The idea of creating a place offering French citizens an insight into the Japanese culture came about after the late French president François Mitterand visited Japan, in 1982. The quai Branly location, in the 15th district, was chosen for this purpose. The Japanese cultural center (Maison de la Culture du Japon) opened its doors in 1997. Many aspects of Japan are covered here – language, cinema, poetry and literature, painting, theater, culinary art, etc. If you have a liking for Japan and wish to increase your knowledge of its culture, you will find a lecture and events program on the center’s web site, on www.mcjp.asso.fr. Maison de la culture du Japon à Paris 101 bis, quai Branly 75740 Paris Cedex 15