September 2025 Bento News
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our September 2025 Bento News is packed with a delicious mix of updates from the world of Anime, Manga, and Japan!
Looking for the best anime and manga news from August? We’ve done the digging for you!
This September Bento News is loaded with the latest anime releases, manga highlights, must-know game updates, and standout stories from Japan and beyond. Stay in the loop with everything trending in the world of anime and Japanese pop culture, served up fresh and fun, just for you. Itadakimasu!
Anime News
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle smashing records before release in US
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is already breaking records before its US release. Following its massive success in Japan dominating the box office, tickets for Infinity Castle Part 1 went on sale for the September 12, 2025 debut, and the rush from fans caused major platforms like Fandango to crash like a tsunami.
Crunchyroll’s announcement sparked a frenzy, with many fans flooding websites for early screenings, while others vented online over ticketing issues. Despite the chaos, tickets will remain widely available, but early showings are already highly competitive. With Infinity Castle following the legendary success of Mugen Train, anticipation for its US box office performance is at an all-time high.
KPop Demon Hunters 2: Netflix or Theatrical Release?
Netflix scored a lekker kwaai win with KPop Demon Hunters, the animated hit about idol singers battling demons, but the sequel’s future may not stay with the streamer. According to reports, Sony Pictures Animation is weighing its options for KPop Demon Hunters 2, including theatrical releases or rival platforms.
Yoh, the first movie shattered streaming and music records, proving its crossover appeal, but Sony feels shortchanged under Netflix’s flat-rate deal. With sold-out concert-style screenings and global fan demand, a theatrical release could be too profitable to ignore. The sequel’s distribution could mark a turning point for anime-inspired blockbusters post-pandemic.
Vampire Knight Anime Coming to Netflix in August 2025
The beloved yet divisive shojo vampire anime Vampire Knight is officially joining Netflix. Originally airing in 2008 and long available on Crunchyroll, the dark fantasy romance will premiere on Netflix US on August 15, 2025. Based on Matsuri Hino’s hit manga, the series follows Yuuki Cross, whose life changes after being rescued by the pureblood vampire Kaname Kuran.
A decade later, she attends Cross Academy, where humans study by day and vampires rule the night. To newcomers watching it for the first time expect forbidden love, gothic intrigue, and supernatural drama. Vampire Knight remains one of anime’s most talked-about romance series, a definite must for all romantics out there to sink their teeth into.
McDonald’s Japan Ends Pokémon Card Giveaway After Scalper Frenzy
On August 8, 2025, McDonald’s Japan launched a nationwide Pokémon Happy Meal campaign featuring exclusive Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards and toys. Fans were especially excited about a limited-edition Pikachu card showing the mascot reaching for a McDonald’s burger. However, overwhelming demand and mass purchases by scalpers quickly caused chaos, with some stores selling out by early morning.
McDonald’s issued an apology and announced it would discontinue card distribution, citing wasted food, long lines, and staff strain. While the cards have been pulled, Pokémon Happy Meal toys remain available at select locations. The chain also pledged stricter purchase limits and warned it would block accounts of repeat scalpers from its mobile app. More alarming news is that McDonald’s Japan cancelled their plans to release One Piece card happy meals.
Despite the setback, the Pokémon craze continues. With the upcoming Mega Evolution TCG expansion on September 26 and Pokémon Legends Z-A releasing October 16, fans still have plenty to look forward to in 2025.
Netflix Anime Viewership Soars in 2025 With Naruto Leading the Way
Anime continues its meteoric rise on Netflix, with the platform’s latest engagement report confirming record-breaking growth in 2025. In the first half of the year, viewers logged 4.4 billion hours of anime, an 11.3% increase compared to the previous period.
Naruto dominated as Netflix’s most-watched anime franchise, amassing over 40 million views, while Boruto boosted the total to 51 million. Other fan favourites included Detective Conan, Pokémon, One Piece, and Studio Ghibli classics. New hits like Sakamoto Days and Solo Leveling also ranked highly, proving anime’s global popularity and cementing it as Netflix’s fastest-growing content category.
In Memoriam
Voice Actress Tomo Sakurai Passes Away at 53 After Battle With Cancer
Beloved Japanese voice actress Tomo Sakurai has passed away on August 13, 2025, at the age of 53, following a battle with multiple organ cancer. Known for her iconic roles as Mylene Flare Jenius in Macross 7 and Misao Makimachi in Rurouni Kenshin, Sakurai’s career spanned anime, music, and stage. She also voiced characters in El Hazard, Saint Tail, Gintama, and Pokémon: The Arceus Chronicles.
Originally debuting in the idol group Lemon Angel in 1987, she later transitioned into voice acting. Her funeral will be private, with a memorial event for fans planned by her agency. Her voice lives on in her work, she will never be forgotten, her beautiful voice will always bring new fans to anime.
Upcoming Anime 2025 Releases
A host of new anime series is in the works, most of which are set to premiere next year. Here’s a look at what’s coming:
New Series Premiering
Kidou Senshi Gundam: Tekketsu no Orphans - Urdr Hunt (Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans - Urdr Hunt)
The short movie, subtitled Makuai no Kusabi (Wedge of Interposition), will premiere in theatres in Japan on October 31.
Kuroneko to Majo no Kyoushitsu (The Classroom of a Black Cat and a Witch)
The anime series is scheduled to premiere in 2026.
Akane-banashi
The anime is scheduled to premiere on TV Asahi’s IMAnimation programming block in 2026.
Interesting Anime News
Crunchyroll, Netflix & More Leave Major Summer 2025 Anime TV Shows in the Dark
The Summer 2025 anime season delivers hits like Dandadan and Kaiju No. 8, but many series remain unavailable worldwide.
Titles such as Binan Koukou Chikyuu Bouei-bu Haikara! and 9-nine- Ruler’s Crown are locked to regional platforms, frustrating international fans and raising concerns about limited accessibility.
Finally, Monster Is Getting a U.S. Release Complete With an English Dub
Naoki Urasawa’s classic anime Monster is finally getting the Blu-ray release it deserves. Announced by Discotek Media at Otakon 2025, the 2026 HD set will include both English and Japanese audio.
Widely regarded as one of the best anime ever made, Monster’s thrilling mystery will now reach fans in its best form.
Today Is a Great (and Expensive) Day to Be a One Piece Collector
The new LEGO One Piece collection has launched, thrilling anime fans and collectors alike. Highlights include the Going Merry set ($139.99) and the massive Baratie Floating Restaurant ($329.99).
With affordable mini figurines of Luffy and Buggy at $9.99, this release brings the Straw Hats’ world to life in stunning brick detail.
Re:Zero Is Bracing For a Massive Shake-Up After a Sudden Studio Takeover
AlphaPolis has officially acquired WHITE FOX studio, the animation team behind Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World.
The July 2025 deal makes WHITE FOX a subsidiary, with AlphaPolis aiming to expand its IPs into anime, games, and merchandise while ensuring high-quality productions. Fans now await updates on Re:Zero Season 4.
Manga News
Junji Ito Inducted into Eisner Hall of Fame at 2025 Awards
Legendary horror manga legend Junji Ito has been inducted into the Eisner Awards Hall of Fame ahead of the 2025 ceremony. Known for masterpieces like Uzumaki, Tomie, and Gyo, Ito has defined Japanese horror for nearly four decades. His induction follows multiple Eisner Award wins, including Best Adaptation for Frankenstein in 2019 and Best U.S. Edition of International Material, Asia for Remina and Lovesickness. He also received Comic-Con’s Inkpot Award in 2023.
Ito expressed gratitude to fans, the Eisner committee, and late horror icon Kazuo Umezz for inspiring his career. His works, published widely by VIZ Media, continue to influence horror in both manga and anime. Recent adaptations include Adult Swim’s Uzumaki and the upcoming anime anthology Junji Ito: Crimson. With live-action projects also in development, Ito’s chilling tales remain as relevant as ever, cementing his place as one of horror’s greatest creators.
Black Clover Manga Celebrates 10th Anniversary as Final Arc Unfolds
The Black Clover manga has officially celebrated its 10th anniversary with new chapters returning in Jump GIGA, thrilling fans worldwide. After the cliffhanger of Chapter 380, Asta’s fate was revealed as allies from the Diamond Kingdom intervened, allowing Mimosa to heal him and proving the story is closing long-running arcs.
With Yuno, Noelle, and even former enemies uniting for the ultimate showdown against Lucius Zogratis, the manga’s final arc is shaping up to be its most epic yet. The milestone highlights Black Clover’s legacy of teamwork, character growth, and emotional storytelling as it approaches its dramatic conclusion.
Horimiya Creator HERO Launches New Manga Koe no Furu Heya
HERO, best known as the creator of Horimiya, has debuted a new manga titled Koe no Furu Heya (Room Where Voices Fall), illustrated by Tsutsuji Takahashi, in Big Comic Spirits. The story follows Itaru Kagurazaka, a lonely corporate illustrator living in a soundproof apartment, whose life changes after reconnecting with a former classmate, Fumiya Ouji.
Known for blending heartfelt drama with relatable characters, HERO’s return has excited fans worldwide. With the success of Horimiya in both manga and anime form, readers are eager to see how Koe no Furu Heya explores themes of friendship, isolation, and emotional connection.
Dragon Ball Editor Kazuhiko Torishima Warns of a Bleak Future for Manga
Kazuhiko Torishima, the legendary editor behind Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, has voiced concerns about the future of the Japanese manga industry. Speaking at Japan Expo 2025, he argued that the shift to digital platforms has led to a loss of manga’s unique artistic identity, with algorithms pushing repetitive, “fast-food” style content.
Torishima also criticised hiring practices, noting that editors with limited cultural exposure hinder creativity compared to visionaries like Osamu Tezuka. He warned that declining young readership and weaker editorial skills could place the medium in danger, calling for broader perspectives to preserve manga’s originality and legacy. We must not lose hope because as long as we remember what makes us fall in love with manga, we can keep that feeling as a compass to create great manga for the future.
Anime and Manga Business Expansion Explored in Africa
An event in Yokohama, near Tokyo, highlighted the growing potential of anime and manga businesses in Africa. Held alongside TICAD, it was organised by the Japan External Trade Organization and welcomed Japanese companies and African anime enthusiasts.
An Egyptian cosplay influencer stressed that anime connects fans worldwide through shared characters. A Nigerian event organiser noted Africa’s large youth market, where fans eagerly purchase merchandise and attend anime conventions.
With Japan aiming to triple overseas content sales to ¥20 trillion ($135 billion) by 2033, officials emphasised the need to supply more anime and manga to meet Africa’s rising demand.
More Manga News
Dav Pilkey’s Captain Underpants Makes the Leap to Manga
Scholastic’s Graphix imprint will release Captain Underpants: The First Epic Manga on April 7, 2026. Adapted by creator Dav Pilkey and illustrated by veteran manga artist Motojiro, the book reimagines The Adventures of Captain Underpants with new Flip-o-Ramas, full-color art, and left-to-right reading, bringing the beloved series to manga fans worldwide.
North American Anime & Manga Releases for August
Anime, manga, and light novel fans in North America can look forward to exciting August 2025 releases. Highlights include Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun Blu-ray, Wolf Children Blu-ray, and manga volumes like Dandadan Vol.14, Spy x Family Vol.14, and Natsume’s Book of Friends Vol.31.
Nippon News
Oita Prefecture Launches Teacher Training Program to Revitalize Rural Education
In 2026, the towns of Kusu and Kokonoe in Oita Prefecture will launch a year-long teacher training program at Kusu Miyama High School to nurture future educators connected to their local community. With rural areas facing population decline and teacher shortages, the initiative aims to inspire students to pursue teaching careers through lectures, classroom practice, and mentorship.
Students will also explore intercultural understanding, social cohesion, and special needs education. Supported by local education boards and universities, the program will offer trial lessons, research presentations, and potential scholarships, fostering hometown pride while addressing the shortage of teachers in rural Japan.
Yomiuri Shimbun Sues Perplexity AI for Copyright Infringement in Japan
The Yomiuri Shimbun has filed a major lawsuit against Perplexity AI Inc. at the Tokyo District Court, accusing the U.S. startup of copyright infringement. Filed on August 7, 2025, the suit demands 2.17 billion yen ($14.78 million) in damages, deletion of reproduced articles, and a halt to unauthorised use.
Yomiuri alleges Perplexity’s AI-based search service accessed over 119,000 of its digital articles to generate responses, violating reproduction and public transmission rights under Japan’s Copyright Law. The publisher argues this practice undermines journalism, reduces website traffic through “zero-click searches,” and threatens democracy by bypassing accurate, investigative reporting.
Tokyo University of the Arts Launches Graduate Program in Video Game Studies
In a landmark move for Japan’s video game industry, Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai) will open a new Department of Games and Interactive Arts in April 2026. Announced by President Katsuhiko Hibino, the program will be part of the Graduate School of Film and New Media, focusing on video games as a modern artistic medium. With only 20 students admitted annually, the curriculum emphasises design, technology, and visual expression.
Taught by professors and industry veterans, including a Bandai Namco developer, the program combines seminars, critiques, public exhibitions, and international collaborations to train the next generation of game creators. With more education, who knows what genius games will come in the future. This education initiative proves that game development is more than entertainment, it is an art form to be respected.
Japan’s Population Decline Reaches Record Low While Foreign Residents Surge
Japan’s population dropped by a staggering 908,000 people in 2024, the steepest decline since records began in 1968, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. As of January 1, the population stood at 120.65 million, marking the 16th consecutive year of decline. Births fell to a record 680,000, while deaths rose to 1.59 million.
Tokyo was the only prefecture to record growth. In contrast, the number of foreign residents increased 10.65% to a record 3.67 million, making up 2.96% of the population. With most foreigners of working age, experts predict Japan may need 7 million foreign workers by 2040.
Harry Potter Shop Harajuku Opens in Tokyo with Tom Felton Visit
Tokyo’s new Harry Potter Shop Harajuku officially opened its doors, delighting fans with magical merchandise, themed displays, and a Butterbeer Bar. Ahead of the grand opening, Tom Felton, known for playing the villainous Draco Malfoy, visited the store, charming fans with a warm smile and Slytherin pride.
Felton reunited with Japanese idol So Matsushima of Timelesz, who shared how Felton once inspired his acting career. Inside the shop, highlights include a massive Buckbeak statue in the Forbidden Forest zone. Felton bowed respectfully to the creature, creating a heartwarming moment that reflected the shop’s enchanting atmosphere for Harry Potter fans in Japan.
More News From Nippon
New English textbook published for anime industry’s Animator Skill Test
The Nippon Anime & Film Culture Association (NAFCA) has released an English textbook for the Animator Skill Test Levels 5 & 6, helping to aspire animators worldwide.
Covering in-between animation, Japanese production terminology, and industry workflow, the 112-page guide is a valuable resource for foreigners aiming to enter the anime industry.
Heatwave continues to grip much of Japan
A severe heatwave continues across Japan, from Kyushu to Tohoku, with temperatures soaring above 35°C in multiple cities.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of rising highs up to 39°C and issues heatstroke alerts for 20 prefectures. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and take precautions against extreme heat.
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Foreign visitors to Japan slowed as unfounded rumor spread on social media
Japan tourism saw over 3.4 million foreign visitors in July, a 4.4% increase year-on-year, marking a record for the month.
Growth slowed due to unfounded natural disaster rumours circulating in Hong Kong and South Korea. JNTO confirms the claims are baseless and urges travellers to visit safely.
In Other Stories
Delta Air Lines Partners with Crunchyroll to Bring Anime In-Flight
Delta Air Lines is transforming travel by teaming up with Crunchyroll to stream anime on flights starting in 2025. Passengers will be able to watch popular anime titles directly on seatback screens or through personal devices via the Delta Sync Wi-Fi experience. SkyMiles members get an extra perk: a free 24-hour Crunchyroll trial to continue binging after landing.
With over 1,000 series spanning shonen, romance, and fantasy, travellers can discover or revisit anime classics mid-flight. This partnership not only enhances Delta’s in-flight entertainment but also introduces a global audience to the world’s largest anime streaming platform.
Babymetal’s Metal Forth Breaks into U.S. Billboard Top 10
Babymetal has made history as the first all-Japanese group to enter the U.S. Billboard Top 10, with their new album Metal Forth debuting at No. 9 on August 23. The “metal kawaii” pioneers: Su-Metal, Moametal, and Momometal, continue to rise globally with their unique fusion of idol choreography and heavy metal.
Released on August 8 to celebrate their 15th anniversary, Metal Forth features 10 tracks, including collaborations with Electric Callboy (Ratatata) and Tom Morello (Metali!!). Their previous Billboard best was No. 13 in 2019 with Metal Galaxy. Babymetal proves once again their global dominance in modern metal.
VTuber News
OTAGROUP Launches “Rental Granny” Online Counseling Service in Japan
We all need a ouma in our lives at times, a gogo that will tell as all will be okay and give us sage advice. Maybe there is a solution. Japanese talent agency OTAGROUP, best known for its senior VTuber group Metabaachan, has launched Rental Granny, an online counselling service that lets users “rent a ouma” for virtual chats and advice. Through Zoom or Google Meet, participants are paired with gogos who appear as 3D avatars, offering a mix of emotional support, life counselling, and even custom requests like acting roles.
OTAGROUP says the project aims to boost elderly self-esteem while helping younger generations in urban areas. Already managing viral stars like 86-year-old Hiroko, the agency hopes to expand partnerships with nursing homes and build a sustainable business. We all need a ouma in our lives at times, a gogo that will tell us all will be okay and give us sage advice.
VTubers Protest YouTube’s New ID Verification System Over Privacy Concerns
YouTube’s new AI-powered age verification system is facing backlash from VTubers, who fear the platform’s ID requirements could compromise their safety. Starting July 29, 2025, users flagged as under 18 must provide legal identification to regain access to restricted content. Popular VTuber Bao the Whale and others argue this exposes creators to risks of doxxing, hacking, and harassment if sensitive data is leaked.
Since anonymity is vital in the VTuber industry, the policy threatens careers and personal security. Independent VTubers like Kasumi Okami echo concerns, urging YouTube to explore safer alternatives that protect both creators and users.
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More VTubing News
Gaming News
Tamagotchi Paradise Launches, Taking Digital Pets to Space
Bandai has unveiled Tamagotchi Paradise, the newest evolution of the iconic digital pet, now available across North America at retailers like Walmart, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon. For the first time, Tamagotchi ventures into space, letting players raise pets on an entire Tamagotchi Planet. With its unique zoom dial, users can explore at both cellular and planetary levels, creating a truly interactive experience.
Players can nurture pets across generations, with 12 species and over 50,000 possible character variations. Alongside the launch, Bandai introduced the Tamagotchi Adventure Companion Backpack, a 3-in-1 plush bag available online and in stores.
The Apothecary Diaries Browser Game Announced: Palace Chronicles Opens Pre-Registration
Online gaming platform G123 has revealed The Apothecary Diaries Palace Chronicles, a new browser game based on Natsu Hyūga and Touko Shino’s epic light novel and anime The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto). In this free-to-play simulation, players train Maomao and investigate palace mysteries on smartphone, tablet, or PC, with optional in-game purchases.
Pre-registration is now open, offering milestone rewards. Following the anime’s success, two seasons streamed on Crunchyroll with English dubs, a sequel has been confirmed, ensuring the franchise continues to thrive across both gaming and anime.
One Piece Do-n Strike: New Arcade Game Lets Fans Punch Like Luffy
A brand new One Piece arcade game, One Piece Do-n Strike, is in development, giving fans the chance to throw real punches like Luffy. Instead of joysticks, the cabinet features a striking bag that players hit with boxing gloves, with impact strength converted into in-game damage. Inspired by classic Japanese punching games, Do-n Strike updates the formula with Straw Hat Pirates flair.
The first confirmed opponent is Donquixote Doflamingo, featured in the location test to be live-streamed on YouTube. While no release date is set, One Piece Do-n Strike promises a knockout arcade experience for anime and gaming fans alike. A game where you can release your inner Luffy or Sanji? Bring it on!
More Gaming News
Only in Japan
Kyoto Kawadoko Collapse: Six Diners Fall into River
In Kyoto’s scenic Kibune district, a popular kawadoko riverside dining deck collapsed on August 12, sending six people into the fast-flowing river near Kifune Shrine. The kawadoko tradition is much like a lekker Mzansi braai by the water, except this time, the deck gave way.
Five diners scrambled out safely, while a woman in her 70s and a staff member in his 40s were rescued and taken to hospital with minor injuries. Heavy rains, dumping almost 70% of August’s average rainfall in just two days, are suspected to have weakened the wooden structure. Authorities are now investigating safety standards.
Become a Maid: Japan’s Reverse Maid Cafe Experience
Maid cafes are a staple of Japanese pop culture, but Maid ni Nareru Cafe in Tokyo flips the script with a unique reverse concept. Translating to “Cafe Where You Can Become a Maid,” this pop-up lets customers step into the role of a maid instead of just being served.
Guests choose aprons and bonnets, then serve tea and cakes to someone role-playing as a “high-class customer.” Unlike a real job, it’s more like a cosplay photo shoot, with staff snapping photos on your phone as you play. This immersive twist is redefining Japan’s maid café experience.
Pocky Secures 3D Trademark for Its Iconic Shape in Japan
For nearly 60 years, Pocky has been one of Japan’s most recognisable snacks, loved worldwide for its simple chocolate-covered pretzel sticks. In 2023, maker Glico surveyed over 1,000 people in Japan, and more than 90% identified Pocky solely by its shape.
This led to Glico applying for, and officially receiving, a rare 3D trademark from the Japanese government in July 2025. The trademark protects Pocky’s unique design, preventing lookalike snacks from being sold in Japan. While it doesn’t extend overseas, the move strengthens Pocky’s brand identity and cultural legacy as Japan’s most iconic sweet treat.
Japan’s Haunted Taxi Tours: Chilling Summer Escapes
Summer in Japan isn’t just about fireworks and festivals, it’s also ghost season. To beat the heat, many turn to haunted attractions for spine-tingling chills. One of the most unique options is Sanwa Kotsu’s Haunted Spot Pilgrimage Tour, a taxi service that whisks brave passengers to real haunted sites across Tokyo, Yokohama, and Saitama.
From the terrifying Endless Waltz Course in Hachioji to the all-night Tokyo route, each journey is designed to test your courage. Overwhelmingly popular, applications reach lottery-level demand. Can’t join? Tune into live-streamed ghost hunts or visit Japan’s famous haunted houses for your own paranormal adventure.
Demon Slayer Outshines Live-Action Blockbusters at Japan’s Box Office
Anime is proving unstoppable at the Japanese box office, with Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle outshining major live-action blockbusters. Since its July 18 release, the film has earned over 17.64 billion yen in just 17 days, securing its place among Japan’s top 10 highest-grossing movies ever.
Meanwhile, big-budget live-action films continue to struggle against the massive appeal of anime. With Mugen Train still reigning at number one, Demon Slayer now holds two spots in Japan’s all-time top 10. This success highlights a clear trend: anime dominates Japan’s cinema, while live-action battles to keep audiences interested.
Interesting articles from Japan
Bandai's plastic model museum to open in Shizuoka, central Japan, in September
Bandai Spirits will open a hands-on Gundam model museum in Shizuoka on September 2, showcasing plastic model manufacturing and design. Visitors can explore production, create packaging, and learn local craftsmanship.
The museum promotes Shizuoka’s model-making culture and aims to attract anime fans, hobbyists, and international visitors to Japan’s pop culture hub.
Light Novel News
Lv999 no Murabito Anime Adaptation Announced for 2026
GREE Entertainment has launched the official website for the upcoming Lv999 no Murabito anime, based on Koneko Hoshizuki’s popular fantasy light novel. The 2026 series, produced by Brain’s Base, features director Yoshinobu Kasai, series composition by Shinzou Fujita, and character designs by Kentarou Matsumoto.
Satoshi Inomata and Nao Touyama star as Kouji Kagami and Alice Balnesio. Set in a world where levels define power, most villagers live weak, ordinary lives while heroes, sages, and royalty wield extraordinary abilities. The story follows a two-year-old villager child who discovers hidden potential, challenging the limits of the powerless population.
Cosplay News
U.S. Wins World Cosplay Summit 2025 in Nagoya
The United States claimed victory at the World Cosplay Summit 2025 in Nagoya, Japan. Representing the U.S., cosplayers dressed as characters from Fire Emblem Engage secured the championship at the Aichi Arts Center. The three-day event gathered participants from 41 countries, judged on costume accuracy and stage performance lasting 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
Since its start in 2003, the summit has become a global celebration of cosplay, featuring parades with Howl’s Moving Castle and Neon Genesis Evangelion characters. The U.S. team expressed joy, saying years of hard work finally turned their cosplay dreams into reality.
Comiket 2025 Summer: 50th Anniversary Draws 130,000 Fans to Tokyo Big Sight
The Comiket 2025 Summer event celebrated its 50th anniversary at Tokyo Big Sight, attracting over 130,000 attendees on Day 1. Japan’s largest doujinshi convention once again blended anime, manga, and cosplay culture. Despite record-breaking summer heat, fans came prepared with parasols, cooling vests, and exclusive Comiket water bottles illustrated by Nanakagura.
Historical panels showcased catalogue covers from all 106 Comikets, while cosplay dominated the spotlight, with many attendees dressed in swimwear-inspired outfits influenced by seasonal mobile game events. Comiket, first held in 1975, continues to be a cornerstone of otaku culture, uniting fans worldwide in celebration of creativity and fandom.
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