The Japan International MANGA Award 2026, a vibrant Global Manga Creativity Hub, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, calls on dynamic manga creators worldwide to share their artistry in a transformative celebration of manga culture. Initiated in 2007 by then-Minister Taro Aso, this world-renowned comic art contest fosters cross-cultural exchange and global connectivity through manga’s universal storytelling. With 750+ entries from 97 countries in the cycle, it garnered 3.2 million+ social media impressions. Aligned with UN SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), it champions visual storytelling and cultural innovation.

The edition focuses on three artistic pillars: Storytelling Excellence, emphasizing emotionally resonant narratives; Artistic Innovation, showcasing unique visual styles and panel dynamics; and Global Impact, highlighting manga’s role in uniting diverse audiences. The ceremony at Tokyo’s Meiji Kinenkan celebrated creators like Vietnam’s Linh Nguyen, whose work reached 600,000+ viewers. Judged by industry icons like Tetsuya Chiba and Hakusensha editors, entries are evaluated for creative brilliance, originality, and cultural significance, using digital curation platforms for enhanced selection. The contest welcomes professional and emerging artists, fostering inclusivity across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America.

The Japan International MANGA Award features four award tiers: the Gold Award for the standout submission, Silver Awards for three exceptional works, Bronze Awards for up to eleven entries, and a Special Encouragement Award for a notable bronze-tier work. The cycle honored 16 awardees, with winners from Indonesia, Mexico, and Egypt recognized for innovative storytelling. Participants join online masterclasses guided by Japan Foundation experts to refine narrative techniques and visual composition. Networking forums, including meetups with Shonen Jump editors, connect artists to Kadokawa, Shogakukan, and Kodansha, key players in Japan’s $4 billion manga market.

Since 2007, the contest has elevated global manga visionaries, with 350+ entries from 62 countries. Conducted in English and Japanese, it ensures global accessibility, spotlighting works from India, Brazil, and Thailand. Supported by the Japan Cartoonists Association, the cycle targets 850+ submissions, with exhibitions at Tokyo’s Mori Arts Center and Osaka’s cultural festivals, reaching 1.8 million+ impressions. Join manga trailblazers to amplify global cultural narratives, inspire cross-border artistry, and shape manga’s future at Japan International MANGA Award.

Selections are announced with a ceremony in Tokyo. Unleash your manga creativity, foster global unity, and make a lasting impact with Japan International MANGA Award 2026!

Japan International MANGA Award Program in Japan:

Host Country:

•Japan

Host Institution:

•Japan Cartoonists Association

Program Location:

•Tokyo

Award Program Duration:

•7 days

Award of the Japan International MANGA Award Program in Japan:

•Gold Award – Best manga work (Certificate + Trophy + Invitation to Japan)

•Silver Awards – 3 excellent works (Certificate + Trophy + Invitation to Japan)

•Bronze Awards – Approx. 11 works (Certificate only)

•Special Encouragement Award – May be awarded to one outstanding entry (Certificate only a chance to explore Japanese culture and sites).

Eligibility Criteria for Japan MANGA Award Program:

1. The submitted work must consist of more than 16 pages in total.

2. Both published and unpublished works are eligible for submission.

3. Previously awarded works are not eligible for entry.

4. The submitted work must have been created within the last three years.

5. The work must not violate any third party’s intellectual property rights.

6. The entry must be the original creation of the applicant.

7. Works entirely generated by AI (including plot, composition, and artwork) will not be accepted.

8. If AI tools are partially used, applicants must declare the extent of AI use in the submission form.

9. Entries must be submitted in PDF format (printed/scanned pages are allowed if drawn by hand).

10. Only one entry per applicant is allowed; additional entries will be disqualified.

11. The applicant must be a non-Japanese national.

Program Deadline:

• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.

• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in June 2026!

Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.