japan – rentaBLog

For as long as this BLog has existed, the conceptualization of this article has been a common talking point:

“Should we do an article on Otome Road?”
“Do people care about Otome Road?”
“Do people even know what Otome Road is?”
“If we do talk about Otome Road, how can we make the article interesting?”

In the past couple years, the answer to the first few questions has become obvious. With the continuing weak yen, many overseas otaku are jumping at the chance to visit Japan for relatively cheap. We’ve seen more and more otaku-centric tours, and people coming in groups specifically on a pilgrimage to visit common otaku shopping districts. Akihabara has been a common tourist destination for years, with Nakano Broadway also consistently cited in sightseeing handbooks. But in recent years, through the power of social media, the lesser-known Ikebukuro has become a hot topic as the hub for female otaku and fans of BL, joseimuke, and oshikatsu.

So this 8/01—the most auspicious of days for all fu-oriented folks, Yaoi Day—we wanted to do a full introduction to Ikebukuro and Otome Road, starting with a history lesson on how Ikebukuro became the joseimuke hub, and followed by our own “A Day in Ikebukuro” report!

Continue reading →

It’s the end of the year again, and for the hardcore otaku here in Japan, that means another Winter Comiket.

For the uninitiated, Comiket (short for Comic Market, コミックマーケット Komikku Maaketto in Japanese) is known as the largest fan convention worldwide, held twice a year (in the summer and winter) at Tokyo Big Sight. It’s famous for its gargantuan marketplace of doujinshi, or self-published comics — often created as fanart — catering to fans of nearly every side of manga and anime fandom imaginable. But the fun isn’t limited to indie works — you can find established pros and industry giants setting up shop here as well, often putting out exclusive merch just for Comiket attendees. Plus, it’s a major event in the cosplay sphere as well, so you can enjoy seeing your “favorite characters” walking around in real life all day! To learn more, and to get an inside look at the overall vibe of the event, you can check out this official English presentation prepared by the event organizers!

Perhaps you’re planning to attend this upcoming Comiket, or you dream of one day experiencing it for yourself and want to gear up with the essential knowledge beforehand. And so, as one geek lightly seasoned in attending fan events here in Japan, I’ve attempted to put together a little guide to help you out!

By the way, the tips here don’t apply only to Comiket, but smaller doujin events as well. I hope it’ll come in handy if you ever want to dip your toes in this unique part of otaku culture!

Continue reading →