About Japan House London

Japan House London is the cultural home of Japan in the UK.

Presenting the very best of Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation and technology, Japan House London provides an authentic encounter with Japan.

Central to the experience is the seasonal exhibition – currently KUMIHIMO: Japanese Silk Braiding by DOMYO – found in the Gallery on the lower ground floor.

A diverse programme of events, workshops, and seminars – celebrating Japan’s most innovative and creative craftspeople, artists, designers, performers and other experts – can be enjoyed in The Hall.

The Library hosts a permanent collection of hard-to-find Japanese books as well as dynamic displays covering a wide range of themes.

In The Shop on the Ground Floor guests can learn about Japanese makers and producers while browsing a carefully curated selection of products, or visit The Stand – a takeaway café stand offering Japanese drinks and snacks. Guests can also discuss their next adventure in Japan at the Travel Zone with a member of staff from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

The Japan House London experience is completed by a visit to AKIRA Restaurant on the first floor. Open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner (Tuesday to Saturday), AKIRA delivers a special Japanese dining experience offering outstanding cuisine, beautifully presented on carefully selected tableware.

Who is Japan House London for?

Japan House London is free and open to everyone. We invite guests of any age or background, and with a wide range of interests to explore, interact with, and immerse themselves in Japan’s rich and diverse cultures. 

It is a forum for creative and intellectual exchange between Japan and the rest of the world, deepening our appreciation of all that Japan has to offer, and engaging and surprising even the most knowledgeable guests.

By starting conversations around Japanese design, craft, architecture, technology, travel and food and drink, Japan House London offers something for all. 

Guests from around the world can experience Japan House London via online events and the ‘Discover area’ of our website – home to virtual exhibitions, stories about Japanese cultures, recorded events, educational activities and more. 

Stories from Japan House London, 2018 – 2022

A review of the activities and achievements of Japan House London from our opening up to May 2022 is available to read and download. Please select your preferred language.

English 日本語

A map of the three Japan Houses: London, Los Angeles and Sao Paulo

Background of Japan House London

Since opening in summer 2018, Japan House London has welcomed more than a million visitors, delivered 15 exhibitions and held over 600 events.

It is part of a global initiative led by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with two other Japan Houses located in Los Angeles and São Paulo. Find out more about the people behind Japan House London.