#Japan #Tokyo #Bushiroad Works #Light Novel #Novel Award

An Unmissable Chance for Aspiring Writers

The Bushiroad Works Novel Award, in collaboration with the popular writing platform Shousetsuka ni Narou, has officially opened its submissions today, April 20th, 2026, at 12:00 PM. This contest is hosted by Bushiroad Works, a subsidiary of Bushiroad Inc., renowned for its focus on entertainment and storytelling.

Overview of the Contest

The Bushiroad Works Novel Award is an open literary competition that encourages submissions of entertainment novels across a variety of genres. Whether you are an aspiring writer looking for your big break or a seasoned pro wishing to showcase your talent, this contest provides an incredible opportunity to make your mark in the literary world.

Interested participants can find further information and explore the contest-specific website here. The award aims to discover fresh talent that embodies creativity and originality in storytelling.

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

In a special message to prospective writers, the Editor-in-Chief of Bushiroad Novels expressed heartfelt gratitude for the interest in this novel award. The qualities sought after in submissions emphasize being 'interesting' regardless of genre, which could be anything from thrilling action and thrilling fantasy to light-hearted romantic comedies. The primary focus is for readers to connect deeply with the characters, feeling as if they are living their lives.

This contest also encourages writers to have fun while creating and invites them to share their unique stories that can potentially resonate with a wide audience. The editor firmly believes that stories possess a remarkable ability to inspire and uplift people—indeed, many writers have drawn inspiration from novels throughout their lives. Now is the time for new writers to shine and potentially save someone through their characters.

Contest Timeline

• - Start Date: April 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM
• - End Date: July 19, 2026, at 11:59 PM
• - Results Announcement: Expected in late September 2026

Prizes Awaiting Winners

The contest boasts a variety of impressive prizes:

• - Grand Prize: ¥200,000, guaranteed book publication, and guaranteed adaptation into a manga!
• - Gold Prize: ¥50,000, guaranteed book publication, and guaranteed adaptation into a manga!
• - Silver Prize: ¥30,000, guaranteed book publication
• - Bronze Prize: ¥10,000, guaranteed book publication
• - Special Prize for Judges: ¥7,000, book publication consideration
• - Editorial Prize: ¥3,000, book publication consideration
• - Manga Adaptation Prize: Guaranteed manga adaptation
• - Short Story Prize: ¥7,000, inclusion in an anthology comic based on the original work

It’s important to note that multiple works may receive awards simultaneously, or sometimes no works may be selected in any category.

How to Enter

To submit a work, simply set the application keyword `BWK大賞１` in a completed or ongoing piece on Shousetsuka ni Narou. Please ensure to write the keyword using full-width characters.

Submission Guidelines

• - Genres: Writers are welcomed to submit works across various genres, with a focus on fantasy.
• - Word Count: No specific word limit is set, and submissions can include unfinished works. Note that short stories have different award categories.

For further guidelines, including terms and conditions, please refer to the contest’s special site here.

When publicizing this contest, please ensure to mention the copyright notice as follows: ©︎BUSHIROAD WORKS. The platform “Shousetsuka ni Narou” is a registered trademark of Hina Project Inc.