#Japan #Asia #Shinjuku #Kinokuniya #Sayaka Murata

Kinokuniya Bookstore Holds Grand Award Ceremony

On February 24, 2026, the prestigious Kinokuniya Bookstore in Shinjuku hosted a remarkable event featuring the award presentations of four significant literary prizes. This year, the ceremony not only highlighted the best books of the year but also hosted a talk event with the celebrated author Sayaka Murata, who took the first place in the KinoBest! 2026 category with her book Sekai 99.

Event Highlights

The award ceremony took place in the Kinokuniya Hall, located on the fourth floor of the Shinjuku store, and ran from 6:30 PM to 8:20 PM. It attracted over 320 attendees, comprising general public and various invited guests from the publishing industry.

Awards included the 13th Kinokuniya Bestseller Award, the Kinokuniya Humanities Prize 2026, the KinoBest! Kids 2026, and the main KinoBest! 2026 award. Each award celebrated the remarkable contributions of authors and publishers in the literary landscape.

Award Winners

• - Kinokuniya Bestseller Award

- Author Category: Shuichi Yoshida
- Publisher Category: Asahi Shimbun Publications

• - Kinokuniya Humanities Prize 2026: Naname Ron by Takuya Matsumoto (Chikuma Shobo)
• - KinoBest! Kids 2026: Aru Hoshi no Kisha by Yoko Mori (Fukuinkan Shoten)
• - KinoBest! 2026: Sekai 99 by Sayaka Murata (Shueisha)

Emotional Speeches and Messages

The event included moving speeches from various winners. Sayaka Murata expressed her gratitude for receiving the top honor. She reflected on the challenge of writing her novel, comparing it to cultivating a mushroom that could make readers uncomfortable. In her words, “I crafted this thick book not expecting much, but I am grateful it resonated with readers.”

Takuya Matsumoto and Yoko Mori

Matsumoto, who won the Humanities Prize, thanked the organizers via a video message for the honor. Yoko Mori, addressing the audience, shared her journey as an author and the significance of her work being recognized.

Murata’s speech was profound, touching on themes of struggle and creativity. She remarked, “I thought that this book might be difficult to digest, akin to a toxic mushroom, yet readers found a way to appreciate it. That realization has inspired my next work.”

A Unique Collaborative Experience

The ceremony was made possible with support from Hakuhodo and DRUM UP. Attendees were treated to a warm atmosphere, waiting eagerly in line to purchase award-nominated books in the hallway, which were displayed prominently.

Sayaka Murata's Talk Event

The second segment of the evening featured a talk event led by writer Asayo Takii, who engaged in a thoughtful discussion with Murata about her writing process and inspirations. Murata shared insights into her creative journey and the symbolic meanings behind her works, captivating the audience's attention.

Conclusion

The Kinokuniya Bookstore continues to play a pivotal role in promoting literature and supporting authors. The successful execution of the award ceremony and talk event showcased not just the literary talents but also the vibrant community that appreciates and nurtures the love of books in Japan. The event confirmed that reading remains an essential part of cultural and personal growth, connecting authors and readers alike.

For more highlights of the award ceremony and the talk event with Sayaka Murata, visit Kinokuniya Channel.