Connecting the world’s animation production community

Animation—an expressive form with limitless potential—captivates young people around the world, not only in Japan and China.

Japanese animation is highly acclaimed globally, and in recent years Chinese animation has also achieved remarkable results through the use of AI and other technologies. By fostering exchange among animation production communities worldwide, the art and industry of animation can continue to evolve. Through this powerful form of expression, JCIAFF aims to create a place where the next generation shaping the future can connect freely.

A competition that anyone can join

To discover new talent, JCIAFF has created a Short-Short Animation category within the competition. Regardless of age or experience, JCIAFF hope many aspiring creators will participate. In this category, submitted works will be made available online for a certain period, and a format has been adopted that will that allow a wide range of internet users to take part in the selection of nominated works.

New possibilities of expression through AI animation

Another hallmark of the festival is the establishment of an AI Animation category. From professionals to amateurs, this category will be an exciting opportunity to see how many new forms of expression in AI-created animation are emerging around the world, and what kinds of works will be submitted.

Festival activities

Preparations for events within the festival, such as a red carpet, voice actor live performances, cosplay events, and animation-making experiences for families are underway. Additionally, seminars and symposiums that draw strong interest from industry professionals will be held—covering topics such as how animation production may change dramatically in the age of generative AI, new business opportunities for voice actors, and the future of copyright.

From Tokorozawa to the world

Tokorozawa, located along the Seibu Railway line where many animation studios are based, is home to Tokorozawa Sakura Town—a hub for pop culture. It is also known as a place that inspired works by Studio Ghibli, making it, in a sense, one of the sacred places of animation.

Just as Cannes is a global celebration of live-action cinema in France, and Annecy is a global celebration of animated cinema, JCIAFF hope to collaborate with the Tokyo International Film Festival and establish a positioning where live-action is Tokyo and animation is Tokorozawa. In the years ahead, JCIAFF aim for Tokorozawa to be recognized worldwide as an international city of animation.

Schedule

Live Events

JCIAFF will feature live performances from the super-talented artists/voice actors Rica Matsumoto and PRECURE SINGERS! Stay tuned for the schedule.

Shinichiro Kamio

Voice Actor

Affiliated with 81 Produce. Born in Hokkaido.

Notable roles include Kaede Rukawa in The First Slam Dunk, Riou Mason Busujima in Hypnosis Mic, and Kuro Kiryu in Ensemble Stars!, among many others.

Recipient of the Singing Award at the 13th Seiyu Awards and the Kei Tomiyama & Kazue Takahashi Award at the 20th Seiyu Awards.

Kirari Sawamura

Artist

TikTok followers: 1.49 million.

Known for outstanding performance presence and dance skills.

Made a solo debut in 2024, and is rapidly rising as a next-generation star with achievements including winning at the MTV VMAJ, a 3,000-capacity show at Toyosu PIT, and a successful five-city tour.

SUMMER ROCKET

Voice Actress Idol Group

Active as performers of theme songs for anime and games, as well as voice actresses.

They also actively perform live under the theme of “Endless Summer Vacation.”

Nako Masaki

Born in Tokyo and currently based in Tokyo.

Working as a freelance illustrator since 2016.

In addition to book illustrations and cover art, works across a wide range of fields including character design, web illustrations, advertising, posters, portraits, and logo design, without being limited by genre or style.

Official Website: https://www.nakomasaki.com/