#Japan #Tokyo #Competition #National Dance

The 83rd National Dance Competition is officially calling for participants starting December 1, 2025. Scheduled to take place at the Meguro Persimmon Hall in Tokyo from March 25 to April 6, 2026, this competition is a significant milestone for aspiring dancers across the nation. With a rich history dating back to 1939, it has grown to become the largest event of its kind in Japan, serving as a launchpad for many successful dancers.

Over 1,000 participants from various regions will compete in multiple categories including traditional dance, contemporary dance, ballet, children's dance, group dance, and creative dance. This year, as always, the event will feature elite judges—about 90 representatives from renowned dance institutions and critics from both Japan and abroad—who will evaluate the performances. This provides a valuable opportunity for dancers to showcase their skills and gain recognition from industry leaders.

Here’s what you need to know about this prestigious competition:

Overview of the Competition

• - Categories: The competition is divided into six main categories: traditional dance, contemporary dance, ballet, children's dance, group dance, and creative dance. Each category has subdivisions based on age and format to ensure fair competition.
• - Schedule: The competition will be conducted from March 25 to April 6, 2026. Specific preliminary and final rounds will be held for each category. Additionally, an encore performance featuring the top winners from each category is scheduled for June 13, 2026.
• - Venue: The main venue is Meguro Persimmon Hall, located at 1-1-1 Yakumo, Meguro, Tokyo, easily accessible via a seven-minute walk from Toritsu-Daigaku Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line.

Ballet Training Program

One notable feature of this competition is the Domestic Ballet Company Training Program for the top performers in the ballet category. The selected dancers will have the opportunity to train with some of Japan’s leading ballet troupes, making this a critical step in their career development. This program aims to enhance the skills of young dancers aspiring to become professional ballet artists.

Application Details

Applications for the competition are accepted until January 30, 2026. Interested participants should visit the official National Dance Competition website to find detailed participation requirements and submit their applications.

This competition is an invaluable platform for dancers to display their hard work and dedication in front of an audience and industry professionals. We encourage all aspiring dancers to take this opportunity.

For inquiries and more information about the competition, please contact the Tokyo Shimbun Cultural Events Department at:

• - Email: [email protected]
• - Phone: 03-6910-2345 (weekdays 10:00–18:00, excluding year-end and New Year holidays)
• - Official website: Tokyo Shimbun

The National Dance Competition has played a critical role in the careers of many prominent dancers and continues to be a beacon for the future of dance in Japan. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this illustrious event!