Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026 Celebrates SJ60: What to Expect
Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026 Celebrates SJ60 with Three Days of
Star-Studded Concerts, Anime Showcases & Exclusive Fan Experience
SEA’s reigning Japanese pop culture festival brings Japan’s top music,
entertainment and anime superstars to Singapore, alongside international guests
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AFA Singapore 2026 Media Conference (Speedknight.com) |
[This is a developing story, do come back for updates- Originally posted:
19/10/2026, Last updated:]
SINGAPORE, 19 October 2026 – Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026 (AFASG26), supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, celebrates its 18th edition here this November, hosting iconic Japanese and international artistes and creators, curating immersive fan experiences, and presenting exclusive showcases and performances.
SINGAPORE, 19 October 2026 – Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026 (AFASG26), supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, celebrates its 18th edition here this November, hosting iconic Japanese and international artistes and creators, curating immersive fan experiences, and presenting exclusive showcases and performances.
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| AFA26 will be part of SJ60 Musubi Singapore-Japan Festival (Speedknight.com) |
Organisers SOZO unveiled today a star-studded line-up, from legendary composers and J-pop icons, the return of Pikotaro to a special YOASOBI booth ahead of their upcoming concert stop in Singapore. Held in conjunction with SJ60 celebrates the cultural connections and shared passion for Japanese pop culture that continue to, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Japan, this year's festival unite fans across both countries and the wider region
[Speedknight's note: At the press conference it was shared that more details will be shared regarding the collab. This MAY benefit those that are planning to attend both or torn between attending which event since both events do overlap on the 28th & 29th of November 2026]
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| Some of the featured Creators at Creators Hub (Speedknight.com) |
On the exhibition grounds, fans can check out a Creators Hub with over 100 independent creators,two solo art exhibitions, themed booths by leading entertainment brands,interactive dueling experiences with trading card games, a 7-metre tall Goku inflatable, exclusive merchandise debuts
and more. Aspiring cosplayers can showcase their craft at the CosplaySingles competition, while manga artists can get their manga work reviewed by industry experts. Fans can also meet their idols in person through Meet and Greet Sessions.
The Ultimate Music Weekend: Three Days of Japanese Music Superstars
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
AFASG26 presents an exceptional concert programme celebrating the diversity of Japanese
music, from legendary composers and J-pop icons to contemporary rock, school idols and virtual
music. Starting from acclaimed composer Yuki Kajiura’s first concert performance in Singapore
on Day 1, an electrifying mix of J-pop, rock, anisong and virtual music in the AFASG26 Music Fest
on Day 2, the festival's Ultimate Music Weekend will complete on a high with the HoneyWorks
Vocal All Stars Festival and the AFA VOCALOID NIGHT feat. Hatsune Miku on Sunday.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Yuki Kajiura LIVE vol.#22 ~precious pieces~ in Singapore -SPECIAL SETLIST-, marks the first concert performance in Singapore for one of Japan's most celebrated composers. Kajiura is renowned for her distinctive soundtracks and contributions to acclaimed anime productions including Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Puella Magi Madoka Magica and the Fate series. For this special performance, Kajiura will be joined by vocalists KAORI, YURIKO KAIDA, Joelle, LINO LEIA and EMIKO, with a specially curated Singapore setlist.
28 November:
AFASG26 Music Fest, powered by Crunchyroll, features global J-pop icon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, powerhouse anisong vocalist May'n, contemporary rock band Aooo, and virtual singers KAF and Isekaijoucho from KAMITSUBAKI STUDIO. Joining them are Liyuu, Naomi Payton and Yuina from Liella!, the popular school idol group from Love Live! Superstar!!.
AFASG26 Music Fest, powered by Crunchyroll, features global J-pop icon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, powerhouse anisong vocalist May'n, contemporary rock band Aooo, and virtual singers KAF and Isekaijoucho from KAMITSUBAKI STUDIO. Joining them are Liyuu, Naomi Payton and Yuina from Liella!, the popular school idol group from Love Live! Superstar!!.
29 November:
The HoneyWorks Vocal All Stars brings together an all-star line-up of performers from the hugely-popular Japanese music collective, whose related digital content has accumulated more than three billion views. It features CHiCO from CHiCO with HoneyWorks, Hanon and Kotoha from HaKoniwalily, Momoko Hashimoto and Momona Matsumoto from TAKANE NO NADESHIKO, and Rio Nagao and Yura Nishihara from Karen na Ivory. They will be accompanied by the HoneyWorks live
band, bringing the group's signature blend of music and storytelling to Singapore. AFA VOCALOID NIGHT feat. Hatsune Miku celebrates the global phenomenon of Vocaloid music and electronic creativity. The special event brings together five influential producers and DJs: kz (livetune), Hachioji P, TeddyLoid, jon-YAKITORY and picco, each recognised for their contributions to Japan's Vocaloid and electronic music scene.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
AFA Day Stage: Major Anime Titles and Industry Guests Take Centre Stage
The AFA Day Stage returns with exclusive anime presentations, special screenings and appearances by Japanese voice actors, producers and creators, From a special presentation on KAGURABACHI (ahead of its scheduled April 2027 premiere), to the return of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End and Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- , anime lovers will be brought closer to the stories and talent behind their favourite productions.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Following its popular showcase at AFASG25, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End returns with a special presentation on 28 November. Fans can hear from voice actors Tarusuke Shingaki (Genau) and Shinichiro Miki (Revolte) for behind-the-scenes insights into the acclaimed fantasy series and its characters.
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Fans have an opportunity to hear directly from the performers behind the popular group Liella! from the beloved school idol franchise Love Live! Superstar!! on 28 November, A special talk session will feature Liyuu, Naomi Payton and Yuina, who portray Keke Tang, Sumire Heanna and Wien Margarete respectively.
Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- returns to AFA on 28 November, with a special presentation by KADOKAWA ahead of the acclaimed fantasy series' fourth season. Featured
guest Satomi Arai, the voice of fan-favourite character Beatrice, will share insights into the series and her experience in bringing the character to life.
Popular shonen franchise Black Clover brings its action-packed world of magic, adventure
and rivalry to the festival. takes over the AFA Day Stage on Sunday,, A special presentation will celebrate the popular series and its continuing story on 29 November.
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● One of the most anticipated upcoming anime adaptations, KAGURABACHI, will be featured on the AFA Day Stage on 29 November, ahead of its scheduled April 2027 premiere. Animation producer Kan Mizoguchi and voice actor Taihi Kimura, who portrays protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira, will present an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming production.
AFA Day Stage: Major Anime Titles and Industry Guests Take Centre Stage
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
The AFA NEXT Stage’s programmes will span anime, virtual entertainment, live music and emerging talent. From the Asian premiere of BLESS, to special presentations and vocal performances, the stage brings fans closer to Japanese creators, performers and entertainment personalities. Look out for beloved Japanese mascot Kumamon, the official PR character of Kumamoto Prefecture, who will make special appearances on stage, as well as in the exhibition halls. Pikotaro (SJ60 Friendship Supporter), the global viral sensation behind "PPAP" will return to Singapore, exactly 10 years after his iconic appearance at AFA Singapore in 2016, for a stage appearance on 28 November.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Exploring a world where virtual gaming and reality collide, a special presentation on 27 November will feature Konomi Inagaki, the voice of Sawa Ashihara. She will share insights into the upcoming anime, Devils’ Crest, which is based on the work of Sword Art Online creator Reki Kawahara.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
The upcoming anime adaptation of Overgeared will showcase its fantasy adventure universe on stage on 28 November. Director Ayako Kono, producer Nobuhiro Osawa and voice actor Tatsumaru Tachibana, will also offer an inside look into the production.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Fans can look forward to an entertaining talk session and special vocal performances by NØVA, a sub-unit of NIJISANJI EN comprising Luca Kaneshiro, Shu Yamino, Sonny Brisko and Ren Zotto, on 28 November.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Renowned for iconic hits such as DEJA VU and SPACE BOY, closely associated with the anime phenomenon Initial D, legendary Eurobeat producer Dave Rodgers will perform on 28 November.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Having appeared on the Netflix reality series The Boyfriend, Japanese singer-songwriter and DJ Shun Onitsuka, as well as DaiShun, the duo comprising Dai Nakai and Shun Onitsuka, will grace the festival stage.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
The Cosplay Singles Competition on 29 November will also provide a major platform for talented cosplayers to demonstrate their creativity and performance skills.
Meet the Stars: Exclusive Fan Experiences Throughout the Weekend
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
AFASG26’s dedicated Meet & Greet sessions offer fans the opportunity to meet Japanese voice
actors, creators and international guests.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Konomi Inagaki: Known for her roles in Devils’ Crest, Do It Yourself!! and Umamusume: Pretty Derby, her session on 27 November includes a Q&A, autograph on a shikishi board and group photo opportunity.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Tatsumaru Tachibana and Ayako Kono: Overgeared voice actor Tatsumaru Tachibana and director Ayako Kono will meet fans in a special session presented by Crunchyroll on 28 November. The complimentary session includes a Q&A, autographed poster and group photo, with participation subject to ticket redemption at the Crunchyroll booth.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Liella!: Liyuu, Naomi Payton and Yuina: Fans of Love Live! Superstar!! can meet them on 28 November. More details will be announced.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Thames Malerose: The award-winning Thai cosplayer will meet fans on 29 November. The session includes a Q&A, dedicated interaction time, special signed item, surprise segment and group photograph
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Gakuto Kajiwara: Known for portraying Asta in Black Clover and Allen Sugasano in Paradox Live, the Japanese voice actor’s session will be held on 29 November. More details will be announced.
*All Meet & Greet sessions are subject to availability and participation requirements. Fans are advised to refer to AFA's official channels for the latest schedules and booking information.
AFA Exhibition Hall: A World of Japanese Art, Entertainment and Creative Experiences
The AFA Exhibition Hall brings together leading Japanese entertainment companies, publishers, merchandise brands and creative communities, offering visitors exclusive products, interactive experiences and cultural showcases.
Australia-based illustrator Namie will present Kaleidoscope – The World of Wanderlust. The solo exhibition celebrates her vibrant artistic universe, featuring expressive character designs and illustrations associated with popular franchises including Arknights and Fate/Grand Order.

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
Asia Creators Cross returns to AFASG26. Developed through a partnership between AFA CreatorsHub and Japan's niconico Chokaigi, the initiative brings international artists and creativecommunities together through exhibitions and fan engagement. Featured illustrators includeAKIAKANE, celebrated for her vibrant and intricate artwork, and U35, known for expressive characterdesigns and contributions to Japanese anime productions.
Separately, aspiring manga creators will have an opportunity to receive professional industryfeedback through the MOCHIKOMI Manga Review, organised in collaboration with Kodansha Ltd.The initiative connects participating creators directly with active Kodansha manga editors, providingvaluable insights into professional manga development and publishing.
*This Manga Review requires pre-registrations kindly refer to AFA's official channels for more details

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
An extensive line-up of leading entertainment companies and exhibitors will bring anime, manga, collectibles, character merchandise and interactive activations to the show floor. They include ALIEN STAGE, Avex Pictures, Dwango, Kodansha, Kotobukiya, La Tendo, MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA, Muse Communication, Pentel, Takara Tomy, Toei Animation, Voistock and more.
Crunchyroll, who will bring the world of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc to life, with a themed recreation inspired by the Crossroads café, merchandise, and special appearances from the fan-favourite character Pochita)
KADOKAWA will feature the popular character Azuki-san, a viral Siamese cat, as well as a special appearance by its creator Nobeko.
TOHO animation will showcase popular anime titles including Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, The Apothecary Diaries, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten Season 2, Though I Am an Inept Villainess and Snowball Earth, with merchandise, displays and fan experiences inspired by the respective series.

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
The highly-anticipated new merchandise line from ALIEN STAGE will debut at the festival. Shoppers can also expect the debut of Exclusive Cosmic Princess Kaguya! merchandise from Fankoi, official merchandise from KAMITSUBAKI STUDIO, REAL AKIBA’s merchandise featuring Gloomy The Naughty Grizzly and Kanahei's Small Animals, SUNRISEPOP’s New Character goods, and more.
One of Japan's most enduring trading card game franchises, the Yu-Gi-Oh! Official Card Game returns to the festival, offering activities for both new and experienced players. Visitors can participate in gameplay demonstrations, create personalised Yu-Gi-Oh! Token Cards and join a special Duel Field Event.

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
The niconico LIVE Stage, presented by Dwango, will also return with performances and interactive programmes celebrating Japanese digital creativity and cultural traditions. A highlight is the Cho-Bon Dance, a contemporary interpretation of traditional Bon Odori that combines music, cosplay, dance and modern pop culture.
A special autograph appearance will be held by acclaimed Chinese manga artist Tan Jiu, creator of SQ, courtesy of newnewonline. Recognised for her expressive storytelling and distinctive illustrations, Tan Jiu's work has received international recognition, including an Excellence Award at Japan's International Manga Award.
YOASOBI Makes a Special Exhibition Appearance

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
Global J-pop sensation YOASOBI will be featured with a dedicated booth at the AFA Exhibition Hall,building excitement ahead of the duo's highly anticipated concert at the Singapore National Stadiumon 20 February 2027. The Singapore performance is part of the YOASOBI 10-CITY DOME & STADIUM TOUR 2026–2027 "SUPER PLANET", with Singapore serving as the tour's only Southeast Asian stop. The exhibition will offer fans a preview of the upcoming stadium concert experience.
Fan-favourite mainstays - AFA Creators Hub, AFA Cosplay Hub

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
Cosplay and independent creativity remain central to the Anime Festival Asia experience, withdedicated spaces showcasing talent from across the region. From established artists to emergingcreative entrepreneurs, the Creators Hub continues to support the growth of independent talent whileconnecting creators directly with fans across Southeast Asia. It will feature more than 100independent artists, illustrators and makers, offering visitors an extensive marketplace of originalartwork, handmade collectibles and unique merchandise.
Creators Hub:
>>>Community Sourced Excel Sheet to be updated
Cosplay Hub:

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release

Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release
Event Information-Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026
Venue: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Halls 401–406
Dates: 27–29 November 2026 (Friday to Sunday)Official Website: https://animefestival.asia/AFASG26
Floor Plans Will be Update once they updated the full version
Ticketing
The AFA Exhibition Hall brings together leading Japanese entertainment companies, publishers, merchandise brands and creative communities, offering visitors exclusive products, interactive experiences and cultural showcases.
Australia-based illustrator Namie will present Kaleidoscope – The World of Wanderlust. The solo exhibition celebrates her vibrant artistic universe, featuring expressive character designs and illustrations associated with popular franchises including Arknights and Fate/Grand Order.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Asia Creators Cross returns to AFASG26. Developed through a partnership between AFA Creators
Hub and Japan's niconico Chokaigi, the initiative brings international artists and creative
communities together through exhibitions and fan engagement. Featured illustrators include
AKIAKANE, celebrated for her vibrant and intricate artwork, and U35, known for expressive character
designs and contributions to Japanese anime productions.
Separately, aspiring manga creators will have an opportunity to receive professional industry
feedback through the MOCHIKOMI Manga Review, organised in collaboration with Kodansha Ltd.
The initiative connects participating creators directly with active Kodansha manga editors, providing
valuable insights into professional manga development and publishing.
*This Manga Review requires pre-registrations kindly refer to AFA's official channels for more details
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
An extensive line-up of leading entertainment companies and exhibitors will bring anime, manga, collectibles, character merchandise and interactive activations to the show floor. They include ALIEN STAGE, Avex Pictures, Dwango, Kodansha, Kotobukiya, La Tendo, MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA, Muse Communication, Pentel, Takara Tomy, Toei Animation, Voistock and more.
Crunchyroll, who will bring the world of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc to life, with a themed recreation inspired by the Crossroads café, merchandise, and special appearances from the fan-favourite character Pochita)
KADOKAWA will feature the popular character Azuki-san, a viral Siamese cat, as well as a special appearance by its creator Nobeko.
TOHO animation will showcase popular anime titles including Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, The Apothecary Diaries, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten Season 2, Though I Am an Inept Villainess and Snowball Earth, with merchandise, displays and fan experiences inspired by the respective series.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
The highly-anticipated new merchandise line from ALIEN STAGE will debut at the festival. Shoppers can also expect the debut of Exclusive Cosmic Princess Kaguya! merchandise from Fankoi, official merchandise from KAMITSUBAKI STUDIO, REAL AKIBA’s merchandise featuring Gloomy The Naughty Grizzly and Kanahei's Small Animals, SUNRISEPOP’s New Character goods, and more.
One of Japan's most enduring trading card game franchises, the Yu-Gi-Oh! Official Card Game returns to the festival, offering activities for both new and experienced players. Visitors can participate in gameplay demonstrations, create personalised Yu-Gi-Oh! Token Cards and join a special Duel Field Event.
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
The niconico LIVE Stage, presented by Dwango, will also return with performances and interactive programmes celebrating Japanese digital creativity and cultural traditions. A highlight is the Cho-Bon Dance, a contemporary interpretation of traditional Bon Odori that combines music, cosplay, dance and modern pop culture.
A special autograph appearance will be held by acclaimed Chinese manga artist Tan Jiu, creator of SQ, courtesy of newnewonline. Recognised for her expressive storytelling and distinctive illustrations, Tan Jiu's work has received international recognition, including an Excellence Award at Japan's International Manga Award.
YOASOBI Makes a Special Exhibition Appearance
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Global J-pop sensation YOASOBI will be featured with a dedicated booth at the AFA Exhibition Hall,
building excitement ahead of the duo's highly anticipated concert at the Singapore National Stadium
on 20 February 2027. The Singapore performance is part of the YOASOBI 10-CITY DOME & STADIUM TOUR 2026–2027 "SUPER PLANET", with Singapore serving as the tour's only Southeast Asian stop. The exhibition will offer fans a preview of the upcoming stadium concert experience.
Fan-favourite mainstays - AFA Creators Hub, AFA Cosplay Hub
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Cosplay and independent creativity remain central to the Anime Festival Asia experience, with
dedicated spaces showcasing talent from across the region. From established artists to emerging
creative entrepreneurs, the Creators Hub continues to support the growth of independent talent while
connecting creators directly with fans across Southeast Asia. It will feature more than 100
independent artists, illustrators and makers, offering visitors an extensive marketplace of original
artwork, handmade collectibles and unique merchandise.
Creators Hub:
>>>Community Sourced Excel Sheet to be updated
Cosplay Hub:
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
| Credit: AFA Singapore. Press Release |
Event Information-Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2026
Venue: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Halls 401–406
Dates: 27–29 November 2026 (Friday to Sunday)
Dates: 27–29 November 2026 (Friday to Sunday)
Official Website: https://animefestival.asia/AFASG26
Floor Plans Will be Update once they updated the full version
Ticketing





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