***Full disclosure... I work here, but not in the library, so I hope it's okay for me to tell you all about how brilliant it is.***
I wish I knew about the Japan Foundation while I was still studying at SOAS (the School of African and Oriental Studies) which is located just the other side of Russell Square. For anyone with an interest in Japanese culture, or who wants to study (or teach) Japanese, this place is incredibly useful.
There is a fantastic library with the largest collection of Japanese study resources in the UK (I think there are over 8,500 items...) If you are thinking about studying for the Japanese Language Proficiency test, this is definitely the best place to come and look at text books!! If you are a teacher you can become a full member, in which case they are even able to send you books in the post (if you can't make it into London to choose resources yourself.) In addition to books you can borrow a whole range of DVDs, CDs, karuta (card games), games etc. to make fantastic Japan-related lessons.
There are also a huge range of Japan-related events held here (you can peek at the website to find out what is happening at the moment: http://www.jpf.org.uk/whatson.php) What's more; the majority of events are free - Yatta!! read more