TAAF 2026 Anime of the Year Winners Announced

Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2026 Winners Announced
The Tokyo Anime Award Festival (TAAF) 2026 has revealed its Anime of the Year winners. The announcement came on Monday, spotlighting the best in Japanese animation from the past year.
Grand Prize Winners
The Grand Prize, the festival's most prestigious award, was split between two outstanding works. In the Feature Film category, "Kimetsu no Yaiba Movie 1: Mugenjou-hen - Akaza Sairai" took the top honor. This installment in the popular Demon Slayer franchise captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and intense action sequences. The Television Series category saw "Kidou Senshi Gundam: GQuuuuuuX" claim the Grand Prize. This addition to the long-running Gundam saga impressed the judges with its engaging storyline and innovative mecha designs.
Anime Fan Award
The Anime Fan Award, decided by popular vote, went to "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle Movie." This win demonstrates the strong connection between the anime and its passionate fanbase.
Individual Award Winners
TAAF 2026 also recognized individual achievements in various aspects of anime production. These awards highlight the talented individuals who contribute to the creation of memorable anime experiences.
Writer
Uoto was honored in the Writers Category for their work on "Chi. Chikyuu no Undou ni Tsuite." Uoto's storytelling skills and ability to craft compelling narratives were recognized by the judges.
Director
Youhei Kameyama received the award in the Directors Category for their work on "Ginga Tokkyuu Milky☆Subway." Kameyama's vision and leadership in bringing the anime to life were commended.
Animator
Shuuto Enomoto was recognized in the Animators Category for their contributions to "Kimi no Iro." Enomoto's skill in bringing characters and scenes to life through animation was celebrated.
Visual Artist
Yuusuke Takeda won the Visual Artists Category award for their work on "Chainsaw Man Movie: Reze-hen." Takeda's talent in creating visually stunning and immersive worlds was acknowledged.
Sound Artist
Kenshi Yonezu was honored in the Sound Artists Category for their contributions to "Chainsaw Man Movie: Reze-hen." Yonezu's skill in creating impactful and emotive soundscapes was celebrated.
Note: The titles listed for the individual awards are works the recipient was involved in during the eligibility period and not necessarily the sole reason for their win.
Tokyo Anime Award Festival Event
The Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, from March 13 to 16. The festival will feature screenings, exhibitions, and other events celebrating the world of anime.
International Competitions
In addition to the Anime of the Year awards, TAAF 2026 will also present awards for its Feature Animation Competition and Short Animation Competition categories. These competitions showcase animated works from around the globe.
Feature Animation Competition
The Feature Animation Competition received 39 entries from 31 countries. A preliminary selection committee is choosing four entries to compete for the Grand Prize and the Award of Excellence.
Short Animation Competition
The Short Animation Competition received an impressive 997 entries from 71 countries. The preliminary selection committee is selecting 23 entries to compete for the Grand Prize and the Award of Excellence.