JASE is held at a bar in the city every other Tuesday. On average it has about 20-30 participants, but at times can get as many as 50 people. JASE not only has these Tuesday groups, but also holds other events such as BBQ’s.
As the meeting is held at a bar, the group has a relaxed atmosphere. Many people bring their friends along, and there are those who enjoy playing pool.
There’s no set structure in JASE, groups form naturally and begin to converse. As it was my first time I was a little nervous but someone asked me “Are you here for JASE?” so I was able to jump into the ongoing conversation quite easily. At JASE someone eventually will call out to you, so even if it’s your first there’s nothing to worry about.
I spoke to one of the regulars there that night.
Aiden; University student (Japanese major)
A friend introduced me to JASE three years ago. Of all the conversation circles in Melbourne, I especially like this one. The thing about JASE is it’s held at an open place like a bar so you can easily bring your friends. And I feel that the atmosphere is a friendly one where you can open up to people who you’ve met for the first time. I like the air of freedom in JASE.
This group is for people who have lived in Japan or who have an interest in Japanese culture. It's a means for them to keep in contact with Japan, and for Japanese people who perhaps have just arrived, or who are studying English here, and want more chances to make friends in Australia. I got the impression that this is an open group where one can drop by anytime one feels like it. Learning to play pool, and talking about Japanese bars with a beer in hand, it turned out to be a fun night indeed.
So if you find yourself on a Tuesday night, tired of studying and wanting to have a drink with friends, then JASE is a good place to start.
