Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)

Overview

The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is Japan's most prestigious international film festival. Founded in 1985 and held annually in October in Tokyo, the festival holds FIAPF Competitive accreditation and presents competitive programming across multiple sections alongside a significant industry program.

TIFF operates in the world's largest metropolitan area with one of the world's most cinema-enthusiastic populations. Tokyo's extraordinary cultural density -- its art museums, its concert halls, its literary culture, and its passion for cinema -- creates an exceptional audience for international film.

The festival's October timing and its Hibiya/Ginza venues in central Tokyo place it at the heart of Japan's cultural season. TIFF has developed particular strength in Asian cinema, reflecting Japan's central position in the Asian film landscape.

Key Sections

• Competition -- international films competing for the Tokyo Grand Prix
• Asian Future -- debut and second films by Asian directors
• Japanese Cinema Splash -- new Japanese features
• World Focus -- major international films outside competition
• Japan Now -- a curated survey of contemporary Japanese cinema
• Industry events -- market and professional activities

What Filmmakers Should Know

TIFF accepts submissions. The FIAPF accreditation makes competitive wins formally recognized internationally. The Asian Future section provides one of the most important competitive platforms for debut and second Asian filmmakers.

Major Awards

• Tokyo Grand Prix -- Best Film
• Special Jury Prize
• Best Asian Future Film
• Best Japanese Film -- Japan Now section

Festival History

TIFF was founded in 1985 and has received FIAPF accreditation, operating as Japan's flagship international film event.

See Also

For Japanese cinema, see International Film Markets. For the Yamagata Documentary Festival, see Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival.