The Hanami Festival is a family-friendly day out for all ages, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy sharing an appreciation for Japanese culture.
We are delighted every year to see cosplay, kimono, and Japanese street fashions at the event!
Last year, we provided a changing area on request. This is not yet decided for 2024. Please ask for this at the Info Desk.
- We cannot provide storage space for your belongings.
- Depending on demand there may be queues for the changing area.
Please observe the following rules:
- No actual weapons and no mock weapons. ⚔
- No airsoft guns, no guns, no swords, nothing that could be mistaken as an actual weapon by a child or elderly person.
- This year, even fantasy weapons are not allowed.
- Not everyone at this event is used to cosplay, and there is a real risk of causing fright or confusion. We know this is strict compared to other cons and events.
- Save your Resident Evil for GamerFest!
- Costumes must have a minimum coverage of modest swimwear, and the content and appearance of costumes must be suitable for all ages.
- Props must be designed as suitable and safe for an event that is attended by a large volume of people.
- “Props break before people” must apply.
- Props must be handled in a manner that is mindful of other people at all times, particularly while moving between areas or near crowds.
- If your costume restricts movement or your own visibility, you must bring someone with you who can help you to move around.
- Props are not to be used for dangerous horseplay, enacting scenes, or in a manner that threatens other attendees.
- On-the-day rulings of Experience Japan staff in relation to cosplay, props, or use thereof are to be considered final.
We would also like to share these guidelines based on the experiences of previous attendees:
- Consider your choice of costume and transport (see Getting There) so that you can enjoy your visit.
- Experience Japan happens outdoors. Have a plan in case it rains! 🌧️
- Any personal belongings are brought at the owners’ risk. Experience Japan will not be responsible for loss or damage of items.
- Please understand that by walking outdoors in a public space, the general public will tend to take photos without asking permission first.
- Experience Japan may use photographs taken at the event as part of our promotional material, or for sharing on social media.
Thanks for your cooperation!