Language Cafes

[tatsujin]

Hi guys,

Considering I'm off to Japan at the end of the week for a month, I would like to improve my Japanese somewhat while over there.

I am thinking the best way to learn is by speaking to natives who are willing to language-exchange. Do you guys know any good cafes or bars where this occurs?

Also on a side note, are there any good jazz bars in Tokyo? Preferably near Minamisenju where I'm staying (Johyu hotel)

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[nigerian_nampa]

There's a website called Japan Guide that has a penpal/friendship forum where you can post an ad for language exchange partners. You will get heaps of responses, especially if you are going to be in Tokyo. Be aware, though, that 'language exchange' normally has the connotation of "Let's flirt in both languages", and you'll probably end up shagging your exchange partner(s). That's good as long as you don't wimp out and start speaking English the whole time.

If you want to avoid play time and just study, then write that explicitly in your posting. You'll still get responses.

There are a few 'language cafes' around, but they're not really designed to be reciprocal. Normally the Japanese have to pay to get in, but you, as the gaijin "entertainment", get in for free or get free snacks and coffee, so you'll be surrounded by losers expecting you to speak English and no Japanese (because as far as they're concerned, they paid to speak English with you). Pretty lame places.

[tatsujin]

Sounds interesting man,

Is there any other method or way of exchanging language in a half-decent manner? I ain't shy and not afriad to make a fool of myself, I understand most Japanese though aren't as willing!

The template for most of my days will be learn language/see the sights/then stay out all night and find as much "adventure" as possible

Thanks

[Skankster]

There are a few 'language cafes' around, but they're not really designed to be reciprocal. Normally the Japanese have to pay to get in, but you, as the gaijin "entertainment", get in for free or get free snacks and coffee, so you'll be surrounded by losers expecting you to speak English and no Japanese (because as far as they're concerned, they paid to speak English with you). Pretty lame places.

Ive gotten laid from these cafe's.
and it is a good way to communicate with Japanese men also for making biz connections.
I know a bucho from Daiwa Securities who takes me to Hostess bars from time to time that I met there.

[Mulboyne]

The template for most of my days will be learn language/see the sights/then stay out all night and find as much "adventure" as possible

I wish I was there. If you are in Minami Senju then hang out in Yukotopia. It is a bar for dead heads but a great place to meet people. If you want to venture further afield, I might be able to pass on some ideas if you PM me.

[djgizmoe]

Also on a side note, are there any good jazz bars in Tokyo? Preferably near Minamisenju where I'm staying (Johyu hotel)

There are loads (just check PIA Magazine when you arrive]http://www.aoiheya.com/[/url]

About a 20 minute walk from Shibuya Station. And near Aoi Heya, there's a nice but tiny soul music bar, called (imaginatively enough) "SOUL"; very mellow with some gaijin and a very varied crowd. From the exit of Aoi Heya (you are facing Roppongi Dori), head left (towards Roppongi) and immediately turn the corner left. In a few blocks it'll be on your left.

[tatsujin]

Thanks for the tips guys, I'll try and check them out.

I'm gonna trek into Shinjuku today and try Mickey Cafe, supposed to be a good place to practice japanese with some natives.

[Taro Toporific]

I'm gonna trek into Shinjuku today and try Mickey Cafe, supposed to be a good place to practice japanese with some natives.

Damn! Does that place still exists in Takadanobaba? It was losing money 20 years ago. Anyway, Monday nights aren't gonna be packed. If you're young and handome you might try to score some casual work there as a "sakura" (shill) language partiner.
http://www.mickeyhouse.jp/Map_japanese.htm