Nichiran Net Foundation
About Us
Our Mission
Nichiran Net aims to contribute to the development of the Japanese community in the Netherlands. While maintaining the original mission statement established at the founding of Nichiran Silver Net—“to build a system of mutual support so that Japanese residents in the Netherlands can enjoy a more comfortable later life”—the organization will continue its activities with the hope of fostering better communication within the Japanese community. This will be achieved through various events, as well as collaboration and cooperation with different Japanese groups.
Our Members
Nichiran Net covers the entire Netherlands, and its membership spans a wide range of age groups, from people in their 20s to those in their 90s. As of January 2026, the organization has 180 members.
Background / History
The Japanese women’s association in The Hague (Kazaguruma) began to take an interest in the care service of Japanese elderly living in the Netherlands.
The appeal was made to the Japanese living in the Netherlands for the need of such a service through ‘KAWARABAN’, the journal of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce (issued Nov/Dec 2002, #176).
In February 2003, Nichiran Silvernet was established with the help of volunteers who responded to the appeal. The organization was set up by four board members, with Drs. A. Millenaar and his wife, Mrs. Masako Iwasaki, as advisers. The consul of the Japanese Embassy at the time became the councillor.
In September 2003, the first general meeting was held and the organization took a more formal form.
In September 2004, the members increased in number.
In April 2006, Nichiran Silvernet was registered as a foundation.
In February 2008, Nichiran Silvernet celebrated her 5 year anniversary. A commemoration booklet was published.
In August 2013, Nichiran Silvernet held a party to celebrate her 10th anniversary. A commemoration booklet was published.
In September 2017, Nichiran Silvernet celebrated her 15th anniversary.
In October 2018, a testimonial was given to Nichiran Silvernet by His Excellency Mr. Hiroshi Inomata, Ambassador of Japan to the Netherlands, for her activity to promote the mutual understandings and friendship between the Netherlands and Japan.
In January 2021, The organization has changed its name from “Nichiran Silver Net” to “Nichiran Net,” aiming to attract a broader range of members and to enrich the scope of its activities.
In September 2023, The organization marks its 20th anniversary since its establishment.
In September 2025, Mrs. Chieko van Santen, founder of Nichiran Silver Net, was awarded the Ambassador’s Commendation by Mr. HIroshi Minami, Ambassador of Japan to the Netherlands.
Board
| Chairperson, Help&Care | Akira Matsumoto |
| Secretary | Kazumi Nakamura |
| Treasurer | Mayumi Takahashi |
| Ajisai chief editor | Chiharu Inoue |
| Secretariat | Seiji Ikeda |
| Event organizer | Mayumi Kitani |
Observer
Consul, Embassy of Japan in the Netherlands
Life & Welfare Committee Director, The Japanese Chamber of Commerce
and Industry in the Netherlands