The first Convention held in Asia took place between May 28th and June 1^st and thanks mainly to eager Japanese Rotarians, a new attendance record was set – 23,366 registrants from 74 countries. This was the first Convention to overflow its facilities and the first to use the new technology of closed circuit television delivered on wide screen TVs and the first to use color photography!

Rotarians traveled to Tokyo by various modes of transportation with RI President McLaughlin joining many others by arriving via ship – the SS Cleveland.

The opening feature was entitled “Impressions from Japan” and attracted over 15,000 to the Convention Hall. The entertainment included a 100-member troupe of dancers.

The opening address to the Convention was delivered by the Emperor of Japan who thanked Rotary for its development of international understanding and of cultivating friendships with all peoples and races.

 Secretary Means reported to the Convention that there were now more than half a million Rotarians spread across 122 countries. Rotarians adopted President McLaughlin’s theme of “You Are Rotary – Live it! Express It! Expand It! Means, McLaughlin and President-elect Abey were all awarded honorary degrees (Doctor of Humanities) by Rikkyo University.

The Tokyo Convention was perhaps the most publicized Convention as the Japanese media all devoted extensive coverage to Rotary with some of the Japanese newspapers printing special Rotary editions. Both the Emperor of Japan and RI President McLaughlin’s speeches were broadcast on the NHK (Japanese Broadcasting Corporation).

All Rotarians who visited Japan could not help but be overwhelmed by the hospitality of the Japanese Rotarians. The Tokyo Club hosted more than 500 guests from overseas. One enthusiastic host even invited 200 guests to his home! The Convention ended with the singing of “Tenite” (meaning ‘hand in hand’) and the customary “Auld Lang Syne”.

Calum Thomson, History Fellow)