Taking part in fandom events in Japan is exciting, and being able to do so as your favorite character sounds even more fun! But before you start packing up all your props and costumes, keep in mind that there are some restrictions at Japanese cosplay events that other countries might not have.
As a basic rule: No cosplaying in public—unless it’s at an event. Even if you see cosplay at a park or restaurant on social media, chances are it was part of an event venue. Plus not all anime-related events allow cosplay. Save yourself the fandom faux pas by keeping these points in mind.
1. Be sure cosplay is allowed.
You’d expect major events like Anime Japan, Comiket, and EVO to be open to cosplay the way conventions are in other countries. And yes you can cosplay, but with limitations. First off, cosplaying at events usually requires advance registration and charges a fee. Big events that draw a huge audience will often have their cosplay guideline up in other languages or at the very least English and Japanese. Some events like certain doujin markets might outright prohibit cosplay entirely so always check to make sure it’s allowed!
Certain theme parks also have special cosplay event days where visitors are encouraged to come dressed up. Just be sure to have the right dates when you plan to visit and look up what kind of cosplay is allowed.
2. Avoid cosplay until you get to the event/venue.
This is usually listed in event guidelines, too, but something to always remember in general. A good rule of thumb: if it’s not something you’d wear day-to-day in Japan, just change into it at the venue or cover it up. But in case your costume does involve everyday clothes, it should be okay on the bus or train—as long as it doesn’t look like cosplay. Just be sure to don any other accessories or props at the venue.
And be careful of outfits that might show more skin especially when you’re taking public transportation, even though they might count as regular clothes. If you do have a “revealing” outfit, some events do require skin coverage so be sure to have foundation, tights, and other relevant items to avoid breaking any rules.
3. Check for prop rules and regulations.
We’ve seen some pretty impressive cosplay, not just costumes but also props involved. And we know there are tons of talented cosplayers who’ve even learned programming and engineering to bring their cosplay creations to life. However, while it’s expected at events overseas, a lot of events in Japan will have limits on the size and type of props you can bring. It’s a good idea to look at the event’s page to see what you’re allowed to bring for your character.
4. Remain mindful of photography.
Essential code of conduct: if you want to take a photo of a cosplayer, ask for their permission instead of snapping a pic without their consent. You’ve probably seen clips and photos from Japan that have faces blurred or covered. This is to respect people’s privacy and, for the media, required by law unless you get someone’s implicit permission to show their face. And it goes both ways!
As a cosplayer, you’re allowed to refuse having your photo taken. And in case anyone’s giving you issues over it, you have the right to notify event staff or security. And some events have certain rules regarding copyright, reproduction, and distribution of photographs (e.g. being published as part of a cosplay doujin) so be sure to confirm with the event’s guidelines if you plan to publish photos commercially.
5. Know the right place and the right time.
Remember when we said no cosplaying in public? Generally it’s frowned upon to have a full photoshoot setup in a park or on the street. And if you really need to have that kind of cosplay photoshoot done, you’ll need to have the proper permits to do so. But wearing cosplay that can pass off as an everyday look and taking a quick pic with your phone should be okay as long as you’re not blocking walkways or disrupting businesses. However, taking part in cosplay events will allow you to take photos at really nice locations. Just be sure to stay within the areas where cosplayers and photography are allowed.
Some businesses like resorts and hotels also hold special cosplay days to let cosplayers and photographers use their facilities and surrounding property as backdrops for photoshoots. These places do tend to be outside cities, though, so be prepared to travel.
And finally, there’s always the option of renting out special studios dedicated to cosplay use. Prices will vary depending on how long the session is and what other equipment or props you might need, and it’s highly recommended to split the fee with other cosplayers if you can get a group together.
With all that in mind, there are so many ways to take part in cosplay when you visit Japan. There are even chances to volunteer to help the community like picking up trash around the event venues and neighborhoods in cosplay. Just remember to look up what the organizers allow. These events are also opportunities to make friends with other cosplayers who can teach you more about the Japanese cosplay scene.
Have you ever done cosplay in Japan? Show us your pictures and tell us about the experience!
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Written by Alon Bramble for TOM News
from Tokyo Otaku Mode News https://ift.tt/y2ArzpW
