Hi everyone, it’s Pear again! I know that being a student in a major city like Tokyo can be tough, especially when it comes to budgeting. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun and affordable activities to enjoy.
Shuji club
One great option is joining the Shuji Club, where you can learn Japanese calligraphy. This is a great way to relax, improve your Japanese language skills, and experience a traditional Japanese art form. You can find the Shuji club on both campuses. It is located at International Student Lounge, West 1 Building for Ookayama campus, and at G1-115 Japanese Classroom for Suzukakedai Campus. It is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday during lunch break from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. Best of all, it’s completely free! No reservation is required, so feel free to drop by whenever you like. I highly recommend checking out the Shuji Club. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Japanese culture, meet new friends, and have some fun.
The university Japanese language center does not provide a class that teaches you how to write calligraphy step-by-step. Instead, it is largely a matter of learning it by yourself, ask sensei when you have questions. If you would like to learn how to use the brush and other tools from scratch, there is a free class offered by the Meguro International Friendship Association (MIFA). However, the available schedule depends on the organizer, and it is subject to change.
Symphony orchestra
The second option is attending a classical music concert. I’ve been a classical music lover since I was young, but in major cities like Tokyo, the average price can range from 3,000 to 12,000 yen, depending on whether the performers are local or international. While studying at Science Tokyo, however, I discovered that the Global Education Division often organizes free classical music concerts. Although tickets are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy world-class performances without breaking the bank. Japan is home to many famous symphony orchestras, so you should pass up the opportunity to experience them!
Two months ago, I had the chance to attend a classical concert performed by the Philharmonic Ensemble Orchestra of Japan (PEO) at Suntory Hall in Roppongi, the same orchestra that has performed special concerts in Prague, Amsterdam, and Vienna. I saw the same orchestra band two years earlier, as well.
Cooking class
The other activity I was impressed with was attending a cooking class at a cooking studio. Each month, several studios and events offer different classes, sometimes with discounts or deals for international students living in Tokyo, allowing them to learn about Japanese culture. You should check for these opportunities frequently and reserve the class in advance. In some cases, you can attend with your friend and split the cost and food after you finishing the class.
I attended classes on Japanese desserts and strawberry cake. I was amazed that the taste of the dishes I made was almost identical to what you’d find in a shop. It made me realize that I can achieve things I once thought was impossible.
The cooking class offers a unique opportunity for everyone to learn how to prepare cuisine from scratch through practical training sessions. The best part is that it is affordable and the location is accessible and close to a train station. When you arrive, you’ll be provided with a hat and a cooking uniform. The uniform must be returned after the class, but you can keep the hat as a souvenir. After the class, you can take your creations home. There’s a wide range of courses to choose from, including katsu don, salmon sushi, Mont Blanc tart, and chocolate crafts. The classes change weekly, and advanced reservations are required. The school also provides bags and boxes for you to take your creations home.
Since, I’ve always been passionate about cooking, attending a cooking class in the culinary and confectionary school was an incredible experience. It’s a fantastic way to learn new skills, taste delicious food, and immerse yourself in Japanese culinary culture.
Cultural exploration
The last activity I recommend is cultural exploration. Japan is renowned for its unique architecture and beautiful seasons. Taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood can be a delightful way to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in local culture. When the weather is pleasant, I often take a long walk in a set direction—north, east, west, or south—and rely on Google Maps to discover historical sites beyond shrines and temples. Even if the original structures have been demolished and replaced with new buildings, there are often historical markers or monuments to commemorate the past.
Walking through different neighborhoods also provides insights into urban planning. One particularly impressive example is the garden city planning in the Den-En-Cho-Fu (田園調布) area, inspired by Ebenezer Howard’s ideas from the 20th century. The garden city movement aimed to address urban migration by combining residential, industrial, and agricultural areas. However, challenges such as population growth, affordable housing, and limited space led to the decline of many garden cities. Today, only a few places worldwide still retain this type of urban planning.
I think that walking around neighborhoods is good for health. It is also a low-impact exercise, and it can reduce stress. So, the next time you have some free time, consider taking a walk around your neighborhood. You may be surprised at what you discover.
Apart from strolling around the neighborhood, don’t miss out on the many free events that Japan offers throughout the year. Joining events like O-Hanami (Sakura viewing event), Hanabi (firework viewing), Momiji-Gari (autumn-leaf viewing event), Christmas illuminations, and parades is a fantastic way to experience the country’s vibrant culture. These events offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions and customs, both old and new.
Don’t forget work-life-balance
As a student, maintaining a balance between academic pursuits and extracurricular activities is crucial for a fulfilling college experience. Tokyo, a city of endless possibilities, offers a perfect blend of both. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Japanese culture, exploring historic temples, indulging in diverse culinary delights, attending free concerts, or simply strolling through serene parks, every moment in this dynamic city is a precious memory. Tokyo has something for everyone, so you don’t need a hefty budget to enjoy this vibrant city. By embracing its diverse offerings and prioritizing your well-being, you can create a truly enriching experience.
