Gregory & Frances Statton
Veritas Technologies (Japan) LLC
CANADA
Andrew Barnett
AstraZeneca K.K.
GERMANY
Hetal & Luciana Laligi Archion Corporation
INDIA
Roopa Malhotra & Akshat Joshi
Zurich Insurance Company Ltd.
JAPAN
Nobuyoshi Kan
Barry Callebaut Japan Ltd.
Taketoshi & Mari Kawakami
CBRE Investment Management
Yuka & Tomoshige Murakami Sonomano Inc.
Kenichi & Riho Ogata Satake Precision Technology
Toshiyuki & Chisato Sudo Prime number Inc.
SOUTH KOREA
Younghoon Bahn & Soo Hyun Myung GSMA
Hakjin Chung & Na Eun Cho Aoyama Gakuin University
SWEDEN
Chafic & Dominique Simone Nassif Ericsson Japan
TAIWAN
Chih-Yu Chen
moomoo Securities Japan Co., Ltd.
NIHONBASHI
JAPAN
Makoto Yokoi
Schroder Investment Management (Japan) Limited
Kazuhisa Miyagawa Satake Corporation
Koji Takagi
Celebrain Corporation
Dai Tsukahara Kasasagi Inc.
New Members
AZABUDAI
USA | Nicholas & Margret-Ann Natsis
Ernst & Young ShinNihon LLC
“We joined the Club for the community and the opportunity to connect with others, especially as many are in similar situations away from their homeland. We’re excited to have a space for the whole family to enjoy, make new friends, and get involved in the many activities the Club offers.”
NIHONBASHI
JAPAN | Shinichi Kato
Sumitomo Corporation
“I lived and worked in California, New York, and Florida for 10 years. During those days, I was always surrounded and encouraged by local people who spared no effort to help me and my family adapt to the local communities. Being back in Tokyo, I believe it’s my turn to support people who deserve more chances to enjoy life and business in Japan.”
NIHONBASHI
JAPAN | Noriko Yano
Yano Clinic
“I greatly value opportunities to meet people from diverse international backgrounds. I have a strong interest in cultural exchange, lifelong learning, and community activities. I joined the Club to broaden my business and personal connections, participate in Club events, and become part of a welcoming international community.”
(l–r) Margret-Ann, William, Francine, James, and Nicholas Natsis
Independence Day Celebration
May
20
Nihonbashi Mixer: South African Wines
Cape Cellars founder Takako Yachida brought South African wines to the center stage, showcasing the breadth of the country’s craft.
IMAGES SATOMI NUGA
May 30
Father-Daughter Dinner Dance
After getting in glam at the Pearl Parlor, our princess patrons had the chance to spend an unforgettable evening with Dad.
IMAGES NORIYUKI YAMAMURA
June 2
Ca’ del Bosco Wine Dinner
Giacomo Marzotto and Roberta Picco guided Members through a curated selection of the estate’s finest wines with a five-course meal at 51 East.
IMAGES KAYO YAMAWAKI
June 5
First Friday: Hip-Hop Night
Members got down for an even bigger and better get-together with roof-rocking beats, low lights, and good vibes.
IMAGES YUUKI IDE
June 6
All-Comers Swim Meet
Swimmers of all ages and skill levels grabbed their goggles and took their marks, testing their mettle at the Club’s annual summer swim competition.
IMAGES YUUKI IDE
Ready, Aim, Splash!
IMAGE YUUKI IDE
Class
GellyBall
A hybrid between paintball, airsoft, and laser tag, GellyBall is a high-energy, low-impact battle in which teams fire water-based gel orbs that are mess free. Wearing electronic scoring vests, players earn points by tagging opponents, but without the pain or paint splatters of paintball. The result is a thrilling experience perfect for kids, teens, and families.
More than 52,000 people in 48 countries play GellyBall each week, and Members can take to the battlefield on July 4 as part of the Club’s Independence Day Celebration for a taste of this new activity slated for the second Sunday of each month.
Six to 10 teams of three players each can compete for the title of King of the Court in a round-robin challenge. Each match lasts 10 minutes and the first team to score 11 points wins.
Experience Ayako Kanai
“The girls loved the game. I felt like it was great for both girls and boys, especially for birthday parties. We were looking for birthday party activities for older kids, so we are so happy to have this option. As a parent, it was great to see them enjoy the game in a very safe environment.”
GellyBall
• July 4 • 12–3:15pm • O-Zone • Free
• Continues on the second Sunday of each month • Ages 6 & above
• Details online
(l–r) Kiko Kanai, Lea Chien-Taira, Kallen Joyce, and Ray Chien-Taira
平成三年十二月二十日第三種郵便物許可定価八００円
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Azabudai Hills Residence B