Shitsurenkaruta Talk Show & SigningLiterary Event in Tokyo 2026

Shitsurenkaruta is an intimate talk show and signing event celebrating the debut collaborative work of acclaimed author Naoki Matayoshi and illustrator Misaki Tanaka. The event centres on their new book — a poetry and illustration collection exploring heartbreak, love, and loss. Attendees will hear candid behind-the-scenes stories about the creative process, personal reflections from both artists, and a live segment where Matayoshi and Tanaka spontaneously create poetry and artwork inspired by audience questions. The evening concludes with a signing session, making it a rare opportunity to meet both creators in person. Naoki Matayoshi is widely known in Japan as both a comedian and a literary author, having won the Akutagawa Prize in 2015.

This event is ideal for fans of contemporary Japanese literature, poetry, and illustration, as well as anyone who appreciates intimate, artist-led creative conversations. The atmosphere will be warm and reflective — expect a small, engaged audience drawn together by a shared appreciation for art and emotional storytelling. Those interested in the intersection of visual art and written word will find the live creation segment particularly compelling. Japanese language comprehension will be helpful as the talk will almost certainly be conducted in Japanese. Arrive early to secure a good seat in what is likely to be a cosy, bookshop-style setting.