The Japan International MANGA Award honors non-Japanese manga artists who contribute to the global promotion of manga culture. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs established the Japan International MANGA Award in 2007 to promote global cultural exchange and mutual understanding through manga. This award recognizes manga artists worldwide who contribute to the growth and spread of manga culture internationally.
Winners receive prestigious accolades and an invitation to engage with industry professionals in Japan. With categories ranging from the coveted Gold Award to the esteemed Silver and Bronze Awards, participants have ample opportunities to showcase their talent in the Japan International MANGAAward. The application deadline for the 2025 edition is 30 June 2025..
Universities/Institutions Details:
Host Institution: Japan Cartoonists Association
Host Country: Japan
Location: Tokyo
Program Duration: 7 days
Award Ceremony: Planned to be held in Tokyo in February or March 2026.
Study Areas
Manga Creation
Animation
Character Design
Visual Storytelling
Digital Illustration
Japan International MANGA Award Benefits
Gold Award: Given to the best manga work; includes a certificate, trophy, and a 7-day trip to Japan for the award ceremony.
Silver Award: Awarded to three excellent works; includes certificates, trophies, and a 7-day trip to Japan.
Bronze Award: Given to approximately eleven works; includes certificates only.
Special Encouragement Award: Given to a work that ranks above Bronze but below Silver; includes a certificate.
Only Gold and Silver Award winners are invited to Japan for the award ceremony.
Benefits Not Included
Bronze Award Winners: Do not receive an invitation to Japan .
Long-term Academic Opportunities: The award doesn’t provide scholarships or academic placements.
Eligibility Criteria for Japan International MANGA Award
Applicant Eligibility
Either the artist or writer must be a non-Japanese national.
The representative attending Japan (if awarded) must also be a non-Japanese national.
The applicant must own the copyright and have the authority to grant usage rights to the committee.
Overseas publishing companies can apply with the copyright holder’s consent.
By applying, the applicant grants non-commercial usage rights of the work for promotion/publicity.
The committee may exhibit or donate submitted works.
Winners must verify their identity upon receiving the award.
Conditions of Entry
Manga must be over 16 pages.
The award accepts both published and unpublished works, excluding those that have previously won.
Artists must create their work between 2022 and 2025.
Must not violate intellectual property rights.
The committee does not accept AI-generated works as the main content. If you use AI for any part of your work, you must declare it.
Submission must be in PDF format.
If you draw your work on paper, you must scan or photograph it and convert it to a PDF for submission.
Other Conditions
You will not receive your submitted works back.
Submit unpublished works as duplicates.
The committee may revoke your award if it discovers plagiarism or other violations.
Outside Japan: Submit through local Japanese embassy or consulate.
In Japan: Upload link will be provided after submitting the form.
Technical Notes
Application must be in English or Japanese.
Make sure you enter the correct email address—you will receive a confirmation email.
PDF file should be named: FirstLastName.pdf (e.g., TaroGaimu.pdf).
Format your PDF so it prints correctly on A4 size paper (adjust webtoons accordingly).
Include page numbers and mark two-page spreads.
The organizers may ask you to provide additional printed copies later.
Any language is accepted for manga text.
Japan International MANGA Award Application Process
Download and complete the application form from the official website.
Prepare your manga work in the required format.
Submit both the application form and manga work electronically or by mail to the designated address.
Await confirmation and further instructions from the organizing committee
Tips for a Successful Application
Originality: Ensure your work showcases unique storytelling and artistic style.
Cultural Relevance: Incorporate elements that resonate with international audiences.
Technical Quality: Maintain high-resolution images and clear layouts.
Compliance: Strictly follow submission guidelines to avoid disqualification.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Japan
Average monthly expenses range from ¥100,000 to ¥150,000 (approximately $650 to $1,000).
Accommodation: ¥30,000 to ¥80,000 depending on city and housing type.
Food: ¥20,000 to ¥40,000 with a mix of home-cooked and dining out meals.
Transportation: Around ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 using public transport.
Utilities (electricity, water, internet): ¥8,000 to ¥15,000.
Health insurance: ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per month (mandatory).
Miscellaneous (clothing, entertainment, mobile phone): ¥10,000 to ¥20,000.
Costs are generally higher in cities like Tokyo and Osaka compared to rural areas.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Global Recognition: Elevate your profile in the international manga community.
Cultural Exchange: Engage directly with Japanese manga professionals and immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture.
Career Advancement: Open doors to potential collaborations and publishing opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I submit a work that has been published online? Yes, both published and unpublished works are eligible, provided they haven’t won previous Japan International MANGA Awards
Q2: Is there an age limit for applicants? No, there is no specified age restriction for applicants.
Q3: Can a team submit a collaborative work? Yes, collaborative works are accepted. However, at least one of the creators must be a non-Japanese national.
Q4: Are there specific themes or genres required? No, the award accepts all genres, allowing artists creative freedom.
Q5: Will my submitted work be returned? No, submitted works will not be returned. Ensure you keep copies for your records.
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