This article explores the history of contact between Europe and Japan, beginning with the ancient times when traders exchanged goods, to the arrival of Portuguese explorers in 1543 and Dutch traders in 1609. It then looks at the establishment of trade relations during the Edo period, before discussing Commodore Matthew Perry's arrival in 1853 which opened up Japan to foreign visitors. Finally, it examines how cultural exchange between Europe and Japan has impacted both continents over time.