The Kyoto International Manga & Anime Fair (KYOMAF) 2026, the largest manga, anime, and game event in western Japan, will be held on September 19th and 20th at Miyakomesse (Kyoto International Exhibition Hall), ROHM Theatre Kyoto, Kyoto International Manga Museum, and other venues in Kyoto. This will be the 15th edition of the event, which started in 2012. Voice actors Yuki Kaji and Sumire Uesaka have also been announced as support ambassadors, or "Welcome Ambassadors."
The main visual, newly drawn by Memori Kousei, who won the grand prize in the "KYOMAF Creators Contest 2025_U25 ~Fictional Novel Illustration Grand Prize~," has also been unveiled. It depicts Kyono Tsukasa, the public relations character of Kyoto City, and Uzumasa Moe, the support character for the Kyoto City Transportation Bureau's subway and city buses.
KYOMAF is a comprehensive trade fair organized by the Kyoto International Manga & Anime Fair Executive Committee and the City of Kyoto. Its aim is to promote the content industry in the Kansai region, centered on Kyoto, by creating and growing new industries utilizing content, fostering, nurturing, and retaining creative talent, enhancing Kyoto's brand power as a global cultural city, and attracting tourists, especially young people. Last year, 66 companies and organizations exhibited. This year, special measures are planned to commemorate the 15th anniversary.
◇Comment from Yuki Kaji
I'm voice actor Yuki Kaji, and I've been appointed as the "Welcome Ambassador" for the second time in eight years, since 2018! I'm already thrilled about the anime festival in my beloved Kyoto, but as an ambassador, I have no choice but to give it my all to make it a success! I'll be focusing on a wide range of anime, from current hits and popular titles to long-running series, to deliver their appeal in a solid and engaging way! Kyoto and anime are the pride of Japan. I want to fulfill my duty by cherishing the closeness of conversation we have as if we were neighbors, while also communicating in a way that conveys their charm to people all over the world! This summer is all about "KYOMAF"! Everyone, please look forward to it!
◇Comment from Sumire Uesaka
I'm Sumire Uesaka , and I've been appointed as the Welcome Ambassador for " KYOMAF 2026"! Since becoming a voice actress, I've had the opportunity to visit Kyoto for various occasions, including " KYOMAF," and each time I've thought, "I want to come to Kyoto more and more!" The city is full of stories everywhere you look, it's a mix of familiarity and the extraordinary, and the food and drinks are delicious—Kyoto is full of charm! I'd love to enjoy "KYOMAF 2026" to the fullest together with all of you!
