#Japan #Tokyo #Book Fair #Independent Publishers #Japanese Publishing

Independent Publishers Expo: A New Era for Japanese Independence

In an exciting move for the Japanese publishing landscape, a coalition of independent publishers is set to host the first-ever Independent Publishers Expo on January 18-19, 2026, at DAIKANYAMA GARAGE. This groundbreaking event aims to elevate the profile of small publishers while fostering connections with readers and bookstores alike.

What is the Independent Publishers Expo?

The Expo is a unique book fair where publishers will set up booths to present their own publications directly to readers. This event will not only facilitate direct sales but also allow for discussions with bookstores, creating a new platform for independent authors and publishers to connect with their audience.

Why Now?

The need for the Independent Publishers Expo stems from the evolving landscape of the publishing industry in Japan. As traditional distribution channels falter and the popularity of Zine culture continues to surge, independent bookstores are beginning to embrace a more inclusive model. They are actively engaging in direct transactions with smaller publishers, which have previously been marginalized in the market.

Despite the blossoming interest in independent literature, many smaller publishers still grapple with visibility and accessibility challenges. Often run by small teams, these publishers struggle to reach a broader audience and establish relationships with booksellers. The Expo aims to disrupt this narrative by bringing together readers eager for unique content, booksellers interested in discovering new works, and publishers who are passionate about their creations.

This event is especially significant as new independent bookstores continue to emerge amid a challenging publishing climate, defying the odds and taking risks in their quest to cultivate a vibrant literary community. The Expo intends to create an opportunity for these new bookstore owners and independent publishers to collaborate and share insights.

Participating Publishers

As of August 18, 2025, the expo expects participation from 31 independent publishing houses, including:

• - ambooks
• - rn press
• - Ishihara Shobo
• - Insects
• - Editorial Department
• - ELVIS PRESS
• - and many more!

Greetings from the Organizers

The organizing committee, consisting of LLC INSECTS, QANDO, Sanrinsya, Tababooks, and Million Years Bookstore, expresses that while the Japanese publishing industry faces uncertainty, they stand united in their commitment to keep the spirit of publishing alive.

Publishing is often viewed as a low-margin business, and many wonder about the sustainability of this model. However, the organizers find joy in curating books that reflect their passions, bringing them to readers with integrity and dedication. The Expo is conceived out of this commitment to share their diverse creations and resonate with audiences meaningfully.

During the two-day event, publishers will showcase their past works and promote upcoming titles, engaging directly with the audience. Additionally, there will be scheduled business meetings for bookstores to discuss deals and inventory directly during the event.

The organizers also emphasize their desire for international cooperation and hope to connect with other independent publishers worldwide. They recognize that many similar entities exist globally and are focused on fostering collaborative relationships that transcend borders, unlike the traditional model that often hinges on mainstream manga and magazine sales in Japan.

Event Details

• - Name: Independent Publishers Expo
• - Date: January 18 (11:00 AM - 7:00 PM) & January 19 (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM), 2026
• - Venue: DAIKANYAMA GARAGE SPACE1, Nakameguro, Tokyo
• - Admission: General admission is 500 yen (tax included), while bookstore representatives enter free.
• - Focus: January 18 will be dedicated mainly to readers, while January 19 will facilitate meetings with bookstores to discuss sales, promotions, and networking opportunities.

In addition, its organizers plan to publish a special Zine for the expo, further enhancing the event's vibrancy.

Final Thoughts

The Independent Publishers Expo is not just an event; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the enduring love of literature. The independent publishing community in Japan is fragile yet full of passion, and this expo serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future in publishing. Join us in this exciting journey, and let’s explore the world of independent publishing together!

We look forward to welcoming you to the Independent Publishers Expo in January 2026!