#Japan #Tokyo #LEGIKA #Tokiwa So #Manga Creator

New Opportunities for Manga Creators in Japan

In a significant move to promote diversity and creativity in the manga industry, the nonprofit organization LEGIKA has announced an expansion of eligibility for its Manga Creator Share House project, Tokiwa So. This initiative, aimed primarily at fostering the development of manga creators, will now accept applicants up to the age of 45, up from the previous limit of 35. This change is set to take effect in July 2025 alongside the opening of the Kamiikedai Tokiwa Soul Room.

What is the Tokiwa So Project?

The Tokiwa So project operates under LEGIKA, which is based in Shinagawa, Tokyo. It serves as a unique residence for manga creators, providing not only housing but a collaborative environment where artists can thrive. The share house is designed to support the production and development of manga through regular interaction amongst its residents, offering opportunities for mentorship, critique, and collaboration. The project has already demonstrated success, integrating high-level support and training within its collaborative framework.

New Eligibility Criteria

As of June 15, 2025, applicants aged 36 to 45 will have to meet specific exceptions to qualify for residency. The new criteria include:

• - Living in a designated large house: To be eligible, prospective residents must reside in approved facilities, including the Kamiikedai Tokiwa Soul Room and the Tama Tokiwa Danchi.
• - Professional debut: Candidates must have already achieved professional status in their careers, ensuring that the community remains robust with skilled and aspiring manga artists.

The New Kamiikedai Tokiwa Soul Room

The upcoming Kamiikedai Tokiwa Soul Room will feature a total of 55 units, including 34 Atelier Plan rooms. The substantial living space spans 2,543.26 square meters and will provide artists with not only privacy but also shared areas to facilitate collaboration and social interaction. The lounge and kitchen areas are designed to promote a community atmosphere where residents of varying ages can coexist harmoniously, fostering creativity without the pressures often found in solitary work environments.

A Focus on Diversity and Creativity

Building on its previous experience with the Chelsea House, a student dormitory, LEGIKA aims to enhance creative output by supporting younger members while ensuring diversity in age and experience. By integrating a variety of age groups, the project seeks to cultivate an environment where both established and newly emerging creators can benefit from one another’s experiences.

Current Achievements of Tokiwa So

Since its inception, the Tokiwa So project has nurtured a vibrant community of creators. As of May 2025, the program reported:

• - Over 60 active participants
• - Six main houses to support collaboration
• - 690 total participants throughout its history
• - Noteworthy alumni, including successful authors such as Nishiyasu, Kamentotsu, and others, who have made significant contributions to the manga landscape.

With a remarkable record of 144 professional debuts from its participants, Tokiwa So has established itself as a haven for aspiring creators to launch their careers.

About LEGIKA

Founded in 2009, LEGIKA is dedicated to transforming the landscape of manga through community-driven design and high-quality production services. It seeks to revolutionize the manga industry by providing resources that empower artists and foster creativity through strategic collaboration.

For more detailed information about the Tokiwa So project and to apply, visit the LEGIKA website at LEGIKA Official.

In conclusion, the expansion of eligibility for the Tokiwa So project marks a pivotal step in nurturing diverse talent within the manga industry, ensuring that the art form continues to evolve by welcoming voices from a broader age spectrum.