15 Whitehall office
PR Activity
JLGC’s PR activities continue to highlight regional innovation, business collaboration, and cultural exchange. Through events that bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, we aim to support sustainable growth and knowledge exchange. We also feature regional foods and tourism initiatives from Japan through our ‘Local Eyes Japan’ series, which introduces lesser-known destinations and culinary delights from the 47 prefectures.
Stay connected with our social media channels—Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram—and our website blog for the latest updates.
Our business development efforts include supporting Japan’s local government promoting opportunities in technology and industrial sectors, fostering international collaboration and growth. For more updates, follow us on social media and visit our website.
JETAA Chapters applying for Grant-in-aid
JETAA UK chapters across the country have submitted their annual Grant-in-Aid (GiA) applications to the Japan Local Government Centre to help fund events and activities that promote UK–Japan links and support the JET alumni community. Thanks to this funding, chapters will be hosting a range of cultural, networking, and social events throughout the year. Whether you’re a recent returnee or a long-time alum, we encourage you to get involved—there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye on the JETAA UK website, and be sure to sign up to the newsletter and social media channels for the latest updates and event listings in your area.
JET PDO and Reception
On 23 June 2025, new UK participants of the JET Programme attended their Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) in London, followed by a formal reception at the Embassy of Japan. The orientation, held at SOAS, provided essential guidance on travel, visa procedures, teaching duties, and life in Japan, with presentations from former JET participants offering practical insights. Later in the day, the Embassy of Japan hosted a send-off reception in partnership with the Japan Local Government Centre (JLGC), London. Attendees heard speeches from the Ambassador and JET alumni, received their passports and visas, and had the opportunity to meet embassy staff, JLGC representatives, and fellow JETs. The day marked an important milestone in preparing this year’s participants for their departure to Japan.
Sakura Festival Copenhagen, Experience Japan Dublin, Japan Tag Dusseldorf
In spring and early summer 2025, staff from the Japan Local Government Centre (JLGC), London, attended three major Japan-themed festivals across Europe—Sakura Festival Copenhagen, Experience Japan Dublin, and Japan Tag Düsseldorf—to promote Japan’s diverse regions and local governments. These vibrant events showcased Japanese culture through performances, workshops, food, and community engagement, attracting thousands of visitors keen to explore Japan’s heritage and contemporary life. JLGC used the opportunity to highlight regional attractions, foster people-to-people connections, and support international cooperation by sharing insights on Japan’s local governance, tourism initiatives, and cultural exchange. Their participation reinforced JLGC’s mission to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen ties between Japan’s regions and European audiences.
JST Sendai 2026 Applications now open
Applications are now open for senior public sector professionals from the UK and Northern Europe to join the Japan Study Tour in Tokyo and Sendai, taking place from 18 to 24 January 2026. This exclusive week-long programme offers a unique opportunity to engage with Japanese local government leaders, explore innovative regional governance, and build international networks. Interested candidates passionate about regional development and public service innovation are encouraged to apply by 30 September. For more details see here and contact details to register interest. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable global insights and bring practical lessons back to your organisation.
