The Japan-Brazil relationship is a deep and dynamic partnership that bridges two continents and cultures, a connection that stretches back over a century. From historical migrations to robust cultural exchanges, the bilateral relationship between Japan and Brazil is one of the most fascinating examples of cross-cultural integration. At the heart of this connection is a shared history rooted in immigration, trade, and the exchange of traditions. The fusion of Japanese and Brazilian cultures manifests in everything from cuisine to art, creating a lasting legacy of cooperation and creativity. In this factsheet, we explore the key aspects of this cultural confluence and how both countries have enriched each other’s societies through their interactions.

1. Bilateral Relationship Established

The Japan-Brazil diplomatic relationship was formally established in 1895, making it one of Japan’s longest-standing international ties in South America. Over the years, it has flourished into a cultural and economic partnership.

FUN FACT : Japan-Brazil Friendship Day on July 18th celebrates this longstanding relationship.

2. Japanese Population in Brazil

Brazil is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan, with about 1.5 million people of Japanese descent. São Paulo’s Liberdade district is the hub of this vibrant community.

INSIDER TIP : Visit Liberdade on Sundays for Japanese street food like takoyaki and taiyaki, and check out the Bunkyo Cultural Center home to the Museum of Japanese Immigration and a hub for the Nikkei community, for events.

3. Brazilian Presence in Japan

Around 200,000 Brazilians live in Japan, many descendants of early 20th-century Japanese immigrants. This community is often referred to as “Dekasegi”, a term used to describe migrant workers who temporarily move abroad for work, reflecting the status of many individuals in this group. They are significant contributors to Japan’s manufacturing and service sectors.

FUN FACT : Brazilians in Japan often engage in code-switching, mixing Portuguese and Japanese in everyday conversation, especially within families or communities where both languages are spoken.

4. Japan’s Economic Influence in Brazil

Japan is Brazil’s third-largest trading partner in Asia, contributing to industries such as automobiles, electronics, and agriculture. Japanese companies like Toyota and Honda play a vital role in Brazil’s economy.

INSIDER TIP : Take a tour of Toyota and Honda plants in Brazil to explore their high-tech operations.

5. The Coffee Connection

Japanese migration to Brazil was initially spurred by the need for labor in Brazil’s coffee industry. Thousands of Japanese workers helped shape the coffee plantations, leading to ongoing cultural exchange.

FUN FACT : Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer, has Japanese coffee shops merging both cultures’ love for coffee.

6. Japantown in Brazil

Japantown, also called Asiatown in São Paulo’s Liberdade district, is Brazil’s most famous Japanese community, with markets, cultural centers, and restaurants reflecting the Japanese-Brazilian life.

FUN FACT : The Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) is a highlight of Liberdade, featuring traditional performances and martial arts.

7. Japanese Restaurants in Brazil

There are reportedly 7, 585 Japanese restaurants in Brazil as of January 23, 2025; a 3.23% increase from 2023. Sushi has become a staple of Brazilian cuisine; so much so that it is often tweaked with local flavors. Brazilian sushi is quite different to traditional sushi and includes generous amounts of cream cheese, batter and tropical fruits.

INSIDER TIP : Don’t miss trying temaki, a hand roll of Japanese origin that has become a popular street food in Brazil, often served in larger portions and with creative fillings that reflect local tastes.

8. Emigration from Japan to Brazil

Japanese immigration to Brazil began in 1908, with many coming to work in agriculture, especially coffee plantations. This migration began a rich period of cultural exchange.

INSIDER INFORMATION : The first immigrants arrived on the ship Kasato Maru in 1908.

9. Japanese Festivals in Brazil

The Festival do Japão in São Paulo is Brazil’s largest Japanese festival, attracting over 100,000 people each year. It showcases music, food, and cultural performances.

INSIDER TIP : Explore the kimonos and yukatas for sale at the festival, perfect for the Obon Festival.

10. Famous Japanese-Brazilian Figures

Kyoto-born artist Tomie Ohtake, who moved to Brazil in 1913 where she lived to 101 years of age, made significant contributions to Brazilian abstraction and modernism. Zico (Arthur Antunes Coimbra) is a Brazilian football legend who greatly influenced Japanese football, playing for and coaching the Kashima Antlers, as well as managing Japan’s national team.

INSIDER TIP : Visit Ohtake’s Instituto Tomie Ohtake in São Paulo to view her art.

11. Japanese Influence on Brazilian Fashion

Japanese avant-garde fashion has strongly influenced Brazilian designers — like Jum Nakao, Walter Griao, and Alice Yumi Sinzato — especially through minimalism and deconstruction.

FUN FACT : Kimono-inspired cuts and innovative fabric designs are common at São Paulo Fashion Week.

12. Japan’s Impact on Brazilian Music, Art, and Literature

Japanese culture has influenced Brazilian music, blending Bossa Nova rhythms with Japanese jazz instrumentation, fostering unique collaborations. Brazilian literature, including works by authors like Clarice Lispector and Jorge Amado, has found a dedicated following in Japan. Translations of Brazilian works have introduced Japanese readers to the vibrant narratives and colorful characters of Brazil, further deepening the cultural exchange between the two nations.

INSIDER TIP : Enjoy Bossa Nova nights with a Japanese twist at São Paulo jazz bars.

FUN FACT : Jorge Amado’s Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon is widely read in Japan and has been adapted into a successful Japanese drama.

Japan and Brazil continue to embolden and embody one another’s identities, in amiable appreciation and evolving exchange. Their prominent partnership exemplifies how cultures can merge and magnify each other to create something uniquely powerful.