Dealing with loneliness in Japan

Even after five years in Yokohama I have times when I feel very lonely.  I am retired, however my young Japanese wife still works.  Most every weekday I am on my own.  Back in 2014 I joined the Enjoy Walking Yokohama group of which there are now over 95,000 residence who go out and walk for exercise most every day.  We carry a pedometer issued by the city and log our steps at various spots throughout the city.  I walk by myself, but I compete with people who are much younger than I am.  I have attended several meet up groups, most are people who I have nothing in common with.  I also have several Japanese friends and unlike those in the states they are not much for getting together on a regular basis.  I fight the loneliness by being out going and greeting those I meet on my walks.  I have actually considered placing an ad in one of the local English language publications for a walking partner.  I am slowly learning the language, which of course in any country improves your chances of communication with less isolation.  Overall, I am very happy living here and hope to overcome times of loneliness by keeping a positive attitude and creating new goals and objectives for myself outside the home.

Hey Rey(?)

Can fully sympathize. Been here almost 5 years and haven't made any Japanese friends at all to be honest. I'm not sure they see friendship in the same way? I also keep the lonely hours at bay by walking and working. I too have a younger wife but  work mornings and evenings so have the day to myself. Do a fair amount of pounding the pavements myself. Helps eat up those hours eh?