Hymn to Life Charity Concert Scheduled for August 31, 2026
The much-anticipated charity concert 'Hymn to Life' will take place on August 31, 2026, at Bunkyo Civic Hall, featuring over 120 performers, including renowned artists such as Sachiko Kobayashi, Yusaku Kiyama, Junko Ishihara, Azumi Inoue & Yuu Yuu, and Yan Chen. The event aims to bring people together to celebrate life through music, sharing joy across generations and cultures.
An Evening of Unity
Organized by the Asia Cultural and Artistic Exchange Foundation, this one-night-only musical gala is supported by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Hosted by the distinguished Takaharu Miyamoto, the concert will showcase a diverse program featuring mixed choirs, children's groups, and special bands.
The production, emphasizing the theme of gratitude and life, reveals that music transcends boundaries of age, culture, and even personal struggles. As participants share their talents from both Japan and China, this concert promotes a message of hope, resilience, and unity.
Reminder of Life's Precious Moments
The concert is deeply personal for Yan Chen, the concert initiator and a survivor of a rare form of cancer known as retroperitoneal flat epithelial carcinoma. After undergoing a 10-hour surgery supported by a collaboration of international medical teams and blood donations from anonymous donors, Yan was inspired to return to music not just for himself but as a means to give back. The concert's proceeds, after covering production costs, will be directly donated to the Japan Cancer Society, marking a heartfelt expression of appreciation towards the healthcare community.
"Emerging from the brink of death has taught me that spending time with those closest to us is life’s greatest treasure," Yan expressed. "I hope to share my joy in singing again with many others and connect the gratitude towards my healers and blood donors to our future."
Stunning Performances Ahead
Guests will enjoy a variety of genres, including enka, family-themed songs, beloved anime music, and grand orchestral pieces performed in both Japanese and Chinese. Notable performances will include:
- - Sachiko Kobayashi presenting a breathtaking 40-minute set with nine songs, including iconic pieces like 'Snow Camellia' and 'Senbonzakura'.
- - Yusaku Kiyama sharing deeply resonant songs such as 'Home', a piece reflecting family and the warmth of everyday life.
- - Junko Ishihara, who will perform 'Mirren Sake' and a unique interpretation of 'Faded Cherry Blossom', having returned from a battle against breast cancer.
- - Azumi Inoue & Yuu Yuu entertaining with 'Carrying You' and 'Walking in the Neighborhood', accompanied by a 28-member children’s choir.
- - Yan Chen will additionally perform ‘Beyond Happiness’ and ‘Mountains and Rivers’, combining vocals in both languages, alongside a 50-person mixed choir.
Under the adept guidance of Takaharu Miyamoto, the concert promises to be an unforgettable journey through music.
Final Preparations for the Concert
In preparation for the event, which commenced on June 15, public endorsement was secured from crucial governmental bodies, and promotional activities intensified with media appearances. Notably, on August 12, Sachiko Kobayashi promoted the concert on Fuji TV's 'Nonstop!'. More announcements were subsequently featured in the Sankei Shimbun.
Media Coverage
We welcome media inquiries for coverage on the concert day. Interviews with performers will be facilitated through prior arrangements, coordinated according to their schedules. Official images, comments, and video clips will be provided to those unable to attend. Interested media outlets are encouraged to submit details such as media type, interview requests, and audience size.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the concert are currently available, starting from 6,000 yen. Due to high demand, VIP seats are now exclusively available via the official website, and general admission tickets are being sold through Ticket Pia, Lawson Ticket, and ePlus. Secure your tickets now and be part of this extraordinary event celebrating life.
For more details, visit
Hymn to Life Concert or contact Odyssey Co., Ltd. at 03-4426-6303.
Event Overview
Concert Name: Hymn to Life
Date: August 31, 2026
Time: Doors open at 17:30, concert begins at 18:30
Venue: Bunkyo Civic Hall, Tokyo
Participants: Over 120, including major artists
Beneficiary: Japan Cancer Society
Organizer: Asia Cultural and Artistic Exchange Foundation, initiated by Yan Chen.