Experience the Magic: The 32nd Kineko International Children’s Film Festival 2025 in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan — The vibrant neighborhood of Futakotamagawa in Tokyo is once again preparing to transform into a cinematic playground for children and families, as the 32nd Kineko International Children Film Festival opens its doors from October 31 to November 4, 2025.

The Kineko International Children’s Film Festival, Japan’s foremost cinematic event for young audiences, returns for its 32nd edition from October 31 to November 4, 2025, in Tokyo’s family-friendly district of Futakotamagawa. With more than 700 global submissions and 67 officially selected films, this year’s festival continues its mission to inspire creativity and empathy through cinema. Featuring its signature Live Cinema performances, interactive workshops, and special screenings of Doraemon and Minecraft: The Movie, Kineko 2025 is poised to captivate families and film lovers of all ages.

Recognized as Japan’s largest and longest-running international film festival dedicated to children and young audiences, Kineko has been nurturing imagination, empathy, and global understanding through the power of film since its founding in 1992.

From “Kinder Film” to Global Platform

Kineko, originally launched as the Tokyo Kinder Film Festival, was established in collaboration with the Berlin International Film Festival’s “Generation” section, which focuses on films for young audiences. Over three decades later, it has grown into one of Asia’s most respected children’s film events, offering both Japanese and international creators a platform to share stories that transcend language, culture, and age.

The festival rebranded as “Kineko” in 2012 — a combination of “Kinema” (cinema) and “Kodomo” (children) — symbolizing its mission to connect young people with the art of film. Each year, it welcomes thousands of visitors, from preschoolers and parents to educators and filmmakers, celebrating the boundless creativity of youth-oriented cinema.

Screenings, Competitions, and Film Highlights

For its 32nd edition, Kineko has received over 700 film submissions from around the world. Out of these, 67 titles have been officially selected — including 51 competition entries and 16 special screenings — to be featured across 24 curated programs.

The festival’s programming is diverse, featuring feature films, short films, documentaries, and animations aimed at two primary age groups:

• Children’s Section (ages 1–12)
• Teen Section (ages 13–18)

According to the festival organizers, this year’s lineup reflects the global realities faced by young people while offering stories filled with hope, imagination, and courage.

Among the anticipated international selections are powerful documentaries such as:

• “We Will Not End”, a moving portrait of teenagers navigating everyday life in war-torn Donbas, Ukraine.
• “Girls Don’t Cry”, a cross-border narrative capturing the resilience of young women facing cultural and societal pressures in different countries.

Meanwhile, the Japanese competition will feature short films and animations that explore friendship, self-discovery, and family bonds, continuing Kineko’s tradition of spotlighting homegrown talent alongside international voices.

The Signature “Live Cinema” Experience

One of the defining features that makes Kineko truly special is its “Live Cinema” format — a live voice-over performance during international film screenings. Instead of relying on subtitles, professional Japanese voice actors perform the dialogue on stage in real time, allowing even the youngest audience members to experience the full story without reading.

This unique presentation, beloved by families, has become a hallmark of Kineko. It not only bridges the language gap but also adds an element of live theater and spontaneity that engages children on a deeper emotional level.

“Live Cinema allows young audiences to feel the rhythm, tone, and emotion of the original performances, while hearing the story in their own language,” says Kineko’s Artistic Director. “It turns every screening into a shared, unforgettable moment.”

Venues Across Futakotamagawa

The 32nd Kineko Film Festival will once again take place across multiple venues in Tokyo’s Futakotamagawa district — a family-friendly riverside area known for its cultural charm and modern shopping spaces.

Confirmed screening and event locations include:

• 109 Cinemas Futakotamagawa (Theater 1)
• Futakotamagawa Rise Studio & Hall
• Tamagawa Takashimaya S.C. South Building White Mall
• Setagaya Ward’s Egret Hall (Setagaya Civic Hall)
• Schroper Café and Futako Beer Brewery

In addition to traditional theater screenings, the festival will host outdoor film events, interactive workshops, and creative activities throughout the Futakotamagawa area. The goal, according to organizers, is to make the entire neighborhood feel like a film festival village — where families can watch, learn, and play together.

Ticket Information

Kineko aims to remain affordable and accessible for families. Ticket prices vary depending on screening type:

• Live Cinema Screenings:
  • Advance: 700 yen (children) / 1,700 yen (adults)
  • On the day: 1,000 yen (children) / 2,000 yen (adults)
• Regular Screenings:
  • Advance: 400 yen (children) / 1,200 yen (adults)
  • On the day: 500 yen (children) / 1,500 yen (adults)

In addition, a donation ticket (5,000 yen) is available. Part of the proceeds from these tickets goes toward bringing cinema experiences to children in hospitals and remote communities. Buyers of donation tickets will also receive a limited-edition Kineko sticker as a token of appreciation.

Special Screenings: Doraemon and Minecraft Take the Stage

This year’s festival also features a pair of blockbuster special screenings at the Setagaya Egret Hall on November 2, perfect for families and fans of iconic media franchises:

1. “Doraemon: Nobita’s World of Art Adventure”
   • In this imaginative feature, Nobita discovers a mysterious piece of artwork that transports him and Doraemon into a living painting. The film explores creativity, friendship, and the magic of imagination. (Starts 12:30 PM)
2. “Minecraft: The Movie”
   • A live-action adaptation of the global hit video game, this film follows a group of friends who find themselves trapped in a pixelated world made entirely of blocks. To return home, they must learn cooperation, problem-solving, and courage. (Starts 3:30 PM)

Ticket prices for these screenings are symbolic — children’s tickets are only 100 yen in advance (500 yen on the day), while adults pay 1,200 yen in advance (1,500 yen on the day). High school students are also eligible for children’s pricing, encouraging teen attendance.

A Festival for Learning, Empathy, and Expression

Beyond entertainment, Kineko’s mission is deeply educational. The festival positions film as a tool for cultural exchange, emotional growth, and creative expression. Through storytelling, children can discover the joys of empathy, communication, and imagination — skills that transcend the screen.

Each year, Kineko invites children and teenagers to serve as official jury members, evaluating films and selecting winners alongside international adult juries. This participatory approach empowers young audiences to articulate their thoughts and develop a critical appreciation for cinema.

Workshops and side events, such as “Create Your Own Short Film” sessions and “Meet the Voice Actors” panels, give participants firsthand experience with the filmmaking process. Organizers emphasize that these programs are designed not to train professionals, but to encourage self-expression and curiosity among the next generation.

Connecting Japan to the World

Kineko is also Japan’s window to the international children’s film community. Each year, it collaborates with global festivals and cultural institutions, including ECFA (European Children’s Film Association), the Berlinale’s Generation section, and various national embassies.

This global cooperation ensures that Kineko audiences experience a rich diversity of storytelling — from Scandinavian animation and Korean family dramas to Latin American coming-of-age films and African folktales.

According to festival representatives, “Kineko is not just about showing films; it’s about connecting cultures and hearts. Through cinema, children can see how other kids around the world live, dream, and overcome challenges.”

Awards and Recognition

Kineko’s competitive sections are judged by both adult professionals and child juries, reflecting its belief that young voices matter in shaping artistic appreciation. Past winners have gone on to feature in international festivals like Annecy, Berlinale, and Toronto’s Kids International.

Awards typically include:

• Grand Prix for Best Feature Film (International)
• Best Short Film (Children and Teen categories)
• Audience Award
• Live Cinema Excellence Award

In addition, a Setagaya Mayor’s Award recognizes films that highlight community spirit and social values.

A Celebration Beyond the Screen

More than just a film event, the Kineko Festival has become a beloved Tokyo tradition that blends art, education, and community. Local businesses, schools, and volunteers all take part, helping to create an atmosphere of inclusivity and warmth.

For families, Kineko is not only an opportunity to watch extraordinary films — it’s a chance to spend meaningful time together, engage with global cultures, and spark young imaginations.

As the 32nd Kineko International Children’s Film Festival approaches, excitement is building across Tokyo and beyond. With its mix of heartfelt storytelling, innovative presentation, and family-friendly spirit, the 2025 edition promises to be another milestone in Japan’s ongoing love affair with the magic of cinema.

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