#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Big Sight #All Japan Care Contest #caregiving skills

Upcoming 16th All Japan Care Contest

The All Japan Care Contest Executive Committee is thrilled to announce the 16th All Japan Care Contest (AJCC), scheduled for November 28, 2026, at the Tokyo Big Sight West Hall 3, with a preliminary night event on November 27. This prestigious event aims to enhance the quality of caregiving and strengthen ties within the community. From July 2026, the contest will open applications for caregivers and students in the caregiving and welfare sectors, fostering a competitive yet collaborative environment for participants.

What is the All Japan Care Contest?

Launched in 2010, the AJCC addresses the ongoing shortage in the caregiving workforce, which is projected to require around 250,000 additional caregivers by 2026 and nearly 570,000 by 2040 as the elderly population increases. The contest showcases the skills of caregivers in various practical scenarios and communicates the significance of caregiving to society at large. Unlike a typical competition, the focus is on personal growth and mutual understanding among participants, with over 1,500 entrants to date.

During the event, caregivers will engage in real-time assessments across categories such as dementia care, end-of-life care, oral care, bathing, dining, and excretion, with specific segments dedicated to foreign caregivers. Participants will have approximately 10 minutes to demonstrate their skills while receiving constructive feedback from advisors.

In a notable change for this year, the qualifications and experience levels will blend foreign caregivers with Japanese professionals to encourage skill enhancement on a collective stage. This collaborative approach is backed by the Japan Caregiver Association, and certified senior caregivers will serve as advisors for the contestants.

Additionally, the evening before the contest, a pre-event gathering will take place that promotes networking among participants and advisors, fostering valuable exchanges leading up to the contest itself.

Impact and Research Insights

The impact of the All Japan Care Contest has been highlighted in recent studies, revealing substantial benefits across organizations and participating individuals. Last year's 15th contest featured 148 competitors from 69 organizations, with 35 students participating through video submission. A recent analysis by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare showed that:

• - 94.3% of participants reported improved motivation.
• - 94.3% gained new insights for their organizations.
• - 91.5% satisfaction rate among institutions.
• - 88.6% noted enhancements in caregiving skills.
• - 85.7% reported knowledge sharing among colleagues.

These findings emphasize the contest's role in providing practical learning opportunities, enhancing workplace motivation, and promoting professional development within caregiving organizations.

Contest Details

• - Date: November 28, 2026 (with the preliminary event on November 27)
• - Location: Tokyo Big Sight, West Hall 3, Koto City, Tokyo
• - Preliminary Event Venue: Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel, 3rd Floor Iris
• - On-site Participation: Up to 150 contestants across categories (dementia, end-of-life care, oral care, bathing, dining, excretion, and foreign caregivers based on experience levels).
• - Eligibility: Experienced caregivers and students from accredited caregiving institutions.

Video Submissions are accepted from student learners in caregiving programs. Contest protocols allow each participant 20 minutes (10 for practical skills, 7 for feedback, and 3 for setup) and encourage peer observations for collective growth. Awards will be given for the best performances in each category, with a special exhibition area highlighting essential caregiving resources.

Applications can be submitted through the official website (AJCC website), with an entry deadline of September 30, 2026. Participation fees are set at 15,000 yen per contestant, with a preliminary event fee of 5,000 yen for participants and 10,000 yen for general attendees. Admission to the skills demonstration for spectators is free.

The contest is jointly organized by multiple notable organizations, including the Kohoen Social Welfare Corporation, the Japan Care Worker Association, SOMPO Care, Yasashii Te, and the Nagaoka Welfare Association. This collaboration reflects a strong commitment to elevating caregiving standards across Japan.