What are our events about?

Our events are aimed at a mutual exchange between Japanese people who've come to learn English and people residing in Canada who are interested in the Japanese Language/Culture. We hold these events every week on a Saturday at 6:00 P.M and finish by 7:30 P.M. Our events also include dinner (paid for by members themselves).

What do I need to bring for an event?

Yourself, a notebook, a pen and a genuine interest in learning something culturally new.

Can I bring more than two guests for the event?

It really depends on the situation as we try our best to control the RSVPs and ensure that there is an equal ratio of language speakers to keep the events smooth. If we are low on Japanese speakers or English speakers, we will send an email out encouraging you to bring more people depending on what language is in need.

I want to join the event but I didn't RSVP. Can I just show up?

As you know, we strive to maintain an even number of Japanese and English speakers, as well as provide a balance of language levels per table at our events. To this end we would like to make a few requests with regards to RSVPs.

- Keep your RSVP up to date.
While we understand that emergencies do arise, should you find yourself unable to attend please change your RSVP as soon as possible. At least one day's notice would be appreciated.

- If you have RSVPed, we expect that you will show up. The opposite also applies.
No-shows and surprise guests make it difficult for us to place everyone into balanced groups.

- Only RSVP if you are sure that you can come.
Our events have been filling up fast lately - sometimes two+ weeks in advance - creating a tendency to book ahead to ensure a spot. Please only do so if you feel confident that you will be able to keep the commitment. We are currently working on ways to alleviate this situation.

Following these guidelines will provide others that may be waiting a chance to join, and also allows the organizers time to find a replacement if needed. In this way everyone should have an opportunity to join our events, and hopefully have a better experience overall.

I'd like to advertise about another event outside TJEX. Can I post it on the message board?

Unfortunately, we do not allow soliciting on our site but if there's a particular event that's of interest to the group and if there's information about it that you'd like to share, please send us the details of the event and we'll decide if it needs to be posted on the site or not.

Since this is a social group, can I use the events as a way to just 'meet people'?

One thing we'd like to emphasize upon is the fact that our events are not a base for dating. Yes, we are a social group, but we are a group aimed at offering a comfortable learning & entertaining experience so that you as a member may benefit from it. You're most welcome to contact members outside of the events if you wish to.

I'm an absolute beginner in the language (English/Japanese). Is this group right for me?

We have members of all levels and we divide the group accordingly to ensure the best experience. There are speakers of both languages to help you get started so please feel free to join our meetings!

I am not sure how the 'Waiting List' feature works! Please help!

Once a Meetup is full, members can choose to join the waiting list. Should a spot become available, all waiting-list members will be notified by e-mail (regardless of join order.) Please note however that this spot is available to anyone - whether on the waiting list or not. It may be simpler to think of this more as a notification list, rather than a waiting list.

I am leaving the country and will be unable to join any events. Will I be removed as a member?

Maybe. You're most welcome to remain as a member as long as you keep active on our site by posting on the message board and keeping in touch with Organizers/Members. You will be removed as a member if you're inactive for 3 months.

Why do I need to pay the fee of $1 every time for each event?

The $1 we charge per member for every event isn't collected for our profit. Since we pay to run this site, the money we collect goes towards the facilitation of this site and the group.

Is there a Facebook group?

Yes! http://www.facebook.c...

How can I have the best experience at the events?

- Show up on time
- Bring questions, topics, homework, ...
- Participate: ask questions, speak as much as possible
- Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
- Above all, have fun!

I would like to bring a guest, but he/she is studying a different language. What should I do?

Please RSVP "Yes" for both events (JP and EN) and in the comments section of one specify that you're holding a spot for a guest.

What happens if I join the wrong list?

If there is space available, the organizer will move you to the list (JP or EN) relevant to the language that you are studying. If there is no space available however, you will be added to the waiting list instead (please see the section above for more information on the waiting list.)
If you realize the error, you can change your own RSVP to "No" on the one list, and RSVP "Yes" on the other (space providing) or join its waiting list. Alternatively, contact the organizer for the event and they will do what they can to assist.