TOKYO LIGHTS is a festival of light that first began in 2021 to illuminate Tokyo’s nightscape. At its core are two main pillars: an international projection mapping competition where creators from around the world showcase their talent, and an immersive entertainment program that fuses light, art and technology. Through these experiences, TOKYO LIGHTS delivers a message of creativity and hope toward the future.
The festival aims to nurture Tokyo’s vibrant night culture and foster a new form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by people of all ages—enriching the city’s cultural and tourism landscape as a celebration open to everyone.
A festival of light illuminating Tokyo’s nights
“TOKYO LIGHTS”
About the “1minute Projection Mapping Competition,”
One of the World’s Largest Projection Mapping Competitions
The 1minute Projection Mapping Competition, originating from Japan and first held in 2012, is one of the most prestigious and long-established international projection mapping competitions in the world.
Every year, creators compete for the world’s top title with works ranging from 1 minute to 1 minute 59 seconds.
It is a one-of-a-kind festival in Japan where you can experience an extraordinary lineup of projection mapping works — from renowned professionals to emerging young talents — all at the highest level of creativity and diversity.
This year, entries are widely invited from both Japan and abroad under the theme “Dialogue.”
- Event Overview -
■Title: TOKYO LIGHTS 2026
■Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Government (8-1, Nishi-Shinjuku 2-chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo), Nishi-Shinjuku Area (including Shinjuku Chuo Park and surrounding sites)
■Dates (Scheduled): Saturday, May 23rd –Sunday, May 31st,2026
▶International Projection Mapping Competition
Screening of Works: May 23rd (Sat), 24th (Sun), 30th (Sat), and 31st (Sun), 2026
▶Light Entertainment
Light Monuments, etc.
May 23rd (Sat) – May 31st (Sun), 2026
■Organizer: International Projection Mapping Award Tokyo Executive Committee
■Co-Organizer: Tokyo Metropolitan Government
