From Anime to AI: How Japan’s Creative Industries Are Embracing Technology

SINGAPORE, March 30, 2026 – Japan’s creative industries have long held global influence. From anime and manga to video games and music, Japanese cultural exports have shaped entertainment markets around the world.

Today, new technologies are transforming how these creative industries operate. Artificial intelligence, digital distribution platforms and immersive technologies are opening new possibilities for creators and audiences alike.

These developments will be highlighted at SusHi Tech Tokyo, where the intersection of technology and entertainment forms one of the event’s key themes.

A Global Cultural Industry

Anime and manga have become major components of the global entertainment economy. Streaming platforms have introduced Japanese animation to new international audiences, while manga translations are reaching readers across multiple languages.

According to the Association of Japanese Animations, the global anime industry has expanded significantly in recent years, with international demand playing a major role in its growth.

As these industries expand globally, technology is becoming an increasingly important part of the creative process.

AI Tools for Content Creation

Artificial intelligence is beginning to influence many aspects of creative production. AI assisted translation tools, for example, allow publishers to translate manga into multiple languages more efficiently, helping Japanese content reach global audiences faster.

Companies such as Orange Inc., which specialises in AI based translation technology, are developing tools designed to support this process. Rather than replacing human translators, these technologies often combine machine translation with human editing workflows, improving both speed and accuracy.

Immersive Experiences

Virtual reality and interactive technologies are also changing how audiences experience entertainment. Immersive VR systems allow users to engage with sports, games and entertainment content in new ways. For example, VR experiences can simulate sporting activities or allow fans to explore digital environments inspired by popular cultural franchises.

These technologies are expanding the boundaries between traditional entertainment and interactive media.

The convergence of technology and entertainment is also encouraging new forms of collaboration. Technology companies are increasingly working with artists, designers and content creators to develop new digital experiences.

At SusHi Tech Tokyo, exhibitions and demonstrations will highlight how creative industries are integrating technologies such as AI, virtual reality and digital distribution platforms.

This collaboration reflects a broader trend in which innovation increasingly occurs at the intersection of different industries.

The Future of Creative Technology

Japan’s creative industries have always combined artistic creativity with technological innovation.

From the early development of video games to modern animation techniques, Japanese creators have consistently embraced new tools to expand the possibilities of storytelling.

As technologies such as artificial intelligence and immersive media continue to evolve, the creative industries are likely to remain one of the most dynamic areas of technological experimentation.

Platforms such as SusHi Tech Tokyo provide a glimpse into how these technologies may shape the future of entertainment and cultural expression.