The Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of Japan (SFWJ) announced the winner for the 45th Edition of the Japan Science Fiction Award on Saturday 15 Feb 2025. Haruko Ichikawa’s “Land of the Lustrous” manga has won the grand prize in the group’s 45th Nihon SF Taishō Awards. In addition, Kenrei Miyanishi won a special award prize for the short story collection Ginga-Fū Hanzō (Sailing on Galactic Winds). Manga artist Kazuo Umezu, translator Haruya Sumiya, and novelist Hiroshi Yamamoto were honoured with Achievement Awards at the 45th Japan SF Grand Prize. This recognition was given posthumously, as all three passed away within the past year, in acknowledgement of their significant contributions to the science fiction genre.

Work published between September 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024, was considered as na omination for the 45th Japan SF Award. The Judge Panel included Haruna Ikezawa (池澤春菜), Nozomi Ōmori (大森望), Yūki Shasendō (斜線堂有紀), Tōya Tachihara (立原透耶), Jōji Hayashi (林譲治).

About The Judges

Haruna Ikezawa (池澤春菜): A Japanese voice actress and essayist known for her work in anime and her contributions to science fiction literature.
Nozomi Ōmori (大森望): A Japanese science fiction translator, editor, and critic, recognized for his translations of Western science fiction works into Japanese.
Yūki Shasendō (斜線堂有紀): A Japanese novelist and author, known for her works in the mystery and science fiction genres.
Tōya Tachihara (立原透耶): A Japanese literary critic and scholar, specializing in science fiction and fantasy literature.
Jōji Hayashi (林譲治): A Japanese science fiction author, known for his works exploring futuristic and speculative themes.

The Grand Prize winner will receive a certificate and a trophy as the main prize, as well as a cash prize of 1 million yen. The Special Prize winner will receive a certificate and a trophy as the main prize, and the Achievement Award winner will receive a certificate and a commemorative gift as the main prize

About The Japan Science Fiction Award (日本SF大賞):

The Japan SF Grand Prize (日本SF大賞) is a prestigious annual award established in 1980 by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of Japan (SFWJ). It honours outstanding works in the science fiction genre, encompassing novels, movies, animations, and manga.

Sources: SFWJ, Comic Natalie