The Centro Culturale Italo Giapponese is an Association bringing Italy and Japan closero and it peratess in Kyoto and Osaka.

The Italian Institute of Japan is a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation with a history dating back to 1938 when it was established as the Kyoto-Italian Society.  It was later officially recognized as a foundation by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 1969. With the purpose of promoting Italian culture and mutual understanding in the Kansai region, the Institute offers a wide range of activities, including Italian language courses, publishing activities, and cultural seminars in Kyoto and Osaka.

Italian Language Lessons

Language courses are both one to one classes or group lessons. There are Japanese and Italian teachers, and classes are both in person or online. For those studying or curious to know more about Italian literature and grammar, the institute’s website gathers a series of YouTube video classes. They are available for everybody to watch:  http://italiakaikan.jp/italian/movie/index.html 

Cultural activities

The Institute offers a wide range of seminars on Italian culture conducted by experts in their respective fields. These seminars cover various topics such as Italian art, history, music, cuisine, history, and lifestyle.

Publications  

Publications are mainly of two kinds, both in Japanese. On one side, the free newsletter published once per month on the website provides information to make readers feel closer to Italy, with topics such as travel experiences, literary discussions, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes. Conversely, the journal “Italiana” is an academic publication about art, literature, film, politics, and the economy.

Study abroad support

The Institute advocates the effectiveness of learning a language in its native environment and promotes a Study Abroad program for students wishing to strengthen their language skills in Italy. They connect students with partner schools across Italy, offering support with the procedures. The classes range from short-term programs lasting about a week, which can double as vacations, to long-term programs spanning over a year. 

For those interested in the restaurant industry, a culinary study abroad professional course is possible too.

Searching for an association strenghtening Italy and Japan relationships in Tokyo? Check the article Italian Association in Japan: AIG-Associazione Italo Giapponese (Tokyo)