640 Lodge Star in the EastNo. 640 · Yokohama · Est. 1879

For candidates

Becoming a Freemason in Yokohama

Freemasons are not allowed to recruit, so every man who joins has to ask. This page explains who can join Star in the East, what happens after you ask, and what it costs in time and money.

Who can join

Under the laws of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, a candidate must:

  • be a man of at least 18 years of age;
  • believe in a Supreme Being, in whatever form his own faith teaches;
  • be of good character and reputation;
  • come of his own free will, not because someone persuaded him;
  • be able to pay the lodge fees without hardship to himself or his family.

You do not need to know a Freemason already. You do not need to be British, Scottish or Christian. Many of our members are neither. Our ceremonies and meetings are in English, so you should be comfortable following and speaking it.

What happens after you ask

  1. You write to us. Use the enquiry form. Tell us a little about yourself and why you are interested. The Secretary will reply.
  2. We meet informally. Usually over coffee or dinner with two or three members, so you can ask questions and we can get to know you. There is no obligation on either side.
  3. You apply. If both sides want to continue, you complete the Grand Lodge of Scotland’s petition form. Two members act as your proposer and seconder; if you came to us without knowing anyone, the members you have met can take on this role.
  4. The lodge votes. Your petition is read in open lodge and the members ballot on it.
  5. You are initiated. You become an Entered Apprentice. Over the following months you are passed to the degree of Fellow Craft, receive the Mark degree, and are raised a Master Mason.

Time and money

The lodge meets on the second Tuesday of each month from September to June, in the evening at our temple near Yamate Station. A new member is expected to attend regularly, especially in his first year. There are also rehearsals, social events and occasional visits to other lodges.

There is a one-time initiation fee and an annual subscription, set each year by the lodge. Regalia and the dinner after meetings are extra. The Secretary will give you the current figures before you apply, so there are no surprises.

Ready to ask?

Write to the Secretary

Living outside Japan, or only here for a short time? Ask anyway. We can tell you whether joining makes sense or put you in touch with a lodge near your home.