Japan’s premier international animation festival returns to Ikebukuro this spring, celebrating cutting-edge animated works from around the world. Under the theme “Tokyo, the Hub of Contemporary Animation,” TAAF 2026 will screen award-nominated feature and short films, host industry awards, and provide hands-on programs for young creators. The festival is co-hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and culminates in the presentation of the Tokyo Governor’s Award to the Competition Grand Prize winner.

Alongside global competition screenings, TAAF 2026 highlights the breadth of animation culture—from professional accolades like Anime of the Year and Achievement Awards honoring industry legends, to kid-friendly workshops that introduce the basics of animation-making. Select programs will also be available via online streaming.

Programs & Highlights

Competition Screenings: Feature & Short Animation

4 feature films selected from 39 entries (31 countries/regions)

23 short films selected from 997 entries (71 countries/regions)

Awards:

Tokyo Governor’s Award (Grand Prize)

Anime of the Year (industry vote)

Anime Fan Award (fan voting)

Achievement Awards (lifetime contributions to animation)

Kids Workshop (Japanese only)

Workshop: Let’s Make an Animation Using Cut Out Characters

Date & Time: Saturday, March 14, 13:00–16:00

Venue: Toshima Civic Center, 8F Multi-purpose Hall

Eligibility: Children only (from Grade 3)

Capacity: ~30 participants

Fee: ¥1,000

Application: Via official website from February 2 (lottery system)

Information

Start: Mar 13th 2026 at 10:00am

End: Mar 16th 2026 at 8:00pm

TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro, Toshima Civic Center

Ikebukuro-ku

https://animefestival.jp/en/

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