Tokyo International Guitar Competition

Repertoire requirements

Free choice all rounds. Contrasting styles recommended.

• Preliminary (Video) · 15 min
  • Free choice program
  • Contrasting styles
• Semi-Final · 20 min
  • Free choice program
• Final · 25 min
  • Free choice recital

Official website

https://guitarists.or.jp/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Tokyo

Photo: Morio, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

For classical guitarists, December in Tokyo offers a unique blend of world-class music and a vibrant cultural experience at the Tokyo International Guitar Competition. Held annually at the acoustically renowned Hakuju Hall, this event brings together top emerging talents from around the globe, offering a compelling reason to explore Japan's dynamic capital.

Getting there

Tokyo is served by two major international airports, Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND), both offering extensive global connections. From Narita, the Narita Express train provides direct service to major stations like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station. Haneda, closer to the city center, is equally well-connected by the Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail, linking to key areas like Shinagawa. Tokyo's public transport network is famously efficient, making it easy to navigate the city and reach Hakuju Hall in Shibuya-ku.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Tokyo on Omio →

Japan uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

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Where to stay

Tokyo offers an immense range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to boutique stays and traditional ryokan. For convenience to Hakuju Hall, consider staying in Shibuya or nearby Shinjuku, both bustling districts with excellent transport links, diverse dining, and vibrant nightlife. Areas like Ebisu or Daikanyama offer a slightly more relaxed, upscale atmosphere while remaining well-connected. Booking well in advance, especially for December, is advisable.

What you'll hear

The Tokyo International Guitar Competition features a free choice repertoire across all rounds, with the jury often looking for contrasting styles that showcase a competitor's versatility and musical depth. Unlike some other major competitions, there is no concerto round, placing the spotlight firmly on solo performance. The first prize is substantial, offering ¥1,000,000 and a high-quality Sakurai or Kohno guitar, attracting a strong field of international talent to Hakuju Hall for this annual December event.

Tokyo is also the birthplace and lifelong home of Tōru Takemitsu, one of the 20th century's most significant composers, known for his subtle manipulation of timbre and fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics. A pilgrimage for any guitar enthusiast includes a visit to the Takemitsu Memorial at Tokyo Opera City in Nishi-Shinjuku, a complex he helped design, which hosts an annual composition award in his name. His grave is located at Nichirin-ji temple in Bunkyō, offering a quiet moment of reflection. Takemitsu wrote several important works for the guitar, including All in Twilight and Equinox, making his presence deeply felt in the instrument's modern repertoire.

If you play as well as listen, explore Tōru Takemitsu, Japan's foremost guitar composer in our repertoire finder, where you can hear each piece and find the sheet music.

The local table

Tokyo's culinary scene is unparalleled, from Michelin-starred fine dining to humble ramen stalls, offering something for every palate and budget. Essential experiences include fresh sushi at Tsukiji or Toyosu Outer Markets, a bowl of artisanal ramen in a cozy neighborhood spot, or crispy tempura prepared before your eyes. Explore an izakaya for small plates and drinks, or seek out a traditional kaiseki meal for a multi-course culinary journey. Don't miss local specialties like monjayaki in Tsukishima or a perfect tonkatsu meal. The sheer variety ensures an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Tokyo →

While you're there

Between competition rounds, Tokyo offers endless exploration. Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, ascend the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower for panoramic city views, or find serenity in the ancient Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Wander through the Imperial Palace East Garden, visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Shibuya's forested grounds, or explore the fashion-forward streets of Harajuku and Ginza. For art lovers, the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park is a must, while the Ghibli Museum (book well in advance) offers a whimsical escape. Day trips are also rewarding: consider a Shinkansen bullet train journey to Kyoto for its temples and geisha districts, or a trip to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji and relaxing onsen baths.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Tokyo →

More guitar events in Japan: All Japan Guitar Competition · Classical Guitar Competition (JGA) · Japan Guitar Competition · Kyushu Guitar Music Competition · Nagoya Guitar Competition · San-in Guitar Competition

Also in December: International Veria Guitar Festival · Konkurs im. Czesława Dróżdziewicza · Pleven Guitar Festival

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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