The history and appeal of cosplay in Japan

The origins and development of cosplay

Cosplay is an abbreviation of "costume play" and refers to dressing up as characters from anime, manga, games, movies, etc. This culture has developed as something unique to Japan, but when you look into its origins, you'll find that it has a surprisingly long history.

Cosplay culture in the Showa era

Cosplay dates back to the 1970s, when young people began dressing up as their favorite characters at science fiction conventions (such as the Japan Science Fiction Convention and Comiket). The term "cosplay" didn't exist back then, it was just called "fancy dress." However, especially enthusiastic fans attended the events in costumes they made themselves, and shared the fun of expressing their beloved characters.

Cosplay boom of the Heisei era

In the 1990s, the popularity of anime and manga rapidly increased both in Japan and overseas, and cosplay culture also experienced a major boom. Comic Market (commonly known as Comiket) played a major role during this period. Comiket became the largest event for cosplayers to gather, and many people showed off their best costumes. Furthermore, with the spread of the Internet, cosplay photos were spread all over the world, and Japanese cosplay culture became recognized overseas as well.

Cosplay and the Future of Reiwa

Today, cosplay has gone beyond being just a hobby or pastime and is now recognized as a professional activity. Cosplayers use social media to share their work, gain followers, and sometimes even gain sponsors. Cosplay events and contests are also held all over the country, with many people participating and enjoying themselves.

Cosplay culture is becoming more and more diverse, with new methods of expression and techniques being incorporated one after another. For example, the quality of cosplay is improving year by year, with elaborate costumes being produced using 3D printers and character reproductions using special makeup techniques.

The appeal of cosplay and photography

One of the essential elements of enjoying cosplay is photography. Not only do you get to dress up as your favorite character, but you can also take beautiful photos of that appearance, which makes it even more fun. In particular, by paying attention to the background and situation, you can take realistic photos that make you feel as if you have entered the world of anime or manga.

A perfect combination of Japanese-style rooms and cosplay

Traditional Japanese rooms are a very attractive location for cosplayers. Especially when dressing up as anime or manga characters with a strong Japanese taste, a Japanese room is the perfect place to recreate that worldview.

For example, the characters in "Demon Slayer" have Japanese-style costumes and weapons, and are very suitable for shooting in a Japanese-style room. In addition, the characters of Japanese-style fantasy works such as "Inuyasha" and historical works such as "Rurouni Kenshin" also look even more attractive when photographed in a Japanese-style room.

Asakusa's Charm and Cosplay

Asakusa is an attractive area where Japanese tradition and modernity blend together. It is also famous as a tourist destination, and there are many kimono rental shops. Tourists and locals strolling around the streets of Asakusa in kimonos are a part of everyday life.

When you put on a kimono, you'll want to take pictures of that beautiful figure. Asakusa has many wonderful photo spots, especially Japanese-style rooms and places with Japanese accessories that are perfect for taking photos.

Photo shoot experience at Wasako

Wasaco in Asakusa is an ideal photo spot for cosplayers and kimono-clad tourists. Wasaco has a traditional Japanese-style room that evokes the atmosphere of good old Japan, providing a place where cosplayers and people in kimono can take beautiful photos of their creations.

There are also plenty of backgrounds and props with a Japanese atmosphere, perfect for cosplayers and people wearing kimonos to recreate their ideal scenes. Staff will also be on hand to help with photo shoots.

The best time to take photos at Wasako is in the evening!

The best time to take photos in Wasako's Japanese-style room is in the evening.

During Wasako's business hours from 10:00 to 17:00, the room rate is 50,000 yen per hour,

In the evening from 17:00 to 20:00, you can rent it at half price, 25,000 yen per hour.

In addition, there are free props available for rental, such as umbrellas, happi coats, tatami mats, and tokonoma alcoves, so you can enjoy taking photos in a variety of situations. This allows cosplayers and people wearing kimonos to immerse themselves even more in the world of the cosplay.

Professional photography service

At Wasako, we also irregularly organize events where you can have a professional photographer take your photos.

The next planned event is a "Yukata Photo Session" from 10:00 on Monday, August 5, 2024, with a participation fee of 10,000 yen.

On the day, please gather at Wachako at 10:00.

After leaving your luggage at Wasako, take only your valuables and head to Koto on the 6th floor of the same building to change into a yukata.

Once everyone has finished changing, they will return to Wasako and have their photograph taken by a professional photographer.

After the photoshoot, enjoy some delicious Japanese sweets and matcha green tea.

If you would like to participate, please call Wachako or use the contact form on our website.

Website: https://wasako.jp/

lastly

Cosplay and kimono are more than just hobbies or means of self-expression; they are wonderful cultures that bring smiles and excitement to many people. To make the most of their charm, please enjoy taking photos in Wachako's Japanese-style room. I'm sure your cosplay or kimono experience will be even more special.

When you are sightseeing in Asakusa, why not incorporate a photo shoot experience at Wasako and spend a memorable day? Wasako's Japanese-style room is the best choice for a place to capture your special moments in beautiful photos. All our staff look forward to welcoming you.

Check out our Instagram for lots of photos and videos.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wasako.asakusa

To make a reservation, please call Wasako or use the inquiry form on our website.

Website: https://wasako.jp/

Wasako

Address: 5F Collection Kaminarimon Building, 2-18-15 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Phone: 03-3843-6765