An Influential & Diverse Film Nation
For more than a century, Japan has stood as one of cinema’s most powerful creative forces. Its history is shaped by masters whose influence still resonates today: the quiet poetry of Yasujirō Ozu, the elegance of Kenji Mizoguchi, the bold vision of Palme d’Or laureate Akira Kurosawa. That artistic continues through contemporary auteurs such as Hirokazu Kore-eda, Kiyoshi Kurosawa and Naomi Kawase — and through a new wave of filmmakers making their mark on the world stage. Among them is Chie Hayakawa, who pitched her film Renoir at the Marché du Film’s 2024 Investors Circle before presenting it in competition at the 2025 Festival de Cannes — a vivid example of Japan’s constant flow of fresh voices.
The industry powering these stories is just as dynamic. Producing nearly 700 films a year and drawing over 189 million cinema admissions, Japan remains one of the world’s most prolific and influential film ecosystems. Its globally loved animation, its bold live-action cinema, its distinctive storytelling traditions — all continue to travel, inspire, and spark new conversations across borders.
Participation at the 2026 Marché du Film
Japan and the Marché du Film share a long and trusted relationship. Japanese sales companies are among the most established in the Palais des Festivals, and the Japan Pavilion — coordinated by UniJapan — has become a defining presence at the Village International. In 2026, this enduring connection takes on new momentum!
As Country of Honour, Japan will host an exclusive industry summit to connect Japanese professionals with international peers, a special screening day showcasing the latest in Japanese cinema, and a series of conferences dedicated to exploring the country’s film industry, trends, innovations and global impact.
Japanese professionals and companies will also take a prominent role across the Marché du Film’s flagship programs, including Cannes Animation, Co-Production Day, Goes to Cannes, and the Producers Network. With a special focus on Japanese animation and genre cinema, these activities will provide rich opportunities for collaboration, networking, and creative exchange.
A New Spotlight on Adaptation: The Japan IP Market
As part of the Country of Honour program, the Marché du Film will launch the Japan IP Market, a new three-day initiative co-organized with TIFFCOM (Tokyo International Film Festival Content Market).
Designed as a high-level networking platform between Japanese and international companies, the program will take place from 15 to 17 May, bringing together a select group of leading Japanese IP holders, including Amuse Creative Studio, Kadokawa Corporation, Nihon Bungeisha, Nippon Animation, Shochiku, Shufu To Seikatsu Sha and Toei Company.
Hosted aboard the prestigious Art Explora catamaran, the Japan IP Market will primarily focus on pitch sessions and targeted one-on-one business meetings, complemented by a curated program of conferences and presentations.
Highlighting Japanese Excellence in Cannes’ Official Selection
Japan’s role as the Marché du Film’s 2026 Country of Honour extends far beyond the film market!
Five Japanese films are also featured in the Official Selection of the 79th Festival de Cannes, including:
- ALL OF A SUDDEN by Ryūsuke Hamaguchi | In Competition
- SHEEP IN THE BOX by Hirokazu Kore-eda | In Competition
- NAGI NOTES by Koji Fukada | In Competition
- ALL THE LOVERS IN THE NIGHT by Yukiko Sode | Un Certain Regard
- KOKUROJO (THE SAMURAI AND THE PRISONER) by Kiyoshi Kurosawa | Cannes Premiere
This year promises a vibrant showcase of Japanese cinema, highlighting both the creative strength of its auteurs and the rich diversity of its storytelling!
Renowned in cinema and beloved at Cannes, Japan’s presence promises to be unforgettable!
