#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo International Forum #Creative Well-Being #International Conference

Embracing Creative Well-Being: Join Us at the Tokyo International Conference 2026

Tokyo is set to host the 'Culture Connecting Everyone International Conference 2026' from October 28 to November 1 at the Tokyo International Forum. This annual event, now in its fifth year, is part of a larger initiative titled 'Creative Well-Being Tokyo' spearheaded by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Arts Council. The focus for this year's gathering is 'Moving Together,' encouraging participants to contemplate how art and culture can enhance the quality of life for all individuals.

As the world grapples with various challenges such as climate change, disasters, pandemics, and technological advancements, the notion of well-being is increasingly vital. But what does it genuinely mean for well-being to be intrinsically linked to individuals, especially when the definition of this term is in flux? This year's discussions will delve into the interconnections between individuals and their surroundings, with a goal of redefining what it means to live in harmony within our communities. The insights and discoveries made during this conference will resonate globally, as participants share their visions of collective existence from Tokyo to the world.

In anticipation of the main conference, a series of three kickoff events will take place during August and September. These preliminary sessions will broaden the understanding of well-being through various frameworks and shared experiences, establishing a foundation for later discussions at the main conference. The first kickoff event will feature renowned photographer Naoki Ishikawa on August 3, spotlighting his recent achievements, including the Yomiuri Literary Award with his new book 'The Last Mountain' launching in 2025.

The event's visual identity is particularly striking, using elements like wild clematis that form letters, complemented by ink drips from accidental water drops on the printed paper. This artistic choice embodies the theme of 'Moving Together,' as it reflects the intertwined destinies of multiple species, just as the conference encourages us to consider the interconnectedness within our cultural practices.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: Culture Connecting Everyone International Conference 2026 (Shortened: International Conference 2026)
• - Date: October 28 (Wed) – November 1 (Sun), 2026
• - Location: Tokyo International Forum, Marunouchi 3-5-1, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
• - Activities:

- October 28 – November 1: Lobby Gallery
- October 30 – November 1: Hall B5, Hall D5

• - Sponsors: Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo Arts Council
• - Admission: Free (Registration required)
• - Languages: Japanese, English, Japanese Sign Language, International Sign (Including simultaneous interpretation and captions; International Sign available only in Hall B5)
• - Official Website: Creative Well-Being Conference

Shaping Future Horizons of Well-Being from Tokyo

The 'Culture Connecting Everyone' conference, part of the ongoing project 'Creative Well-Being Tokyo,' aims to explore how artistic and cultural expressions contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. The initiative is grounded in the Tokyo Cultural Strategy 2030, which advocates for cooperation among diverse artistic practices and nonprofits addressing social issues.

This year's conference will feature a diverse array of artists and researchers who engage with our natural world, exploring the theme of 'Living Together.' The kickoff series will include discussions led by prominent figures such as Naoki Ishikawa, followed by events featuring artists and historians throughout the fall months.

The 'Conference' will occur in Hall B5, offering five sessions filled with thought-provoking dialogue to reassess our understanding of well-being in a rapidly changing society. Moderated by Naoko Horiuchi and Roger McDonald, the sessions are designed to foster conversation, harnessing the rich insights of participants across artistic and cultural domains.

As the event approaches, a variety of thought leaders will shape critical discussions on collaboration, identity, and dignity in our increasingly diverse societies. From exploring the nuances of cooperative relationships to examining personal and collective identity, these sessions will provide a platform for rich discourse that prioritizes shared experiences and cultural empathy.

Join us in this vital exploration as we redefine well-being and cultural connection during this inspiring five-day gathering in the heart of Tokyo.