Tokyo to Host the 15th World Cities Culture Summit

The 15th World Cities Culture Summit will take place in Tokyo from 28–30 October 2026, bringing together our global network of 45+ cities for three days of exchange, insight and collaboration.

The Summit will be hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The announcement was made today by Governor Yuriko Koike and Justine Simons, Deputy Mayor of London for Culture and the Creative Industries and Chair of World Cities Culture Forum.

Justine Simons OBE said:

“Culture is a driving force in global cities. Leaders from around the world will come together to share cultural policy solutions that improve lives and transform cities. Cities across our network can look to Tokyo for inspiration. A city where historic traditions meet cutting-edge creativity – from iconic districts, restaurants and festivals to globally influential film, architecture, fashion and digital media. Where culture connects the past, present and future.”

“Cities across our network can look to Tokyo for inspiration. A city where historic traditions meet cutting-edge creativity – from iconic districts, restaurants and festivals to globally influential film, architecture, fashion and digital media. Where culture connects the past, present and future.” – Justine Simons OBE, Chair of World Cities Culture Forum

In announcing Tokyo as host city, Governor Koike said:

“The World Cities Culture Forum has substantially expanded its global network, contributing to the cultural policies of cities around the world. This Summit will provide a golden opportunity for leaders across the globe to experience a new international arts and culture festival, which will be launched this year, and its main program, the international art exhibition TOKYO ATLAS. Participants can also enjoy the diverse appeal of Edo culture through an immersive experience at the newly renovated Edo-Tokyo Museum, one of the Summit venues. Through this Summit, we will further strengthen intercity cooperation to advance our respective cultural initiatives and enhance Tokyo’s presence on the global stage.”

To mark the announcement, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the City of Amsterdam — host of the 2025 Summit — are launching a new collaborative programme inspired by their connection as Summit host cities. The initiative will support knowledge exchange and advance cultural policy development in both cities.

About the World Cities Culture Summit

The World Cities Culture Summit is the flagship annual event of the World Cities Culture Forum, convening Deputy Mayors, Culture Commissioners and senior city leaders from around the world to share solutions that improve lives and transform cities through culture.

Described as a ‘Masterclass in cultural policy’, the World Cities Culture Summit is the flagship annual event of the World Cities Culture Forum. Bringing together Deputy Mayors, Culture Commissioners and city policymakers, the Summit provides a unique platform to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas. It is solutions-driven event that encourages city leaders to collaborate to improve the lives of their citizens through culture: with over half of previous attendees implementing or improving cultural policies in their cities as a result of attending. 

• Policy sharing: Delegates will share innovative policy ideas from cities around the world. 
• Debating city challenges: Topics such as the climate crisis, social inequality and the rapid rise of generative AI will take centre stage. 
• Cultural opportunities: Discussions will highlight culture’s role in creating sustainable tourism, inspiring climate action, building inclusive cities and explore opportunities for city collaboration. 

Sessions will take place across Tokyo’s diverse cultural venues, offering Summit delegates the chance to learn more about the city’s innovative cultural policies and projects in situ. 

About the City of Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan’s capital and the world’s second most populous metropolis (after Jakarta), is a city where centuries-old traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. Once known as Edo, Tokyo became Japan’s capital in 1869 and has since evolved into a global cultural and creative powerhouse, with over 32 million people in its metropolitan area. From the refined performances of Noh and Kabuki to vibrant anime, design, and technology scenes, Tokyo celebrates culture at every scale. Major institutions like the Kabukiza Theatre and National Noh Theatre sit alongside fashion-forward districts and creative hubs for global talent.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government plays a leading role in shaping cultural life. Its Tokyo Tokyo FESTIVAL reached nearly 39 million people and reaffirmed culture’s central role in city life. Looking to 2030 and beyond, Tokyo’s strategy prioritises inclusion, digital innovation, and resilience, creating a city where culture thrives both on the streets and online.