JAPAN FOUNDATION LIBRARY
If you are looking for a workspace with a touch of Japanese culture, The Japan Foundation Library is a comfortable place to visit.
By Meysa Khadizah
Japan Foundation Library, more commonly known as Koryu Space, is part of The Japan Foundation Jakarta. The Japan Foundation itself was established in Japan in 1972 as an institution dedicated to international cultural exchange.
The Japan Foundation has been present in Jakarta since 1974. Its office later moved to Gedung Summitmas 2 in 2019, and Koryu Space was introduced as a new concept in the same period. This relocation brought a more open and interactive public space for visitors who want to learn more about Japan.
Senayan, South Jakarta · 10.00 – 16.00 (Tue – Sat) · Free entry
The name “Koryu Space” comes from the Japanese word “koryu,” which means “exchange.” This concept fits the purpose of the space as a place for cultural and knowledge exchange between Japan and Indonesia.
Koryu Space is also comfortable for studying and working. With desks, chairs, power outlets, and internet access, it can be used for reading, work, or study. Whether you are learning Japanese, reading manga, or joining an event, Koryu Space offers an easy way to experience Japanese culture in Jakarta.
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES
Regular Programs
Visit JF Jakarta - School & Group Visits
Visit JF Jakarta is a program for school groups or other groups who want to learn more about Japanese culture. The visit may include exploring Koryu Space, watching films, learning about Japanese arts and culture, and practicing Japanese conversation. Groups need to register in advance, and participants must be accompanied by a supervisor.
Japanese Language Education Support
The Japan Foundation also supports Japanese language education in Indonesia. Its programs include language learning support, teaching resources, and cultural exchange activities. These programs are useful for students, teachers, and institutions that focus on Japanese language learning.
Exhibitions
The Sakura Room holds temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The themes usually focus on Japanese art, design, craftsmanship, and culture. These exhibitions are free to visit during opening hours and give visitors another way to experience Japanese culture beyond books.
Annual & Featured Programs
Scholarship Programs
The Japan Foundation provides information about opportunities to study in Japan. Visitors can find information related to scholarships, academic programs, and study pathways through Koryu Space or The Japan Foundation Jakarta.
Alur Bunyi
The Japan Foundation also supports Japanese studies through grant programs. These programs are usually aimed at institutions, researchers, or organizations that want to develop Japanese studies and cultural exchange projects.
Film Screenings
Japanese film screenings are held from time to time at The Japan Foundation Jakarta. The films may include feature films, documentaries, and short films. These screenings are usually free and open to the public.
"A library that feels like home. Comfortable for reading, there are long tables and sofas in the corner near the window with a city view, quiet, with a book collection ranging from anime, children's reads, to adult books and Japanese culture."
— Lisa Antoinette, Google Reviews
WHAT VISITORS SAY
"A very good place, with a comprehensive book collection. A frequent schedule of activities in Hall Sakura regarding Japanese festivals all year long. Learn and experience a glimpse of Japan here."
— Happy Couple, Google Reviews
"Although not very spacious, it is a great place to get to know Japan. There are many original Japanese books and comics from children to adults, as well as original Japanese games that can be used. There are also books about Japan in English, and for those preparing for the JLPT N1–N5, there are practice books available."
— Abu Haykal, Google Reviews
Manga
Collection
COLLECTIONS
15,000
Titles
Japanese & English
Downloaded
Main Collection Categories
Japanese Literature
Learning
Culture
Children's Books
Newspapers & Magazines
Languages
Collection Focus
Japanese
English
Indonesian
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Japanese, English, and literature
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JLPT preparation books
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Manga and graphic materials
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Japanese culture & history
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Art, design, and crafts
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Children's and youth materials
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Rule
To borrow books from the Japan Foundation Library, become a member.
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Price
Rp 50,000 (Annual Membership) (Cash only)
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Benefits
1. Borrow up to 3 books
2. Loan period: 3 weeks
MEMBERSHIP
FACILITIES
Reading Area
Comfortable tables, couch seating, and natural lighting throughout the space for focused study and relaxation.
Lockers
Secured storage facilities with individual lockers and reception assistance for your personal belongings.
Free Corner
Take-home collection of books, magazines, brochures, and educational materials available for all visitors.
Origami Corner
Interactive creative space with supplies and instructions for traditional Japanese paper folding activities.
Stamp Center
Commemorative stamp collection station featuring limited-edition designs celebrating Japanese culture and library milestones.
Sakura Room
Professional exhibition space for temporary cultural displays, art installations, and community showcases.
Other Facilities
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Musala (Prayer Room)
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Free WiFi
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Toilets
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Café & Food Tenants
Space Area
Stepping inside Koryu Space feels warm and connected to Japanese culture. The interior has a modern and minimalist look, with soft lighting, bamboo plants, and Japanese-style decorations placed around the room. These details make the space visually interesting.
The main reading and co-working area is the heart of Koryu Space. It has long tables, neatly arranged chairs, bookshelves, and a bright interior supported by window light and ceiling lights.
The long tables make the space suitable for different activities. Visitors can read, study Japanese, work on a laptop, or spend time with books and learning materials in one shared area.
Main Reading & Co-Working Area
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Power outlets are available at the tables, which makes the space practical for students and workers. This detail is useful for visitors who need to stay longer and use their devices while studying or working.
Even though the area is shared, the layout still feels organized. The tables, chairs, bookshelves, and lighting create a simple but functional space where visitors can focus without feeling too formal.
Some quieter spots in the main space are suitable for individual study. These areas are usually found near the windows or in parts of the room that feel less crowded.
The seating arrangement gives visitors a more personal space while still staying connected to the main reading area. This makes it useful for reading, writing, language study, or focused laptop work.
Individual Study Area
Natural light from the windows helps the area feel brighter and more comfortable. The calmer position also makes it easier for visitors to concentrate for a longer time.
This part of Koryu Space works well for visitors who prefer studying alone. It gives a quieter option inside the shared room without making the space feel isolated.
Japanese cultural displays can be found around the reading space. These displays may include figurines, traditional objects, decorations, posters, and visual materials placed on shelves or walls.
The displays give the room a stronger cultural identity. They make the space feel connected to Japan without turning it into a formal museum.
Cultural Display Area
As visitors move through the room, these small details become part of the experience. They give people something to notice between reading, studying, or browsing the shelves.
This cultural display area makes Koryu Space feel more immersive. The books, language materials, and visual objects work together to create a space that introduces Japanese culture in a simple and approachable way.
The Free Corner is one of the thoughtful parts of Koryu Space. This section provides books, magazines, brochures, flyers, and information materials that visitors can take home for free.
The materials usually include information about Japanese culture, language programs, events, scholarships, and Japan Foundation activities. Because of this, the corner works as a small information point inside the library.
Free Corner
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The Free Corner is easy to access during a visit. Visitors can browse the available materials and take anything that is useful or interesting to them.
This section adds a practical function to Koryu Space. It allows visitors to continue exploring Japanese culture and information even after leaving the library.
Next to Koryu Space, there is the Sakura Room, an exhibition space for temporary displays. This room adds a visual and cultural extension to the reading area.
The exhibitions usually focus on Japanese art, design, culture, and community projects. Because the themes can change, the Sakura Room may offer a different experience depending on when visitors come.
Sakura Room
Its location beside Koryu Space makes it easy to move between reading and exhibition viewing. Visitors can spend time with books first, then continue to the Sakura Room to see visual works or cultural displays.
When an exhibition is open, the visit feels more complete. The Sakura Room gives visitors another way to experience Japanese culture beyond books, language materials, and study activities.
HOW IT FEELS TO SPEND TIME HERE
On a Weekday Morning or Afternoon
In the morning, the library feels quiet and focused. The number of visitors is usually lower, so it is easier to choose a seat, browse the shelves, or study without many distractions. This time is suitable for visitors who want to read, prepare for German language exams, or spend time in a calm environment.
Spending time at Koryu Space feels peaceful and easy. Even though it is located inside an office building in a busy area of Jakarta, the library feels separated from the noise outside.
During Study or Work Time
For visitors who come to study or work, Koryu Space feels practical and focused. The long tables, neat seating arrangement, and power outlets make it easy to use a laptop, read learning materials, or study Japanese for a longer time. Even though the space is shared, the atmosphere usually stays calm and respectful.
During Exhibition Periods
When the Sakura Room has an exhibition, the atmosphere becomes livelier. Visitors may move between the gallery and the reading space, so the visit feels more varied. The exhibitions add a creative side to the library experience, especially when they introduce Japanese art, design, or cultural themes. Even so, the reading area usually remains calm and organized.
Location & Access
How to Enter
Address
Summitmas II Lt. 1
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav.
61–62
Senayan, South Jakarta
Nearest Transit
- MRT Senayan Mastercard
- (Exit D – 3–5 min walk)
- TransJakarta Bundaran Senayan
01
02
03
Pass the security check at the Summitmas 2 Building
Scan the visitor registration QR code and submit the form at the entrance.
Store your belongings in the lockers provided.
Tip:
Visit between 09.30–12.30 or 13.30–16.30 on weekdays, because Koryu Space has a break time from 12.30 to 13.30.