On 26 August 1858, James Bruce, eighth Earl of Elgin and 12th Earl of Kincardine, arrived in Japan to sign a Treaty of Amity and Commerce, initiating diplomatic links between Japan and England. It was the first time an Englishman had set foot on Japanese soil since 1600, when William Adams, a navigator from Kent, was shipwrecked there (as celebrated in the novel Shogun). Soon afterwards Japan closed its borders to foreigners for 250 years, and a tumultuous period of history began between the two nations. Eventually, in 1868, Japan’s shogun was toppled, the emperor restored and a new government formed that was determined to establish, on the whole, good relations with Britain. Here’s how you can join in the celebrations:
Yoshitomo Nara
An interactive show of art and sculpture from the celebrated Pop Artist, Yoshitomo Nara. This is his first public exhibition in the UK. Until 26 October, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead (+44 (0)191 478 1810, balticmill.com)
Beyond Diplomacy
This celebratory exhibition commemorates the 150th anniversary of the opening of diplomatic relations between Japan and the UK, using rare photo panels, documents and artefacts. 1 September-31 October, Embassy of Japan, London (+44 (0)20 7465 6500, uk.emb-japan.go.jp)
Way Out East: 16th Raindance Film Festival
Festival of independent films highlighting new Japanese directors. 1-12 October, venues across London (+44 (0)20 7287 3833, raindance.co.uk)
Kakehashi Koto Ensemble
A workshop of traditional Japanese music, followed by a benefit concert in aid of Royal National Institute of Blind People. 3 October, Trefusis Hall, London (+44 (0)20 7485 2206)
Masterpieces of Ukiyo-e
An exhibition of the museum’s collection of woodblock prints. 12 December-15 March 2009, Victoria & Albert Museum, London (+44 (0)20 7942 2000, vam.ac.uk)
For more details, visit uk.emb-japan.go.jp. Lesley Downer is the author of The Last Concubine (£12.99, Bantam Press).
