“Culture City of East Asia” is an initiative based on agreements reached at the Japan–China–Republic of Korea Ministers of Culture Meeting. Under this framework, cities in Japan, China, and South Korea are selected with the aim of promoting development through culture and the arts. In the selected cities, a wide range of cultural and artistic events are held, encompassing contemporary arts, traditional culture, and diverse forms of everyday cultural practices.

Through these efforts, the program seeks to promote mutual understanding and a sense of solidarity within the East Asian region, while also strengthening the international dissemination and global presence of East Asia’s rich and diverse cultures.

In addition, the program aims to ensure that cities selected as Culture City of East Asia achieve sustainable development by leveraging their unique cultural characteristics to promote culture and the arts, the creative industries, and tourism, thereby using the implementation of the initiative as a catalyst for ongoing growth.

Culture City of East Asia 2026 Matsumoto aims to create a beloved city where citizens and all those who visit Matsumoto can engage with and enjoy its diverse cultural and artistic expressions (ARTS) as part of everyday life. Through these initiatives, the city seeks to deepen each individual’s sense of spiritual richness, well-being, and happiness.

As Culture City of East Asia 2026 Matsumoto, we believe that even a small city can generate a powerful movement. With the goal of fostering friendship among future generations and advancing cultural development, Matsumoto will share its rich cultural appeal—and its love for peace (PEACE)—with the world.