Kyomaf 2026 Dates Announced: Yuki Kaji and Sumire Uesaka Selected as Event Ambassadors!
The official dates for the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair (Kyomaf) 2026, which brings together Japan's historical texture and modern popular culture, have been announced. The event, considered the largest manga, anime, and game fair in Western Japan (Kansai region), will be held on September 19-20, 2026. Industry giants Yuki Kaji and Sumire Uesaka will serve as the official ambassadors (Okoshiyasu Ambassadors) for this year's fair.
Yuki Kaji, known worldwide for his role as Eren Yeager in the Attack on Titan series, returns as a Kyomaf ambassador after an eight-year hiatus. In his statement, Kaji expressed his love for Kyoto and stated that he is looking forward to bringing the newest and most popular productions of the anime world to fans. He will be joined by Sumire Uesaka, who is known for her successful performances in works such as Don't Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro and Urusei Yatsura. Uesaka emphasized her admiration for both the historical atmosphere and the food culture of Kyoto, expressing her happiness to meet with fans throughout the fair.
Held since 2012, Kyomaf is seen as the Kansai region's counterpart to the AnimeJapan event in Tokyo. In addition to the fair's main hub, the Miyako Messe exhibition hall, iconic city venues such as the Rohm Theatre Kyoto and the Kyoto International Manga Museum will also host various events. The main visual for this year's fair was designed by Megumi Kosei, the winner of the "Creators Contest 2025_U25" held to support young talent. This reinforces the fair's mission to support not only major studios but also artists taking their first steps into the industry.
Kyomaf 2026 draws attention not only with new anime announcements and exclusive merchandise sales but also with special collaborations that blend Kyoto's traditional crafts with modern anime characters. Visitors will experience a wide range of activities, from stage panels featuring voice actors to cosplay areas. Ticket sales and the detailed program for the event are expected to be announced on the official website in the coming months. As the biggest gathering of the year for anime fans in the Kansai region, this fair continues to make a significant contribution to the regional economy and tourism.
