The Japan-Netherlands Institute was founded in 1975 to promote academic and cultural cooperation and exchange between Japan and the Netherlands. The unique historical relations between both countries—for more than two centuries Holland was the only western country with which Japan had contact—are not only actively studied by the Institute, but also provide an inspiring background for present-day cooperation and exchange in culture and the sciences. Since its foundation, 35 years ago, the activities of the Institute have grown remarkably and contributed in a meaningful way to closer relations between Japan and the Netherlands. In recognition of this fact the Institute received in October 1986 the Japan Foundation’s special prize for contributions to cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and other countries. Since then the Institute has put much emphasis on supporting Dutch scholars and students visiting Japan. In 1999, through the courtesy of Chuo City within the Tokyo metropolis which has particularly close historical relations with the Netherlands, the Institute moved to its new premises in central Tokyo. In April 2000, the new premises were officially inaugurated by His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange on the occasion of his visit to commemorate 400 years of Dutch-Japanese relations. Membership is open to all with an interest in Dutch culture and science, the history of the relations between Japan and the Netherlands, or modern Japan in all its aspects.