Tokyo is admired for its high standard of living—with its reliable transportation, world-renowned safety, and diverse restaurant scene. However, it can still be a challenge for people from overseas to live in a foreign country and cope with culture shock. Inspired by the mission to develop a sense of community for expats in the city, Expat Expo Tokyo is the largest exhibition where foreigners in Japan can gather to exchange ideas and information.
This event provides entertainment as well as opportunities for networking with attendees and representatives from foreign companies. The expo is supported by the chambers of commerce of a wide range of countries, including France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Poland, and the US, along with a number of Japanese governmental organizations such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and Minato City.
The Event
Expat Expo Tokyo 2023 welcomes attendees from around the world and will be hosted at the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center in Hamamatsucho-kan, which is well known for facilitating connections between domestic and international markets through exhibitions, trade fairs, and seminars.
Performances and Entertainment
In keeping with the expo’s aim to foster connections between the expat community and Japanese culture, many performances and demonstrations feature the country’s rich traditions. Attendees can see samurai and traditional dance performances, along with a national costume fashions show. A shiatsu massage lesson will teach gentle techniques to alleviate tension through various points and channels on the body. There will also be an International Kids Flea Market that will offer souvenirs and a variety of items.
When it comes to food, there will be a demonstration of tofu making and attendees will be able to sample 12 award-winning types of tofu, paired with a varied array of sake. Meanwhile, foreign embassies in Tokyo will be serving a variety of international dishes.
Exhibitors
Welcoming an estimated 6,000 people from 100 different countries, Expat Expo Tokyo will offer attendees the opportunity to learn about a wide range of businesses, which will be divided into three categories:
- Lifestyle Support: International schooling, real estate, housekeeping, babysitting, medical services, and beauty services
- Shopping: Local sweets makers, fruits, beverages, cosmetics, fashion, animation and manga, and electronic devices
- Sightseeing and Leisure: Tourist facilities, historical heritage, transportation, hospitality, restaurants, festivals, and municipalities
Some exhibitor companies will also hold presentations tailored to expats with an interest in Japanese culture and those who want to learn more about doing business in Tokyo. For example, there will be a presentation on the foundations of success in business when it comes to having a stable work–life balance, along with a seminar on the Japanese tax system, and how foreigners may find the furusato nozei beneficial.
Learn more about activities and exhibitors here: https://expat-expo.jp/event231/event_schedule_1030_EXPATEXPO.pdf
In addition, a coinciding International Student Fair and Third International Job Fair will feature recruitment agencies and employment seminars to help orient foreign nationals who are looking for a change in profession, or who want to develop their business acumen.
Expat Expo Tokyo 2023
Date: November 24–25, 2023
Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center Hamamatsucho-kan
Address: Kaigan 1-7-1, Minato-ku, Tokyo
To register or for more information about the expo, visit: https://www.expat-expo.jp/#access
Recommended: Universal Studios Japan VIP Experience: Private Tour and Tokyo Through The Eyes of Olde and Beyond: An Introduction
Jake Benjamin Roiter
