History of Ireland–Japan relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 8, 2025

Ireland and Japan maintain positive bilateral relations, both being members of the OECD. Diplomatic relations were established in 1957. Ireland has an embassy in Tokyo and Japan has an embassy in Dublin. Trade and investment are key aspects of the relationship, with both countries exploring further opportunities for collaboration. Cultural exchange is also promoted, fostering understanding and friendship between the two nations. While geographically distant, Ireland and Japan share common values and interests, contributing to a strong and enduring partnership.

March 1957: Establishment of diplomatic relations

In March 1957, Ireland and Japan officially established diplomatic relations, marking Japan as the first east-Asian country to establish diplomatic links with Ireland.

1964: Upgrade of diplomatic legation

In 1964, Japan upgraded its diplomatic legation in Dublin to an embassy.

1973: Opening of Irish embassy in Tokyo

In 1973, Ireland opened a resident embassy in Tokyo.

1974: Agreement on taxation and fiscal evasion

In 1974, Ireland and Japan signed an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.

September 1983: Irish Presidential Visit

In September 1983, Irish President Patrick Hillery became the first Irish head of state to visit Japan.

1985: Japanese Royal Visit to Ireland

In 1985, Japanese Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko paid a visit to Ireland.

2005: Return Visit as Emperor and Empress

In 2005, the Japanese Royal couple, previously Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko, returned to Ireland as Emperor and Empress of Japan.

2007: Working holiday visa agreement

In 2007, Ireland and Japan signed an agreement on a working holiday visa and an agreement to further consolidate bilateral political, economic and cultural ties and to promote mutual understanding.

2011: Agreement on Social Security

In 2011, Ireland and Japan signed an agreement on social security.

June 2013: Japanese Prime Minister's Visit

In June 2013, Shinzō Abe became the first Japanese Prime Minister to visit Ireland.

2016: Visa Exemption Agreement

In 2016, Ireland and Japan signed an agreement on visa exemption of 6 months for citizens of both countries.

2016: Trade between Ireland and Japan

In 2016, trade between Ireland and Japan totaled US$6.9 billion. Ireland's main exports to Japan are optical instruments and medicines, while Japan's main exports to Ireland are medicines and cars.