Applications are now open for the 19th Japan International MANGA Award 2025, a fully funded opportunity to visit Japan and be recognized for your creativity!
Organized by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this prestigious award celebrates international manga artists who have contributed to the growth of manga culture and global understanding through the art of storytelling. Winners will be invited on an all-expenses-paid trip to Japan, including an award ceremony and exclusive cultural experiences.
What is the Japan International MANGA Award?
Since its launch in 2007, the Japan International MANGA Award has become a major cultural initiative, honoring the best manga creators from around the world. The award serves as a cultural bridge, fostering international exchange through the unique language of manga.
This isn’t just a competition—it’s an invitation to become part of Japan’s manga legacy. Winners will gain visibility, recognition, and the incredible opportunity to explore Japan’s vibrant art and publishing scene.
Award Categories & Benefits
Here’s what winners can expect:
- Gold Award – Best overall entry receives a trophy and certificate.
- Silver Awards (3 winners) – Exceptional entries also receive trophies and certificates.
- Bronze Awards (~11 winners) – Recognized with official certificates.
- Special Encouragement Award – For a standout entry not eligible for Silver; awarded a certificate.
Gold and Silver winners receive a fully funded 7-day trip to Japan (courtesy of the Japan Foundation) to attend the award ceremony in Tokyo and participate in:
- Cultural experiences
- Professional networking with Japanese manga artists and publishers
- Guided tours and exclusive meetings
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, your submission must:
- Be an original manga work with 16+ pages
- Be created between 2022 and 2025
- Not have won previous MANGA Awards
- Be your own original work, not infringing on third-party rights
- Be non-AI generated (limited use of AI images is allowed but must be disclosed)
- Be submitted in printed or PDF format
- Be one entry per artist (multiple entries will be disqualified)
Submission Requirements
Choose one of the following formats:
- Two (2) printed copies
- One (1) digital copy (PDF)
- One printed + one PDF copy
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal (link provided below)
- Fill out the online form in English or Japanese
- Email confirmation is essential—double-check your address
- Name files with your full name + page numbers
- Submit your entry through your local Japanese Embassy
➤ Find embassy addresses here
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
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