France will play Japan in a two-match series in July as part of their 2022 summer schedule ahead of the Autumn Nations Series.
Les Bleus will play two games on July 2 and 9 against the 2019 World Cup quarter-finalists.
The first game will take place at the Toyota Stadium in Aichi, with a venue still to be announced for the game on 9 July.
France have only played the Brave Blossoms on four previous occasions, the most recent of which a 23-23 draw in 2017 in Paris.
The games will kick-off France’s schedule for the second half of 2022 as they look ahead to both the Autumn Nations Series in 2022, and their home World Cup in 2023.
In last year’s Autumn Nations Series, France claimed wins over Argentina and Georgia before also securing a stunning 40-25 success over New Zealand.
Les Bleus are currently leading the 2022 Guinness Six Nations, with Fabien Galthié’s men on course for the Grand Slam and a first Championship title since 2010 after recording wins over Italy, Ireland and Scotland.
“On behalf of the JRFU and the entire Japanese rugby family, I would like to express our sincere delight that the French national team will tour Japan this summer,” Shigetaka Mori, the JRFU president said.
“Les Bleus are playing remarkably well in the Six Nations Championship and continue to develop a potent style of play, combining power and speed with their traditional flair.
“With France due to host the Rugby World Cup in 2023, they are emerging as strong contenders for their home tournament.”
Bernard Laporte, the Federation Francaise Rugby (FFR) president, said: “Japan is now a major rugby nation.
“Their performance during the last World Cup showed the ability of this team to compete with the best. It is the first time that the XV de France is going to Japan for a Summer Tour.
“I would like to thank the Japan Rugby Football Union and president Shigetaka Mori for having us and I am delighted that our teams can meet on the pitch. With Rugby World Cup 2023 coming up, it is crucial to play against opponents of the greatest quality.”
