If you work in a company, getting to know your coworkers is a great way to expand your network. However, if you are an entrepreneur or a freelancer in a new city, you will likely want a little more help with finding your support system.
Start with searching for groups and communities with common interests via platforms such as Meetup, Eventbrite, and Facebook groups.
InterNations is one of the largest expat networks with communities in 420 cities worldwide. The community helps connect with international people in a new city through events.
GoConnect has a list of charities and volunteer organizations that can help expand your network and meet like-minded individuals.
For women:
Another good one, a Tokyo-based network, is called For Empowering Women (FEW). It is a community with English-speaking women who support, educate, and fight for a cause together.
Girl Gone International is a widely known community of women who live and travel abroad. It is a Facebook group that supports women to establish a home away from home through casual get together and events.
For professional networking, being a member of the Foreign Chambers of Commerce is a great option.
American Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in Japan
British Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Japan
German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan
Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Korean Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Netherlands Chamber of Commerce in Japan
South African Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Note that not all Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Japan are listed above. If you cannot find what you are looking for, please do a quick google search!