IMAX is teaming up once again with Japanese cinema leader Toho Cinemas to grow their presence across Japan. The two companies announced on Tuesday that they have signed a new agreement to open six more IMAX with Laser theaters across the country.
As part of the deal, two of the new IMAX systems will be added to Toho Cinemas in Tokyo. IMAX will also expand to more suburban locations, including Utsunomiya, Nisshin, Toyama, and Motosu. The Tokyo, Utsunomiya, and Nisshin sites are expected to open by the end of 2025, while the Toyama and Motosu theaters are planned for the first half of 2026.
In addition, one IMAX location that was previously signed will now be upgraded to the newer IMAX with Laser technology. IMAX is also making a major change at Toho Cinemas Hibiya in Tokyo by installing a second IMAX system. This move replaces an existing premium large format theater and makes Toho Cinemas Hibiya the first cinema outside of North America to have two IMAX screens in the same complex.
Toho Cinemas is already IMAX’s largest partner in Japan, which is the third-biggest movie market in the world. By the end of 2026, Toho will operate 16 IMAX theaters. In fact, three out of the four highest-grossing IMAX locations in Japan last year were run by Toho.
Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX, said, “Toho Group is a global entertainment powerhouse — with world-class cinemas and the largest film studio in Japan — and we continue to grow our partnership with the company in a way that fuels both our network and box office growth.” He added, “We are on pace deliver more signings for Imax systems in Japan this year than ever, and securing the further commitment of an excellent strategic partner such as Toho Cinemas underscores our strength in this vital market.”
There’s a lot of excitement for what’s coming in 2025. Toho’s highly awaited sequel to Demon Slayer — the anime blockbuster that became IMAX’s highest-grossing Japanese-language title ever is set to hit theaters in July. Fans can also look forward to a re-release of the original Demon Slayer movie this May, leading up to the new chapter.
Takayuki Ikeda, CEO of TOHO Cinemas, said, “In Japan, we are currently producing a large number of Japanese films and animation to be seen in the Imax format. We have been looking for a long time to bring this premier visual experience to as huge an audience as possible, and we are pleased to have signed the agreement to install six new Imax theaters.” He added, “Especially, we are proud that Toho Cinemas Hibiya has been approved to install two Imax theaters, which is almost unheard of in the world.”
IMAX already runs 53 theaters in Japan, and another 17 are in the pipeline. Around the globe, IMAX operates 1,807 systems in 90 countries and territories, continuing its push for premium cinema experiences worldwide.
About IMAX
IMAX is a immersive cinema technology, known for its crystal-clear visuals, powerful sound, and unique theater design. With cutting-edge formats like IMAX with Laser, the company offers a next-level moviegoing experience. IMAX works with top studios and filmmakers to deliver visually stunning blockbusters, documentaries, and special releases in theaters across more than 90 countries. Whether it’s Hollywood hits or local language films, IMAX brings stories to life like no other.