30th Anniversary of Japan Foundation

“Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.”

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is delighted to announce the return of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2026, bringing Japanese cinema to audiences across the Philippines from October 1 to November 29, 2026.

This year’s theme, “Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.”, celebrates the films, traditions, memories, and human experiences that connect people across borders and generations. The festival also marks the 70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Philippine-Japan Diplomatic Relations, and the 30th Anniversary of Japan Foundation, Manila, celebrating decades of friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and the Philippines.

JFF 2026 will be presented in six cities and eight venues across the Philippines, continuing JFM’s commitment to bringing Japanese cinema to audiences nationwide. In partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, the festival will expand opportunities for audiences across the country to discover the diversity and appeal of Japanese cinema.

JFF 2026 Screening Schedule

JFF is pleased to hold its Opening Event at SM Megamall, on October 1 at the SM Megamall, Ground floor, Mega Fashion Hall.

The festival will present a curated selection of 16 films, showcasing the diversity of Japanese cinema and stories that continue to resonate across generations.

Opening JFF 2026 is KOKUHO, directed by acclaimed filmmaker LEE Sang-il known for award-winning films including Hula Girls, which will also be screened as part of this year’s festival lineup. Set against the demanding and deeply traditional world of Kabuki, KOKUHO tells a sweeping story of ambition, friendship, rivalry, family, and sacrifice. Following its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, the film received widespread critical acclaim and went on to win multiple awards at the 49th Japan Academy Film Prize, including Picture of the Year, Director of the Year for LEE Sang-il, and Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for YOSHIZAWA Ryo.

JFF 2026 promises to bring acclaimed contemporary films, beloved classics and animation. This year’s lineup offers a broad cinematic journey through Japan, featuring KUROSAWA Akira’s Throne of Blood, Studio Ghibli’s Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, UNDER NINJA starring YAMAZAKI Kento, and YAMADA Yoji’s TOKYO TAXI, among others.

As a special highlight, audiences can experience Cinema Kabuki, a unique cinematic experience that captures the artistry, spectacle, and traditions of Kabuki theatre on the big screen. During the opening weekend, Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions) directed by YAMADA Yoji will be screened, alongside special KABUKI activities, including a Kabuki Costume Dressing Demonstration on October 2 and the “Kumadori” Body-Painting Experience on October 3.

The program continues with Nausicaä Day on November 28, featuring a special presentation beginning with Studio Ghibli’s Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, directed by MIYAZAKI Hayao, followed by a two-part screening of the Kabuki adaptation based on his beloved manga: KABUKI「 KAZE NO TANI NO NAUSICAÄ – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind」Part 1 and Part 2. Featuring episodes never depicted in the film, as well as dynamic action and striking stagecraft, it captures the wonder and scale of Nausicaä’s world through a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

Note: KABUKI「KAZE NO TANI NO NAUSICAÄ – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind」Part 1 and Part 2 will be screened in stereo sound.

The Cinema Kabuki screening and hands-on workshops introducing Kabuki to audiences overseas are presented as part of the JFF Discover Kabuki Tour with the cooperation of Shochiku Co., Ltd.

JFF 2026 will collaborate with Agency for Cultural Affairs — Government of Japan, and Japan Film Commission on a special program, “Journey through Japan on Screen in Manila 2026,” taking place on November 21 – 22. The program promotes cross-cultural exchange through international co-production films, including Jaime Pacena II’s Kono Basho and HAYAKAWA Chie’s RENOIR, alongside Japanese films that appeal to young audiences, such as AYABE Shinya’s School Meals Time: School Excursion Inferno and SUZUKI Kei’s anime film, You, Fireworks, and Our Promise.

In addition to film screenings, talkback events will be held for selected films, featuring directors and producers who will engage with audiences and share insights into their work.

Throughout the festival, audiences can also take part in various activation campaigns for a chance to get freebies and win exclusive JFF 2026 merchandise.

JFF 2026 is made possible through the continued support and collaboration of organizations and partners who share JFM’s commitment to cultural exchange and bringing Japanese cinema closer to Filipino audiences – Embassy of Japan, SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, JTI Philippines, Agency for Cultural Affairs — Government of Japan, Japan Film Commission, and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).