Join us in celebrating The Japan Foundation Toronto’s milestones—thank you for being part of our journey.
As we prepare to conclude the operations of our major public facilities, including public lending library, gallery, and event spaces, in conjunction with our office relocation in December 2026, we invite you to recall memories and the achievements we have had as a community.
From summer through fall 2026, join us for a special series of events at our current centre as we celebrate our community, express our sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported us, reflect on our history together, and share our vision for the future as we embark on this new chapter together.
To learn more about this transition, read the Message from our Director and visit the Q&A page for answers to frequently asked questions.
*Please note that the information above is subject to further updates.
The Canadian Connection: How literary translators bring Japanese voices to the world
July 13 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm EDT
You may have noticed an increasing number of Japanese titles appearing on bestseller lists and displayed at your local bookstores and libraries. Behind this growing popularity and access to Japanese voices are literary translators, whose work helps to shape how Japanese literature is read, understood, and enjoyed around the world.
To celebrate the vital yet often unrecognized work of translators who bring Japanese voices to the world, three Canada-based translators of Japanese literature will gather onstage at the Japan Foundation. The conversation will be moderated by an editor of Japanese literature in translation, and together they will reflect on the work of translation, sharing insights into the creative process, the opportunities and challenges facing translators today, and the evolving landscape of Japanese literature in translation. The speakers will also discuss the dynamic role of the literary magazine MONKEY: New Writing from Japan*(formerly Monkey Business) in bridging languages, cultures, and literary traditions to bring Japanese literature to English readers.
Contemporary Japanese Cinema Spotlight
July 8 – August 11, 2026
As 2026 marks a significant year for Japanese cinema on the global stage, this summer we turn the spotlight to four of its most acclaimed contemporary voices. With new works by FUKADA Koji, HAMAGUCHI Ryusuke, KORE-EDA Hirokazu, and KUROSAWA Kiyoshi selected for major sections at the Cannes Film Festival, this series celebrates the creative force of Japan’s leading auteurs today.
Spanning intimate drama, psychological thriller, and period piece, the series brings together recent works that exemplify each director’s distinctive voice and thematic concerns. From nuanced explorations of human relationships to quietly unsettling reflections on society, these films demonstrate the depth and diversity of contemporary Japanese filmmaking.
Join us this July and August for a curated selection of films that reflect the artistry of contemporary Japanese cinema!
JFT People’s Choice Award
Voting closes: Monday, July 27, 12:00 pm EDT
As we prepare to bid farewell to our public space, we’re inviting our community to help decide the final film to be screened at the Japan Foundation Toronto Event Hall.
For the final screening, the audience will take the programmer’s seat through the JFT People’s Choice Award. Cast your vote for a Japanese film that you would like us to show — whether it’s one of your favourite titles previously presented by JFT or another Japanese film you’ve always wanted to experience on the big screen.
Your vote will help shape this special farewell event and celebrate the films and stories that have brought our community together over the years.
