Embassy of Finland building in Tokyo with clear blue sky

Embassy Of Finland In Tokyo

Visiting the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo, Japan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Visiting the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring diplomatic and cultural connections between Finland and Japan. Established soon after Finland’s independence in 1919 and re-established in 1957 following World War II, the embassy has been a central pillar in fostering cooperation in science, trade, culture, and technology. Nestled in the prestigious Minami-Azabu district of Tokyo, the embassy’s architecture embodies Finnish principles of simplicity and harmony with nature, symbolized by the centuries-old tree in its courtyard—a living testament to the lasting friendship between the two nations.

Though the embassy is not open to the public for casual tours, it remains a vital hub for consular services, visa processing, business facilitation, and cultural exchange. This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, services, location, and practical tips, and underscores the embassy’s pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting Finnish culture in Japan. For current and accurate information, visitors should consult the official embassy website and trusted sources like Finland Abroad and Visit Minato City.

Embassy of Finland in Tokyo building exterior

Embassy of Finland building in Tokyo with Finnish flag

Commemorative artwork celebrating 100 years of Finland-Japan relations

Historical Background of the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Diplomatic Role and Bilateral Relations
Location and Accessibility
Visiting the Embassy: Hours, Appointments, and Contact
Embassy Services and Functions
Nearby Points of Interest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Information for Visitors
Trade, Business, and Cultural Promotion
Public Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange
Visuals and Media
Related Articles and Resources
Stay Connected

Historical Background of the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo

The Embassy of Finland in Tokyo exemplifies over a century of diplomatic relations between Finland and Japan. Official ties began in 1919, soon after Finland’s independence, but were interrupted during World War II in 1944 and resumed in 1957 (Wikipedia: Finland–Japan relations). Since then, the embassy has played a crucial role in nurturing bilateral cooperation in technology, science, trade, and cultural exchange.

The embassy is located in Minami-Azabu—a district noted for its diplomatic presence, with approximately sixty embassies nearby. The current building, completed in 1983, is renowned for its serene atmosphere, highlighted by a centuries-old tree in the courtyard, symbolizing the resilience and continuity of Finnish-Japanese relations (Visit Minato City).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The embassy’s architecture is a reflection of Finnish ideals: simplicity, functionality, and a deep respect for nature. While the embassy grounds are not open for public visits, the design and landscaping—visible from the street—are admired for their tranquility amid bustling Tokyo (Visit Minato City).

Culturally, the embassy serves as a bridge, promoting Finnish art, design, and literature. The popularity of the Moomin series in Japan is supported by embassy-organized cultural events and collaborations with the Finnish Institute in Japan (Finland Abroad: Team Finland).

Diplomatic Role and Bilateral Relations

The Embassy of Finland in Tokyo is the cornerstone of Finland’s diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagement with Japan. Led by Ambassador Tanja Jääskeläinen, the embassy team works with Japanese authorities, Finnish enterprises, and the local Finnish community (Embassies.info). As a key player in the Team Finland network, the embassy promotes Finnish exports, facilitates Japanese investment, and enhances Finland’s image abroad (Finland Abroad: Team Finland).

Major activities include:

Facilitating high-level state visits and events.
Supporting Finnish businesses in Japan through Business Finland.
Advancing scientific, technological, and educational cooperation.
Providing consular services to Finnish nationals.

Location and Accessibility

Address: 3-5-39 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8561
District: Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Nearby Landmarks: Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Tower, Shibuya, Ginza
Public Transport: Easily accessed via subway and bus routes (Embassies.info).

The embassy is situated in a vibrant international district, making it convenient for official visits and accessible for those attending embassy services.

Visiting the Embassy: Hours, Appointments, and Contact

Visiting Hours and Appointments

Customer Service Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 09:00–12:00
- Wednesday: 13:00–17:00
Office Hours: 09:00–12:00 and 13:00–17:15

All visits require an advance appointment. The embassy is not open for public tours or walk-in visits. Visitors must bring valid identification and undergo security screening.

Contact Details

Telephone: +81 3 5447 6000 (inquiries: Tuesday and Friday, 10:00–12:00)
Email: [email protected] (use secure email for sensitive matters)
Official Website: https://finlandabroad.fi/web/jpn/frontpage

Holidays and Closures

The embassy observes both Finnish and Japanese public holidays. Major closures in 2025 include New Year’s (January 1–3), Epiphany (January 6), Coming of Age Day (January 13), National Foundation Day (February 11), Golden Week, and Christmas (Finland Abroad: Holidays). Always check the website or contact the embassy before planning a visit.

Security and Accessibility

Security protocols require all visitors to present valid identification and undergo screening. The embassy is accessible for visitors with disabilities—advance notice for special assistance is recommended.

Embassy Services and Functions

Consular and Citizen Services

Visa and Residence Permit Processing:
Handles Schengen visa applications, residence permits for work, study, or family reunification, and provides updated information on requirements and procedures (Finland Abroad).
Passport and Identity Card Services:
Finnish citizens can renew or apply for passports and ID cards, with biometric data collected during in-person appointments.
Notarial and Legalization Services:
Certification, legalization, and authentication of documents for use in Finland or Japan.
Emergency Assistance:
24/7 support for Finnish nationals in distress through the helpline +358 9 1605 5555 (Finland Abroad: Emergency Services).
Family and Citizenship Matters:
Registration of births, marriages, deaths, and processing of citizenship-related matters.

Business and Trade Promotion

Support for Finnish Companies:
Through Team Finland and Business Finland, the embassy provides market entry advice, business matchmaking, and hosts trade missions (Finland Abroad: Team Finland).

Cultural and Academic Exchange

Event Organization:
The embassy hosts and supports cultural exhibitions, such as the “Tove Jansson and the Moomins” event, and promotes Finnish art, design, and education through collaborations.

Nearby Points of Interest

Roppongi Hills: Shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Tokyo Tower: Iconic landmark offering panoramic city views.
Shibuya and Ginza: Accessible for shopping and cultural experiences (Embassies.info: Nearby Landmarks).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the embassy’s visiting hours?
A: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 09:00–12:00; Wednesday: 13:00–17:00. By appointment only.

Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: Yes, all visits and consular services require prior appointments.

Q: What services does the embassy provide?
A: Consular support (passports, visas, notarial services), business assistance, emergency help, and cultural activities.

Q: Is the embassy accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, but notify the embassy in advance for special assistance.

Q: Can I visit the embassy for a tour?
A: No, the embassy is not open for public tours or casual visits.

Practical Information for Visitors

Bring all required documentation (in English or Japanese) for appointments.
Check the embassy’s website for the latest updates on services and closures.
For urgent consular help, use the 24/7 emergency helpline.
Honorary consulates in Japan provide limited services—details are on the embassy’s site.

Trade, Business, and Cultural Promotion

The embassy actively supports Finnish companies in Japan through Team Finland, offering market insights, networking, and regulatory guidance. Cultural promotion includes art exhibitions, design showcases, and events highlighting Finnish innovation and heritage (Finland Abroad: Team Finland).

Public Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange

Through exhibitions, seminars, and collaborative events, the embassy nurtures mutual understanding and appreciation between Finland and Japan. Popular initiatives include the Moomin exhibition and partnerships with institutions like the Finnish Institute in Japan.

Visuals and Media

View Embassy Location on Google Maps

Images of the embassy, its historic courtyard tree, and nearby landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Roppongi Hills provide a visual context for visitors. Alt tags are optimized for search queries such as “Embassy of Finland Tokyo visiting hours” and “Tokyo diplomatic missions.”

Stay Connected

Follow the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo on X/Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for up-to-date information on services and events. Download the Audiala app for real-time travel alerts, embassy updates, and access to further travel guides.

Summary and Call to Action

The Embassy of Finland in Tokyo is a cornerstone of Finland’s presence in Japan, providing vital diplomatic, consular, business, and cultural services. Its legacy of fostering ties between the two nations is reflected in its historic architecture, robust service portfolio, and proactive public engagement. To make the most of your interaction with the embassy, plan ahead, book appointments as required, and stay connected through official channels.

For the latest information, always consult the Embassy of Finland in Tokyo’s official website and related resources. Download the Audiala app and follow the embassy on social media to remain updated about events, services, and important notices.