From an encounter
to a tradition.
In 2009, amid Indonesia–Japan diplomatic relations already in their fifth decade, a simple idea was born: what if these two nations met not at the negotiating table, but in an open field, with music, food, and tradition?
Jak-Japan Matsuri was first held as a collaboration between the Embassy of Japan in Indonesia, the Jakarta Provincial Government, and various private partners. Its purpose was singular — to deepen mutual understanding and friendship between the people of both nations.
In its early years, the festival occupied various locations around Jakarta, including the area around the National Monument (Monas) and several shopping centers, depending on each year's concept. In 2023, JJM was held at Gambir Expo, JIExpo Kemayoran — coinciding with the celebration of 65 years of Japan–Indonesia diplomatic relations.
Since 2024, the festival has been held at Plaza Parkir Timur Gelora Bung Karno, a spacious outdoor area in the heart of Jakarta that allows the festival's scale to grow without compromise. The "Exploring Japan" theme was introduced that same year, transforming JJM from a mere entertainment festival into an interactive cultural experience.
In November 2020, amid the pandemic that canceled that year's edition, Yayasan Jabat Hati Indonesia Jepang was officially registered with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia. This foundation became the parent organization that now maintains the sustainable management of JJM — ensuring the festival lives on, edition after edition.
Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs recognized JJM 2025 as the largest Japanese cultural event in Indonesia. The 16th edition in 2026 is currently in preparation.