Every year, the World Yo-Yo Contest brings together the world's elite modern yo-yo players for four days of spectacular competitions, international meet-and-greets, and activities dedicated to this rapidly evolving sport. The 2026 edition will take place from August 13 to 16, 2026, at Arcrea HIMEJI (Himeji Culture and Convention Center), in the heart of Himeji City, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan.
Organized jointly by the International Yo-Yo Federation (IYYF) and the Japan Yo-Yo Federation (JYYF), the World Yo-Yo Contest is considered the most prestigious yo-yo competition in the world. For four days, the best international players, qualified through their respective national championships, come to represent their countries before a jury of international experts.
The championship showcases all the official disciplines recognized by the IYYF. Competitors face off in demonstrations blending technical mastery, precision, creativity, musicality, and artistic expression. Spectators can watch events in categories 1A (Single String Trick), 2A (Two Hand Looping), 3A (Two Hand String Trick), 4A (Offstring), 5A (Counterweight), as well as the spectacular Art & Performance (AP) division, where staging, choreography, and creativity take center stage.
Beyond the competition, the World Yo-Yo Contest is a true global gathering for the entire yo-yo community. During the event, visitors can meet top international champions, watch demonstrations, network with manufacturers, and discover the latest innovations presented by leading brands in the industry. Numerous sales booths offer the opportunity to test equipment and purchase the latest yo-yo models, accessories, strings, clothing, and related products directly from international manufacturers and distributors.
The event also features a large area dedicated to the championship's partners and sponsors. Several activities, informal gatherings, and demonstrations round out the program throughout the weekend, making the World Yo-Yo Contest a true international yo-yo festival.
The championship takes place in the modern Arcrea HIMEJI (Himeji Culture and Convention Center), located just a 10-minute walk from Himeji Station, one of the main stations served by the Shinkansen, providing quick access from Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Tokyo. Its central location also makes it easy to access the many hotels, restaurants, and shops surrounding the station.
No official hotel is offered by the organization, leaving visitors to choose from the many establishments available near the competition site.
Spectators can choose between several ticket categories to make the most of the competition:
4-day pass – Seat A: 9,000 GBP
4-day pass – Seat S: 18,000 yen
4-day pass – SS seat: ¥25,000
SS seats offer the best view closest to the stage, while S seats have reserved seating. A seats are unreserved within their designated area. Day tickets are also available on-site during the event.
Competitors can register using several methods:
Registration only: ¥6,000
Registration + Pass A: ¥15,000
Registration + Pass S: ¥20,000
An Early Bird registration period was offered until June 30, 2026, while competitor registration closed on July 17, 2026. Late registrations, as well as the submission of music and additional information, were possible until July 24, 2026. Advance spectator tickets were available until July 31, 2026.
For international participants requiring a visa, the organization provides a system for requesting an official invitation letter directly from the website.
The World Yo-Yo Contest is also a prime location for enthusiasts from all five continents to connect. Between open practice sessions, impromptu demonstrations, meet-and-greets with champions, autograph sessions, and numerous technical exchanges between players of all levels, the event offers a unique atmosphere where beginners, experienced amateurs, and professionals share the same passion.
Whether you are a competitor, collector, yoyo enthusiast or simply curious, the World Yo-Yo Contest 2026 is an exceptional opportunity to discover the highest global level of this spectacular discipline and to witness four days of impressive performances in a friendly, international atmosphere resolutely focused on sharing the passion for yoyo.