Film lovers across the Philippines, get ready for an unforgettable cinematic journey! The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is bringing back the highly anticipated Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2026. Returning to theaters nationwide from October 1 to November 29, 2026, this year’s festival promises an enriching selection of Japanese cinema, cultural showcases, and immersive experiences that bridge cultures and generations.
JFF 2026 holds a special place in this year’s cultural calendar. The festival marks two major historical milestones: the 70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Philippine-Japan Diplomatic Relations and the 30th Anniversary of the Japan Foundation, Manila.
In partnership with SM Cinema and SM Supermalls, JFF 2026 is expanding its reach to six major cities and eight venues across the Philippines—including screenings in Metro Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro. The festival will present a curated selection of 16 exceptional films spanning contemporary blockbusters, timeless classics, anime, and ground-breaking theatrical adaptations.
Whether you are a seasoned cinephile or a casual moviegoer, this year’s lineup offers something for everyone. Headlining the roster is Lee Sang-il’s award-winning drama KOKUHO, fresh off its acclaimed premiere at Cannes and multiple wins at the Japan Academy Film Prize. Alongside this are thrillers like theexplosive, modern-day ninja spectacle UNDER NINJA starring Yamazaki Kento, or the warm, lighthearted comedy of Yamada Yoji’s TOKYO TAXI and Ayabe Shinya’s School Meals Time: School Excursion Inferno. Animation enthusiasts can experience Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind on the big screen, alongside Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence and Suzuki Kei’s youth anime You, Fireworks, and Our Promise. And last but not the least, true blue cinephiles can enjoy cinema history with Akira Kurosawa ’s legendary Shakespearean adaptation, Throne of Blood. Other films in the lineup include a 4K remastered version of Hula Girls, Blue Boy Trial, and The Girl Who Sees.
A major highlight of JFF 2026 is the Discover Kabuki Tour in cooperation with Shochiku Co., Ltd., offering audiences a rare glimpse into traditional Japanese performing arts on screen and live on stage. The opening weekend features Yamada Yoji’s Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions), as well as a rare, two-part Cinema Kabuki adaptation of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, capturing dynamic stagecraft and narrative episodes not seen in the original anime film. Attendees can also participate in hands-on cultural activities, including a Kabuki Costume Dressing Demonstration on October 2 and the “Kumadori” Body-Painting Experience on October 3.
Under the special program “Journey through Japan on Screen in Manila 2026” in collaboration with the Agency for Cultural Affairs and Japan Film Commission, the festival highlights international co-productions like Jaime Pacena II’s Kono Basho and Hayakawa Chie’s RENOIR—films that showcase how cross-cultural collaboration creates stories that resonate deeply with both Filipino and Japanese audiences.
Catch the Japanese Film Festival from October 2 to November 29 at selected SM Cinema branches.
What film are you excited to see the most? Tell us in the comments!