BilibiliWorld 2026 Becomes Asia's Largest ACGN Convention with 400,000 Visitors
Shanghai – The three-day BilibiliWorld 2026 (BW2026) concluded on July 12, attracting 400,000 attendees from over 30 countries. This established it as Asia's largest ACGN event, spanning animation, comic, game, and novel culture.
BilibiliWorld 2026 (BW2026), Bilibili's comprehensive ACGN convention, concluded on July 12 in Shanghai. The three-day event, held across 240,000 square meters in eight halls at the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), has become the largest ACGN convention in Asia. According to Bilibili, the event drew 400,000 visitors from more than 30 countries and regions over the weekend, indicating broader international reach compared to 2025.
The convention hosted 170 exhibitors from around the world. The event also featured nearly a thousand "itasha" vehicles, customized cars adorned with anime themes, and over 60,000 cosplayers who contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Notably, BilibiliWorld offered ticket sales outside of mainland China for the first time, facilitating easier access for international fans.
BW2026's economic impact extends beyond the ACGN community, providing significant benefits to participating brands and Shanghai's local economy. The annual July event boosts the city's tourism, hospitality, and F&B sectors. Travel data revealed a 35% increase in international flight bookings to Shanghai during the event period compared to the previous year. Hotel bookings city-wide rose by 126% month-over-month, with bookings within a 5-kilometer radius of the NECC surging by 600%.
Since its inception in 2017, BW has evolved from a niche gathering into a global ACGN-focused event, reflecting the sector's substantial worldwide growth. ACGN content has become a shared cultural language for the younger generation, transcending borders. BilibiliWorld serves as a platform for enthusiasts globally to connect over shared interests, fostering an inclusive offline community.