Popular cosplayer Enako (30) will appear as a guest on Nippon Television’s “Another Sky” broadcast on the 23rd (11:00 a.m. Saturday). He revealed the work that inspired him to start cosplaying and made a pilgrimage to the “holy place.”
Enako visited Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture with VTR. Regarding the reason for his visit, he said, “It is because it is the holy place of my favorite movie, “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya,” and “I wanted to make a pilgrimage to the holy place. while cosplaying as Haruhi. ,” and she showed off her cosplay as Haruhi.
At the studio, Enako said clearly, “After watching this Haruhi anime, I became an Otaku and learned about cosplay culture,” and the MC, comedian Koji Imada, very impressed and said, “This is the beginning of Enako-chan.” did.
While watching the video, I was impressed as I toured the city, saying, “You don’t need to make a pilgrimage to a holy place and cosplay as an anime.” He said that he came he across the series when he was in the second year of junior high school, and said, “I started cosplaying because I discovered Haruhi. I bought a regular uniform, cosplayed at home, and when I saw full-. long mirror, I thought, “Wow, Haruhi.” “It’s the same uniform as I did,” he said, feeling nostalgic.
I then went around the hills and stations that can be seen in the work and enjoyed it very much. I bought 5 bottles of fresh whipped cream that came with acrylic keys and enjoyed them. In addition, she changed into an attending cosplay of Mikuru Asahina, a character from the same work, which she created for today’s recording, and recreated a PV scene for the song from the same work with a pond in the background.
“Although “Haruhi” was created about 15 years ago, there are many die-hard fans like me, and although I have never seen “Haruhi,” I was excited and seemed to enjoy , I thought I would look. In addition, in a way similar to the butterfly effect, my broadcast will lead to many good things happening, and it could even be the beginning of the third season of Haruhi.”
At the studio, Enako said with a smile, “This time I went on a pilgrimage to a holy place, and he wasn’t even walking around a residence wearing a cosplay, so I felt ashamed.” ‘ She said, “It reminds me of how I felt at the time.”” he continued, making me laugh.
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How can newcomers to cosplay effectively learn and engage with the culture while expressing their passion for anime?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cosplay Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning! Today, I’m excited to welcome our guest, Dr. Aiko Tanaka, an expert in anime culture and cosplay trends. We recently saw the popular cosplayer Enako discussing her journey in a special broadcast. Dr. Tanaka, can you dive into why Enako’s pilgrimage to Nishinomiya City and her connection to “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya” resonates so much with fans?
Dr. Aiko Tanaka (DAT): Good morning! Absolutely! Enako’s visit represents a unique cultural phenomenon known as “seichi junrei,” or “pilgrimages to sacred sites,” linked to anime and manga. For many fans, places depicted in their favorite stories hold significant emotional attachments, much like how religious sites do. In this case, Nishinomiya City has become a pilgrimage location because of its connection to “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”
TNE: It’s fascinating how animated stories can inspire such real-world connections. Enako mentioned that watching Haruhi turned her into an “Otaku.” How critical do you think this kind of origin story is for modern cosplayers?
DAT: It’s essential! Many cosplayers start their journeys grounded in their love for specific characters or series. Enako’s story highlights a common sentiment among Otaku – the series not only inspires them to cosplay but also helps them identify with a larger community. Her story demonstrates that being an Otaku can open doors to creativity and self-expression.
TNE: During the show, Enako expressed that her experience with Haruhi led her to learn about cosplay culture. Can you explain the importance of learning about this culture for newcomers?
DAT: Certainly! Understanding cosplay culture goes beyond just dressing up. It encompasses aspects like character interpretation, crafting costumes, and the community itself. By learning the history and etiquette of cosplay, newcomers can engage more meaningfully with others, participate in events, and appreciate the craft behind it. This knowledge can significantly enhance their experience.
TNE: Enako’s journey is quite inspirational. Do you think her pilgrimage sends a message to other fans and aspiring cosplayers about authenticity and personal connection?
DAT: Definitely! Enako’s willingness to visit a sacred site while embodying her favorite character shows us that cosplay isn’t just about appearance; it’s about embodying what those characters represent. It encourages fans to embrace their passions authentically and reminds them that cosplay can be a form of personal exploration and celebration.
TNE: And what about the attendees who don’t cosplay? Enako stated, “You don’t need to make a pilgrimage to a holy place and cosplay as an anime.” What impact does that have on the cosplay community and broader fandom?
DAT: That statement actually promotes inclusivity. While some may immerse themselves in the fandom through cosplay, others engage through different means, like fan art, writing, or simply being a dedicated viewer. Enako’s message acknowledges that appreciation can vary; it’s perfectly valid to enjoy anime and manga in numerous ways without feeling pressured to fit one mold.
TNE: It’s great to hear how inclusive the community can be! how do you see the future of cosplay shaped by evolving anime culture and digital platforms?
DAT: The future looks vibrant! With the rise of social media and platforms like TikTok, aspiring cosplayers have more resources and inspiration than ever before. They can connect with global communities, share their works, and also participate in virtual conventions. This evolution signifies not only growth for cosplay culture but also the potential to reach wider audiences and foster greater creativity.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Tanaka, for sharing your insights about this captivating intersection of culture and community. It’s clear that Enako’s journey not only reflects her passion but also speaks to the larger narrative of how anime and cosplay continue to influence lives around the world.
DAT: Thank you for having me! It’s exciting to discuss these dynamic aspects of the anime and cosplay worlds.