World Cosplay Summit 2025: A Complete Guide for International Travelers
Event Dates & Schedule
Dates: August 1 (Fri) – 3 (Sun), 2025
August 1 (Fri) 18:00–21:00: Eve Festival & Red Carpet Ceremony
August 2 (Sat) 11:00–21:00: Osu Cosplay Parade and more
August 3 (Sun) 11:00–21:00: World Cosplay Championship and more
For detailed schedules, check the official website.
Venues
Main Venue: Oasis 21 – 1-11-1 Higashi-sakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya
Direct access via Sakae Station (Subway Higashiyama/Meijo Line) and Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line)
Sub Venues: Hisaya-odori Park, Central Park Underground Mall, Aichi Arts Center (Championship), Osu Shopping District, Hisaya Odori Garden Flarie, Chubu Electric MIRAI TOWER
Events include stage performances, cosplay runway, vendor booths, and photo areas.
Ticket Information
Various ticket types: Cosplay Participation Pass, Changing Room Pass, General Admission, World Cosplay Championship Viewing Ticket
Sample ticket prices:
Ticket Type
Price (incl. tax)
Benefits
VIP (VV Seat)
18,000 JPY
Original T-shirt, eco bag (muta collab), penlight
V Seat
12,000 JPY
Original T-shirt, penlight
S Seat
6,000 JPY
Original eco bag, penlight
A Seat
4,000 JPY
Penlight only
Other admission passes
See official site
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Purchase via the official website and major Japanese ticketing platforms. Advance purchase is recommended.
World Cosplay Championship
National representatives (two per country, from 41 regions) compete for world title
Date: August 3 (Sun), 2025 – starts at 14:30
Venue: Aichi Arts Center, Main Hall
Entry only with special viewing tickets (usually includes official merchandise and gifts)
Photo Spots
Oasis 21 Galaxy Plaza (basement): The heart of the event, dramatic space for photos and meetups.
Hisaya Odori Garden Flarie: Garden scenery, perfect for nature-and-cosplay shots.
Osu Shopping District: Retro and futuristic vibe, best street cosplay scenes.
Other highlights: Hisaya-odori Park, Central Park Underground Mall, etc.
Transportation
From Tokyo: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya, about 1hr 40min
From Osaka: Tokaido Shinkansen, about 50min
To Venue:
Subway Higashiyama/Meijo Line to "Sakae" Station (short walk)
Meitetsu Seto Line to "Sakaemachi" Station (short walk)
City Bus: Sakae Bus Terminal (5min walk)
From Chubu Centrair Airport: Meitetsu μSKY Express directly to Nagoya
Most event locations are walking distance from Sakae. Use prepaid IC transport cards for easy subway/bus trips.
Note: The area will be very crowded during the event. Allow extra travel time.
Cosplayers may use public transport in costume, but cover up and store props/weapons appropriately for safety and consideration.
Hotels
Plenty of hotels near Oasis 21, Sakae, and Nagoya Station.
Book official partner plans for special perks (changing room access, exclusive goods, etc.).
Popular picks: Route Inn Nagoya Sakae, Meitetsu Inn Nagoya, and more from business to luxury class.
Food & Local Gourmet
Nagoya is a foodie's city! Venues and surroundings have a wide variety of restaurants.
Top local dishes: Miso katsu (pork cutlet with miso), chicken wings, hitsumabushi (eel rice), kishimen noodles, Taiwan ramen, and more.
Sakae and Osu areas have many Japanese, ramen, cafes, izakaya, and dessert shops.
Oasis 21's basement has a food court/cafes. Costumed dining is generally permitted, but check each shop's policy. You may also bring your own food/beverage inside the venue.
Rules & Etiquette
All participants must have a valid pass/changing room ticket and use designated changing areas only.
Changing clothes or unauthorized photography in public spaces is prohibited.
All attendees (cosplayers and visitors) must register and exchange tickets for badges at the reception.
Costume size guideline: roughly within a width of 50cm for seated events.
Items that obstruct others' view or cause danger may be restricted.
Props and replica weapons must be covered when moving in public or in transit.
Many-language support (English, Chinese, etc.) at main info booths.
No photo/video at bus terminals or other prohibited areas. No on-site parking—use public transport only. No ticket refunds/changes.
Tips for Enjoying the Event (Chips)
Follow the latest updates via the official app and social media.
Use free Wi-Fi around Sakae or main stations. Prepare a SIM or eSIM beforehand if needed.
Prepare for hot Japanese summers: Bring a hat, water, and use vending machines at the venue.
Selfie sticks and drones may be restricted in crowded or special zones—follow the posted signs.
Official merchandise sells out early; shop as soon as booths open.
Not just for cosplayers! Visitors in regular clothes are welcome and will find guides and Q&A for beginners.
Combine event visits with sightseeing at Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and shopping streets nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question
Answer
Is it okay if I don't speak Japanese?
Official guides, info booths, and staff support multiple languages including English.
Are there restrictions on costumes and props?
There are size and content regulations (see above). Weapons and hazardous items are not allowed.
Can I enjoy the event without cosplaying?
Yes, general attendance, photography, shopping, and viewing are fully enjoyable for non-cosplayers.
Are there extra costs besides participation fees?
Merchandise and food are pay-on-site. Cafes and gourmet spots outside the venue can also be enjoyed.
Is there a place to store luggage?
Lockers and cloakrooms are available inside the venue.
Final Message
With the motto "COSPLAY EVERYWHERE!!", enjoy a world-class cosplay experience in Nagoya.
Please check the official rules, etiquette, and up-to-date guidance for a safe and comfortable experience.
Enjoy your trip and the World Cosplay Summit 2025!
