Guide to Japanese Hobby Clubs and Interest Groups in Ho Chi Minh City
A round-up of Japanese hobby clubs and interest groups in Ho Chi Minh City, from sports and culture to cooking and family activities - with tips on how to find and join them.
Written by Farmi Editorial Team
Farmi Editorial Team
Ho Chi Minh City is home to a large Japanese community, and there is no shortage of hobby clubs and interest groups to join outside of work. Getting involved early on is one of the best ways to settle in and make the most of expat life.
Sports Clubs
Sports groups are among the most active in the Japanese community in Ho Chi Minh City.
Tennis and Badminton
Several Japanese tennis circles meet on weekend mornings at sports clubs in District 7 and Binh Thanh. Badminton groups welcome players of all levels.
Golf
Vietnam offers excellent and affordable golf, and Japanese golfer competitions and clubs are held regularly near Ho Chi Minh City.
Running
Early morning running groups meet on weekends around Tao Dan Park or along the riverside. Some aim to compete in local marathons.
Football and Futsal
Japanese teams compete in local futsal leagues on weekday evenings and weekends. Many teams welcome players regardless of experience.
Culture and Learning Groups
Book clubs and study sessions
Monthly book clubs and business book discussion groups typically meet at cafes, making it easy to meet people from different industries and backgrounds.
Photography circle
Groups meet for weekend street photography walks around Ho Chi Minh City and for collective photo reviews.
Vietnamese language groups
Japanese residents learning Vietnamese can find groups ranging from structured classes with Vietnamese teachers to casual conversation practice.
Food and Cooking Groups
Cooking classes and baking circles
Japanese-run cooking classes and Vietnamese cooking groups share recipes using locally available ingredients. When Japanese seasonings or pantry staples are needed, the Farmi app delivers them to your door — perfect for prepping before a cooking session.
Wine and sake gatherings
Wine tasting events and sake appreciation sessions are held informally throughout the year. Ho Chi Minh City has a growing selection of quality wine shops, and these gatherings are a popular social setting.
Family and Children's Activities
- Parents' circle: Social groups for mothers of pre-school children, sharing childcare tips and play area recommendations
- Japanese language events for children: Japanese picture book readings and cultural experience events beyond the supplementary school
- Family outdoor groups: BBQs, picnics, and day trips organised for families
How to Find a Club
- Facebook groups: Search for "ホーチミン 日本人" to find community hubs where club info is shared
- Japanese free magazines: Club listings occasionally appear in free Japanese-language publications available at Japanese restaurants
- JCCH (Japanese Chamber of Commerce): Events and club info are shared with members
- Word of mouth: Introductions from colleagues or neighbouring Japanese residents are often the most reliable route
Tips for Your First Visit
- Try before you commit: Most groups welcome observers or trial participants before formal membership
- Fees vary: Some charge monthly, others per session. Always confirm in advance
- Japanese is the main language: Communication is primarily in Japanese in these groups
- Go at your own pace: Regular attendance is rarely required. Join as often as suits you
Make the Most of Life in Ho Chi Minh City
Joining a hobby group opens up connections beyond the office and makes expat life feel genuinely enriching. For keeping your kitchen stocked with Japanese groceries so you can spend more time on the things you enjoy, the Farmi app is here to help.
Farmi Editorial Team
Farmi Editorial Team
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