The Cat Who Lived a Million Times 2026 – Machida, Japan

• September 23, 2026
  Event date:
• September 23, 2026
  Event end:

Overview

A deeply moving documentary that explores the profound and enduring connection between the author and readers of the legendary picture book The Cat Who Lived a Million Times. Created in 1977 by acclaimed picture book author and essayist Yoko Sano, the original book depicts the extraordinary fate of a feline that died a million times and was reborn a million times. This timeless masterpiece continues to captivate new generations of readers, having surpassed over 1.8 million copies in total sales nationwide.

The film slowly unravels the secret behind the phenomenal success of the picture book and delves deep into the creative world and life of its late author, Yoko Sano. Through intimate interviews, archival insights, and reader perspectives, the documentary examines why the story resonates so deeply across decades. It stands as a touching tribute to literary art, human emotion, and the universal themes of love and existence.

Audiences are invited into a reflective cinematic journey that honors a work which has touched millions of hearts. The documentary thoughtfully bridges the gap between the creator’s inner world and the devoted readership that keeps her legacy alive. It offers a rare, contemplative look at the enduring power of storytelling in modern Japanese culture.

Event Highlights

• Experience a touching documentary exploring the creative legacy of Yoko Sano and her beloved picture book masterpiece.
• Discover the untold stories and deep connections shared between the author and generations of devoted readers.
• Examine the cultural impact of a literary work that has sold over 1.8 million copies across Japan.
• Enjoy a thoughtful cinematic screening hosted at the cultural landmark of Machida Civic Hall in Tokyo.

Why Attend

This special documentary screening is an absolute mandatory experience for dedicated fans of literature, picture books, and anyone who appreciates deeply reflective cinematic art. Attending offers a rare opportunity to understand the profound creative philosophy behind a modern classic while sharing the experience with fellow enthusiasts.

The event is exceptionally ideal for literature lovers, documentary film enthusiasts, and cultural arts seekers looking for a meaningful and inspiring outing. Benefiting from a convenient single-day holiday screening schedule, audiences can enjoy a thought-provoking artistic presentation in a comfortable venue setting.

Date & Duration

• Event Date: September 23, 2026
• Event Duration: Single-day holiday documentary screening event spanning 91 minutes

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available through authorized box office channels and the official Machida Civic Hall ticketing desk.
• Admission Type: Reserved and general admission seating options are available for all valid ticket holders.
• Ticket Pricing: Minimum price is 15 USD and maximum price is 30 USD.
• Special Seating Options: Accessible viewing areas and specialized assistance spaces for guests using wheelchairs are available by calling Machida Civic Hall directly at 042-728-4300.
• VIP Options: Standard screening admission applies with open seating arrangements inside the auditorium hall.

Venue / Location

• City and Country: Machida, Tokyo, Japan
• Venue Name: Machida Civic Hall
• Google Maps Address: 2 Chome-2-36 Morino, Machida, Tokyo 194-0022, Japan

Contact Information

• Website: https://t.pia.jp/pia/event/event.do?eventCd=2616597

Accommodation Options

The dynamic surrounding neighborhood of Machida Station offers an impressively wide array of comfortable accommodation choices, ranging from functional business hotels to convenient urban lodgings tailored for travelers. Securing a room nearby guarantees effortless, rapid access to Machida Civic Hall and allows visitors to easily explore local dining spots, extensive shopping arcades, and scenic parks without enduring long daily commutes.

Travelers can conveniently select from numerous highly rated hospitality establishments located within comfortable walking distance of the central transit hub, ensuring that arrival and departure remain entirely stress-free. Due to the popular holiday screening schedule, booking your preferred accommodation well in advance is recommended to secure optimal rates and availability.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport serve the greater Tokyo metropolitan area and surrounding transport networks.
• Nearest Train/Metro Station: Machida Station, served by the Odakyu Odawara Line and the JR Yokohama Line, located within walking distance of the hall.
• Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Comprehensive local municipal bus networks connect directly from Machida Station to the civic hall complex.
• Parking Availability: Limited parking space is available at the venue facility, though utilizing reliable public mass transit is strongly encouraged.
• Directions by Car: Accessible via major regional highways and local urban roads leading directly into the central district of Machida City.

Dining Recommendations

Breakfast Recommendations:

• Machida Station Bakery: Offers a delightful variety of freshly baked local pastries, flaky croissants, and gourmet morning sandwiches.
• Central Concourse Coffee House: A convenient spot near transit hubs serving classic breakfast toast sets and freshly roasted artisan coffee blends.
• Morning Grace Cafe: Known for comforting morning breakfast platters and wholesome seasonal fruit bowls to start the day right.

Lunch Recommendations:

• Machida Plaza Food Hall: A bustling dining venue featuring diverse artisan bento boxes and regional noodle specialties.
• Town Center Bistro: Casual dining atmosphere offering hearty lunch specials, gourmet burgers, and refreshing beverages.
• Metropolitan Culinary Court: A curated selection of dining establishments providing varied international and local lunch menus.

Dinner Recommendations:

• Traditional Izakaya Kinoya: A welcoming venue serving smoky charcoal-grilled skewers and comforting seasonal small plates.
• Regional Culinary House: Specializes in masterfully crafted authentic local Japanese specialties unique to the Tokyo metropolitan area.
• Skyline Tower Dining: Upscale establishments offering exquisite multi-course dinners and panoramic views over the city skyline.

Local Specialties to Try:

• Tokyo Style Shoyu Ramen: Crystal-clear savory soy-based broth noodles luxuriously topped with tender braised chashu pork slices.
• Monjayaki: A uniquely textured, comforting pan-fried savory batter dish deeply popular across the entire Tokyo metropolitan region.
• Tokyo Banana: A universally celebrated soft sponge cake confectionery generously filled with sweet, creamy banana custard.

What is this event?

The Cat Who Lived a Million Times is a feature-length documentary examining the creation and cultural legacy of Yoko Sano’s famous 1977 picture book. It uncovers the deeply human themes and personal artistic background that shaped a story read by millions.

The film combines historical context, interviews, and literary exploration to explain why the book remains a timeless masterpiece across generations. It serves as an illuminating cinematic tribute to art and readership.

Why is it popular?

The underlying picture book has achieved iconic status in Japan, touching the hearts of children and adults alike for decades. Audiences are naturally drawn to a documentary that reveals the emotional depths and personal history behind such a beloved literary work.

The screening provides a rare communal space for fans to reflect on the themes of life, love, and loss depicted in the story. Its gentle pacing and insightful storytelling make it a cherished event for literature enthusiasts.

Tips before you go

• Arrive early at the venue gates at least thirty minutes prior to your printed showtime for a smooth, unhurried entry process.
• Bring valid government-issued identification documents as mandatory ticket validation checks may occur at the box office.
• Ensure all underage minors meet the minimum entry age requirement of six years and older permitted for the screening.
• Contact the Machida Civic Hall administration office directly at 042-728-4300 if you require specialized wheelchair accessibility assistance.
• Strict regulations apply, meaning all personal photography, video recording, and audio capturing inside the screening auditorium are completely prohibited.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the local walking route from Machida Station to Machida Civic Hall beforehand to ensure timely arrival.
• Build an extra cushion of travel time into your schedule to locate the main auditorium hall without feeling rushed.
• Review official venue guidelines regarding outside food, beverage policies, and expected auditorium etiquette during documentary screenings.
• Dress comfortably in breathable layers because indoor civic hall temperatures can occasionally fluctuate during the afternoon program.
• Keep your digital or printed admission ticket easily accessible alongside your identification documents for rapid inspection by staff.

Attendee Experiences

• Watching the documentary provided a wonderful, nostalgic look into a picture book that shaped my childhood reading experiences.
• The intimate interviews and deep analysis of the author’s life added an incredible layer of emotional depth to the story.
• Sharing the quiet, reflective atmosphere of the screening hall with fellow literature lovers made for a truly memorable holiday afternoon.

Location

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