A Brief History of Japan’s Most Prestigious Literary Award, The Akutagawa Prize
Tokyo Writer
The Akutagawa Prize is one of the most coveted literary awards in Japan. It is currently awarded twice annually, in January and July, to up-and-coming talent in the world of literature. Learn the history behind Japan’s esteemed fiction prize right here.
The Akutagawa Prize is celebrating its 81st anniversary this year. It was first established in 1935 by novelist and publishing mogul Kan Kikuchi. Kikuchi certainly left his mark on the literary world. He started a publishing company-cum-literary magazine called Bungeishunjū, the Japan Writer’s Association, the Kan Kikuchi Prize (for authors over age 45), and the Naoki Prize, Japan’s other most prestigious literary prize. Kikuchi named the Akutagawa Prize after the late Ryūnosuke Akutagawa who died in 1927 from an overdose. Akutagawa was famous for his work in the short fiction genre, and is nicknamed the Father of the Japanese Short Story.
The Akutagawa Prize is given to rising stars in the world of serious literature, to the best story published in a newspaper, magazine or the like. Along with the Naoki Prize, the Akutagawa Prize receives the most media attention of Japan’s literary awards. The winner not only enjoys the fame and prestige of winning, but a cash prize of one million yen (US$10,000) and a commemorative pocket watch.
Throughout history, the prize has more often than not gone to short stories and novellas rather than full-length works. This is partly because of its namesake’s influence, but also because the winners are selected from those authors who’ve been published in a literary magazine. Those publishers are more likely to print a short story than an novel. Previous winners include Toh EnJoe for Harlequin Butterfly, and Yang Yi, a Chinese-born novelist, for Toki Ga Nijimu Asa.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.
Read Next
Guides & Tips
The Best Solo Trips to Take in Your 30s
Guides & Tips
Rediscover Japan with its Borders Fully Open
Guides & Tips
Tomamu: a secret skiing spot in the heart of Hokkaido
Film & TV
The Best Japanese Movies to Watch on the Bullet Train
Guides & Tips
The Ultimate Guide to Getting around Japan
Guides & Tips
How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost?
Guides & Tips
How to Experience Off-the-Beaten-Track Japan by Bullet Train
See & Do
The Best Places to Visit with Culture Trip this Autumn
Guides & Tips
The Best Rail Trips to Book this Year
Guides & Tips
Introducing Culture Trip's Rail Trips
Guides & Tips
Top Tips for Travelling in Japan
Guides & Tips
How modern art revitalised the city of Towada, Japan
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
