Tokyo Gears Up for MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026

The heartbeat of Japan’s music scene is set to pulse even louder in 2026 as MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN (MAJ) returns for its second edition. Organized by the Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA), the prestigious event will light up the brand-new TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO, opening its doors for the first time in October 2025.

MAJ is Japan’s most ambitious international music platform, built on the idea of “Connecting with the World and Illuminating the Future of Music.” The goal? To celebrate the full spectrum of Japanese sound, champion Asia’s finest talent, and welcome international artists eager to break into Japan’s ever-evolving music market.

A Stage for Every Sound

The debut edition in 2025 was nothing short of spectacular. From J-pop and city pop to rock, Enka, Kayōkyoku, and cutting-edge electronic sounds, 62 winners were chosen from over 3,000 entries by a global panel of artists and music professionals. The grand ceremony at Kyoto’s ROHM Theatre was livestreamed on YouTube, drawing viewers from every corner of the world.

For 2026, MAJ says it will be more exciting. Tokyo’s new TOYOTA ARENA will host an expanded program of live performances, cross-genre collaborations, and industry showcases where global producers, Japanese labels, and rising stars can meet. Expect exclusive seminars, behind-the-scenes workshops, and once-in-a-lifetime performances that celebrate Japan’s rich musical heritage.

From Kyoto to Tokyo: A Natural Evolution

“After the unforgettable energy of our first year, we wanted to bring MAJ to Japan’s capital and one of the world’s most dynamic music cities,” says Tatsuya Nomura, Chair of the MAJ Executive Committee. “Tokyo is where tradition and innovation collide – from the neon glow of Shibuya clubs to the timeless beauty of classical concert halls. We’re building a global stage where diverse talent can connect and inspire audiences everywhere.”

Nomura adds that 2026 will feature new award categories, refined based on feedback from artists and fans. “Our mission is to honor not just performers, but the songwriters, producers, and creative teams who make music an unforgettable experience,” he notes.

Why Tokyo Matters

Tokyo’s music culture is legendary:

Shibuya’s indie clubs and Shinjuku’s jazz bars remain breeding grounds for experimental sound.
Harajuku and Nakameguro continue to shape fashion and music trends that ripple worldwide.
And the city’s long-standing love for J-pop, Enka, city pop, and cutting-edge electronic music makes it the perfect host for an awards show that celebrates the past, present, and future.

Join the Celebration

MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark moment for Japanese music and global collaboration. Details on categories, voting, and the full performance lineup will be revealed soon.

Stay Connected

Tokyo is ready. The world is listening.

_{View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to films, music, and the arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. With rich content already available to our readers, we aim to expand our reach and grow alongside our audience by delving deeper into emerging platforms such as K-pop and Asian music more broadly. At the same time, we remain committed to exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving global landscape of film, music, and the arts, celebrating the immense talent and creativity that define these industries worldwide.}