Tokyo Startup Lunch Club - Weekly Lunch [Aug 13]

Introduction

The Tokyo Startup Lunch Club is one of those rare events happening around noon on weekdays in Tokyo, providing a casual yet productive environment for founders, investors, and tech professionals to connect. Originally started by Francisco as a small gathering to exchange ideas and learn from others while launching his startup, it has now grown into a weekly fixture backed by an active online community. This event offers a welcoming space to share experiences, seek advice, and network over a meal.

General Information

• Event: Tokyo Startup Lunch Club - Weekly Lunch
• Event page: https://www.meetup.com/startup-tokyo-lunch-club/events/302665148/
• Venue: Tokyo International Forum Common Area
• Date and Time: August 13, 2024, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
• Organizer: Francisco S.

Visit Experience

Finding the venue was straightforward; nestled between towering buildings and shaded by trees, the area offered a cozy spot with several tables and chairs set up outside. Despite the heat of a sunny August day, the shade provided by the trees made the atmosphere comfortable enough to enjoy the gathering.

Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by Francisco, the organizer. We quickly headed over to nearby food trucks to grab lunch—a signature aspect of the event. The premise is simple: everyone picks up something to eat, then gathers at the tables to enjoy a meal while engaging in lively conversation.

As attendees settled in, we began introducing ourselves. The group was diverse, including startup founders, engineers, consultants, and more. Francisco emphasized that the event is designed to be inclusive, particularly welcoming to those just starting their journey in Tokyo’s startup scene. Unlike other networking events that might cater to established founders, this gathering encourages open dialogue, where questions and advice flow freely.

Following the introductions, the group naturally split into smaller clusters, with discussions ranging from individual projects to broader experiences of living and working in Japan. The atmosphere was relaxed, fostering genuine connections rather than forced networking.

Around 2:00 PM, as the food trucks began to pack up, the event gradually wound down, leaving attendees with new insights and contacts.

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for startup founders, or anyone interested in the startup ecosystem in Tokyo. Whether you’re looking to network, share experiences, or seek advice, this gathering offers a supportive environment to do so. It’s particularly valuable for those who are new to the scene and looking to establish a foothold in the local community.

Who Should Not Attend

If you have a traditional 9-to-5 job, the timing of this event might be challenging, as it takes place during lunchtime on a weekday. However, if you have a flexible schedule or can spare a long lunch break, it’s worth attending for the networking opportunities alone.

Venue

Such an interesting choice of venue! Located in the heart of Tokyo’s corporate district, Marunouchi, the Tokyo International Forum offers a contrast between the bustling urban environment and the peaceful, shaded outdoor area where the event is held. The venue’s ambiance—a mix of city life and quiet retreat adds a special touch to the gathering.

The food trucks present a variety of Asian cuisine at reasonable prices, with bento boxes available for around 900 yen. However, as an outdoor event, the weather can be a factor. Today, some attendees found it a bit too hot, so consider your tolerance for weather conditions before attending.

Conclusion

The Tokyo Startup Lunch Club is a welcoming and friendly event, offering much more than just a networking opportunity. With a regular group of attendees, a rotating pool of participants, and occasional newcomers, it fosters a sense of community. Beyond the weekly lunches, there is also an online group that you can join after attending an event, making it an excellent starting point if you’re looking to become part of community rather than just visiting one time event.