The power of local connections: The Tabemasho event in San Francisco’s Japantown

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.

The event filled an entire sports hall with several hundred participants, an incredible turnout that speaks to the strength and warmth of the Japanese-American community here. I didn’t win the return ticket to Japan sponsored by JAL (though I admit I had my fingers crossed!), but I did win something else: a sense of community.

From the delicious Japanese food and wine to the warm conversations around the table, I felt that familiar spark of belonging. One highlight was tasting wine from Mikami Vineyards, a Japanese-American winemaker based in Lodi. It was a beautiful example of how heritage and local craftsmanship come together.

I also learned more about the incredible work of the Japanese-American community in San Francisco, from cultural classes to senior citizen support through organizations like Kimochi. Their efforts are wide-reaching and deeply rooted in care. I was happy to support the raffle with my tickets, and I hope to get more involved in the future.

Connecting locally isn’t just about meeting people, it’s about learning how things work, what matters to the community, and how to show up respectfully.

I learned this deeply during my years in Japan. The warmth and hospitality of Japanese people, paired with their attention to detail and tradition, taught me how important it is to observe, listen, and participate with care.

Whether it was joining seasonal festivals, understanding the unspoken etiquette of daily life, or simply being invited into someone’s home, those experiences shaped how I approach connection today.

Now, living in the U.S., I carry those lessons with me. Building a life with my Japanese husband and finding community in spaces that value diversity and inclusion has helped me feel rooted. Events like Tabemasho remind me that even far from Japan, its spirit lives on in the people and organizations who continue to share and celebrate its culture.

So this Monday, I’m reflecting on the joy of showing up, of saying yes, and of finding community in unexpected places. And I’m grateful to JCCNC and everyone at Tabemasho for making me feel part of something bigger.