The 4th Yokohama International Film Festival

Titled "Five Blissful Days Immersed in Film in the Yokohama Bay Area," this festival aims to bring together film fans from around the world and foster interaction. Held annually since 2023 in Yokohama, one of Japan's leading port cities and a hub of culture and art, the festival aims to promote the appeal of film and Yokohama to both domestic and international audiences.Yokohama International Film FestivalThe tournament has begun again this year.
This year marks the fourth edition of the film festival, and it will be just as exciting as last year's, with a variety of events taking place over five days from May 1st (Friday) to May 5th (Tuesday), including a "Red Carpet," a "Boat Party," a "Pre-Festival Gala Party," a "Japanese Night," and a "Competition."
On Friday, May 2nd, a "red carpet" and "boat party" were held at Akarenga Park, featuring a star-studded lineup of actors and celebrities. The attendees included Koichi Sato, who is serving as the ambassador for this year's Yokohama International Film Festival, as well as Naoto Takenaka, Toshiaki Karasawa, Takumi Kitamura, Keiko Kitagawa, Yuina Kuroshima, Rie Miyazawa, Yosuke Kubozuka, Ryuhei Maruyama, Akihiro Nishino, and Lin Chi-ling, among other prominent figures representing the Japanese film industry.

■Japan's most celebrated actors, including Koichi Sato and Toshiaki Karasawa, graced the red carpet!

On this beautiful, sunny day, the first to appear at the 4th Yokohama International Film Festival, held in the port city of Yokohama, was Conan-kun.
The band's live performance added glamour to the red carpet, and the currently showing film "Detective Conan: The Fallen Angel of the HighwaySince the story is set in Yokohama, Conan-kun livened up the atmosphere by saying, "This time it's special for me too! In the movie, the city of Yokohama was in a terrible state, so I was really excited...!"
Afterward, numerous actors, film directors, and other related individuals took to the stage, dressed in tuxedos and dresses.
"Assassin #4Naoto Takenaka said, "The scenery of Yokohama is amazing. This is my fourth time at the Yokohama International Film Festival, and I am honored to be invited again," and he appeared on stage for the second year in a row.The Song of the Wicked Season 2Yosuke Kubozuka, who was sitting next to his co-star Ano, joked, "Hello, I'm 'Anozuka'," drawing laughter from the audience.
"ミステリー・アリーナToshiaki Karasawa, who plays the role of "[Name of actor]", expressed his delight, saying, "This is my first time walking the red carpet, and I'm surprised that so many people have gathered here."
"NumbnessMiyazawa Rie, who appeared in elegant pants, said, "I am happy to be able to participate on such a fine day. I played the role of mother and son with Takumi-kun, and we carefully crafted each and every scene, so I hope you will concentrate on the story as if you were listening carefully to the smallest sounds." Kitamura Takumi charmed the audience with his humble comment, "Being invited to a place like this makes me feel that the days we have spent together have been rewarded."
Amidst loud cheers, the next to appear on the red carpet was the movie "futureThe cast members of "[Title of the show]".
Yuna Kuroshima, who starred in "Mirai," said, "I am happy to be able to participate in this film festival. I hope that as many people as possible will be able to see this film that we have carefully created." Keiko Kitagawa said, "Yesterday it rained heavily, so I was wondering, 'What will happen to the film festival if it rains today?' But we were blessed with pleasant weather, and I am very happy to be able to meet so many people." She seemed overjoyed to be able to meet so many audience members under a clear sky.
"Poupelle of Chimney Town: The Clock Tower of Promise (Movie)Akihiro Nishino of "[Title of the film]" smiled and said, "It's currently showing in theaters, so I hope everyone will go and see it in person."

Then, Ryuhei Maruyama, who took the stage as a judge for the competition, said, "Last year I was on the stage as an actor at the Yokohama International Film Festival, but this time I was a judge, so I tried to judge all the works fairly, giving them my own thoughts," expressing his nervousness about his role as a judge.
Special guest Lin Chi-ling said, "I am honored to be here as a judge. I look forward to having fun with everyone in this vibrant city of Yokohama."
Finally, Ambassador Koichi Sato offered his congratulations, saying, "Congratulations on the 4th Yokohama International Film Festival," and cited the example of the 1962 film "Harakiri," which won the Special Jury Prize at the 16th Cannes International Film Festival. He then spoke of his aspirations as an ambassador, saying, "I think the best thing about international film festivals is that you learn amidst surprises. I hope that you all will continue to nurture the film festival while experiencing new surprises."
Finally, Conan-kun from the hit movie "Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway" made an appearance and participated in a photo session with Koichi Sato, Lin Chi-ling, and the official mascot characters of "GREEN×EXPO 2027," Tunk Tunk.

■A competition awards ceremony will be held at the onboard party.

The 4th Yokohama International Film Festival introduced a new "Competition Section." This section supports emerging talent that will shape the film industry, contributing to the development of film art and international cultural exchange. An awards ceremony was held on a cruise ship, and media coverage was provided, creating an event that fosters a culture where "amazing films from around the world gather in Yokohama during Golden Week."
Director Johnnie To, one of the judges, said, "I want to continue working hard as a director," which was met with loud applause.
Ryūhei Maruyama expressed his admiration, saying, "Watching so many of these works has inspired me as an actor."
At the awards ceremony held that day, Takumi Kitamura was selected for the Best Actor award for his performance in the film "Shibire." He reflected on his acting career and expressed his joy, saying, "I've been acting since I was eight years old, and I've auditioned hundreds of times. But I think that continuing to be involved in film all this time led me to the film 'Shibire,' and to meet director Uchiyama and Miyazawa. I've always loved film and acting, and I've been doing it for about 20 years up until now. I'm grateful to myself for continuing with that feeling, and to everyone I've met along the way." Other awards included Best Actress for Makiko Watanabe, Best Director for Takuya Uchiyama, and in the film category, "THE INVESTIGATOR" received the Special Jury Prize. The film "Shibire" was the grand prize winner, and the production team shared in the joy.
Following this, an agreement was signed on board the ship between the Yokohama International Film Festival and the Short Shorts Film Festival, Asia's largest international short film festival, which receives submissions from over 100 countries and regions every year. Tetsuya Bessho, who serves as the representative, commented, "This is how film festivals can forge friendships and expand exchanges, and together create the future. Tokyo and Yokohama. The Tokyo International Film Festival is held in the fall, the Yokohama International Film Festival in the spring, and the Short Shorts Film Festival in early summer. We would like to work together in various ways to make these events even more exciting, so we ask for your continued support."
In the port city of Yokohama, actors, directors, and other related personnel gathered, adding a touch of glamour to the evening. It was a day that made it impossible to take your eyes off the "present and future" of the Yokohama International Film Festival, which seems to get stronger with each passing year.

■ Yokohama International Film Festival Competition 2026

Grand Prix: Numbness
Best Actor Award: Takumi Kitamura
Best Actress Award: Makiko Watanabe
Best Director Award: Takuya Uchiyama
Special Jury Prize: THE INVESTIGATOR

■ Impressions of covering the Yokohama International Film Festival

The atmosphere in the venue instantly became electric when Yugo Kanno performed the main theme from "Detective Conan," creating an exhilarating feeling unique to a film festival. I'll never forget the impact of the moment Conan and the motorcycle police officers appeared in that atmosphere. I was also very happy to see actors and directors I've seen in various works before walking the red carpet up close. Hearing the words of the staff and cast involved in upcoming and already released films made me naturally feel like I wanted to see those movies too. With the beautiful sea of ​​Minato Mirai as a backdrop, the venue, filled with the warm sound of the audience's applause, had a glamorous yet friendly atmosphere. It was a memorable time where I could feel the charm of movies firsthand.
Karin Ishimatsu, second-year student at Tsuda University

At the Yokohama International Film Festival, I was deeply impressed not only by the films themselves, but also by the beauty of the movements of the cast and crew. Watching them walk the red carpet, accompanied by the film's theme music, created an exhilarating feeling, as if I were witnessing a complete work of art firsthand. Furthermore, I felt a refined elegance in every detail, from their walking and climbing stairs to their bows—things that are not usually shown on screen—and I realized that it is the accumulation of these small details that shapes a person's "ability to captivate." Surrounded by the glamour and excitement of the venue, it was a moment of complete immersion, making me forget the passage of time.
My affection for the films I've already seen has deepened even further, and my anticipation for the films I'll see in the future has grown significantly. I was able to rediscover the potential and allure of film. It was a truly luxurious and valuable experience, allowing me to touch upon the beauty of both film and people.
Haruka Tsukamoto, second-year student at Rikkyo University

This time, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the Yokohama International Film Festival, and I truly felt the passion of everyone involved in film production!
The sight of the cast and directors walking the red carpet against the backdrop of Yokohama Minato Mirai's beautiful scenery was incredibly glamorous, dazzling, and radiant! The audience was captivated, and I could really feel the excitement of the film festival, which featured a lineup of renowned works.
As befits an international film festival, the diverse range of international films and guest appearances gave me a real sense of the depth of film as a cultural phenomenon. I was able to rediscover the power of film!
It was a great honor to experience such wonderful works of art and such a moving space.
Satsuki Sakakura, 4rd year student at Tokyo Metropolitan University

Under a clear blue sky with white clouds, the pure white of the cruise ship and the clear sea sparkled brilliantly, vividly marking the start of the festivities. The sight of the glamorous cast walking the red carpet was truly magnificent, and I was overwhelmed by their radiance.
I was especially inspired by seeing people of my generation succeeding on the world stage. I believe that being exposed to diverse values ​​through movies is the best way to enrich one's life.
Yokohama, once a gateway to different cultures, is now connected to the world through film. I was deeply moved by the passion of the stories, and I couldn't help but wish that "even more films will reach the world from Yokohama!" It was a wonderful day completely immersed in the charm of film.
Ayami Matsuyama, 2st year student at Aoyama Gakuin University

At this year's Yokohama International Film Festival, I felt the passion of everyone involved in filmmaking. The festival shone a spotlight not only on the performers, but on everyone involved in the production of the films, making it a festival that made me want to appreciate the entertainment we enjoy every day with a more nuanced perspective.
I was particularly impressed by their statement, "Let's make Yokohama a city of film," and it was such a wonderful event that I hope the 5th International Film Festival will continue in Yokohama in the future.
Furthermore, all the cast members walking the red carpet were shining brightly, and I felt that this radiance was a result of everyone's sincere dedication to the film and the fact that the film had just been released.
This has given me the courage to want to seriously dedicate myself to something as well.
Nina Ishikawa, 2nd year student at Sophia University

On a clear day, in the pleasant setting of Yokohama, a star-studded cast of actors and celebrities representing the Japanese film industry gathered. Their dazzling attire and dignified presence, radiating their passionate dedication to their work, enveloped the entire venue in a vibrant and exhilarating atmosphere.
This year, a "Competition Section" has been created with the aim of supporting new and talented creators and contributing to the development of the film industry. I look forward to seeing many more world-class Japanese films that are still waiting to be discovered.
Furthermore, Yokohama Mayor Yamanaka stated, "Yokohama has long been a gateway to international culture, and this film festival is indeed a place that welcomes various works and develops the film industry." It is hoped that Japanese films will be broadcast to the world from this historic city of Yokohama, further revitalizing the entire film industry. We encourage you to take a look at the award-winning films.
Aoi Watanabe, 2st year student at Hosei University

At the 4th Yokohama International Film Festival, a city where diverse cultures intersect, films from both Japan and abroad gathered, and I was reminded once again of the power of film to move people's emotions and values. Although I am a Yokohama resident, this was the first time I learned that such a wonderful film festival was held, and I was captivated by its charm. At the boat party, I was able to learn about the thoughts and emotions behind the works that the actors and directors poured into them, making it a valuable time to feel the works in a more three-dimensional way. Regarding "Shibire," which won the Grand Prix, the director's words, "It was 'film' that saved me when I was troubled in life, and now I have received the Best Picture award for the first time," left a strong impression on me.
Risa Ukita, 3rd year student at Tokyo Women's University

Student Newspaper Online, May 2, 2026 Interview: Haruka Tsukamoto (3rd year, Rikkyo University), Ayatsuki Sakakura (4th year, Tokyo Metropolitan University), Aoba Watanabe (2nd year, Hosei University), Ayami Matsuyama (2nd year, Aoyama Gakuin University), Risa Ukita (3rd year, Tokyo Woman's Christian University), Karin Ishimatsu (4th year, Tsuda University), Nina Ishikawa (2nd year, Sophia University)