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There's no question that Tokyo is the place for anime. From the upcoming Pokémon theme park in Yomiuriland to the Madoka Magica pop-up at Tokyo Skytree, there's something for everyone out there. Here's another event to look forward to, and it's a big one.
In March, Tokyo Big Sight is hosting AnimeJapan 2026, an annual anime convention that's been going since 2014. It's one of the world's largest and only continues to grow in popularity. Last year's iteration welcomed more than 100 exhibitors and over 150,000 guests.
This year is shaping up to be just as big, with some 120 booths from a veritable who's who of animation. You can look forward to exhibitions, branded goods and character merch for hundreds of series from the likes of Aniplex, Bandai and Toei, plus Western companies like Hulu and Netflix.
Dozens of events will take place across four stages: red, green, blue and white. Whether it's classics like Magic Knight Rayearth, modern hits like Mushoku Tensei or upcoming projects like Steel Ball Run, each event allows you the chance to view trailers, check out show footage or sit in on panel discussions with cast members (in Japanese, natch).
If your nihongo is far from jozu, feel free to simply walk around and take in the sights, including the heaps of cosplayers.
If you want to get in on the cosplay action yourself, you must register either in advance or on-site and pay a small registration fee of ¥1,000. You can register online here (in Japanese only) or in person at the Cosplay Area in South Hall 3. There are changing rooms at the venue available from 8am; show up in your everyday clothes and change after you arrive.
Who could forget about food? Grab a bite to eat in the South or East Exhibition Hall, which offer both savoury and sweet dishes from yakisoba and rice bowls to waffles and churros.
If you've got kiddos and are concerned about some of the content at the event being a little too mature for them, not to worry. The 'Family Anime Festa' in the South Exhibition Hall features stage performances, mascot greetings and exhibits starring the likes of Doraemon, Rilakkuma, Miraculous Ladybug and other family-friendly characters.
AnimeJapan 2026 takes place March 28-31 from 9am to 5pm. Note that only the first two days of the event are open to the public, while March 30 and 31 are reserved for businesses only. Tickets come in various types starting from ¥2,500 and can be found here.
By the way, if you want the chance to attend some of the aforementioned stage events, make sure to select the ticket type that includes entry into a stage lottery, available from now until February 24. You can apply for up to five events.
To find more information, check out the AnimeJapan 2026 official website.
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