Jewish Center in Tokyo All Set for Expansion

For the estimated 2,500 Jews of Tokyo, the planned expansion of Chabad-Lubavitch of Japan's downtown headquarters to a large 4,000 sq. ft. facility will translate into a wealth of new Jewish programming.

The four-story building located in the heart of the Japanese capital will feature a mikvah, synagogue and Jewish library in its entry level. The second floor will house a kosher restaurant, a first for Japan, and kosher grocery store. In addition, the new building will provide space for a permanent kindergarten and afternoon Hebrew school for more than 80 students, a considerable increase to the 50-some students aged 3-12 who are currently taught in small groups. The plans also include a children's library and game area for children on the third floor.

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Directed by Rabbi Mendy and Chana Sudakevich for the past eight years, the Chabad House runs Shabbat and holiday programming for tourists as well as local residents. More than 200 people attended last year's Chanukah party; more than 300 attended the Passover seders hosted by the Chabad House.

In addition, some programming caters to the more than 150,000 soldiers stationed at the three different American military bases in the area. Last three, each base hosted Passover seders for a total of 500 Jewish military personnel. The rabbi serves as the official Jewish chaplain at two of the bases.

He said that the community is excited about the planned expansion.

"We are building pride and a community," he said. "The new Chabad Jewish Center for Japan will continue to instill Jewish pride for the many families and individuals that call Tokyo home."