Many argue that Anime Japan is the "Anime Expo" of Japan, in the sense that it's where everyone in the industry makes appearances and is the hub for cosplayers to get their names out there. But while it is a very large convention, there are many stark differences that set it apart from other cons worldwide.
At Tokyo Big Site, Anime Japan was held from March 25-26 for general attendees, and March 27-28 for industry professionals. Attendees had the opportunity to get sneak peeks at upcoming anime premieres and even first-looks at exclusive live interviews with various production companies and seiyuus.
Getting There
From Chiyoda-ku, the heart of Tokyo, to Tokyo Big Sight Station, one would have to change trains (and possibly train lines as well) a total of 2–3 times, before getting directly on the path to Koto City. From Asakusa Station, you would have to take the Asakusa train line to Shimbashi Station (14 minutes), before getting off and walking to the platforms for the Yurikamone Local line bound for Toyosu (5-minute walk), and taking it directly to Tokyo Big Sight Station (23 minutes).
Though taking the train from other wards in Chiyoda (like Ikebukuro or Akihabara) may slightly change your ETA, the directions still remain the same. Upon arriving, you're brought directly into Tokyo Big Sight's vicinity. There were three separate lines for ticket purchases, preregistration, and limited ticket holders. Once inside, attendees were given a swag bag with two free bottles of Georgia coffee and some flyers for upcoming anime.
A Look Inside Anime Japan
With various ticket types for sale and stages dedicated to specific exhibits, Anime Japan had over 25 different displays on the first day alone - some of which featured Netflix collaborations and exclusive interviews. In addition, there were also many small exhibits scattered about the convention floor, where attendees were permitted to take photos and record. Among them were the occasional cosplayers representing their respective franchises and some even putting on performances.
Over the span of the event, and attendees explored the show floor, various vouchers and handouts were passed out, including character themed tea-bags, manga, and the two bottles of coffee mentioned prior.
Merchandise-wise, there wasn't a lot available for purchase, aside from limited edition acrylic stands and character-themed nonalcoholic cider packs. Though you would have to dig around to find them. This made things much simpler for attendees however, as it gave them more time to enjoy the show itself and less to have to carry around.
There Is No Convention Without Cosplay
Hundreds of cosplayers and photographers flocked to the show floor to show off their creativity and expand their portfolios. In accordance with Japan's etiquette of carrying your cosplay with you and changing only at the venue, cosplay permission tickets were sold and required to be worn during the event. However, for those staying at hotels nearby, many still came in cosplay. Once the tickets were purchased, cosplayers were escorted to a dressing area and section for storing personal luggage. As it was raining that weekend, the designated cosplay area used for photo shoots was instead stationed inside the building. Countless photographers lined up to take photos and record videos of any cosplayers that caught their eye. It is recommended for future cosplay attendees to bring their own mirrors before entering the changing room.
Distinguished talents such as skyRe, who frequently contracts with game companies, and Sakuraba, a former creative industry talent and indie actor, made appearances as well.