The Japanese Film Festival returns for from 27 October to 19 December 2025.
“For almost 30 years, the Japanese Film Festival has been a place of discovery, introducing Australian audiences to the dynamic voices shaping Japanese cinema,” said Mainsay Oudomvillay, Festival Programmer.
“From big screen to intimate dramas, we want audiences to experience the range of creativity of contemporary and classic Japanese storytelling.”

Festivalgoers can look forward to a diverse lineup of brand new releases and special screenings, featuring dramas, anime, comedies and more.
The full program and details will launch on 1 October 2025.

2025 Japanese Film Festival screening dates and venues:
Canberra: 27 October – 18 November at Palace Electric, National Film and Sound Archive
Melbourne: 6 October – 4 December at The Kino, ACMI
Brisbane: 6 November – 4 December at Palace Barracks, Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
Sydney: 12 November – 1 December at Palace Norton Street, Palace Moore Park, Palace Central, Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW)
Perth: 18 – 26 November at Palace Raine Square
ABOUT THE JAPAN FOUNDATION, SYDNEY
The Japan Foundation, Sydney is the Australian arm of the Japan Foundation, which was established by the Japanese government to promote cultural and intellectual exchange between Japan and other nations. It runs a diverse range of programs and events, including exhibitions, talk events, grant programs and Japanese language courses for all levels from beginner to advanced. The Japan Foundation was established in 1972 with a global network of 26 offices in 25 countries. The Australian office was founded in 1978.