Every significant tech event revolves around themes. Many are ambiguous enough to convey everything and nothing simultaneously. SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 is taking a different approach — four precisely defined technology sectors, each supported by live demonstrations, dedicated exhibit areas, and sessions featuring individuals who are actively developing and financing these technologies worldwide.

TechCrunch is collaborating with SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 as an official media partner, and our Startup Battlefield team will be on-site choosing one exceptional semifinalist from the SusHi Tech Challenge to move forward to the TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield 200 — one of the most esteemed launchpads in the tech industry. Here’s what you can expect on the floor.

AI — beyond the hype, into the infrastructure

Sessions featuring Howard Wright (Nvidia), Rob Chu (AWS), and Eric Benhamou (Benhamou Global Ventures) will address the actual deployment of AI on a large scale and identify the genuine risks involved. On the floor, university startups focused on AI pitch alongside international players, with the AI Film Festival Japan, a partner event at Tokyo Innovation Base in Yurakucho, examining how artificial intelligence is actively transforming culture.

Robotics — physical AI has arrived

The robots at SusHi Tech are not behind enclosed spaces — they are present on the floor and engaging. On stage, Nissan, Isuzu, and Applied Intuition’s Qasar Younis explore how software-defined vehicles are revolutionizing transportation. Physical AI is not a future trend; it’s here in Tokyo on April 27.

Resilience — the cities that survive what’s coming

Eva Chen (Trend Micro) and NEC’s Noboru Nakatani address cyber defense, while leading climate tech VCs from Breakthrough Energy and Cleantech Group investigate global investment trends. A VR disaster simulator and tours of Tokyo’s underground flood-control systems bring the stakes to life.

Entertainment — Japan’s cultural engine meets AI

Sessions with the CEOs of Production I.G, MAPPA, and CoMix Wave Films discuss the essentials for Tokyo to evolve into the Hollywood of animation. On the exhibition floor, startups leverage AI to translate manga globally, create music from text prompts, and animate Japanese IP for worldwide distribution.

Can’t make it to Tokyo? You can still be there

Missing SusHi Tech Tokyo doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Remote participants receive more than just a livestream — on-site staff will navigate the floor on your behalf, equipped with a device displaying your likeness so you can engage with attendees and exhibitors in real-time, face-to-face. It’s the closest experience to being there.

Note: Please bear in mind that some sessions may not be available for viewing.

Apply for remote participation with assistance from on-site staff here.

Can’t manage that either? Ticket holders have the option to stream sessions online and access the programming from anywhere. Check out the complete session list here.

Alongside the startup event, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government also facilitates a gathering of leaders from 55 cities across five continents. They will discuss “A New Urban Future Built on Climate and Disaster Resilience.” The summit for city leaders is part of G-NETS (Global City Network for Sustainability), organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government since 2022 as a forum to address common challenges with a focus on resilience to urban climate disasters and citizen well-being. The summit will be viewable by general audiences on YouTube live and after the event.

G-NETS official website

G-NETS YouTube Channel 

SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 will take place from April 27–29 at Tokyo Big Sight. Business days are April 27–28; public day (free admission) is April 29. Click here to register.