AnimeJapan, one of the world’s largest anime conventions, is set to relocate to Osaka for its 2027 and 2028 editions, marking the first time the event will be held outside Tokyo since its launch in 2014. The move represents a significant shift for the long-running event as organizers look to expand its reach and further strengthen Japan’s anime industry on a global scale.
The event will be supported by the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau as it transitions to its new host city.
New Venue Confirmed for AnimeJapan 2027 and 2028
AnimeJapan 2027 is scheduled to take place at Intex Osaka, one of the city’s largest exhibition venues. The public days will be held on March 27 and 28, 2027, followed by business-focused days on March 29 and 30. While the venue for the business segment is still being finalized, the event will retain its established dual structure, combining fan-facing showcases with industry networking and commercial activities.
A teaser video released alongside the announcement highlights the transition to Osaka, emphasizing anticipation as the event prepares to enter a new phase. The relocation is being positioned as an opportunity to evolve the convention experience while maintaining its core identity as a comprehensive showcase of anime culture and industry activity.
AnimeJapan Activities
Since its debut, AnimeJapan has grown into a cornerstone event for the global anime industry, drawing more than 150,000 attendees from around 100 countries and regions. The convention regularly features hundreds of exhibitors, major stage presentations, and showcases of upcoming anime projects, making it a central platform for both fans and industry professionals.
The decision to move to Osaka comes as the city gains increased international visibility, particularly following the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. With its history as a major hub for tourism and international exchange, Osaka offers a strategic location to attract a broader audience while diversifying the geographic presence of Japan’s anime events.
Major companies within the AnimeJapan executive committee have already confirmed their participation in the 2027 edition, signaling strong industry support despite the venue change. As the event prepares for its first Osaka outing, organizers aim to deliver an expanded experience that continues to connect creators, companies, and fans from around the world.
With this transition, AnimeJapan is entering a new chapter that reflects both its established legacy and its ambitions for continued growth in an increasingly globalized anime market.
