National Library opens special exhibition on December 12

The Ministry of Culture and Youth, through the National Library System (SINABI), invites the public to enjoy the exhibition “Japan: A Historical and Cultural Visit to Costa Rica,” organized by the National Library as part of its cultural activities for this month.

This exhibition is the result of a collaboration between the Embassy of Japan in Costa Rica and the National Library, which have joined forces to offer a visual, historical, and symbolic journey through the connections that have strengthened ties between the two countries for almost a century.

Opening and availability

It will be inaugurated on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.>, in person at the National Library and with virtual transmission via its official Facebook page.

  • The exhibition will be open from December 12, 2025, to January 30, 2026, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For more information, the public can contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 2257-4814.

Japanese Garden at Lancaster Botanical Garden

A friendship spanning almost a century

The Japanese cultural presence in Costa Rica has been constant and enriching, expressed through its art, traditions, and dynamic bilateral cooperation. Besides exhibitions like this one, there are also iconic places like the Japanese Garden at the Lancaster Botanical Garden, donated by Japan, as well as the widespread dissemination of cultural elements such as anime, language, literature, martial arts, and cuisine.

Diplomatic relations between Costa Rica and Japan are characterized by friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect. Official ties began in 1928 with the exchange of autographed notes between then-Costa Rican President Cleto González Víquez and His Majesty Emperor Hirohito (Showa Tenno). These ties were formalized in 1935.

Cultural diplomacy between Costa Rica and Japan

During World War II, relations were interrupted, but resumed in 1952 after the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty, ushering in a new chapter of collaboration. Since then, both countries have maintained a constant dialogue based on democratic principles, multilateralism, and the promotion of peace.

Today, Costa Rica and Japan maintain a strong relationship focused on innovation, sustainability, technical cooperation, and the strengthening of shared values, especially in the areas of peace, the environment, and human development.

Sensorial Sunsets