Crafting Tomorrow’s Anime: A Hands-On Planning Workshop with Yuji Kobayashi
Tokyo is set to host a unique opportunity for aspiring anime creators in February 2026. The Visual Industry Promotion Organization (VIPO) is organizing an intensive, two-day in-person workshop titled “Original Anime Planning Workshop 2026.” This practical program aims to equip participants with the essential skills to develop compelling original anime concepts, guided by the renowned scriptwriter and novelist, Yuji Kobayashi.
In the vibrant landscape of Japanese animation, an original anime plan serves as the very bedrock of creation—a “blueprint” and “compass” that steers the entire production team. From its initial spark, a well-defined concept and an engaging plan are indispensable for navigating the complex journey of anime production. This workshop offers a rare chance to delve into this crucial process, transforming nascent ideas into fully fleshed-out proposals.
The Workshop Experience: From Concept to Presentation
The program is meticulously designed to be highly interactive and hands-on, ensuring participants not only learn theories but also apply them in real-time.
Day 1: February 20 (Friday), 13:30 – 17:30
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Lecture by Yuji Kobayashi: “Anime Planning Workshop from Constraints” – a deep dive into generating creative ideas within practical limitations.
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Individual Workshop: Participants will develop individual plans based on a theme provided by the lecturer.
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Presentations & Group Work: Ideas will be presented, followed by group discussions to consolidate interesting concepts into a single, refined idea per group.
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Homework: Participants will be tasked with submitting a plot outline before the second day.
Day 2: February 27 (Friday), 13:30 – 17:30
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Group Work Focus: The day will primarily involve collaborative efforts.
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Individual Plot Presentations: Each participant will present their homework plot.
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Feedback & Refinement: Yuji Kobayashi will provide detailed feedback and guidance to help each participant refine and polish their plans.
This dynamic structure promises a robust learning environment, fostering both individual creativity and collaborative synergy.
Meet the Mastermind: Yuji Kobayashi
Leading this transformative workshop is Yuji Kobayashi, a distinguished scriptwriter and novelist from Nagano Prefecture. Kobayashi made his debut as a scriptwriter for the iconic anime series Sazae-san in 2002. His extensive career includes lecturing at Nihon University College of Art and Atomi Gakuen Women’s University, and he is the owner of the online salon “Scenario Land,” in addition to serving as an executive director of the Japan Writers Guild. His latest work includes the series composition for the anime Kaminoniwa-tsuki Kusunoki-tei.
Kobayashi’s impressive portfolio spans across various genres, showcasing his versatility and profound understanding of storytelling:
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Anime: Fushigi Dagashiya Zenitendō (composition), Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Crystal (composition), Precure series, Duel Masters series, Bakugan series.
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Special Effects (Tokusatsu): Ultraman series (composition), Garo, Space Sheriff Gavan: The Movie, Juken Sentai Gekiranger.
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Drama: Baby Steps, Orthros no Inu, Kansahojin, Chugakusei Nikki.
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Variety: Tensai Terebi-kun YOU (composition).
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Stage: Rokubanme no Sayoko.
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Books: Night Train: Hoshi Furu Yoru no Tatta Ichido no Kiseki, Scriptwriter: A Way of Life, How to Make Tokusatsu Hero TV Shows.
Who Should Apply?
This workshop is ideal for individuals passionate about shaping the future of anime:
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Aspiring anime producers and directors.
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Individuals aiming to become anime scriptwriters.
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Students with a keen interest in anime production.
The workshop is limited to 12 participants, and a document screening process will be conducted if applications exceed the capacity. The participation fee is 20,000 JPY (tax included).
To apply, please visit the official VIPO news page and complete the application form by February 3, 2026, at noon (JST). Successful applicants will be notified within 4-5 days of the deadline.
For more details and to apply, visit: https://www.vipo.or.jp/news/48988/
This workshop represents a significant opportunity for the next generation of anime creators to learn directly from an industry veteran, honing their skills and contributing to the innovative spirit of Japanese animation. The insights gained here will undoubtedly empower participants to bring fresh, captivating stories to life on screen, shaping the future landscape of global Kawaii culture through compelling narratives.
