Shigeru Miyamoto Selected for Japan’s Order of Culture

Nintendo game designer Shigeru Miyamoto has been selected to receive Japan’s 2026 Order of Culture, making him the first game developer to receive the honor, according to the government announcement described in reports. He is one of eight recipients selected in the Media Arts category. The award ceremony is scheduled for Culture Day, November 3, 2026, when the Emperor of Japan is due to present the awards; the presentation has not yet taken place. Miyamoto said he would accept the recognition on behalf of the colleagues who helped create his work. He credited collaboration for his achievements and said he hoped to share the honor with people involved in projects beyond games, including Super Nintendo World and Nintendo film productions. The Order of Culture, established in 1937, recognizes contributions to Japanese culture. Miyamoto’s selection marks the first time a game developer has been chosen for the award. He was named a Person of Cultural Merit in 2019 for his contributions to culture, a separate recognition that preceded the current honor. At a press conference, Miyamoto also reflected on how evolving technology affects creative work. He compared the current...