October 2025 INTOUCH Magazine by Tokyo American Club

The 51 East Bar & Lounge launches with a new look and creative libations

SCOUTING SKILLS DIGITAL DISPATCH INSIDE OUT

Welcome Home Premium real estate for Tokyo living

www.nskre.co.jp/english

We don’t just oﬀer places to live, but locations where communities can grow.

Our newest project, Livio Residence Nishiazabu, is a 32-story, high-rise tower that is surrounded by lush greenery, standing out as an oasis in the heart of the city as well as an architectural landmark. It offers a wide range of amenities to enrich residents’ daily lives, from a fully appointed fitness room to a comfortable teleworking lounge. This property is the latest example of our dedication to providing high-quality housing in Tokyo’s city center for our discerning customers.

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), Jillian Tattle (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)

Long-Range Planning Ron Lenore

Membership John Sasaki (Lin Shi)

Nihonbashi Rike Wootten (Ginger Griggs)

Nominating Neil Bevan

Recreation Shinji Yamasaki (Agnes Ouellette)

Risk Control Ren Kuroda (Geoffrey Kamizuru-Bowman)

Parentheses denote Board liaison.

GENERAL MANAGER

Dustin McAvoy

DIRECTORS

Brand Marketing & Communications Shane Busato

Facilities Richard Woods

Finance Naoto Okutsu

Food & Beverage Gerard Bonenfant

Human Resources Jason Dominici

Member Services Jonathan Allen

Nihonbashi Nori Yamazaki

Operations Thomas Zaleski

INTOUCH

Managing Editor C Bryan Jones editor@tac-club.org

Communications Editor Alec Jordan

Assistant Editor Kathy Russo

Designers

Kohji Shiiki

Anna Wong

Designer/Photographer Clara Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS

Writers

Geoff Dossor

Pueyen Lee

Keith Truelove

Martin Zotta

Photographers

Yuuki Ide

Noriyuki Yamamura

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.

Pre-K to

Grade 12

Pre-K to Grade 12

Grade 12

KA International is composed of three campuses in Tokyo, programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade KAIS offers a unique learning environment that fosters children’s natural inclination towards joy and curiosity, self-discovery, personal excellence, and a love of learning.

KA International School is composed of three campuses in Tokyo, offering programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. KAIS offers a unique learning environment that fosters children’s natural inclination towards joy and curiosity, self-discovery, personal excellence, and a love of learning.

Japan’s First Visible Learning School WHAT

Japan’s First Visible Learning School WHAT WE OFFER

Rigorous Academics & Creative Learning

Research-based, Data-Driven Teaching Strategies Rigorous Academics & Creative Learning

Research-based, Data-Driven Teaching Strategies

Research-based, Data-Driven Teaching Strategies Rigorous Academics & Creative Learning

Culture of Care & Support

Strong Sense of Community

A Personalized Approach Sense of Culture of Care & Support

Tokyo American Club Members:

¥350,000 Enrollment Fee Waived

www.kainternationalschool.com

Courtesy Counts

WORDS MARTIN ZOTTA IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI

As chair of the House Committee, I’d like to take this opportunity to share what the committee does, what we’ve been working on, and why it matters to you as Members.

The House Committee oversees the maintenance and improvement of facilities to ensure they meet our objectives and keep the Club running smoothly. This includes evaluating how space is used, implementing upgrades, reviewing rules, investigating violations of those rules and acceptable behavior, and taking appropriate actions. We also make recommendations to the Board on matters affecting the Member experience.

As Members who volunteer our time and energy, we share the same goal: to preserve what makes the Club such a great community while finding ways to improve it. Together with the Board, one of our current projects is planning upgrades to the business and coworking spaces so that Members have access to more functional, welcoming work environments.

Another less visible but important part of our work is dealing with incidents of Member misconduct. Most situations are minor and can be resolved quickly by staff. However, when something more serious happens, it is referred to the House Committee. The committee reviews the case, arranges interviews with the Members involved, and recommends an appropriate course of action to the Board. Depending on the severity, the outcome can range from a simple warning letter to suspension or, in some cases, even expulsion.

We don’t take these responsibilities lightly. Every case is handled with fairness and discretion, and the goal is to protect the respectful environment that defines the Club.

Recently, we have seen an uptick in incidents requiring attention. To help minimize the frequency of such cases, I’d like to offer some practical reminders.

• Please remember to treat one another with courtesy and respect. Membership in the Club is a privilege, not a right, and it comes with responsibilities. The Club is an exclusive private space, and Members are expected to uphold its standards by showing consideration to both fellow Members and staff.

• Primary Members are accountable not only for their own actions but also for those of family and guests. Misbehavior by children or guests reflects on the primary Member, and it can—and has—resulted in the loss of certain privileges for the entire family, suspensions, or worse.

• Respect staff. Please remember they are simply enforcing policies that we, the Members, have set. If you disagree with the rules, please don’t take it out on staff. Submit an online Tell TAC, speak to management, or, better yet, get involved in governance yourself.

• Avoid confrontation. If you see another Member misbehaving, please do not approach them directly. Instead, report them to staff so the situation can be managed properly. We have seen many cases where direct confrontation escalates into something more serious.

• Bonus tip: If you still can’t resist the urge to do something naughty, please note that the Club has a sophisticated security video system, and prior footage can be reviewed to investigate incident reports.

Ultimately, the House Committee’s role isn’t only about rules; it’s about ensuring that the Club remains a sanctuary where professionals, families, and friends can relax, connect, and enjoy themselves. If you’d like to play a part in shaping the Club’s future, I encourage you to get involved in Club governance. Together, we can make the Club a better place for everyone.

Martin Zotta is chair of the Club’s House Committee.

“Recently, we have seen an uptick in incidents requiring attention. To help minimize the frequency of such cases, I’d like to offer some practical reminders.”

DINING

Timeless Tradition, Fresh Flavors

It may only be October, but it’s never too early to start planning your New Year’s feast. The Club’s contemporary twist on the centuries-old Japanese tradition of feasting on specially prepared dishes for the first meal of the year has become a favorite among Members.

Limited to 100 sets, this year’s selection promises to be one of the most impressive yet. Perfectly blending land and sea, each set is designed to be enjoyed by three people and includes a bottle of premium brut Champagne and a box of sweet treats. More details available online. CBJ

CHARITY

Be an Angel

This month’s Coffee Connections on October 27 will mark the kickoff of an annual event that makes a huge difference in the lives of area children. The Club’s Connections group will welcome the Salvation Army’s Stephen Morris, Wendy Morris, and Ken Hanasaki to speak about the origins and history of the Angel Tree program as well as Connections’ support over the years.

The Angel Tree program supports children living in care homes, ensuring that they feel the love and joy of the holiday season. Members will see thank you letters received from children last year and learn how they can participate by purchasing gifts through the Amazon Wishlist or delivering shopbought gifts to the Connections Office.

Coffee Connections will take place on October 27 from 10 to 11:30am in the Beate Sirota Gordon & Haru Reischauer classrooms. CBJ

KOHJI SHIIKI

Young Members Kiko and Kako Kanai absolutely love swimming, and you can usually find them at the Sky Pool. But when they are on dry land, they immerse themselves in reading. When Kiko broke her arm this summer and couldn’t swim, the second-floor Library is where she spent most of her time as she healed—and her sister Kako was there beside her all the way.

What was your favorite early childhood book?

Kiko: I liked Mo Willems’s Elephant & Piggie series because Piggie the pig and Gerald the elephant are really silly.

Kako : The Froggy series by Jonathan London. Froggy is so funny!

What inspired your love of books?

Kiko : Mommy inspired my love of books because she read a lot of bedtime stories to me.

From the Shelves

Kako : My big sister Kiko. She reads a lot, and I want to be like her!

What genre do you most enjoy?

Kiko : I like fantasy because it feels like you are in another world.

Kako: I like fiction because super silly things can happen. What are you currently reading?

Kiko : Just Add Water: My Swimming Life by Katie

Ledecky. It’s her memoir and it inspires me to swim more and work harder.

Kako : The Baby-Sitters Little Sister series by Ann Martin. I am a little sister too!

When were you last unable to put down a book?

Kiko : This summer, I read Matilda by Roald Dahl and it was too fascinating. I could not put it down!

Kako: Peppa Pig! I love Peppa and her friends.

A Fresh Face for Fall

The use of vitamin A to smooth skin and enhance radiance traces its roots back thousands of years to ancient Egypt. Modern science puts a derivative, retinol, to work by using microencapsulation to lock molecules in microscopic shells and release them gradually and gently.

The Spa’s advanced retinol facial treatment features a specialized serum formulated to promote skin regeneration and improve overall texture and tone. Microencapsulated 1 percent retinol minimizes fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration, while microencapsulated chlorella extract enhances skin firmness and reduces redness. Palmitoyl tripeptide-5, stabilized vitamin C, and vitamin E improve elasticity, tone and moisture balance.

Contact 03-4588-0714 or spa@tac-club.org to book your 45-minute (¥12,000) session and head into winter with a more youthful, radiant appearance. CBJ

KAYO YAMAWAKI

(l–r) Kiko and Kako Kanai

• 1:1 Executive coaching & mentoring

• Leadership development, customized workshops for your organization (1/2 day or full day, held at the Club or a convenient

• Leadership development, customized workshops for your organization (1/2 day or full day, held at the Club or a convenient location)

• Facilitation of leadership team offsite

• Facilitation of leadership team offsite / retreat

• Strategic advisory

• Bilingual services (English & Japanese)

Contact Paul:

Mr. Blue Sky

Sometimes the shoe fits. Sometimes it doesn’t. Member Tomomi Fujita was struggling with the latter when she arrived at the New York Ballroom for a New Member Orientation setting. After a long day in new shoes, a blister was making it difficult to walk. The prospect of spending an evening standing and mingling in pain was not appealing.

Fortunately, Takashi Suzuki was on hand to save the day. That’s why Fujita singled out the banquet operations captain for recognition in an online Tell TAC.

“I had arrived early and nobody was on the floor yet,” she recalls. “I was sitting in pain and then I saw a familiar face: Takashi. I didn’t think he would have a first aid kit, but I casually asked if he at least had a bandage. Not only did he have a bandage, he had a flashy blue one.”

Taken aback by the stylish nature of the remedy, Fujita asked why it was blue.

“He told me that he purposely chooses vivid blue so that it will be super noticeable if he needs to wear a bandage on his hand or finger at work. If it accidentally comes off, it can easily be spotted and there is no need to worry that it will disappear into food that is being served.”

Suzuki, who joined the Club in 1980, working first at the Bowling Alley before moving to member services and then banqueting, says he enjoys when Members have a good time and it means a lot when they thank him with a smile.

When it comes to professionalism and great service, Fujita says the shoe certainly fits Suzuki. “He and his team are amazing!” CBJ

Members can recognize Club staff by submitting an online Tell TAC through the Club website.

SIPS

Sicilian Happy Hour

Happy Hour in the Winter Garden is distinguished by a feature you won’t find in other Club outlets: free-flow wines from Sicily’s Colpasso. A bargain at ¥3,500, the offering highlights sparklings, whites, and reds, and provides a great opportunity to sample wines that shine a light on some of Sicily’s signature varietals, including Grillo, Catarratto, and Nero d’Avola.

First up is the NV Grillo Spumante Brut, which surprises with a fresh, zingy nose followed by a clean, crisp palate of stone fruit and melon with a lingering touch of caramel. This sparkling wine is a refreshing start to any evening.

Many will be surprised by the rather powerful floral nose on the 2022 Catarratto Pinot Grigio blend. Sicily’s Catarratto grape adds considerably more power, body, and depth to one of Italy’s most popular varietals. A fleshy firmness of tropical fruit lingers pleasingly on the palate, with the flavors carrying through to the finish. Appassimento, or straw wine, is an Italian style of winemaking that uses dried grapes in the fermentation process, producing a more complex, concentrated palate of fruit and spice. The slight underlying sweetness is balanced by higher acidity and light tannins. The 2023 Nero d’Avola, made from Sicily’s flagship red grape, drinks well solo or alongside bites from the Winter Garden menu.

Keith Truelove is chair of the Club’s Wine & Beverage Committee.

WORDS KEITH TRUELOVE IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI

KAYO YAMAWAKI

(l–r) Takashi Suzuki and Tomomi Fujita

OCTOBER What’s on in

3 First Friday: Bollywood

Premiere Night

Lights, camera, action! Get ready for an unforgettable celebration filled with the vibrant colors, cinematic décor, and electric energy that Bollywood is famous for.

Strut your stuff—think Indian couture, sequins, silks, and statement accessories—in the New York Ballroom, which will be transformed into the backdrop for an extravagant red-carpet cinematic experience.

As you dance the night away to the hottest Bollywood tracks spun by the one and only DJ Pinddrop, take in electrifying dance moves straight from your favorite

films, performed live by the talented Abundance group from Kobe.

Throughout the night, savor a gourmet spread of Indian delicacies worthy of a film-wrap party, from flavorful curries and decadent desserts to fusion cocktails.

You’ll also have the chance to win exclusive prizes in a lucky drawing, including a luxurious stay at The Harbor Terrace, soothing treatments at The Spa, and much more.

Make sure you don’t miss this epic night of style, excitement, and movie magic! AJ

• 7–10pm • New York Ballroom • ¥3,750 (walk-ins: ¥5,000); guests: ¥7,500 (walk-ins: ¥10,000) • Limit: five guests per Member • Adults only • Nihonbashi Members welcome • Sign up online

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

Joseph Drouhin Wine Dinner

Savor some of Burgundy’s most outstanding wines, complemented by five delectable courses.

• 6:30–9pm • 51 East • ¥26,400 • Limit one guest per Member • Sign up online

3

Movie Night

Club kids uncover a lineup of mystery flicks while parents dance it up in Bollywood for First Friday.

• 6–9pm • Washington & Lincoln rooms

• ¥2,750 (guests & walk-ins: ¥3,300)

• Ages 5–12 • Sign up online

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

Snoopy Museum Tour

Get lost in the playful world of the only official satellite of the Charles M. Schulz Museum.

• 9:30am–3pm • Connections members: ¥2,300 (non-Connections members & guests: ¥2,530) • Adults only • Sign up online

9 & 28

Squash Night

Enjoy casual games on the second Thursday and final Tuesday of the month.

• 5:30–7:30pm • Squash Courts

• Details online

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

15 Exhibition: Junko Hori and Kanako Togawa

Transforming stillness into art is the aim of Junko Hori and Kanako Togawa.

For Hori, who studied in New Zealand and Italy before founding her studio in Japan, the calling came when she encountered a large-scale ceramic installation at a museum as a teenager. “My heart trembled at the boundless possibilities of clay,” she recalls. “From that moment on, I resolved to devote myself to ceramics.”

Togawa was drawn to art as a child and went on to train in Osaka and New York. She now builds luminous forms inspired by trees and plants, layering light and shadow into quiet movement. This show will feature her first fusion of fabric and glass.

Works by both artists will be on display in the Frederick Harris Gallery from October 15 through October 28. KR

Members are invited to attend an opening reception with complimentary wine and canapés on October 15 at 6:30pm.

Moment I realized I wanted to become an artist.

: When a ceramic installation reignited childhood memories of creating with scraps.

Togawa : When I became drawn to art’s ability to enrich lives. What I would tell my 20-year-old self. Hori : Treasure your sensitivity. Let the joy of working with natural materials guide you, and trust that uncertainty and nature’s transience will deepen your creativity.

Togawa : Trust your instincts. Every experience—even the hard ones—will shape your art and connect you to the world. My perfect creative environment.

Hori : A quiet space immersed in nature, filled with light, greenery, and natural sounds.

Togawa : A quiet, lightfilled studio with space to experiment and collaborate with a trusted team.

Artist, living or dead, I’d most like to share a meal with.

Hori : Monet.

Togawa : [Sri Lankan architect] Geoffrey Bawa.

• Through October 28 • Frederick Harris Gallery • Artworks available for purchase through Member Services • Details online

Junko Hori artwork

Kanako Togawa artwork

12 Kids’ Book Lovers’ Meetup

Young readers explore the exciting world of book-to-film adaptations, this month with Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

• 2–3:30pm • Library • Free • Ages 7–12 • Details online

18

Show & Tell Jamboree

Ages 6 to 9 build confidence at an afternoon of games, music, and selfesteem-boosting activities.

• 1–2:30pm • Beate Sirota Gordon & Haru Reischauer classrooms • ¥1,000 (guests: ¥1,200) • Sign up online

Youth Toastmasters Club

Youngsters pick up tips on public speaking from the Club’s own Toastmasters group.

• 3–4pm • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • ¥1,100 (guests: ¥1,320)

• Sign up online

Coffee Connections

Expand your social circle over a morning cup of joe.

• 10–11:30am • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • Connections members: free (non-Connections members: ¥1,000) • Details online

Cocktail Hour

Learn to craft a martini, a blend of gin or vodka, dry vermouth, and olives or lemon peel.

• 5:30pm • Muromachi Bar • ¥2,200

• Members only • Sign up online

Exhibition: Hisayo Shito

The kimono artist brings her blend of traditional Japanese design and contemporary sensibilities to the Frederick Harris Gallery. Members are invited to a reception with free wine and canapés at 6:30pm.

• Through November 5 • Details online

Check the Club website for the most up-to-date information on events and programs.

25 Smith Teamaker Workshop

When Steven Smith was just a kid, he got his first taste of tea while visiting his grandmother’s house in Portland, Oregon. Decades later, in 1972, he cofounded Stash Tea Company, which was later acquired by Japan’s Yamamotoyama. In 1994, he launched Tazo, a New Age-inspired brand recognized for its whimsical packaging and imaginative storytelling. When Starbucks acquired Tazo five years later, Smith guided the company’s early tea program, helping shape the way millions experienced tea in cafés across the country.

This is not the story of those companies. But it is the story of the one he founded next, Smith Teamaker, established in 2009 in a Northwest Portland blacksmith’s shop. Rejecting the lofty title of tea master in favor of the humbler teamaker, Smith pursued a vision of haute tea couture, blending small-lot teas with extraordinary craftsmanship.

Members can learn more about Smith Teamaker—provider of the celebrated handcrafted teas served at the Club—at this workshop led by the company’s Sara Kaufman and Katie Burnett. The event will include a guided tasting of 12 distinctive teas—green, black, and herbal—plus a Q&A session.

Discover the diverse world of tea in this exclusive experience that will change your appreciation for the world’s most-consumed beverage after water. CBJ

• 2–4pm • Brooklyn rooms • Details online

SMITH TEAMAKER

Halloween at the Club

While Members nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping, as of someone gently rapping, rapping at the clubhouse door. Open here we flung the shutter, and with many a flirt and flutter, flew in a host of ghoulish fun as the raven quoth, “Party more!” CBJ

4

Halloween 3D Modeling Workshop

Club kids digitally carve jack-o’lanterns using a Halloween-themed computer-aided design, or CAD, program with the help of Coders International Tokyo.

• 1–3pm • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • Free • Ages 3 & above

• Members only • Sign up online

12

Halloween Candy Making Workshop

Spooky season calls for lip-smacking fun. Young ghouls and goblins transform soft candy into cute Halloween skull characters in this frightfully tasty session led by Mrs. Candy G.

• 1–4:45pm • Toko Shinoda & Yukiko Maki classrooms • ¥2,310 (guests: ¥2,772) • Ages 3 & above

• Sign up online

Halloween Spooktacular

Enjoy spooky stories, games, face painting, critters, creatures, and more at sessions of Halloween fun.

• 9am–3:45pm • Gymnasium • Ages 2–14: ¥2,750 (guests: ¥3,300); ages 15 & above: free; walk-ins: ¥3,300 (guests: ¥3,960); face painting: ¥1,320; glitter tattoo: ¥1,540 • Sign up online

26

Halloween Splash-A-Round

Young trick-or-treaters ditch their spooky costumes for swimsuits and hunt for underwater treasure and treats during a frighteningly fun afternoon at the Sky Pool.

• 3–5:30pm • Sky Pool • ¥2,200 (guests: ¥2,750) • Ages 5–12

• Sign up online

Nihonbashi Mixer: Halloween

Enjoy a laid-back evening of mingling and ghoulishly good Halloweenthemed drinks and tapas straight from the Muromachi cauldron.

• 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

First Friday: Special Halloween Edition

Gather with fellow ghosts and ghouls in the Winter Garden for an All Hallows’ Eve filled with frights and delights.

• 7–9pm • Winter Garden, American Bar & Grill • ¥2,750 (walk-ins: ¥3,850); guests: ¥7,150 (walk-ins: ¥8,250)

• Limit: five guests per Member • Sign up online

Witch’s Pour

Serving up screams can make you thirsty, so don’t forget to grab a special Halloween cocktail conjured up by the Club’s mixologists for one night only.

• Traders’ Bar, 51 East Bar & Lounge

• Details online

Crafted for the Peak Experience

Muwa Niseko delivers a seamless blend of lifestyle, exclusivity, and strategic ownership.

Despite starting sales during the pandemic, Muwa Niseko has established itself as a premium property and continues to carry its momentum into the 2025–26 winter season. Set in the heart of Grand Hirafu—the most coveted zone in the area—Muwa Niseko is at the center of Niseko’s vibrant après-ski culture, offering easy access to a diverse mix of restaurants and hidden gem bars as well as ski-in ski-out properties. This premium resort has been attracting guests and investors with exclusives such as seamless slope access and elevated nightlife experiences making for longterm investment potential in one of Asia’s most sought-after winter destinations.

A SEAMLESS TRANSITION FROM LUXURY SUITES TO FRESH TRACKS

Muwa Niseko delivers a truly unparalleled slope-side experience with guest rooms that offer access to Grand Hirafu’s

slopes while a private, direct-mountain access entrance is reserved exclusively for staying guests. In addition to a seamless ski experience, Muwa Niseko has meticulously designed services that elevate every aspect of a guest’s time on the mountain.

The first-floor ski area integrates every pre-slope essential in one location— personal lockers, on-site rental and retail, a ski school, and valet services. Once geared up, guests can take a private elevator directly to the powder snow without the need for shuttles, heavygear hauling, or to coordinate logistics.

Whether chasing the first run at dawn or savoring a slow morning before stepping onto the mountain, guests can spend less time juggling plans and more time immersed in Niseko’s premier alpine environment.

As the evening sun sets, Niseko’s evening recreation comes alive. Guests can soak in Niseko’s highest private

infinity onsen while taking in sweeping views of Mount Yotei and then enjoy dinner at one of Muwa Niseko’s two world-class restaurants—Hito by Tacubo, an Italian dining experience produced by a Michelin-starred chef, or at Sukiyaki Hiyama, a restaurant with more than 100 years of tradition.

BUILT AROUND OWNER PRIVILEGE

Muwa Niseko places emphasis on pride of ownership and the pleasure of use. Owners receive priority booking during peak winter seasons—like Christmas and New Year—when resort occupancy reaches 95 percent. Perks also include 28 complimentary nights annually and discounted rates on additional stays.

While owners are away, Muwa Niseko’s professional staff carefully maintain their property year-round, preserving its condition and value down to the last detail while also renting vacant spaces to outside guests. Net income—room revenue minus expenses—is credited, and even personal on-site charges during stays can be settled against that balance for a completely hasslefree ownership model.

The owner experience is elevated with added touches such as exclusive storage for ski gear, golf clubs, or wine; underground parking—scarce in Niseko—to avoid snow clearing and seasonal parking shortages; and one complimentary

private ski lesson each year. Special events, like an upcoming wine event in collaboration with Muwa-owned Napa Valley winery Seven Stones Estate, offer special opportunities to naturally mingle with fellow owners.

MARKET RESPONSE AND LONG-TERM VALUE

Since the pandemic, Muwa Niseko’s premium has been symbolized through its penthouses, true ski-in ski-out suites, and residences featuring private onsens selling out early. The resort is seeing a growing share of Japanese owners where the space has traditionally been dominated by overseas investors. This diversification is a healthy sign for longterm demand.

In Grand Hirafu, buildable slopeside land is sparse, creating a scarcity premium and foothold for Muwa Niseko. This rarity is met with steady operational growth; the most recent winter season saw occupancy rise by 30 percent and average daily rates by 20 percent

compared to the first year. A strong marketing calendar is in place to build off the momentum, translating into reliable distributions for owners and further capital appreciation over time. Access to Niseko will be even easier after Hokkaido’s Shinkansen extension opens in the 2030s, cutting travel time from Tokyo to Niseko to just around 4.5 hours—a 40 percent reduction compared to current air and rail transfers. Easier access is expected to boost both winter tourism and green-season travel, increasing year-round occupancy and rental returns.

Historical precedents show that transport upgrades raise local land values and hotel rates by 10 to 20 percent or more, with rare premium assets such as Muwa Niseko poised to see even greater gains.

LUXURY LIVING, SMART INVESTMENT

As another winter season approaches, Muwa Niseko stands ready to deliver both lifestyle excellence and strategic investment appeal. For guests, it offers a smooth ski experience, world-class amenities, and access to Niseko’s best slopes and après-ski scene.

For investors, it represents a scarce asset in a land-constrained market, supported by sustained demand from both domestic and international buyers.

Whether you want to carve tracks in Niseko’s legendary powder, unwind in a mountaintop onsen, or secure a foothold in one of Asia’s premier ski destinations, Muwa Niseko offers compelling value on both the personal and financial fronts.

muwaniseko.com

Holistic Approach to Boarding

A conversation with Tony Darby on the power of belonging.

Tony Darby, founding principal of Rugby School Japan, has decades of experience in the British boarding school environment. He has previously served as an assistant housemaster, housemaster, and senior housemaster at Rugby School UK and St. Edward’s School in Oxford. We sat down with him to discuss how the British boarding model, and specifically Rugby School Japan’s approach, is benefiting Tokyo’s expat families.

What do you see as the most powerful aspect of this educational model?

The power of the British boarding model lies in its truly holistic approach. We aim to develop the “whole person,” not just academically, but in character and spirit. Our residential life is designed to immerse students fully in their education and community. This environment fosters friendships, encourages peer mentorship, and provides students with countless opportunities outside the

classroom—from more than 80 clubs to sports and arts. This comprehensive approach gives students the chance to find what they truly love and prepares them to be globally minded individuals.

How do Rugby School Japan’s boarding options benefit families in Tokyo?

Rugby School Japan is a day and boarding school. For our Tokyo-based families,

the weekly boarding option is incredibly popular and offers the perfect balance. Students are at school five or six nights a week, eliminating the daily commute and allowing them to spend time on schoolwork, cocurricular activities, or socializing with friends. This is a particularly strong draw for families with working parents. The boarding house becomes a home away from home where children are nurtured with round-the-clock teacher support, nutritionally balanced meals, and laundry taken care of.

How does the house system—central to British boarding schools—foster belonging and community?

The sense of belonging is paramount. Each of our six houses creates a closeknit community of 50 to 60 students. They live together, share rooms in the early years, and learn to understand and tolerate each other. The house system also creates a friendly rivalry through weekly competitions and social events, such as watching movies or going on Sunday excursions. This communal living environment—supported by a dedicated tutor system— helps students from different backgrounds integrate and build strong, lasting friendships.

Families wishing to learn more about the Rugby Campus and Boarding Houses can take a virtual tour here:

rugbyschool.news/virtual

Cocktail Companions

WORDS C BRYAN JONES

IMAGE YUUKI IDE

The reimagined 51 East Bar & Lounge has unleashed new levels of creativity behind the bar, and the inspiration is also flowing into the kitchen. The culinary team, led by Chef Michiko Ohno, has crafted enticing partners for your favorite cocktail, from the goat cheese and potato croqueta to the artichoke hummus to the king crab salad. There’s even a selection of locally cured prosciutto, ham, salami, and wagyu beef jerky, as well as calamari fritto with jalapeño mayonnaise and marinara dipping sauces. Drop by and explore a menu filled with the perfect marriage of sips and bites.

• 51 East Bar & Lounge • Monday–Friday • 3–11pm (last food order: 10pm; last drink order: 10:30pm)

INFUSED IMAGINATION WITH

The 51 East Bar & Lounge launches with a new look and creative libations.

WORDS C BRYAN JONES IMAGES YUUKI IDE

Clockwise from top: Fire Tea; Espresso 51 Martini; Bacon-Infused Westland

Flavors. Colors. Textures. These are the building blocks of the new 51 East Bar & Lounge. Now open on the third floor, the reimagined space is designed to awaken the senses—taste, smell, and sight—in step with the seasons.

“The aim is to create an idyllic setting that allows Members to enjoy the bartenders’ creations and cuisine from Chef Michi’s team with new experiences throughout the year,” explains Senior Bartender Stéphane Le Naour.

Among the creations he and fellow bartender Renny Puente Fernandes have crafted are the Espresso 51 Martini, the Bacon-Infused Westland, Fire Tea, Million Roses, and the smoky Rum-ble in the Jungle.

“We exchanged ideas and approaches to cocktail creation, resulting in a varied menu,” explains the mixologist who began his career 20 years ago at Hobgoblin in Shimokitazawa and spent 13 years working at the famous Miami Plage in Monaco. “This would not have been possible without the dedication of all those involved in the project.”

For the Espresso 51 Martini, shown on this issue’s cover, Le Naour took on the challenge of creating a modern classic for the Club.

“The espresso martini is one of the world’s most popular cocktails,” he says. “That’s why I wanted to make it my own by giving it a very after-dinner feel with notes of orange and chocolate. For the coffee side, I created a homemade coffee liqueur using small-batch roasted beans from Streamer Coffee Company. This liqueur is made from an infusion of tonka beans, cinnamon, orange peel, and a blend of cold brew and coffee beans, along with a sweet spiced rum with notes of vanilla and caramel.”

Fernandes notes that the creation of the 51 East Bar & Lounge cocktails was nothing short of a dramatic journey, one filled with passion, joy, anger, love, and even moments of sadness. “Each drink was crafted with emotion,” says the IT graduate who set out on a path to mixology in Colombia. “Countless ideas were tested, and trial and error became part of the process. Yet, that’s precisely what makes them special—every cocktail carries a story. They are not plain or ordinary; they are inspired by the narratives behind them and the new stories they spark once our Members take a sip.”

Speaking of sparks, the Fire Tea will light up your evening with a technique created in the mid-19th century by Jerry Thomas, often called the father of American mixology. His legendary cocktail, the Blue Blazer, was made with Scotch whisky, boiling water, and sugar—all set aflame and poured back and forth between two metal mugs.

“More than just a drink, it was a theatrical performance of fire and flavor,” explains Fernandes. “This technique has always fascinated me, but I wanted to reinvent it in a modern and innovative way. That’s how Fire Tea was born. Influenced by Asia’s deep-rooted tea culture, I combined

the artistry of fire with the elegance of tea. In this version, the flame gently reduces the strength of the alcohol, softening the drink’s body while preserving the bold aroma and distinctive character of whiskey.”

Le Naour says the core idea of 51 East Bar & Lounge is to offer Members the possibility of playing with a varied palette of tastes and textures.

Perhaps the Bacon-Infused Westland is one of the best examples of the vision. The cocktail makes use of a very popular technique called “fat washing.”

“For this cocktail, I focused on bacon fat, which I think pairs wonderfully with American whiskey,” explains Le Naour. “Adding a touch of homemade rosemary syrup and a few drops of Angostura bitters puts a twist on another classic, the old-fashioned. This cocktail offers a visual experience with its smoky bubble and notes of rosemary. Once burst, your sense of smell will also be part of it.” This drink, he says, perfectly reflects the DNA of the 51 East menu.

“Our hope is that Members embrace each moment fully—the music, the view, the flavors of the cocktails—and allow themselves to feel the experience rather than simply attend it,” Fernandes adds. “The moment you step into 51 East Bar & Lounge, you are no longer in the ordinary; you are entering an entirely new world.”

51 East Bar & Lounge

• Monday–Friday • 3–11pm (last food order: 10pm; last drink order: 10:30pm)

“Every cocktail carries a story. They are not plain or ordinary; they are inspired by the narratives behind them and the new stories they spark once our Members take a sip.”

Rum-ble in the Jungle

SKILLS FOR LIFE

Troop 51 helps young Members grow as individuals and leaders through Scouting.

WORDS C BRYAN JONES

Member Jesse McCreight’s first time backpacking was more of an adventure than he expected. “It rained hard, and my tent was soaked. I had to adjust my tent position and figure out how to get some sleep,” recalls the 16-yearold. “Rain isn’t something that really bothers me now.”

Getting drenched was all part of his experience as a member of Troop 51, the Club-affiliated group founded in 1975 as part of the Far East Council of Scouting America. Troop 51, whose pack number derives from the 51 founding American Members of the Club, is open to youth of all nationalities aged 10–17, while younger boys and girls (5–10) can join Cub Scout Pack 51.

From its early 20th-century roots in Britain, Scouting aimed to develop boys into good citizens with initiative and outdoor skills. Decades later, around 57 million young people from more than 200 countries and territories are involved in the movement.

Troop 51 meets at the Club one Sunday per month and also does an outing at least once per month. Activities

Troop 51’s Jesse McCreight in Thailand

Area pack members at Ikego West Valley Campground in Kanagawa

include trips abroad. In July, members attended a summer camp in Chiang Mai, Thailand, following up a camp last summer in Mongolia and one the previous summer in Nepal.

Jesse, a senior patrol leader, says that he likes Scouting because of the variety of activities and challenges. “I get to try new things and go to new places, learn new skills, and adapt to the environment,” he explains. “I can apply those skills in the future when I am in certain situations. For example, I learned how to tie knots, and I am able to use them in times when I need to fix objects.”

At this year’s Camp Thailand, he was one of only a few Scouts who managed to earn the Blind Master Knot Ninja Award for tying six knots in under 30 seconds while blindfolded.

Jesse’s dad, Edward, loves seeing the excitement in the Scouts’ eyes when they experience the adventures and challenges. “Watching them grow, learn new skills, make lifelong friends, and develop as leaders in the process has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” he says. “As scoutmaster, I am honored to guide and support them on their journey, offering encouragement and helping where needed. But the best part is watching them take initiative, build confidence, and truly own their experiences. It’s inspiring to see them develop as individuals and as a team. Each moment is a reminder of why Scouting is such an incredible adventure.”

Diane Obara, whose son Mason and daughter Ruby are Scouts, agrees that, when done with full commitment and participation, Scouting offers a unique kind of leadership training that kids can’t get anywhere else. “The program follows a consistent curriculum developed at the national level, and as a teacher with over 20 years of experience, I really value its authenticity—especially because it’s not simplified or adapted for ESL learners. It challenges Scouts to meet high expectations in a meaningful way.”

She also notes that the benefits are even greater for expats. “Navigating different school systems, language

“Kids are exposed to global management skills, greater diversity, and real-world problem-solving. If they want to succeed, they truly have to take initiative and lead the way themselves.”

barriers, and cultural expectations adds a level of complexity that makes Scouting abroad more demanding than in the US. Kids are exposed to global management skills, greater diversity, and real-world problem-solving. If they want to succeed, they truly have to take initiative and lead the way themselves.”

Mason, 14, says that he enjoys Scouting “because it is very fun to meet people from different places in Asia at big events such as Camp Dragon, and also because you can learn skills that you can’t really learn anywhere else. Scouting is complicated at times, but it ends up really fun.”

This year’s Camp Dragon was held by the Far East Council from March 30 to April 5 at Naval Station White Beach in Okinawa. Mason says he enjoyed meeting new people and playing outdoor games such as basketball during free time. The water activities were among his favorites.

Diane appreciates how Scouting offers her family opportunities to be around other families with likeminded parents. “We can all pitch in a little, so the kids are exposed to working with other trusted adults and seeing different families as role models. It is a very rewarding part of the process,” she explains. “We all grow together. We learn so many useful skills for the real world. And since many of us are full-time working parents, when we all pitch in a little, it lightens the load—and we can create something bigger, better, and more interesting together.”

At its core, Edward explains, Troop 51 is truly led by its members. “The Scouts themselves take the reins, choosing their activities and planning each event. Whether it’s organizing a campout, a fishing trip, or a rafting adventure, they take full ownership of their experiences.”

Jesse is ready for the challenge. “What I am looking forward to in Scouting over the next year is to encourage more of my troop members to step up as leaders, to teach and lead the newer Scouts.”

Troop 51

• One Sunday per month • 5–7pm • Details online

Cub Scout Pack 51

• Second Friday of the month • 6:30–8:30pm • Details online Learn more

Mason Obara at the Wakasu Seaside Park Yacht Training Center

Personalized Dental Care for Your Best Smile

Experience dental care designed specifically to meet your needs. Our team combines advanced techniques with precise, thoughtful diagnoses. Discover the di erence exceptional dental care can make for you.

Ask about our same-day crowns and inlays. Emergency treatment is also available.

Bldg. 2F, 1-7-7

Empowering Expats with Insights and Community Connections

Unlock

GoConnect.jp is your trusted resource for business, lifestyle, and advice in Japan. Whether you're seeking the right neighborhood for your family, discovering local events, or finding reliable services, GoConnect.jp provides curated content and access to valuable networks. Japan Luxury

Japan’s Elite Homes and Experiences

Right: DA Anhelina Left: DA Viktoriia

LESSONS

FROM THE INSIDE

What I learned from behind the scenes, and why your vote matters.

WORDS GEOFF DOSSOR

IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI

For more years than I care to admit , the Club has been a second home for my family. My children grew up here. From bowling night birthday parties to Rainbow Café rendezvous to Café Med cubical conspiracies, the Club was their go-to stop on the ASIJ school bus route. It was also the setting for countless company gatherings and business dinners that impressed. Like many Members, I came to see the Club not just as a place to eat, swim, or exercise, but as a community woven into our family life.

For all those memories, I hardly ever thought about how the Club was actually run. When notification of the Board of Governors election arrived, I often set it aside, thinking my single vote could not possibly make a difference.

That changed when I joined the Nominating Committee. Suddenly, I had a front-row seat to how much thought, effort, and responsibility goes into steering the Club.

Part of the role of the Nominating Committee is sitting in on other committee meetings as an observer, with the task of identifying and encouraging potential Board candidates. The experience was eye-opening. I saw firsthand the dedication, expertise, and volunteer spirit of Members who give their time to lead. These are busy professionals, parents, entrepreneurs, and community builders who somehow carve out hours to ensure that the Club thrives. Watching them debate issues, weigh priorities, and consider the long-term vision was inspiring and humbling.

I also had the unusual privilege of touring the “bowels” of the Club. Beyond the polished walls and familiar lounges, I saw the behind-the-scenes operations that keep our community functioning. The challenges are real: what to repair, what to upgrade, how to plan for the future, and how to allocate funds wisely. These are not abstract exercises but daily, often difficult, choices that affect the experience each of us has when we walk through the front doors.

Seeing all of this up close, I realized that the Board of Governors is not a ceremonial body. These individuals make decisions that directly affect our dues, the condition of our facilities, the quality of our services, and the long-term financial health of the Club. Having the right people in place—with both the expertise and the vision—truly matters.

It also became clear how much stronger the Club is when more Members actively participate. When more people register and vote, the Board reflects a broader cross section of our community. That diversity of perspective helps ensure that decisions keep pace with the evolving needs of families, singles, young professionals, and senior Members alike.

So now is the time. Register, vote, and make your voice heard. The Club is not just where we gather; it’s where memories are made, and the future is shaped together.

Advance voting starts on November 3 and runs through November 17. To vote, Members must register as a Voting Member by noon on November 3. Voting Members can still vote in person during the first 15 minutes of the AGM on November 18. Opportunities to meet the candidates will be announced on the Club website.

Geoff Dossor is a member of the Club’s Nominating Committee.

Geoff Dossor

A SCHOOL WHERE LEARNING BLOSSOMS

Magnolia Tree Kindergarten and Elementary School at the International House of Waldorf Steiner educates children to meet the world with purpose, gratitude, and respect. Our Waldorf curriculum, inspired by Dr. Rudolf Steiner, progresses in accordance with child development, awakening students to the experience of knowledge, strengthening their sense of moral responsibility, and empowering them to act with courage and conviction. The school’s aim is to graduate a diverse group of young people distinguished by the scope and acuity of their minds, as well as the depth and integrity of their character.

4-8-10 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku 03-3400-1593 | ihousewaldorf@gmail.com www.waldorf-steiner.org

JOIN OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

November 8 1:30–3:00pm Flower workshop and learning supplement (A short talk)

November 15 1:00–3:00pm Experience art and Waldorf education

November 29 1:30–3:00pm Flower workshop and learning supplement (A short talk)

Beyond its nearly 20,000 English-language books, periodicals, and audiobooks for adults and children, the second-floor Library is a haven for knowledge exploration, relaxation, and literary events.

English-language print periodicals, including Monocle, The Economist, Elle, and The New Yorker, are among Member favorites, but an expanded selection of digital resources is now available on the Library’s iPads. Digital subscriptions to The Financial Times and The Japan Times are available to help Members stay up-to-date with the latest news.

Member Lee Mawer, a longtime regular among the Library’s printed newspapers, believes it is important to have a strong collection of digital resources. “They are good for easier accessibility and convenience,” he notes. “In particular, you can access them at any time. Moreover, some like this format more than the print format. I like the aesthetic quality of paper, but with the digital version you can choose to read right away, and in some cases it can be more convenient.”

Lloyd says podcasts are great because he can engage with the content while on the go. “I listen while running, walking, or working out. You could say my goal is to raise my knowledge and heart rate. I hardly ever listen to a podcast while sitting.”

BEYOND PAPER

With an expanded selection of digital resources, the Library is making it easier than ever for Members to learn and explore.

Another resource available since 2019, though not well known to all Members, is the Libby app. Through a partnership with ebook platform OverDrive, Members can access a global catalog of digital titles and audiobooks. Because it is delivered through an app, the catalog is available on Members’ own devices. And with new titles added each month, the latest bestsellers as well as classics are always at your fingertips.

Mawer appreciates how quick it is to access reading material through Libby and that the app provides a detailed history of what you have read.

WORDS C BRYAN JONES

IMAGE KAYO YAMAWAKI

For those who prefer to listen, the full lineup of Economist Podcasts+ shows, which cover a range of essential topics and normally require a monthly or annual fee, is available on the Library iPads.

“I find a lot of value in the Economist subscriptiononly podcasts,” says Library Committee member Aaron Lloyd. “My favorites are Boss Class and Money Talks. Boss Class teaches one to be a better manager through a witty pedagogy that The Economist is known for. Money Talks is about broad financial trends that help me understand that world better.”

Lloyd adds that the selection is very large. “I believe many titles are only available in the digital format. They can also be checked out without even walking into the Library. I tend to use the digital format while traveling, as it is convenient and can be read with little light.”

To access Libby, Members can visit tokyoamericanclub. overdrive.com to download the app or visit the Library where staff will happily walk you through the process.

To read digital newspapers, browse the internet, and listen to podcasts, ask Library staff for an iPad. There is no time limit for use, though iPads are for in-Library use only and cannot be checked out.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love paper books,” says Lloyd. “But the availability, speed, and portability of digital titles should have a place in every library.”

English Speaking Children’s Orthodontics

Luxury Homat properties for expats in Tokyo

Minami-Azabu House

AZABUDAI

USA | Dane Mizuno

Bain & Company

New Members

“Thanks to my grandfather, the Club has been an inherent part of my upbringing. I have fond memories of the Club— Rainbow Café (Chinese Chicken Salad) and the pool when I was little. I look forward to creating new memories at the Club after moving to Tokyo from Hawaii! Alongside the international rapport I have found at Bain & Company, I’m hoping to become part of an even more diverse, international community at the Club and maybe even meet some fellow Hawaii locals and soccer enthusiasts.”

NIHONBASHI

JAPAN | Masao Akamatsu

IHI Transport Machinery Co., Ltd.

“I was born in Tokyo and lived here until I graduated from university. After graduation, I spent more than 30 years in the heavy machinery business. I fondly remember the enjoyable interactions at country clubs while overseas, and it was during this time of reminiscing that a Club Member recommended that I join. I am looking forward to engaging with great Members who have diverse cultural backgrounds, participating in activities like golf, and building new connections.”

NIHONBASHI

JAPAN | Yasuko Kogure

Franklin Templeton Japan Co., Ltd.

“I’ve had many opportunities to attend Club events as a guest for the past few years. I’ve enjoyed meeting nice and friendly Members from various countries and backgrounds. Through them, I’ve learned that the Club is run by the Members, and I could tell that many Members are trying to build a good community here that I thought I would like to be part of. I am excited to finally become a Member and am looking forward to participating in many events—especially golf—and meeting new people.”

NIHONBASHI

UK | Edward Wright

Clinigen K.K.

“When I moved my healthcare company to the Muromachi area, it was an obvious choice to also join the Nihonbashi Club. I am really happy with the well-equipped but tranquil gym, delicious restaurant, and cheerful welcome from all the staff. Being so close means that I can use the facilities almost every day for my own relaxation and for holding business meetings in a sophisticated atmosphere. Being part of the lively Club community is proving to be a great asset for me personally and professionally.”

Edward Wright

USA

Jake Gach & Siqi Zhou

Authentic Brands Group

Bradford & Amy Hearn

Prudential Holdings of Japan

John Moorefield & Tiffany Ann Farrell

AIG Japan Holdings K.K.

Maria Rey-Marston & Floyd Marston III

Accenture Japan

Sean Rice & Mary Catherine O'Connor Rice

Molex Japan Co., Ltd.

Daniel Schull & Dawn-Marie Naumann-Schull

Boeing Japan K.K.

AUSTRALIA

Kane Harvey & Chung (Canny) Lui

BAT

CANADA

Duncan & Marie Wright

Uber Japan

HONG KONG

Cheuk Shing Isaac Choi & Kam Lun Tang

Nichiwa Shoji Co., Ltd.

JAPAN

Tetsuro Hori

JSR Corporation

SOUTH KOREA

Seung Ho (Chris) Lee

PGA Tour International Japan LLC

Young Kyu Lim

Gemopia Invest

SWITZERLAND

Regina Wiedmann & Paul Atkinson

Zurich Insurance Co., Ltd.

Dane Mizuno

Masao Akamatsu

Yasuko Kogure

AZABUDAI

Kuji Calling

Ibaraki’s hidden golf retreat beckons with contrasting nines and serene stays.

Renowned Japanese golfer Ginjiro Chubu once said, “Golf is not something you play alone.” He was speaking of the sport’s social element, an aspect that is close to the heart of many Members. The Club’s Men’s Golf Group now has more than 60 active members from over 10 countries and a vibrant slate of events that keep players connected year-round.

One ideal escape for a weekend on the links with friends and family is Spa & Golf Resort Kuji in Hitachiota, Ibaraki Prefecture. Just under two hours from central Tokyo, it combines scenic play, onsen relaxation, and villa-style luxury with an 18-hole course designed by Chubu himself.

The course balances tradition and playability across two contrasting nines. The front nine is both scenic and strategic, featuring rolling fairways, elevation shifts, and challenging par 4s. Highlights include the par-5 seventh, offering sweeping mountain views, and the drivable par-4 ninth. The back nine complements this with more forgiving layouts, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for players of all levels.

Guests staying overnight enjoy extended tee-time flexibility—a rare perk that allows for a quick nine holes, even after standard hours.

On-course, Western-style villas line the back nine, offering one- and two-bedroom layouts for up to four guests. Spacious living rooms, kitchens, and terraces overlooking the course

make the villas ideal for couples, small groups, and families. Each has a golf cart for easy access around the resort. The private onsen bath in every villa is a highlight, perfect for soaking after a round while watching the sunset.

When it comes time to eat, instead of a central restaurant, Kuji provides in-villa dining with beautifully prepared meals delivered directly to the terrace or living room. Guests may choose a kaiseki-style seafood set or a French-inspired Western menu. Breakfast, delivered at a prearranged time, includes coffee, eggs, bread rolls, and salad.

Club Member Paul Braganza has played the course. “Kuji is the perfect destination for a weekend buddies golf trip,” he says. “It’s easy to get to, and the food and accommodation options—right on the course—are fantastic. I highly recommend it.”

Mention Tokyo American Club in your inquiry for a booking discount.

Team Torque

Class

This dynamic program combines science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education with essential business skills. Students design, test, and manufacture miniature F1-style racing cars using advanced tools such as computeraided design, computational fluid dynamics software, 3D printing, and computer numerical control machines. They apply STEM principles to optimize performance, tackling real-world challenges in aerodynamics and mechanics.

Beyond technical skills, participants develop strong business acumen through budgeting, marketing, sponsorship negotiation, and presentation training. Working in teams, they manage projects from concept to execution, gaining experience in communication, branding, and leadership along the way.

Instructors

Junko Mizuno leads STEM Racing Japan, overseeing all activities nationwide. She collaborates closely with schools and partners to bring the program to life, ensuring every student receives the support they need.

Yo Tabuchi, a program specialist coordinator with STEM Racing Japan, has a strong background in sports marketing. He enjoys helping students present and promote their projects.

Taya, STEM Racing Japan’s virtual facilitator, guides students through the fundamentals using engaging online tools. She makes learning fun, interactive, and easy to follow. Renzo Ortiz, regional coordinator and program specialist for STEM Racing Japan, provides online technical support and has several years of hands-on STEM Racing experience. He works with teams to improve car designs and overcome engineering challenges.

STEM and Business Skills: F1 Miniature Racing Project (Fall Term)

• Thursdays, September 4–December 11 • 4:30–5:30pm (primary class, ages 5–11) ¥54,450; 5:30–6:30pm (entry/ development class, ages 11–19) ¥72,600 • Sign up online

IMAGE YUUKI IDE

(l–r) Instructor Junko Mizuno and Ikeuchi Fusion Force Project Manager Rion Soback

Introducing the Club’s first-ever mobile app

The easier, faster, and more convenient way to connect with your Club any time from anywhere.

MANAGE PREFERENCES

VIEWREAL-TIME CHARGES

SIGNUPFOR EVENTS

BOOK RESTAURANTS

CONNECTWITH OTHERMEMBERS

… AND MUCH MORE

CUSTOMIZEIT YOURWAY

August 2 Splash! Rooftop Cinema

With popcorn in hand, Members enjoyed a lineup of classic '80s blockbusters under the stars.

IMAGES YUUKI IDE

August 8

Nihonbashi Oyane Matsuri

There were good vibes all around as Nihonbashi Club Members took part in Coredo’s annual summer festival.

IMAGES YUUKI IDE

August 9

Employee Recognition Party

While the Club underwent summer maintenance work and cleaning, the staff let their hair down at an afternoon bash to recognize their efforts over the year.

IMAGES NORIYUKI YAMAMURA

August 22 Kids’ Summer Camp

Club kids enjoyed a festive day of fun activities to wrap up their summer adventures.

IMAGES YUUKI IDE

September 3 Banquet Fair

Members and guests got an exclusive first look at the Club’s renovated event spaces while enjoying canapés and beverages.

IMAGES YUUKI IDE

Walking Together

WORDS PUEYEN LEE ILLUSTRATION TANIA VICEDO

On August 21, I found myself sitting among my son, Frederick, seven other junior Club Members, and some of their parents. We had gathered for a workshop organized by Lina Raffone, charities director for the Connections group, and hosted by the Japan Association for Refugees (JAR).

As we settled in, I noticed a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. We were about to explore a reality far removed from our safe, ordinary lives in Tokyo, one where children and adults must leave everything behind—not by choice but out of sheer necessity. The facilitators guided us into the world of these people, describing how their sense of safety, basic rights, emotional well-being, and even the presence of family could vanish overnight.

The workshop included a tabletop simulation. We imagined welcoming a new classmate, a child refugee, into our school. At first, the scenario felt hypothetical, but as the young Members discussed how they might greet her, the atmosphere shifted. Voices filled the room with warmth and empathy. “We shouldn’t call her a refugee,” someone said quietly. Another agreed, “We should just call her by her name.” Others suggested making welcome posters or offering a school tour. There was a genuine desire to make this child feel included.

As I listened, tears welled up in my eyes. Sitting in the back of the room at the JAR office, I was reminded of the

simple truth: refugees are people just like us. They deserve to be met with open hearts, empathy, and compassion, especially as they navigate new schools, languages, and cultures—challenges that are daunting for anyone, but overwhelming for a child who never wanted to leave home in the first place.

The emotional impact deepened when the real stories began. Through prerecorded videos and accounts shared by JAR staff, we learned what it means for refugees to try to build a new life in Japan. Access to basic food, safe housing, and emotional support—things so readily available to us—were revealed as daily struggles. The children at the workshop, including my son, were invited to portion out rice and beans, small packages of hope for those still lacking the essentials.

As a parent, I found this experience to be a powerful reminder of how fortunate we are, and of our responsibility not to shield our children from the world’s hardships but to guide them in understanding and responding with compassion. The stories of flight, loss, and adjustment were hard to hear. For my son, raised in safety and peace, imagining such upheaval seemed nearly impossible. Yet, this encounter planted important seeds in him—seeds of kindness, care, and a desire to support others in need.

I know it will take time for Frederick to truly internalize what he learned. But I hope this experience will be just the beginning of his journey extending empathy and compassion to those around him. Perhaps he—and all of us—will seek more opportunities to partner with organizations like JAR, offering a hand to those who need it most. True empathy and compassion, I realized, must be nurtured through witnessing, listening, and participating. Only then can we begin to understand and help heal the pain of others, one act of kindness at a time.

Pueyen Lee is a Member of the Club.

平成三年十二月二十日第三種郵便物許可定価八００円

Toranomon Hills Residential Tower Serviced Apartments can make you feel at home from day one. Floor plans range in size from studios to two-bedroom units, and each apartment comes equipped with all the necessities for daily life. And the property’s full array of services and amenities put comfort and convenience right at hand. www.moriliving.com