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.
Contemporary Japanese Cinema Spotlight
July 8 – August 20, 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 Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Share Your Favourite Books from JFT Library
August 15 @ 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm EDT
Join us for a special book club celebrating the collection, memories, and community that have grown around it. Whether you’re a long-time patron or a first timer, everyone is welcome. No assigned reading or prior knowledge is required.
Bring a favourite title from our physical or digital collection (in English, Japanese, or French) and share why it is special to you. Then, enjoy a relaxing hour of silent reading together; you can either revisit your own pick or read a book recommended by another participant. We’ll wrap up with an informal discussion in English, where you’re welcome to share your thoughts or simply listen. Through sharing stories with readers from diverse backgrounds, we hope to cultivate meaningful connections and (re-)discover Japanese literature, manga, and nonfiction through fresh perspectives.
Can’t make it to Toronto? Join us online via Zoom from anywhere in the world.
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.
*The event has passed. We will be making the video of this event available on our YouTube channel. Stay tuned!
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.
*Voting is now closed. Stay tuned for the winning film announcement!
