Book festivals and mobile bookstores launch across Japan

Various book-related events are taking place across Japan this autumn. In Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture, the mobile bookstore ‘BOOK TRUCK’ will make its first appearance at the Sano Premium Outlets on October 11. The pop-up will feature approximately 700 books, ranging from children's literature to adult titles focused on lifestyle and travel. The event includes a reading space and will coincide with the ‘Sano Marutto Marche,’ a local market featuring regional souvenirs and workshops.

Meanwhile, in Akita City, the ‘BOOK & WEEKEND 2026’ festival is currently underway. Running from October 3 to November 1, the month-long event utilizes a decentralized system involving 15 different locations, including bookstores, cafes, and lifestyle shops. Participants can engage in activities such as shared reading sessions, enjoying themed food and coffee inspired by novels, and creative workshops. Customers who make purchases at participating venues can collect essays from shop owners to compile into a book.