Welcome to a captivating journey through Japanese culture, right here in Italy! Prepare to be immersed in the beauty and richness of the Rising Sun, without ever leaving European shores.
A Cultural Oasis in Rome
Imagine a haven dedicated to Japanese culture, nestled in the heart of Rome. This is the Japanese Cultural Institute, a treasure trove of Japanese art, literature, and traditions. Established in 1962, it was the first of its kind outside of Japan, serving as a bridge between two fascinating worlds.
The Institute itself is a sight to behold. Its traditional Japanese architecture, reminiscent of an aristocratic home from the Heian period, transports you to a different time and place. Yoshida Isoya, the architect, carefully selected materials like wood, cloth wall coverings, gold surfaces, curtains, and Japanese paper sliding doors to recreate the authentic aesthetic.
Tranquility in a Japanese Garden
Stepping out onto the porch, or tsuridono, you’ll find yourself in a serene Japanese garden. This oasis of calm features one of the few Japanese cherry trees in Rome, a breathtaking symbol of spring. The garden embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics: wide rocks, carefully placed plants, and a peaceful water pond, all designed to evoke a sense of order, simplicity, and harmony.
This stunning landscape isn’t the only example of Japanese garden design in Rome. The Rome Botanical Gardens in Trastevere also boast a Japanese section, conceived by the same landscape architect, Ken Nakajima.
Although the Institute’s outdoor space is currently under renovation, you can still experience its beauty. Free tours of the garden are usually offered during spring and fall. Simply call (T. 06.9484.4655) to schedule your 30-minute stroll through this tranquil haven.
Exploring Japanese Culture Through Programs and Activities
The Institute isn’t just about beautiful architecture and gardens; it’s a vibrant hub for exploring Japanese culture. You can immerse yourself in a world of language, art, and music through a variety of programs.
Weekly language classes, culture classes, concerts, and exhibitions offer a rich tapestry of learning experiences.
The Institute regularly hosts Japanese film screenings with Italian subtitles and free cultural activities, attracting a diverse audience eager to delve deeper into Japanese society, trends, and current affairs.
Every year, the Institute presents a captivating program of photographic exhibitions, traditional and contemporary music performances, and theater shows that celebrate the artistic heritage of Japan.
A Library of Japanese Delights
For those seeking a deeper literary immersion, the Institute’s library is a treasure trove of Japanese literature. With over 36,000 books, spanning a wide range of topics in Japanese, English, Italian, and French, it boasts the largest collection of its kind in Italy.
Browse novels, history books, literary works, and over 100 magazines, all designed to illuminate the multifaceted world of Japanese culture. The library also offers access to a vast collection of e-books, academic dissertations, CDs, documentaries, and movies. Students and scholars can also explore online databases, including the Bibliography of Asian Studies, Japan Web, and the digital newspaper “Asahi Shimbun”.
To ensure your visit to the library, be sure to email the Institute at [email protected] with your preferred date and time.
Library Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 2 pm – 5 pm
Closed:
- Last working day of each month
- Italian holidays
- August
- Year end
The Japanese Cultural Institute in Rome is a true gem, offering a unique gateway to the world of Japanese culture. From serene gardens and traditional architecture to a rich library and diverse program of events, this is a place where you can discover the magic of the Rising Sun, right here in Italy.
