Table of Contents
The cosplay and doujinshi (self-published works) scene in Japan continues to thrive, as evidenced by the recent success of “acosta!@Osaka Nanko ATC” and “acosta! Marche @Osaka Nanko ATC Vol. 2,” held November 15th and 16th at Osaka Nanko ATC in Osaka Prefecture. The events, which saw over 100 booths set up, showcased the vibrant cosplay culture of the Kansai region and provided a platform for independent artists. At the events, ENTAME next interviewed cosplayers who garnered attention, including one artist whose dedication to detail and rapid creation process captivated attendees.
From Game Release to Stunning Cosplay: A Week-Long Transformation
One cosplayer, known as Yazuki, quickly became a focal point at the event with her incredibly detailed portrayal of Canary from the newly released “Pokémon Legends ZA.” What set Yazuki apart wasn’t just the accuracy of the costume, but the speed with which it was created. “I think he’s quite fast,” Yazuki remarked, referring to the pace of the build. “I really like the game, and I bought Pokemon on the day it was released, and I started making it about a week after I finished it.”
Yazuki is a self-taught costume craftsman, handling every aspect of the creation process, from sourcing materials to the final finishing touches. “I usually make cosplay costumes on my own, so I make them myself. From finding the fabric to finishing the costume,” she explained. Her commitment to authenticity extends to incorporating modern technology, utilizing a 3D printer for intricate components. “The pouch on the back is also recreated by attaching a 3D-printed ‘Sibishirasu-chan’ to a commercially available switch case. The smartphone case was also made using a 3D printer.”
A Decade of Dedication: The Evolution of a Cosplay Artist
Yazuki’s passion for cosplay spans over a decade, a period during which she’s honed her skills and witnessed the evolution of the hobby. “I started cosplaying more than 10 years ago, and back then costumes weren’t sold as much as they are now. So basically, it’s natural to make it yourself,” she said, reflecting on the early days. While she admits to having created “over 500” characters over the years, she’s recently scaled back her event participation.
Beyond the technical skill, Yazuki’s personality shines through in her approach. She described herself as “very impatient,” a trait evident in her eagerness to be first in line at the event. “Registration for today’s event started at 11am. I arrived at the venue just after 10am and was first in line,” she confessed with a laugh. “I always want to be the first one to go to an event because it’s the busiest time in the morning and it’s easiest to take photos.”
Beyond Cosplay: Gaming, Camping, and a Bridge-Side Revelation
Yazuki’s interests extend beyond the world of cosplay. She’s an avid gamer, currently enjoying “Zelda Warriors” on the Nintendo Switch, alongside her enduring love for the Pokémon franchise. Her favorite Pokémon, Gengar, reflects her strategic approach to gameplay. “The appeal of this game is its versatility, allowing you to change your techniques to suit your opponent. My favorite technique is ‘100,000 Volts’ used by Gengar. It’s surprising to see an electric type move coming out of a ghost type Gengar, and it’s fun to catch your opponent’s surprise.”
When she’s not immersed in virtual worlds, Yazuki enjoys the tranquility of camping in the mountains near her home in Wakayama Prefecture. “I live in Wakayama, so the best thing I can do is go to the nearby mountains, camp with my friends, have some drinks, and then just sleep,” she shared. She’s also developed a fondness for simple camping fare, preferring grilled meat to elaborate meals.
However, her adventures haven’t always been peaceful. Yazuki recounted a memorable, albeit slightly embarrassing, incident involving a night out and a bridge. “When I was younger, there were times when I drank too much and ended up doing something wrong… My biggest mistake in life was losing my memory after drinking and waking up to find myself sleeping on a bridge,” she admitted with a laugh. “Yes, on the way up the bridge. I woke up and said, ‘Where am I?’ and I was shocked. It was really nice being in the countryside. I won’t do it again though!”
Looking Ahead: Organization and Continued Creativity
As she looks to the future, Yazuki has a practical goal in mind. “Organizing!” she declared. “When I’m making costumes, I end up having to deal with a lot of trouble in my room, so next year I’d like to be able to clean up the room while I work on it. I always think about this.” This focus on streamlining her workspace suggests a continued commitment to her craft and a desire to refine her already impressive process.
