Exercise Classes in Japan: Salsa Edition

Exercise means a lot of things to a lot of different people. For a long time, for me, it meant misery. However, as most of you know, I have been trying several different fitness classes in Japan which has been making exercise a lot more enjoyable for me. Plus, I have made some friends along the way.

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My latest stop on this journey was at a salsa class. I decided to give a Japanese salsa class a try because I had taken about four salsa lessons in the States, and it was a lot of fun. The environment was always fun, warm, and welcoming, so I figured it would be the same in Japan. And it was!!

I called the dance studio a day before I took my trial lesson. They were very friendly over the phone and when I went in person. I had to fill out a few forms, but they explained everything slowly to make sure I could understand their Japanese. Once the class began, it was quite fun, all of the students made a spot for me right next to the teacher. I thought this was very sweet. The teacher was Japanese, and he was doing his best to throw out some English words in his explanation. He got his point across! Haha.

The class was honestly so fun, I stayed for the class that was held immediately after as well. And then the salsa party after that! Out of all the classes I have taken so far, it was easiest to talk to other students and make friends at this class. Maybe it is just a coincidence, or maybe it is because salsa is a social dance, either way, if you are looking to make some friends, both foreign and Japanese, give it a try! (If you are nervous, they have a bar in the studio for the parties, so you can drink alcohol.)

So far, salsa has been the most affordable class I have taken in Japan. The trial lesson was only 1000 yen. Plus, I purchased a set of lessons, which makes each lesson only 1000 yen. Not to mention that if you attend a class, the salsa party that is held after is free.

The studio I went to is called Café Macondo. It is located in Nagoya, Aichi. I highly recommend them if you are in the area.

What exercise classes have you tried in Japan?