What this is
One of Asia's largest and most prestigious short film festivals, SHORT SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL & ASIA brings together hundreds of short films from around the world each May in Tokyo, with screenings spread across multiple city venues alongside an online streaming component. Accredited by the Academy Awards, winning films in certain categories can qualify for Oscar consideration โ a rare distinction that elevates it well beyond a typical local film event. Expect a mix of narrative, documentary, and experimental shorts representing dozens of countries, with Q&As, industry events, and themed programs woven throughout.
Who should go
Film lovers, aspiring filmmakers, and anyone curious about international cinema in a compact, accessible format. The multi-venue setup suits both casual drop-in visitors and dedicated festivalgoers who want to build a full program.
Good to know
Tickets are typically sold through the official SSFF & ASIA website and eplus.jp โ foreign credit cards are generally accepted on these platforms. The festival uses several venues across Tokyo, so download the full schedule early and plan your day around venue locations to avoid unnecessary cross-city travel. Some screenings are free or low-cost, while special programs and galas are priced higher. The online streaming component (Online Grand Theater) is accessible internationally, making it a good fallback if in-person tickets are sold out. English subtitles are available on many international program films, and the festival has a strong tradition of welcoming foreign visitors.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change โ verify with the official source before attending.