BitSummit is Japan’s standout festival celebrating independent game development, held each year in the heart of Kyoto. What began in 2013 as a small industry gathering of around 200 people has transformed into a major event that now draws thousands of gaming enthusiasts, creators, and media representatives from around the world.
Founded to shine a spotlight on Japanese indie developers and connect them with a global audience, BitSummit quickly earned support from industry heavyweights like Sony, Nintendo, Microsoft, and Valve. It has become the place for indie studios to showcase their latest projects, often rubbing shoulders with gaming legends who stop by to give keynotes and share insights. Past guests have included the likes of Shuhei Yoshida (Sony Interactive Entertainment), Atsushi Inaba and Hideki Kamiya (Platinum Games), and Tetsuya Mizuguchi (Enhance Games).
BitSummit isn’t just about demos and talks. It also serves as a celebration of gaming culture, with live performances by top video game composers and musicians. Over the years, festival-goers have enjoyed sets by Kyoto’s own Baiyon, Professor Sakamoto, Mega Man composer Manami Matsumae, and many more.
If you plan on attending, please note that the first day (18th) is the business day, and only the 19th and 20th are open to the public. For more information on obtaining tickets for the event, please visit the official website here.
Getting there
BitSummit takes place at Miyako Messe (Kyoto International Exhibition Hall), which can be accessed in around 8 minutes on foot from Higashiyama Station on the Kyoto City Subway Tozai Line.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
