YBB – Artists, designers, filmmakers, architects, and creative professionals seeking international exposure now have an exciting opportunity in Japan. The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program 2027 is officially accepting applications from creators worldwide who wish to spend three months living and creating in Tokyo.
Moreover, this fully funded residency gives selected participants dedicated time and space to focus on creative projects while experiencing Japan’s dynamic artistic and cultural environment. Therefore, it becomes an ideal opportunity for creators who want to expand their artistic practice and build international connections.
About the Program
The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program is organized by TOKAS, an initiative connected to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. The residency supports artists and creators by providing a professional environment where they can focus entirely on their work.
In addition, participants will stay in Tokyo and develop personal creative projects while engaging with a diverse international artistic community. The program also offers opportunities to showcase work publicly through the TOKAS OPEN STUDIO event.
The residency will take place through three separate sessions:
- May–July 2027
- September–November 2027
- January–March 2028
Each session lasts three months.
What You Will Experience
During the residency, participants will work independently on their projects while interacting with creators from different countries and artistic disciplines. Furthermore, living in Tokyo provides a chance to experience one of Asia’s most vibrant cultural and artistic environments.
Participants will also present their creative work publicly. Consequently, they can strengthen their portfolios while increasing international visibility within the art community.
Residency Benefits
Selected creators will receive comprehensive support throughout the program:
- Private accommodation in Tokyo or shared rooms for duo applicants
- Access to a shared studio workspace
- Round-trip airfare coverage
- Daily living allowance of JPY 4,200
- Creative project grant worth JPY 300,000
- Free Wi-Fi, library access, and shared facilities
- Opportunity to participate in TOKAS OPEN STUDIO
- International networking opportunities with creators worldwide
- Exposure to Japanese culture, art, and daily life
As a result, participants can fully focus on artistic development without financial concerns.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Candidates should have at least five years of experience in creative fields such as visual arts, architecture, design, or related disciplines
- Applicants must communicate effectively in English
- Participants should be independent and capable of managing daily life and project work
- Duo applications are accepted if at least one applicant resides outside Japan
- Applicants cannot be enrolled as students during the residency period
- PhD candidates are the only exception
Thus, the residency seeks experienced and self-driven creators who can thrive in an international environment.
Program Requirements
Selected participants should also meet residency obligations:
- Remain throughout the full three-month residency period
- Produce work for presentation during OPEN STUDIO
- Submit a final project report
- Participate in presentations and promotional activities when requested
- Avoid paid or commercial work during the residency period
- Refrain from activities involving excessive noise or vibration
- Only selected participants may stay in residency accommodation
Therefore, applicants should review all conditions carefully before applying.
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Required Documents
Applicants must prepare:
- Completed application form in English
- Two recommendation letters from arts or culture professionals
- Portfolio PDF (maximum six A4 landscape pages and under 10 MB)
The portfolio should include examples of previous work and relevant media links.
How to Apply
To apply for the TOKAS International Creators Residency Program 2027, follow these steps:
- Visit the official TOKAS website and download the application package
- Carefully review all instructions
- Complete the application form using Adobe Reader
- Prepare recommendation letters
- Create and organize your portfolio document
- Complete the online submission form
- Upload all required materials
- Submit your application before the deadline
For complete details and the official application page, visit:
Apply here: https://www.tokyoartsandspace.jp/en/archive/application/2026/20260430-317.html
Important Deadline
Application Deadline: 16 June 2026 at 18:00 Japan Standard Time (JST)
Applicants should prepare documents early because portfolios and recommendation letters may require additional preparation time.
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Why You Should Apply
This residency stands out because it offers both financial support and an environment dedicated entirely to artistic growth. In addition, creators gain access to Tokyo’s vibrant creative ecosystem and international artistic communities.
Furthermore, the program allows participants to focus deeply on creative work while expanding global networks and cultural experiences. Therefore, it creates long-term value for emerging and established creators alike.
Conclusion
The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program 2027 in Japan provides an exceptional opportunity for artists and creators to develop projects in one of Asia’s leading cultural destinations. With fully funded support, studio access, creative grants, and international exposure, the residency can become a transformative step in a creator’s journey.
If you are passionate about creativity and international collaboration, this residency may be your chance to elevate your artistic career. Prepare your application carefully and submit it before 16 June 2026.
