English

OUR MISSION

We celebrate independent cinema and the filmmakers who bring original stories to life. Our mission is to connect filmmakers and audiences across cultures, creating opportunities for outstanding independent films from Japan and around the world to be discovered, shared and appreciated. We place filmmakers at the heart of the festival by supporting their artistic expression, creativity and visibility.

OUR FESTIVAL

Inspired by the spirit of Bon Odori (dance), where people come together across generations and backgrounds, BonDance International Film Festival is an international film festival dedicated to bringing filmmakers, audiences and stories together through cinema. We believe independent films can cross borders, inspire dialogue and create meaningful connections between people and cultures.

OUR PROGRAMS

We showcase a wide range of independent films, including animation, live action, documentary, films for children, music videos and many other forms of creative filmmaking. Our filmmakers and audiences come from Japan and around the world. For our main screening program in Japan, films are presented with Japanese subtitles, and English-language subtitle materials may also be used where appropriate.

2026 SUBMISSION SCHEDULE — CLOSED ARCHIVE

EVENTS

2026 SUBMISSIONS — CLOSED

DATES & DEADLINES (2026 submission schedule)

Opening Date:

– November 2nd, 2025

Earlybird 1:

– November 30th, 2025

Earlybird 2:

– December 28th, 2025

Earlybird 3:

– January 25th, 2026

Regular 1:

– February 22nd, 2026

Regular 2:

– March 29th, 2026

Regular 3:

– April 26th, 2026

Extended 1:

– May 31st, 2026

Extended 2:

– June 28th, 2026

Extended 3:

– July 26th, 2026

Notification Date:

– August 30th, 2026

Screening:

– Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November 2026

– Cinema House Otsuka, Tokyo, Japan

– Doors open 11:30 for registration and informal conversation; seating at 12:15

– Screenings and talks start 12:30; expected end 18:00 each day

– Informal conversation and photos: 18:00–18:30 each day

– Nine award-winning films; different daily programmes

– Tickets: ¥1,200 per day in advance via Peatix; ¥1,500 per day at the door (cash). Please book a ticket for each day if attending both days.