The July CI Reception on 15 July was a nice change of pace. With 40 plus company CEOs usually gathered together at these meetings, the ideas and discussions abound. As a contrast the group was smaller and the reception was a decidedly different flavor. Just before the summer months where people begin traveling, Japan-based top CEOs got together for a light meal and drinks. The event was well attended and hosted by Pembroke Real Estate Japan at their new wing of the Azabu Gardens luxury apartments property.

Spencer Wolfe opened the meeting and set the tone for the event. He briefly introduced Pembroke’s Jun Saito to talk about their property where the event was held. The meeting immediately kicked off with food service, provided by Japan’s well known Italian restaurant Elios. After some food and drink, Tok Yamauchi of Kyoto’s Gallery Shinbunkaku explained several pieces of art that he had brought to exhibit to the group. He had panels from the 1800s, glassware, tapestries from the early 1900s, and scrolls. Attendees learned a lot about Japanese art. One such fact includes that Japanese Art had been commissioned by wealthy landowners and merchants similar to what happened in Europe, with art made to the patron’s specifications. We also learned how Japanese art is designed to be changed seasonally, and not left up all year round.

The CI reception was an excellent event giving members a chance to learn more about Japanese creativity and history while connecting with other bosses in various fields. The food and networking continued late into the evening, giving people a good chance to get to know each other, their businesses, and various Japanese and global connections.