#Japan #publishing #Tokyo #books #Tokyo Symposium

Introduction

The landscape of publishing is rapidly changing, and it is crucial to understand how books and reading relate to communities on a global scale. The upcoming 2025 Tokyo Publishing Symposium, hosted by Honnogakko, intends to foster discussions around these themes. This event promises to delve deep into the local and global intersections of literature, culture, and technology.

Background

Founded in 1995 at the base of Mt. Daisen in Tottori, Honnogakko aims to bring individuals from various backgrounds together to discuss pressing issues in the realm of publishing. The symposium's early years revolved around the theme of envisioning a 21st-century publishing landscape that originated from local contexts. Now, we find ourselves 30 years later, faced with a more interconnected world where local narratives have the potential to reach audiences globally.

Event Details

Date and Time:

October 26, 2025
12:00 PM - 5:30 PM (Doors open at 11:30 AM)
Venue: Senshu University Kanda Campus, Room 731, 3rd floor, 3-10-1 Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Participation Costs:

• - In-Person Attendance:

- 2,000 JPY per workshop (discounts for multiple workshops available; students can attend for free)

• - Online Streaming:

- 1,100 JPY (with access to the archive)

• - Networking Event:

- 6,000 JPY

To apply, please visit EventRegist.

Panel Sessions

Session 1: Promoting Reading and Bookstores

Time: 12:00 - 1:30 PM
Panelists: Naoto Ito (METI, China Region) and Hiroshi Kitada (Advisor for Kobe Book Culture Promotion Project)
Description: This session discusses the importance and potential of bookstores in enhancing the nation's cultural strength, featuring experiences from the Chinese region's bookstore promotion initiatives.

Session 2: The Living Library: Transforming Community Life

Time: 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Panelists: Sakuya Amano (Writer / Shiwa Town Library) and Masashi Nishikawa (Maniwa City Central Library)
Description: Explore the role of libraries in fostering community engagement and collaboration, moving away from traditional models to a more interactive experience.

Session 3: International Expansion of Book Business

Time: 4:00 - 5:30 PM
Panelists: Ruriko Ikeda (Sanmark Publishing) and Kenshi Imaizumi (Diamond Publishing)
Description: Discover the challenges and opportunities in expanding Japanese book content internationally, focusing on successful case studies of bestseller publications.

Networking Opportunity

Join us for a warm networking session where you can connect with panelists and fellow participants. Enjoy drinks and engage in discussions in a relaxed atmosphere.

Important Notes

This symposium will be held in a hybrid format, accommodating both in-person and online participants. Please ensure a stable internet connection if attending online, and turn off your camera while keeping your audio muted during the session. Detailed guidelines will be provided prior to the event.

For profiles of the speakers and further information, please check the Honnogakko website: Honnogakko.

We are looking forward to engaging conversations and insightful discussions at the 2025 Tokyo Publishing Symposium. Join us as we envision the future of books in a globalized world!