Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario, will host the Japan Studies Association of Canada Conference from October 15-18, 2026. The theme for the conference is “Currents of Change: Navigating Beyond the Mist," reflecting not only the dynamics of change in society and the importance of navigating complex matters but also giving recognition to Niagara’s unique waterways and landscape and its premier attraction of Niagara Falls (and the ‘Mist’ generated by the Falls). Brock University is situated on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples and is located within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The conference is open to students and scholars of all levels as well as community members, businesses and partners to exchange ideas on the study of Japan and Japan-Canada relations.

October is a beautiful season in Niagara with the autumn colouring of the leaves. The Niagara Region is also home to historic Niagara-on-the-Lake (a National Historic Site of Canada) and over 100 wineries. The Niagara Peninsula is bordered by Lake Ontario and Lake Erie and the Niagara River; and ships can be seen navigating the Welland Canal, part of the St Lawrence Seaway. Niagara is Ontario’s premier tourism destination and for conference participants wanting to extend their stay, there is a lot to see in the region.

The Niagara Region is located close to Toronto Pearson International Airport, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport in Ontario. In addition, there is the Buffalo Niagara International Airport in New York State, USA.