Japanese Popular Fiction Translation Competition

Our translation competition is dedicated to discovering, nurturing and supporting talented translators who share the same vision as us.

We are looking for translations written in the applicant’s own words.

Sign Up Period: June 17 – September 30, 202

Submission Period: September 1 – October 31, 2026

• Entries are open to applicants of all ages and nationalities.
• The aim of this competition is to support emerging literary translators in launching their professional careers. Translators are eligible to enter who have had no more than one short story and no full-length works in translation published commercially (from Japanese to English, including any work already contracted). Those with experience translating for periodicals, video games, manga, light novels, or other media also remain eligible.
• Applicants who have previously received awards in other competitions are eligible to apply.
• Winning entries may be featured on the website.

Judged by Jesse Kirkwood and Asa Yoneda.