The Japan Society is delighted to announce our inaugural lecture in memory of our former chair (1985-1995), Sir Hugh Cortazzi GCMG (1924-2018). Sir Hugh was a British Diplomat, in addition to being a distinguished international businessman, academic, author and prominent Japanologist. He was Ambassador from the United Kingdom to Japan (1980–84), President of the Asiatic Society of Japan (1982–1983), and received the Grand Cordon of the Sacred Treasure. 

Sir Hugh served in the British Foreign Office, with three stints in Tokyo (1951-1954, 1966-1970, and 1980-1984). After retiring from public service Sir Hugh remained at the centre of UK Japan relations in his role as chair of The Japan Society and through his many publications. Particular highlights include Sir Hugh’s 2006 translation of then Crown Prince Naruhito’s account of his time in Oxford, The Thames and I, and a central role in the 1991 Japan Festival.

In this inaugural lecture, Mami Mizutori will speak on ‘The Importance of Diplomacy’, a subject very close to Sir Hugh’s heart. We are delighted that Ms Mizutori, who has a close relationship with the Cortazzi family, will share her considerable knowledge and expertise here.  

Ms Mizutori will be introduced by Sir Philip Barton KCMG, OBE, the Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The Japan Society is very grateful to the FCDO for their partnership with this event and for graciously hosting us in the Locarno Suite, the ‘Drawing room for the nation’.

Following the lecture there will be a reception and a chance to meet those joining from Parliament and Whitehall, along with your fellow members.

We are deeply grateful to Lady Elizabeth Cortazzi for her generous support of The Japan Society and this event, as well as to The FCDO for hosting this lecture.

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