The tension between Beijing and Tokyo has intensified as China’s largest comic convention, COMICUP, has announced that its upcoming event will adopt a “New Chinese Style–only” format, effectively excluding all Japanese anime and manga.
The abrupt shift, made public by organizers on December 19, comes less than two weeks before the event is set to take place in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on December 27–28. Organizers indicated that any exhibits not adhering to the revised theme would be removed.
The move arrives amid increasing political friction between China and Japan and has sparked a wave of cancellations from exhibitors. The ban is anticipated to contribute to a significant reduction in attendance, with some estimates suggesting Hangzhou could forfeit more than 200,000 potential tourism visits associated with the event.
Held biannually, COMICUP is regarded as China’s largest marketplace for doujinshi and fan creations, traditionally featuring a range of fan works, cosplay, and merchandise from both domestic and international properties. Japanese anime and manga have previously comprised a substantial share of the event’s offerings.
According to the organizing committee, the decision resulted from “comprehensive consideration of the current social environment and cultural responsibility.” While organizers stated that exhibitors are responsible for ensuring their content conforms to the new guidelines, unverified posts circulating on Chinese social media have mentioned the prospect of stringent enforcement.
Some reports suggest that cosplayers dressed as non-Chinese intellectual property characters could be barred from attending, and staff may inspect displays inside the venue to enforce compliance.
This development follows a recent pattern of restrictions placed on Japanese entertainment within China. In December 2025, for instance, the theatrical run of “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” was cut short after authorities declined to grant a release extension, officially citing “unavoidable circumstances” despite strong box office results.
Additionally, other Japanese anime titles have seen their screenings indefinitely postponed, while some remain in limbo without a revised release date.
Beyond cinema, Japanese performers have experienced similar setbacks. In late November, singer Maki Otsuki was escorted offstage at a Shanghai concert, and previously scheduled Sailor Moon live shows were abruptly canceled in China.
