Illustration File 2026, featuring the work of 770 illustrators, to be released on Tuesday, March 31st! A step towards new encounters with illustrators.

Genkosha Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) released "Illustration File 2026" on March 31, 2026. This book is an annual publication that introduces the "work" of illustrators over the past year. Since its first publication in 1990, it has been highly regarded in the publishing and advertising industries as a "decisive factor in commissioning illustrators."

"Illustration File 2026 Vol. 1" released on March 31, 2026

"Illustration File 2026 Vol. 2" released on March 31, 2026

The covers of the two volumes are by two leading illustrators! (Volume 1: Nahoko Shono, Volume 2: Ayumi Takahashi)

The covers for the 2026 edition were created by Nahoko Shono for Volume 1 and Ayumi Takahashi for Volume 2. Shono is known for her work on the cover of the "Bookstore Lovers" feature in BRUTUS magazine (Magazine House) and is also active as a picture book author with series such as "Rucchio and Furifuri" and "Arctic Circus" (both Kodansha). Ayumi Takahashi has been widely active in books, magazines, advertising, and the web, including providing the cover illustration as the first artist for "Weekly Bunshun" (Bungeishunju), which renewed its cover for the first time in 48 years last year.

This time, the two artists created wonderful works for both volumes, connecting two worlds.

Introducing 770 illustrators across both volumes

"Illustration File 2026" includes a total of 770 illustrators: 426 in Volume 1 and 344 in Volume 2. It delivers the potential of "illustration" to various media. The works are mainly published in the form they appeared in magazines, books, and advertisements, with staff credits clearly stated. Contact information and brief biographies of each illustrator are also included, making it a useful resource for those looking to commission illustrations.

At the end of the book, there is also an "AD INDEX" organized by art director and designer for convenient searching.

This year, the special feature at the beginning of the volume is also substantial!

This year, with the cooperation of the featured artists, we conducted a survey to explore the reality of illustrators' work and daily production. The responses from 451 people reveal the "now" of illustrators. Also, as a first attempt, with the supervision of Mr. Yuki Tajima of Kotto-dori Law Office and the cooperation of the Copyright Committee of the Tokyo Illustrators Society (TIS), we have included an article titled "Basics of Contracts and Copyright for Clients."

【Book Specifications】

Title: Illustration File 2026 Vol. 1

Release Date: March 31, 2026, nationwide release

Format: B5 size, 448 pages

Price: 2,500 yen + tax

Publisher: Genkosha Co., Ltd.

ISBN: 978-4768331279

Amazon Sales Page: https://amzn.to/4t8UXhw

Title: Illustration File 2026 Vol. 2

Release Date: March 31, 2026, nationwide release

Format: B5 size, 368 pages

Price: 2,500 yen + tax

Publisher: Genkosha Co., Ltd.

ISBN: 978-4768331286

Amazon Sales Page: https://amzn.to/4uU7tTP

【Company Profile】

Trade Name: Genkosha Co., Ltd.

Location: 4-1-5 Iidabashi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8716

Established: 1931

Business Activities: Publishing

URL: https://www.genkosha.co.jp/