Yesterday I went to what will definitely be my last Shinnenkai of the year: the US-Japan Council NorCal & Nevada gathering at Fermentation Lab in Japantown, San Francisco. It was a lunchtime event, and that midday sun filtering into the restaurant added to the relaxed atmosphere. Instead of anything formal, it was a buffet where people wandered between tables, caught each other’s eye, and easily slipped into conversations. That casual setup made everything feel open and natural, and I found myself connecting with people I might not have spoken to in a more structured setting.

USJC President Audrey Yamamoto shared a little about the US-Japan Council’s projects to strengthen U.S.–Japan relations, but it felt less like a presentation and more like a heartfelt reminder of why this community matters. It set the tone for an afternoon where relationships, not agendas, were the center.

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When you move somewhere new, whether across the country or across the world, it’s easy to feel untethered. You’re navigating unfamiliar streets, customs, and rhythms. And while it’s tempting to stay in your comfort zone, I’ve learned that the real magic happens when you step out and connect locally.

This weekend, I was invited to join the JCCNC gold sponsor table at Tabemasho, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture held in San Francisco.

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