How to Make Friends in Japan

We found some Japanese friends! I didn't think it would be possible, with my pathetic lack of Japanese language ability. Here's how the magic happened:

I asked my supervisor if there was a group with which my husband could play basketball. Not only did she introduce him to a group of young males to play with weekly, she asked  him to assist with coaching the team at the junior high school! Here's a photo of him in action:

The style of these pick-up games is often a frantic race from one hoop to the next, with the taller guys getting rebounds and chucking full-court passes to the sprinting guards. Like every possession. It puts "run-and-gun" in a whole new light. There is little to no physical contact, selfishness, aggression, fouls, or anger. Everyone is out there having a good time, and being competitive but being friendly first and foremost. Quite a bit different from pick-up games in the US - well - about exactly the opposite. 

It seems that there are three steps to making friends in Japan (or maybe anywhere):  1. Do something you like. 2. Find other people who like it too. 3. Talk to them. I think it might just be that simple.

After his first basketball outing, we were invited to meet two guys and their lady friends (relationship statuses unknown) at a local restaurant owned by someone's mother. It was closed the Sunday we went, a stormy night perfect for some handmade takoyaki (octopus balls) and friends. We spent 3 hours together, cooking, chatting, laughing, and looking up words on our Smartphones (they make for excellent electronic dictionaries). 

We were even graced with a magic show by the mom who owns the restaurant!

They showed us so much kindness, and often I am at a loss as to how to show people how much I appreciate everything they do to make us feel welcome. Next, we will 'drink alcohol together' - the plan proposed by the young men. Tom hopes to have them over to watch NBA International League Pass sometime too.