Filipinos are everywhere – regardless of the country they currently work or reside at such as in Japan. But since you are not a native of the place, it helps to find places where other Pinoys hang around just to see a familiar face and race as well as to ease the homesickness.
So if you are eager to see your fellowmen or are excited to mingle with some of them during your days off and holidays, then there’s nothing to worry about because you only have to know where they go frequently. Here are some of the places where Pinoys meet in Japan.
In Tokyo, you will stumble upon numerous Filipinos, particularly OFWs and Filipinas married to Japanese nationals, in St. Francis Church in Roppongi. Because most Pinoys are Catholics and they do not miss church every Sunday, they gather at this place every weekend. If you get lucky, you may be able to spot familiar faces in the crowd. You can even have time to talk with some of them after the church mass. You can also join them for lunch or dinner. If you do not know anyone, that’s not a problem. Filipinos are naturally friendly and will enjoy the company of kababayans always.
credit: Wikipedia
Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park is also flocked by Pinoys after hearing the mass. Prior to dropping by the park, they enjoy a meal of Pinoy food sold at the National Azabu. Yes, you won’t miss Pinoy delis even if you are in Japan. Kare-kare, menudo, pakbet, lechon, and kaldereta are always present here.
In the park, you will meet their families. They often gather here to sort of enjoy what is known as “Family Day” in the Philippines.You can spend the rest of the day chatting, laughing, and eating on a picnic with them.
If you have more time, visit the Bulakenya Philippine Restaurant and Sari-Sari Store, where you can buy more Pinoy goods and foods, and where you can also meet other Pinoys. It is open from 5pm to 4am and is located at Daikyou Building in Omori-kita 1-16-8 in Ota-ku, Tokyo.
You will never miss home in the land of rising sun. You only have to frequent places where Pinoys meet in Japan.
