About Japan Foundation London
Promoting mutual understanding between Japan and the world through cultural and educational exchange
Our Mission
The Japan Foundation London is the UK office of the Japan Foundation, Japan’s principal independent cultural institution dedicated to promoting cultural and intellectual exchange between Japan and the rest of the world.
Established in 1972, the Japan Foundation operates worldwide with a network of offices across the globe. Our London office serves as a hub for cultural and educational exchange in the UK and Ireland.
We work to deepen international understanding of Japan through three core pillars:
Our Activities
Arts & Cultural Exchange
Supporting exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and artist collaborations to share Japanese culture and foster creative dialogue.
Learn moreJapanese Language Education
Providing language courses, teaching resources, and support for educators to promote Japanese language learning across the UK.
Learn moreJapanese Studies
Supporting academic research, intellectual exchange, and scholarly collaboration to advance knowledge of Japan.
Learn moreOrganisational Overview
The Japan Foundation was established in 1972 by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and became an Independent Administrative Institution in 2003. This specially designated cultural organization aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding overseas by carrying out comprehensive cultural exchange programmes.
The Foundation’s activities are financed by annual subsidies from the Japanese government, capital gains obtained from the management of an original fund, and income from other operations. With a global network of 21 independent overseas offices across the globe, the Japan Foundation has been active in international exchange fields through our three operational pillars since 1972.
The Japan Foundation London is the foundation’s only office in the UK. Our London office, established in 1973, serves the UK and Ireland through a diverse range of programmes including:
- Grant programmes for cultural and academic projects
- Japanese language courses and teacher training
- Cultural events including exhibitions, film screenings, and performances
- Academic symposia and research support
- Library and information services
We are pleased to organise a wide array of bilateral and cross-cultural exchanges with the UK cultural scene. Our aim is to nurture a wider understanding between the UK and Japan, and we aspire to provide workshops, educational activities, and a warm welcome to all our events.