Japan’s vibrant anime culture offers a plethora of events and attractions in 2025, catering to both local enthusiasts and international visitors. Here’s a curated guide to the most anticipated anime events and destinations:
AnimeJapan 2025
Scheduled for March 22-25, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight, AnimeJapan is one of the largest anime conventions globally. The first two days are open to the public, featuring exhibitions, stage performances, and exclusive merchandise. The latter two days are reserved for industry professionals and media.
World Cosplay Summit
Held annually in Nagoya, this event celebrates the art of cosplay, attracting participants worldwide. Cosplayers showcase their talents through parades, contests, and performances, making it a must-visit for cosplay enthusiasts.
Tokyo Game Show 2025
Set for September 2025 at Makuhari Messe, this premier gaming event highlights the latest in video game entertainment. While primarily focused on gaming, it features significant anime content, including game adaptations of popular series.
Jump Festa
Organized by Shueisha, the publisher of Weekly Shōnen Jump, Jump Festa is a two-day event in December celebrating popular manga and anime titles. Attendees can enjoy exhibitions, stage performances, and exclusive merchandise related to series like “One Piece,” “Naruto,” and “My Hero Academia.”
Animelo Summer Live
Known as ‘Anisama,’ this is the world’s largest annual anime song music festival. Typically held in August at Saitama Super Arena, it features performances by numerous anime song artists, creating an unforgettable experience for music lovers.
Ghibli Museum
Located in Mitaka, Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum offers an immersive experience into the world of Studio Ghibli. Visitors can explore exclusive exhibits, short films, and detailed replicas from beloved movies like “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away.”
Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival
Taking place in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district, this festival gathers thousands of cosplayers and spectators in late October. The streets come alive with vibrant costumes, parades, and photo sessions, celebrating the diverse world of anime and manga.
Jujutsu Kaisen x Tokyo Skytree Collaboration
Fans of “Jujutsu Kaisen” can look forward to a special collaboration event at Tokyo Skytree. The exhibit features exclusive artwork, themed decorations, and limited-edition merchandise, offering a unique experience for visitors.
Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair (KYO-MAF)
As the largest manga and anime trade fair in the Kansai region, KYO-MAF is scheduled for mid-to-late September 2025 at the Miyako Messe convention center. The event includes exhibitions, stage events, and sales of exclusive goods.
Nakano Broadway
A renowned shopping complex in Tokyo, Nakano Broadway is a haven for anime and manga collectors. It houses numerous stores selling rare collectibles, vintage merchandise, and other otaku-related goods, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts.
ONE PIECE ONLY
Dedicated to the globally popular series “One Piece,” this event offers fans exclusive exhibits, interactive experiences, and limited-edition merchandise, celebrating the adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates.
Spy x Family Exhibition
This exhibition showcases artwork, storyboards, and installations from the hit series “Spy x Family.” Fans can immerse themselves in the world of the Forger family through interactive displays and exclusive content.
Wonder Festival
Also known as WonFes, this biannual event focuses on garage kits and model figures. Held at Makuhari Messe, it attracts both amateur and professional sculptors, offering a platform to showcase and sell their creations.
For international visitors planning to attend these events, it’s advisable to check the official websites for the latest information on dates, ticket availability, and any travel advisories. Many events offer online ticket sales and have English-language resources to assist foreign attendees. Immersing yourself in these anime events provides a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s rich pop culture firsthand.
(source :pics taken from google )
