(Due to the pending arrival of Typhoon Hagibis, the Japan Writers Conference has canceled all activities on Saturday, Oct. 12. Some seminars and workshops may be held on Sunday, Oct. 13, instead. For updates, visit www.japanwritersconference.org.)

Fancy yourself a writer? Then you might want to pay a visit to the Japan Writers Conference taking place in Tokyo this weekend. It's free of charge and open to anyone who'd like to sharpen up their writing skills, hone their prose, or learn tips and tricks from other writers and industry professionals.

Currently in its 13th year, the conference has garnered a reputation for being a welcoming place where writers are able to meet and share stories and techniques. Taking place annually in various places around Japan, this year's Tokyo location may see a boost in attendance, thanks to its centrality (the event took place in Otaru, Hokkaido, last year).