Show Why do I need to make a reservation for most JFT events?
We ask that you make a reservation so that we can accommodate as many guests as possible based on the capacity of the venue. It also helps us to plan the promotion of our events and to ensure that we have sufficient staff and volunteers present.
Show Do I need to bring anything to show that I have a reservation?
In most cases, you can just tell us your name at the reception desk. If we are using Eventbrite for registration, you can either print your ticket, show it to us on your mobile device, or just tell us your name at the reception desk.
If the event will be held at a large venue, and we feel confident that it is unlikely to be filled to capacity, we do not require registration. This also speeds up the entrance process for events with hundreds of attendees. That said, we still recommend that you arrive early to secure your seat.
Show I can't make it to the event. Should I let you know?
Yes, please let us know if you need to cancel or make changes to your reservation. This may allow us to give your seat to someone on the waitlist. You can call us at (416) 966-1600 or email info_jftoronto@jpf.go.jp to cancel or make changes to your reservation.
Show What time should I arrive?
Doors usually open 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. We recommend arriving early to secure your seat. We will begin to release unclaimed seats to the rush line 10 minutes before the event.
If reservations for the event have closed, it may be possible to get a seat by arriving 30 minutes before the event and waiting in the rush line. We will begin to release unclaimed seats to the rush line 10 minutes before the event.
Show Why doesn't my reservation guarantee a seat?
Because almost all of our events are offered free of charge, we overbook popular events to ensure that as many people as possible can attend. We will hold your seat until 10 minutes before the start of the event, and then we will begin releasing seats to people waiting in the rush line. In the case of a full house, your reservation may not guarantee a seat if you arrive less than 10 minutes before the event start time. We also reserve the right to deny entry to latecomers in certain cases where late entry may be disruptive to the event.
All of the movies we show have English subtitles.
Show In what language will the lecture be given?
We hold lectures in both Japanese and English. In the case of a lecture in Japanese, we will always provide an English interpreter. Please check the event details to confirm the language of the event.
Show Is it okay to eat and/or drink during the event?
Please check the event details to find out if it is a food-free event. In most cases, out of consideration for the presenter and other guests, we ask that you please refrain from consuming food and drink (with the exception of water) during the event.
Show Why do you always ask us to fill out a questionnaire?
Your questionnaire feedback lets us know how we are doing and how we can improve, so that we can report these results to our headquarters in Japan. You can also use questionnaires to sign up to receive our email newsletter or learn about our volunteer program.
Show But I filled out a questionnaire last time! And the time before!
Of course, the questionnaires aren’t mandatory, but they really help us out, and we always like to hear what you have to say about our events.
Show What are you going to do with my personal information?
If you give us permission, we will send you our email newsletters. We will never sell or share your contact information with a third party, and you can unsubscribe from our newsletter at any time.
Show Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
In most cases, yes. The Yonge Street entrance to the Hudson’s Bay Centre is not wheelchair accessible, but the Bloor Street entrance has an elevator at street level with access to the lobby. From there, you can access the third floor from the north elevator bank. Please don’t hesitate to contact us prior to the event if you require assistance or a specific seating arrangement. Additional info about access can be found here:
How to Find Us
Hudson’s Bay Centre Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
Show Do you have a wheelchair accessible washroom?
Yes. When exiting through the Japan Foundation’s main doors, pass the elevator bank and turn right. The accessible washroom is at the end of the hall on your right.
Show Why do you have a scent-free policy?
Some people who visit and work at the Japan Foundation, Toronto report sensitivities to various chemical-based or scented products. We ask for everyone’s cooperation in our efforts to accommodate their health concerns.
In response to these health concerns, The Japan Foundation, Toronto has developed a Scent-Free Policy. Scented products such as hair spray, perfume, and deodorant can trigger reactions such as respiratory distress and headaches. Staff and visitors are asked not to use these products when reporting to this office or attending events at this facility.
More information on our scent free policy is available here > (JFT Privacy, Social Media and Scent Free Policy Page)