Cosplay With the Community
Located in a neighborhood beloved by otaku, the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival is one of the largest Halloween events in Japan. Nicknamed “Ikehalo,” the event fills the streets of Ikebukuro with tons of passionate fans and cosplayers.
Fans can enjoy stage events, parades, exhibition booths, photo spots and more — all celebrating anime and gaming fan culture with a Halloween twist.
The Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Event is a three-day festival. The event will kick off on the night of October 30 with “Ikehalo Night” at Ikebukuro Sunshine City. Ikehalo Night will run from 16:30 to 22:30 and is restricted to ages 18 and over. High school students will not be allowed admission.
Then, from October 31 to November 1, the official festival starts throughout the Ikebukuro area. Fans of all ages are invited to attend.
Standard tickets start at ¥2980 and premium tickets start at ¥3980 for advanced bookings. Ikehalo Night tickets start at ¥3480. A special 3-day ticket is available for guests planning to attend all three days at a discounted price. The 3-day pass also comes with special perks such as overnight cloakroom storage and line priority.
Some important details to keep in mind: a participation ticket is required regardless of whether you are participating in cosplay or just taking photos. Those planning to both cosplay and take photos should purchase a Cosplay Registration Ticket. Cosplayers must use the event venue’s changing rooms and are advised to not arrive in costume. Changing room availability hours and photographer registration vary on the ticket type. Please visit the event website for more information.
As many small children are also expected to be in attendance, cosplayers should act appropriately and adhere to the event guidelines regarding skin exposure. When taking photos of cosplayers, please ask permission in advance.
