Japanese Film Festival 2026 brings 16 Films to SM Cinemas Nationwide

The Japan Foundation, Manila’s Japanese Film Festival 2026 brings Japanese cinema and culture to audiences across eight Philippine cities, celebrating 70 years of Philippine-Japan diplomatic ties and 30 years of JFM in the country. 

Words Nanzi Sofia Sernadilla
Photos courtesy of SM
October 20, 2026

Japan cinema takes center stage in the Philippines as the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) presents the Japan Film Festival 2026 from October 1 to November 29 across eight cities nationwide. 

With the theme “Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.,” this year’s festival celebrates 20 years of normalized diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan, as well as JFM’s 20 years of cultural presence in the country.

In partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, the festival offers Filipino audiences free access to a curated selection of 16 Japanese films. Screenings are scheduled at SM Megamall, SM Manila, SM Cebu, SM Baguio, SM Iloilo, SM Lanang, SM North EDSA, and SM CDO Downtown Premier throughout October and November.

The festival opened on October 1 at SM Megamall with the Philippine debut of KOKUHO (2025), directed by Lee Sang-il. Set against the demanding world of Kabuki theater, the film premiered at Cannes and later earned major honors at the 49th Japan Academy Film Prize, including Picture of the Year and Director of the Year.

This year’s program also highlights the “Cinema Kabuki,” a specialized format that brings traditional stage performances to the big screen. The opening slate features Yoji Yamada’s Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions), accompanied by cultural activities such as a costume demonstration and traditional Kumadori body-painting workshop.

Animation enthusiasts can also look forward to “Nausicaa Day,” featuring Hayao Miyazaki’s Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind alongside its Kabuki adaptations. Other highlights include restored classics such as Akira Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood and a 4k remaster of Hula Girls, alongside contemporary festival selections.

Through cinema, cultural programs, and international collaborations, the Japanese Film Festival 2026 invites Filipino audiences to discover stories that connect two cultures through a shared love for film.