Knowing Me, Knowing You

The True Self in Japanese Cinema

6 February to 31 March 2026

The UK’s largest festival of Japanese cinema, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme (JFTFP), is back again. This is the place where cinema comes alive!

Starting on 6 February, we’re rolling into 34 cinemas nationwide, revisiting favourite spots from Plymouth right up to Orkney — and this year we’re cranking things up with two brand-new stops in Greater Manchester!

Knowing others — let alone ourselves — is not easy, as we behave differently depending on the relationship, environment, or even intention. In an age of advanced digital technology, where imagery can be readily manipulated, it is even harder to define who we, or others, truly are. This notion of identifying the self has been repeatedly explored in cinematic narratives in various ways. However, is it really possible to know our true selves? And if so, would such revelations lead to happiness and freedom, or might they instead bring disastrous and harsh consequences? With these questions in mind, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026 (JFTFP26) showcases some of the most unmissable Japanese films nationwide across the UK. From powerful social crime dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to gender-defining films, fantasy, and horror, the programme offers something for everyone.

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026 is programmed and produced by TAKEKAWA Junko (Japan Foundation, London), with assistance from Charlie KETHERO (Japan Foundation, London) and Christine LUO (Japan Foundation, London) alongside NAKAE Mami (Japan Foundation, Tokyo) and everyone at our partner venues!

Programming was advised upon by NAKAZAKI Kiyomi, SEKIGUCHI Satoko, and Dr. Alexander JACOBY.

 

<Special guests for JFTFP26>

Featuring Q&As at select screenings with directors IIZUKA Kasho (Blue Boy Trial), YOSHIDA Daihachi (Teki Cometh), and KAI Sayaka (Adabana).

For more information about these Q&A sessions, please see our News page.