Event Information
APWT event:
Nakama APWT Japan
Nakama, Japan
9-11 December 2026
Nakama APWT Japan will run from 9-11 December 2026 at Lakeland University Tokyo – we do hope you can join us. Nakama in translation means (inner circle/shared group) a fitting moniker for the atmosphere and philosophy of APWT events. Over three days and four nights participants from all over the world will gather for the kind of eclectic and immersive literary programming APWT has become famous for. Part festival, part conference, part retreat this is a literary experience like no other. You can take part in readings and panel discussions, absorb inspiring keynote addresses from international feature authors and participate in inspiring practice focused workshops. As is our usual style we will also be hosting dinners, cultural tours, mini-retreats and events in other fabulous venues and locations. In the neon city, our nighttime entertainment programming will be second to none. Book your place today!
Escape to Nakama Japan !
Accommodation
Our official hotel will be The Gate Hotel Ryogoku by Hulic. This refined but competitively priced hotel is within walking distance of Lakeland University. You can enjoy high end facilities such as a gourmet on site restaurant, rooftop terrace bar, 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping and lovely views of the Sumida River. The best part – even the standard rooms here are above average sizes for Tokyo, with everything from twin rooms to suites available to suit your preference. We advise you to make your accommodation booking as soon as possible. You can access pay at the property and free cancellation options on Booking.com here or book via the hotel website.

Nakama APWT Japan 9-11 December 2026
Full program coming soon!
Featured Authors and Guests
Hakone APWT Writing Retreat
For those who are interested APWT will be running an optional three-day retreat in the scenic Hakone region of Japan just two hours out of Tokyo from 12-15 December. Join us for three blissful days as we decompress from the highs of Tokyo taking in luscious forest walks, hot springs, onsen bathing, readings and social gatherings. As this retreat will be largely self-directed there will be no charge to attend. All you have to do is book your stay – come for one day or all three. It’s up to you. Hakone is easily accessible by train. Our stay pick for the retreat is the Fujiya Hotel. One of the most famous hotels in Japan, this sprawling property blending western and Japanese architecture and craftsmanship, has a long and distinguished history and has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. The standard rooms are on par in terms of price with other offerings in the region and there are a variety of room options to choose from. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be enriched by a living monument of Japanese history. Book your room today!

