In Japan, the culture of drinking with colleagues is an integral part of the workplace environment. These social gatherings, often held at izakayas, are seen as essential for building camaraderie and strengthening relationships among coworkers.
Contents
Farewell Parties (Sobetsu-kai)
Farewell parties, or “soubetsukai,” are organized to bid farewell to departing colleagues. These events are a way to show appreciation for the departing member’s contributions and to wish them well in their future endeavors. Typically, a formal speech is given by the team leader or manager, followed by a toast. Gifts or cards are often presented as tokens of gratitude.
If you want to enjoy a tour of Japan's hidden alleyways, I recommend the "Snack Alley" tour.
Welcome Parties (Kangei-kai)
Welcome parties, known as “kangeikai,” are held to welcome new employees or team members. These gatherings provide an opportunity for new members to introduce themselves and for the team to get to know them in a relaxed and informal setting. Just like farewell parties, welcome parties usually involve speeches, toasts, and an atmosphere of goodwill.
If you want to enjoy a tour of Japan's hidden alleyways, I recommend the "Snack Alley" tour.
The Role of Nomikai
“Nomikai,” or drinking parties, are informal gatherings that can occur regularly outside of official events like farewell and welcome parties. They serve as an important aspect of Japanese corporate culture, where hierarchical boundaries are softened, allowing employees to communicate more freely. These events help in fostering a sense of unity and improving workplace dynamics.
＼Would you like to enjoy interacting with locals in Tokyo?／
Etiquette and Tips
- Be Punctual: Arriving on time shows respect for the organizers and participants.
- Participate Actively: Engage in conversations and activities to show your enthusiasm and willingness to bond with your colleagues.
- Moderate Drinking: While drinking is encouraged, it’s important to know your limits and drink responsibly.
- Respect Hierarchy: While nomikai can blur hierarchical lines, showing respect to senior members remains crucial.
Conclusion
Participating in workplace drinking events like farewell and welcome parties is a unique and significant aspect of Japanese corporate culture. These gatherings not only celebrate important milestones but also enhance team cohesion and improve interpersonal relationships within the workplace.
＼How about embarking on a local adventure in Tokyo?／
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of drinks at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
