Enkai (宴会) is a Japanese term for a formal or informal gathering, often in the form of a dinner party, banquet, or drinking party. Enkai are popular events held by companies, organizations, or social groups for team-building and socializing. These gatherings usually include a meal and plenty of drinks, creating a relaxed setting where people can unwind and talk freely. This aspect is especially important in Japanese culture, where coworkers often refrain from casual chit-chat during working hours.
Which Enkai will you attend?
Is this your first Enkai? If so, get ready for a memorable experience! Enkai gatherings come in various types, each tailored to serve different purposes and occasions. Some common types are:
1. Bonenkai (忘年会)
Japanese companies often hold an end-of-year party, known as Bonenkai, which literally translates to "forget-the-year gathering." During this event, colleagues come together to celebrate the end of the year and leave behind the troubles and stresses of the past year.
2. Shinnenkai (新年会)
After Bonenkai, there is often a New Year’s party held to welcome the new year and set a positive tone for the year ahead. These events are usually fused into one gathering, whether at the end of the year or after the new year.
3. Kangeikai (歓迎会)
Kangeikai (歓迎会) means "welcome party" or "welcoming gathering." It is an event held to welcome new members, such as new employees, students, or members of a group or organization. The timing of a kangeikai may vary depending on the specific circumstances and traditions of the group. In many cases, kangeikai are organized within the first few weeks or months of a new member's arrival to ensure a warm welcome and a smooth integration into the group.
4. Soubetsukai (送別会)
A Soubetsukai, or farewell party, is held for members who are leaving the organization, providing a chance to say goodbye and wish them well in their future endeavors. Japanese companies usually hold a soubetsukai for retiring employees or those relocating to another branch.
5. Kansougeikai (歓送迎会)
Kangeikai and soubetsukai can be combined into one event. It's called kansoueikai, meaning the welcome-and-goodbye party.
6. Kenshu Enkai (研修宴会)
Kenshu Enkai, meaning 'training banquet' or 'training gathering,' is a social event held after a training session or seminar. It serves as a platform for participants to relax, unwind, and socialize in a more informal setting following the formal training activities. During the event, attendees can network, share experiences, and build camaraderie with colleagues and peers.
7. Nomikai (飲み会)
Nomikai specifically refers to drinking parties or gatherings where the primary activity is drinking alcohol. Many enkai events involve drinking (hence the term nomikai is often used interchangeably with enkai), but not all enkai are solely focused on drinking.
Key Characteristics of Enkai
Despite the diversity in Enkai types, they share common key characteristics that define the essence of these social events.
Enkai can range from formal gatherings at restaurants or hotels to more casual events at izakayas (Japanese pubs), often blending formal and informal elements. They may begin with formal speeches and toasts but soon transform into a more relaxed and casual environment.
These gatherings typically involve a set-course meal along with an ample supply of alcohol, such as sake, beer, or shochu.
Enkai often start with a formal toast (kanpai) led by a senior member. Throughout the event, there may be speeches and toasts to celebrate achievements, milestones, or to welcome new members, depending on the enkai’s purpose.
Similar to meetings and other business events, seating is usually arranged in advance based on hierarchy, with higher-ranking individuals seated in prominent or better positions.
Some enkai include entertainment such as karaoke, games, or performances by attendees, helping to lighten the mood and promote a sense of unity.
Many enkai conclude with closing speeches or rituals, such as singing the company song, group photos, or rounds of applause (sanbon-jime).
Enkai Dos and Don’ts
Although enkai are held after work hours, they are still considered part of work for many people. This is because enkai play a crucial role in building professional relationships and fostering a positive team environment. There are specific manners to follow during an enkai to show respect and maintain harmony. Knowing enkai etiquette will help you fit in and enjoy the event like your Japanese coworkers.
Here are some Enkai etiquettes:
Do: Ask about the event and cost
Before attending an Enkai, it's a good idea to ask about the event and its associated costs. It helps you understand the schedule, formality level, dress code, and any specific customs or traditions that you should be aware of. For example, if it’s at a traditional Japanese restaurant, you may be directed to a tatami room and expected to sit on the floor. Not knowing this information could result in wearing uncomfortable clothing.
Do: Observe Proper Etiquette
Follow traditional Japanese etiquette, such as waiting for the most senior person to start eating or drinking, and showing respect to others.
Do: Come on time
Coworkers usually go to Enkai gatherings together. But if you have to go alone, it's important to be punctual. Coming 5-10 minutes early gives you time to find your allocated seat, get comfortable, and start talking to others without feeling rushed. Enkai events often start once everyone is present, so arriving late may draw attention to you. If you think you'll be late, give a call ahead and ask your coworkers to start without you.
Don’t: Start eating before “kampai”
Enkai typically start with a superior giving a speech and making a toast. Until someone asks everyone to raise their glass and cheer "kampai!", do not eat or drink the food there.
Do: Pour drinks for others
In Japanese culture, it's customary to pour drinks for others, particularly for your superiors or colleagues, as a gesture of respect and camaraderie. It's considered impolite to pour drinks for oneself, so it's important to be attentive to your surroundings and ready to refill others' glasses when needed.
Don’t: Drink excessively
Despite the ample supply of alcohol, it's important to enjoy drinks responsibly. Remember that it’s still a professional event; you don’t want to embarrass yourself in front of your boss and coworkers. It's okay to decline drinks or pace yourself if you're not comfortable with the amount being offered. The focus of an Enkai is on socializing, bonding, and enjoying each other's company, not on how much alcohol you consume.
Don’t: Push yourself to drink
Not drinking alcohol at an Enkai is perfectly acceptable, and there's no need to feel uncomfortable. If possible, let your host or colleagues know ahead of time that you don't drink alcohol. This can help them prepare non-alcoholic options for you. You can still participate in toasts by holding your non-alcoholic beverage.
Do: Enjoy Yourself... at the Second After-Party, the Third, and Beyond
Relax, have fun, and enjoy the atmosphere and socializing with your colleagues or peers. Usually, to keep the good times rolling, people will continue to the after-party, known as Nijikai. This second gathering is often held at a different venue, like a bar, karaoke, or izakaya, where the mood becomes more casual and relaxed. It’s a great opportunity to unwind further, have deeper conversations, and strengthen relationships in a more informal setting. Sometimes, if the night is still young and everyone is still energized, there might even be a Sankai, or third party, and beyond. However, after-parties are not mandatory, so feel free to skip them.
Don’t: Talk about enkai the next day
It’s considered good etiquette to keep what happens at an Enkai within the confines of the event. This unspoken rule helps maintain a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, allowing everyone to let their guard down without fear of judgment or repercussions the next day. So, always remember, what happens in an Enkai stays in an Enkai!
Don’t: Stress over all the etiquette
While it's important to be aware of basic manners at an Enkai, don't let it overwhelm you. Most people understand that you might not be familiar with all the customs, especially if you're new to the culture. As a foreigner, you often get a bit of a free pass, and your colleagues will likely appreciate your efforts to fit in even if you make a mistake. If you're unsure how to behave, simply observe others and follow their lead. Focus on having a good time and engaging with others rather than worrying too much about getting every detail right.
Enkai gatherings are a great way to build connections and improve workplace relationships, which can be beneficial for your career. These events offer a unique opportunity to socialize with colleagues and superiors in a relaxed setting, helping to strengthen bonds and open up new professional opportunities. If you're looking to explore new job opportunities in Japan, visit Tokhimo Jobs. We specialize in connecting foreigners with global companies in Japan, making it easier for you to find the perfect job and advance your career in this country.
