Hello, Halloween and cosplay fans!
Halloween 2024 is fast approaching, and once again, Japan’s Halloween is drawing global attention. Why, you ask? Because in Japan, Halloween isn’t just about dressing up—it’s a unique event that merges traditional costume parties with the cosplay culture of anime and game characters.
In cities like Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Kawasaki, cosplayers add color to the streets, attracting both domestic and international tourists who come to enjoy the spectacular sights.
This year, we’re all excited to see which characters will be popular and what events will take place!
What character are you planning to dress up as?
Stay tuned as we introduce popular characters and events, taking into account feedback from abroad!
Let’s all join in the Halloween events this year and pump up the excitement together!
The Reasons Why Japan’s Halloween Is Attracting Global Attention
Are you curious why Japan’s Halloween garners so much attention worldwide?
Japan’s Halloween is far more than just a costume event—it’s deeply intertwined with cosplay culture, which draws significant interest from international tourists and media.
Take, for instance, the Shibuya Halloween party. You may already know this, but each year, cosplayers dressed as characters from anime and games converge in massive numbers, and the spectacle is covered by media outlets worldwide.
On social media, photos and videos of Shibuya’s Halloween are widely shared, sparking international conversations.
Moreover, a large number of international tourists also participate and enjoy the festivities alongside locals.
Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan also host special events and parades during the Halloween season, which are hugely popular. Especially, Disney’s Halloween parades, enjoyable for both children and adults, attract many international visitors.
The unique details and hospitality unique to Japan are also major draws for these visitors.
That’s why Japan’s Halloween, with its uniqueness and spectacle, attracts global attention.
Top 7 Cosplay Characters the World is Watching in 2024
Which cosplay characters are the world focusing on for this year’s Halloween events?
We’ll introduce them based on reactions from international media and also showcase cosplay costumes, so you can get inspired for your Halloween outfit!
Stay tuned for the top picks and make sure to try out these costumes at your Halloween events!
1.That Dress-Up Doll Falls in Love「 Marin Kitagawa」
“The Dress-Up Darling ~ Marin Kitagawa” enjoys immense popularity internationally.
Her passion for cosplay and her character are particularly well-loved by fans abroad.
Additionally, since her costume mainly consists of a school uniform, it is relatively easy for beginners to cosplay, making it accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts.
\It comes with a wig, so it’s quite authentic/
\Marin Kitagawa’s colored contacts can be found here/
Transform into Marin Kitagawa effortlessly with her signature colored contacts for a truly authentic cosplay!
2.SPY×FAMILY「 Yor Forger.」
Yor Forger from “SPY×FAMILY” is popular internationally.
Her character, who is out of touch with societal norms and naturally honest yet a professional assassin, creates a captivating “gap moe” that has enamored fans around the world.
For those looking to try on her slightly sexy and cool outfit, this recommended costume is a great choice.
\It’s a highly accurate costume/
\These red colored contacts would be a perfect match/
With these, you too can achieve the coveted “Yor Forger Red Eyes” look!
3.Demon Slayer「Nezuko Kamado」
Nezuko Kamado from “Demon Slayer” has been transformed into a demon, yet remarkably, she refrains from consuming humans, symbolically biting onto a bamboo gag.
Her unwavering desire to protect humans and suppress her demonic urges, coupled with her gentle spirit, has deeply moved fans worldwide.
For those interested in emulating her traditional Japanese attire but find wearing a kimono challenging, here’s a simpler alternative for her cosplay.
\It’s easy to wear, so you can feel at ease/
\Nezuko Kamado’s Colored Contacts/
For Nezuko Kamado’s cosplay from “Demon Slayer,” pink colored contacts are recommended to match her outfit. The cute pink shade complements her costume perfectly.
4.Demon Slayer「Mitsuri Kanroji」
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira from “Demon Slayer,” is known for her easy-going nature and robust appetite. Despite her cute and sexy appearance, she possesses immense strength and wields the unique “Love Breathing” technique, making her one of the most formidable swordfighters in the Demon Slayer Corps.
Her distinct character and abilities have made her incredibly popular internationally, especially among cosplayers who admire and emulate her vibrant style and powerful persona.
\It comes with a wig for a high-quality finish/
\Green shades are a perfect fit/
Green colored contacts are a perfect match for Mitsuri Kanroji’s cosplay.
5.Genshin Impact「 Raiden Shogun」
In the globally popular game “Genshin Impact,” Raiden Shogun is the ruler of lightning.
With her strict and reserved personality, she stands out as a mysterious character. This, along with her stunning costume and enigmatic aura, has gained her a strong fanbase internationally.
Her outfit, inspired by a customized traditional Japanese kimono, creates a beautiful silhouette, making it a highly sought-after cosplay choice among fans.
\With the wig included, the Raiden Shogun cosplay feels truly authentic/
\Raiden Shogun’s colored contacts are best in purple/
Raiden Shogun’s colored contacts in a beautiful shade of purple are the perfect finishing touch for this striking cosplay.
6.Biohazard「 Ada Wong」
Ada Wong, one of the most iconic characters in Biohazard (Resident Evil), enjoys overwhelming popularity within the series.
Her fanbase extends across the globe, especially among cosplayers who adore her stylish and sophisticated look. Ada’s signature outfit—a sexy, sleek red Chinese dress—has captivated fans worldwide, making her a popular choice for cosplay.
The sight of Ada confidently taking on enemies in her striking outfit has left a lasting impression on audiences around the world.
\Highly recommended for its top-notch quality/
\Ada Wong is all about the dark aesthetic/
This Chinese dress is also highly recommended for Ada Wong.
7.The timelessly popular 「School Uniform Gal」
The school uniform cosplay of Japanese high school girls is popular worldwide.
Still a long-time favorite, the iconic “kogal” uniform cosplay remains a must in the cosplay scene. Its enduring appeal comes from the nostalgia and charm associated with the look.
Many cosplayers enjoy trying out different uniform styles, which makes this classic theme a familiar and beloved choice.
\A classic favorite in the world of cosplay/
Top 4 Halloween Events the World is Watching in 2024
The Halloween cosplay events in 2024 are gaining attention worldwide.
Here, we’ll introduce four standout events that clearly showcase Japan’s deep-rooted cosplay culture. If you get the chance, definitely consider attending one of these exciting celebrations!
1.Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2024 (Tokyo)
The Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2024 is one of Japan’s largest and most famous Halloween cosplay events.
With over 20,000 participants each year, it’s truly considered a mecca for Halloween cosplay enthusiasts. The 2024 event will take place over three days from Friday, October 25th to Sunday, October 27th. It’s a must-attend for anyone who loves cosplay or wants to experience the unique blend of Halloween and cosplay culture in Japan.
Tickets will be on sale from September 13th, and this will be one of the largest events for both cosplayers and photographers!
With an overwhelming number of cosplayers, it’s a very welcoming event, even for beginners. It’s also a great chance to participate with friends and have a blast together.
More details will be announced soon, so be sure to check the official site for Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2024 for updates.
Accommodations near Ikebukuro can be found here (Rakuten Travel).
2.Roppongi Hills Halloween Parade 2024 (Tokyo)
The Roppongi Hills Halloween Parade 2024 is scheduled to take place over the last weekend of October (28th and 29th). This event is perfect for families, offering a fun and festive atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
Each year, there is a specific costume theme, so be sure to check the official site for updates on the theme and event details.
You can find more information and updates on the official site for Roppongi Hills Halloween Parade 2024.
Accommodations near Roppongi can be found here (Rakuten Travel).
3.Universal Studios Japan (Osaka) Halloween Horror Night
When it comes to big events at Universal Studios Japan (USJ), nothing beats Halloween Horror Night.
This thrilling Halloween event features four main attractions and runs from September 6th to November 4th, 2024. Rather than focusing on cosplay, Halloween Horror Night is all about fully immersing yourself in the spooky atmosphere of USJ and enjoying the festivities all night long.
Since there are restrictions on guest costumes, make sure to carefully read the guidelines before participating to ensure a fun and safe experience!
The official site can be found here: Universal Studios Japan “Halloween Horror Night”.
Affordable accommodations near USJ (Rakuten Travel)
4.Disneyland & DisneySea Halloween Events
From October 1st to November 7th, 2024, both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea will be hosting their annual Halloween events.
These events are highly interactive, with special Halloween-themed attractions, and offer a rare chance to enjoy Disney in a spooky, magical setting. Although there are restrictions on guest costumes, you’ll be greeted by exclusive Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.
It’s the perfect opportunity for Disney fans to immerse themselves in the Halloween spirit while enjoying attractions that are only available during this limited time!
Click here for the official websites Disneyland “Halloween Event” and DisneySea “Halloween Event
Stay at Disney (Rakuten Travel)
What do you think of Japan’s Halloween cosplay events overseas?
Foreign tourists who experienced Halloween 2023 expressed surprise and delight at Japan’s unique Halloween culture.
A tourist who attended an informal Halloween party in Shibuya said, “It was like being in a scene from a movie,” and was impressed by the sight of cosplayers dressed as anime and video game characters decorating the streets.
He added, “The creativity and energy of the Japanese people amazes me. Halloween here is different from any other country”.
In addition, family tourists commented that the Roppongi Hills Halloween Parade was “a great event for the kids to enjoy, and the safe and fun atmosphere was fantastic.
With many tourists expected to return in 2024, Halloween in Japan will increasingly establish itself as a world-class event.
Summary Halloween cosplay will continue to be a hot event in 2024
So far, we have introduced you to some of the world’s hottest cosplay characters and events.
This year it is your turn to cosplay!
What character would you like to cosplay?
Once a year, you might want to participate in a Halloween cosplay event and enjoy cosplaying.
It’s fun just to watch, but I often hear that “cosplayers have even more fun.
Let’s enjoy this year’s Halloween event that is attracting worldwide attention.
Of course, please be sure to observe good manners and enjoy the fun with everyone.
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