The TOKAS Residency has officially announced the Research Residency Program 2027, an international opportunity designed for artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners to conduct in-depth research on arts and culture in Tokyo, Japan.
This prestigious residency program invites both international and local creators to engage in independent research while being immersed in one of the world’s most dynamic cultural cities.
Selected participants will receive accommodation support and the opportunity to develop research-based artistic and cultural projects over a residency period of 6 to 12 weeks.
About the TOKAS Research Residency Program
The Research Residency Program is part of TOKAS’ mission to support global artistic exchange and cultural research.
It provides a structured environment for creators to:
- Explore arts and cultural practices in Tokyo
- Conduct field-based research
- Develop new artistic or academic projects
- Engage with Japan’s creative ecosystem
- Build international cultural connections
The program is designed to support diverse creative disciplines and encourage cross-cultural dialogue between Japan and the global arts community.
Residency Duration and Schedule
Selected creators will participate in a 6 to 12-week residency during one of the following periods:
Residency Period Options
- May – July 2027
- September – November 2027
- January – March 2028
Participants will be assigned a period by the programme (it cannot be selected by the applicant).
Number of Selected Creators
- Only 5 creators will be selected globally
This makes the program highly competitive and prestigious.
Fields of Study and Creative Disciplines
The residency is open to a wide range of artistic and cultural disciplines, including:
- Visual Arts
- Design
- Architecture
- Music
- Performing Arts
- Curation
- Art Criticism
- Cultural Research
- Cultural Writing
The program strongly encourages interdisciplinary approaches that combine creative practice with research.
What the Residency Provides
Selected participants will receive essential support to carry out their research in Tokyo.
Provided Support
- Living space (single-room accommodation)
- Access to Tokyo’s cultural environment
- Time and space for independent research
- Institutional support from TOKAS Residency
Not Included
- Studio or dedicated workspace is NOT provided
- Additional travel within Japan is NOT funded
- Family accommodation is NOT included
- External living or travel costs are not supported
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials:
Required Documents
- Completed application form (PDF format)
- Portfolio (maximum 6 pages for duo applicants)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Online submission form
Application Process
- Download the official application package
- Complete and fill in the application form using Adobe Reader
- Prepare portfolio and supporting documents
- Submit online via the official application portal
Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be professional creators in arts and culture fields
- Demonstrate significant experience in their discipline
- Have a strong research or artistic proposal
- Be able to conduct residency-based research in Tokyo
Student Eligibility
- Must NOT be a student during residency participation
- Must have substantial professional experience in their field
Duo Applications
- Only eligible if applicants have previously worked together
- Must submit a shared portfolio and documentation
Application Timeline (2027 Cycle)
Key Dates
- Application Period Opens: May 19, 2026
- Application Deadline: June 16, 2026 (18:00 JST)
- Residency Periods: 2027–early 2028 (multiple cycles)
- Results and selections follow internal review process
Deadline
The application deadline for the TOKAS Research Residency Program 2027 is:
June 16, 2026 (18:00 JST)
How to Apply
Click here for more and to apply
Conclusion
The TOKAS Research Residency Program 2027 is a rare and highly competitive opportunity for artists and cultural researchers to immerse themselves in Tokyo’s vibrant creative environment.
With only five selected participants worldwide, the program offers an exclusive platform for deep artistic research, cultural exchange, and professional development in one of the world’s leading cultural capitals.
For creators seeking to expand their artistic practice through research and international experience, this residency offers a transformative opportunity.
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