Japan's largest international music awards ceremony took place today, honoring excellence across the music industry with unprecedented scope. MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026 expanded to 78 categories this year, up from the inaugural event in 2025, reflecting growing interest in diverse musical talent.

The awards are backed by five major Japanese music industry organizations—the Recording Industry Association of Japan, Japan Music Promoters Association, Music Producers Association of Japan, Music Publishers Association of Japan, and Concert Promoters Association—working together under the Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA).

Japanese artists dominated many categories. Mrs. GREEN APPLE,米津玄師 (Yonezu Kenshi), and サカナクション (Sakanaction) won multiple major awards, including top prizes for songs and albums. HANA emerged as Best New Artist alongside CANDY TUNE and STARGLOW.

The ceremony also highlighted music's global reach. The "Best Global Hit from Japan" category featured XG's "HYPNOTIZE," LiSA's "ReawakeR" featuring Stray Kids' Felix, and Ado's "うっせぇわ," recognizing how Japanese artists are reaching international audiences. This category reflects the awards' mission to celebrate "music connected to the world."

Asia-focused recognition appeared in the "Best Asian Song" category, acknowledging PLAVE, WOODZ, and other regional acts. The inclusion of these categories underscores how Japanese awards are increasingly recognizing the interconnected nature of Asian pop culture and music markets.

The 2026 ceremony continues MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN's evolution since its 2025 launch. By expanding categories and emphasizing both domestic achievement and global connectivity, the awards reflect the music industry's current landscape—one where Japanese, K-pop, and other Asian artists frequently collaborate and influence each other's success.

Full results across all 78 categories are available through the official announcement, with ongoing updates as the ceremony progresses.