The Embassy of Japan in Tel Aviv is a diplomatic and consular mission that supports relations between Japan and Israel, including economic, technological, defense, and cultural cooperation. It also provides consular services and promotes cultural exchange between the two countries.
The embassy is in The Museum Tower at 4 Berkovitz Street, Tel Aviv 6423806, near the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Rabin Square. Consular visits require an appointment. Some cultural events also require advance registration or tickets; updates are published on the embassy’s official website.
The embassy supports organizations such as the Israel-Japan Friendship Society and hosts cultural programs, including workshops, lectures, and festivals. Its work reflects historical and humanitarian ties between Japan and Israel, including the legacy of Chiune Sugihara.
For current information, consult the official Embassy of Japan in Israel website.
History and Japan-Israel Relations
Japan-Israel diplomatic relations were established on May 15, 1952. Japan’s ambassador to Turkey initially covered Israel in 1954. The Tel Aviv legation opened in 1955 and was upgraded to an embassy in 1963.
Key developments in the relationship include:
- 1993 A double taxation agreement was signed, boosting economic ties.
- 2000 An air services agreement was signed, paving the way for direct flights.
- 2014–2018 Reciprocal prime ministerial visits advanced security and investment dialogue.
- 2022 A defense cooperation agreement focused on technology sharing.
- 2023 A Work-Holiday agreement was signed and El Al launched direct flights.
Trade volume reached $3.574 billion in 2022, and Japan is a significant investor in Israel’s high-tech sector. The embassy and the Israel-Japan Friendship Society organize academic and cultural exchange through events, workshops, and lectures.
Chiune Sugihara, who saved thousands of Jews during WWII, is commemorated in bilateral events (Jerusalem Post). Israeli aid after Japan’s 2011 earthquake also strengthened ties.
Cultural Programs and Events
The embassy’s cultural programs include:
- Workshops and lectures on Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, martial arts, and other subjects.
- Festivals celebrating Japanese holidays, music, and cuisine.
- Events at ANU Museum and art galleries, often in partnership with the Israel-Japan Friendship Society (Israel-Japan Friendship Society).
Most cultural events are free, though some require advance registration, tickets, or Israel-Japan Friendship Society membership. Schedules and ticketing details are posted on the Embassy's events page and related social media.
Visiting Information
Hours and Appointments
- Regular hours Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, excluding Israeli and Japanese holidays. Primary consular service hours are 9:30 AM–12:30 PM (EmbassyPages).
- Appointments Required for all consular services, including visa applications and passport renewals. Book through the official appointment system.
- Holiday changes Hours may vary on holidays; check the official website for updates.
Entry, Tickets, and Security
Tickets are not required for consular visits. Bring valid ID and your appointment confirmation, and expect security screening at the entrance. Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Large bags and certain electronic devices may be restricted. Photography is not permitted inside.
Location, Access, and Transport
The embassy is on the 19th–20th floors—or the 27th floor, according to some listings—of Museum Tower, 4 Berkovitz Street, Tel Aviv 6423806 (Embassy Info; Embassies.info).
The Museum Tower is a modern skyscraper with secure access and panoramic views. The building and embassy offices are wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps connecting the floors (Embassy Info). Notify the embassy in advance if you need special assistance.
The area is served by extensive bus routes and nearby taxi stands. Paid parking is available, including in the adjacent museum parking lot (Miss Tourist). Ben Gurion International Airport is about 30–40 minutes away by car.
Staff speak Japanese, English, and Hebrew. Signage is in English and Hebrew, with some Japanese-language materials.
Consular and Visa Services
For Japanese nationals:
- Passport renewal and issuance, with processing taking 7–10 business days.
- Family registry and notarial services, including registration of births and marriages and document authentication.
- 24/7 emergency assistance; Japanese nationals are advised to register with the embassy on arrival.
For Israeli citizens and residents:
- Short-term, business, study, work, and cultural visa applications (Visa Info).
- Visa applicants should prepare the required documents, make an appointment, submit the application in person, and pay fees in cash in ILS or JPY. Processing takes 5–7 business days.
- Cultural and educational exchange opportunities, including study and work programs, scholarships, and language classes.
- Business facilitation and support for technological and trade missions.
Tips
- Book consular appointments in advance and prepare the required documents.
- Bring valid ID and appointment confirmation, and check for holiday closures.
- Dress appropriately; business casual is recommended.
- Check the embassy’s website for current service hours and cultural event details.
- Explore nearby cultural and historical attractions during your visit.
- Follow the embassy’s official channels for updates and travel tips; the Audiala app is also suggested for travel planning.
Nearby Places
- Tel Aviv Museum of Art Adjacent to the embassy and a premier art destination (Miss Tourist).
- Old Jaffa An ancient port city with galleries and markets.
- Neve Tzedek A historic neighborhood with distinctive architecture and local cafés.
- Israel-Japan Friendship Society Promotes mutual understanding through joint events (Israel-Japan Friendship Society).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the embassy visiting hours?
A: The embassy’s regular hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, excluding Israeli and Japanese holidays. For most consular services, the hours are 9:30 AM–12:30 PM. Confirm current hours on the official website.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: Yes. All consular services require an appointment. Book through the online system.
Q: Is the embassy accessible?
A: Yes. The embassy and Museum Tower are wheelchair accessible.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Bring valid ID and your appointment confirmation for entry. Visa applications require additional documents, as listed online.
Q: Are cultural events ticketed?
A: Most are free. Some require advance registration or Israel-Japan Friendship Society membership.
Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is generally not permitted due to security.
Q: How can I join the Israel-Japan Friendship Society?
A: Visit its website for membership information.
