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KAIKA TOKYO AWARD 2026: Supporting Emerging Artists

On December 9, 2025, KAIKA TOKYO AWARD 2026 opens its submission window, aiming to discover and elevate talented artists. Run by Revita Inc., this prestigious award is hosted at KAIKA Tokyo by THE SHARE HOTELS, located in the vibrant Asakusa district of Tokyo. It merges the concept of an art storage facility with a contemporary hotel, creating a unique platform for artists to showcase their work.

What is the KAIKA TOKYO AWARD?

The KAIKA TOKYO AWARD has been an annual event since 2020, designed to foster artistic creativity and support artists’ growth. The venue, KAIKA Tokyo by THE SHARE HOTELS, uniquely blends hospitality with art curation. Housed in a repurposed warehouse, it includes nine art storage units specifically designed for exhibiting contemporary works. Selected pieces from the competition will enjoy a two-year display, attracting visitors from near and far, thereby providing artists with invaluable exposure.

For the 2026 edition, notable judges include Yuji Akimoto, a distinguished Professor Emeritus from Tokyo University of the Arts, and Hiromi Kurosawa, a Special Appointment Professor at the same institution. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and insight into the evaluation process.

In previous editions, the awards have seen participation from renowned artists and curators, contributing to an impressive collection of 813 submissions from across Japan in fields such as painting, ceramics, and sculpture. Of these, 47 works have been chosen for display, further solidifying the award's reputation as a springboard for emerging talent.

Celebrating Art and Culture

The KAIKA TOKYO AWARD not only serves as a platform for artistic display but also acts as a crucial resource for solving common challenges artists face regarding exhibition and storage. By providing a physical space for art to be showcased for two consecutive years, along with guided art tours and media promotion, the award promotes a rich cultural environment. Its commitment to enhancing social well-being through art has also earned it certification under the This is MECENAT 2025 program.

Additionally, recognizing the importance of community engagement, THE SHARE HOTELS advocates for a collaborative approach with localities. This vision will be further highlighted by their participation in the ART JOB FAIR 2026, happening on January 17-18, 2026, at TODA HALL & CONFERENCE TOKYO. This event aims to connect job seekers with cultural organizations, showcasing the various opportunities within the art industry, including roles that incorporate traditional and contemporary art into hospitality.

Insights from Previous Award Recipients

Past award winners have expressed the significant benefits derived from participating in the KAIKA TOKYO AWARD. Hana Tobari, winner of the Grand Prize in 2024, noted that showcasing their work in such a prominent venue helped forge connections through social media feedback and interactions. Similarly, Aya Kurashiki, recognized for their work Transition #Ophelia, emphasized the importance of having a permanent space for her art to re-engage audiences, reinforcing the idea that continuous visibility can enhance an artist's reach and recognition.

Requirements for Submission

The KAIKA TOKYO AWARD is open to a wide range of artistic expressions and encourages submissions that take full advantage of the venue's unique characteristics. Artists can submit works of any genre and year of creation, with approximately 15 selected for display in the hotel. The award will feature three notable prizes:

• - Grand Prize: 300,000 yen
• - Yuji Akimoto Award: 100,000 yen
• - Hiromi Kurosawa Award: 100,000 yen

Application Timeline

• - Submission Period: December 9, 2025 - February 8, 2026, 18:00
• - First Round Judging: Mid-February 2026
• - Final Judging and Review: March 13, 2026, 18:00-21:00

For detailed information regarding the application process and terms, artists are encouraged to visit the official KAIKA TOKYO AWARD website: KAIKA TOKYO AWARD Site.

Conclusion

Through the KAIKA TOKYO AWARD, Revita Inc. is dedicated to fostering artistic talent and cultural enrichment in Japan. By supporting artists and creating avenues for recognition and engagement, this initiative not only enhances the arts community but also contributes to the broader societal appreciation of creativity. With continued commitment to innovation in hospitality and community collaboration, KAIKA Tokyo remains a beacon for aspiring artists.

About KAIKA Tokyo by THE SHARE HOTELS

Since its establishment on July 15, 2020, KAIKA Tokyo has been at the forefront of integrating art into the residential experience, showcasing various cultural narratives within its unique hotel environment. The SHARE HOTELS aims to bridge the gap between locals and guests, fostering shared cultural experiences that enrich the lives of everyone involved.

Whether you're an artist looking to land your next exhibition or a visitor eager to experience the intersection of art and hospitality, KAIKA TOKYO offers a space where art truly flourishes.