Deadline: 27-Feb-2026
The Japan Foundation Awards honor individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to fostering international mutual understanding and friendship through academic, artistic, and cultural activities. The awards recognize both past achievements and the potential for future impact, highlighting efforts that extend across borders, disciplines, and communities.
Core Focus Areas
The awards focus on three key domains:
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Arts and Cultural Exchange
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Recognizes achievements that introduce or promote Japanese arts and culture abroad.
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Supports creative collaboration, joint research, and co-production projects.
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Gives special attention to underrepresented fields, including pop culture, architecture, design, and sports, reflecting a broad and inclusive view of cultural expression.
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Japanese-Language Education Overseas
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Honors sustained contributions to Japanese-language teaching and research.
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Emphasizes enhancing the global status of the Japanese language.
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Recognizes efforts in teacher training, organizational development, translations, and publications, fostering mutual understanding worldwide.
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Japanese Studies and Global Partnerships
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Supports the advancement of authoritative education and research related to Japan.
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Strengthens intellectual networks and academic collaborations between Japan and other countries.
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Encourages the development of informed perspectives and cross-cultural dialogue globally.
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Selection Priorities
Recipients are selected based on:
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Impact: Contributions that benefit broad audiences beyond a single region or organization.
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Continuity and Future Potential: Activities that are sustainable and capable of furthering international understanding.
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Breadth of Influence: Work that strengthens cultural, academic, or institutional networks internationally.
Conclusion
The Japan Foundation Awards serve as a prestigious recognition of individuals and organizations whose work bridges cultures, deepens global understanding, and fosters lasting international friendship. By celebrating both accomplished contributions and ongoing potential, the awards highlight efforts that promote cross-cultural dialogue, support educational and artistic exchange, and ensure that Japanese culture and perspectives are shared widely and meaningfully across the world.
For more information, visit Japan Foundation.