The region’s biggest premier festival for Japanese Popular Culture and anime, returned to Singapore end November. The event was held at Suntec City Convention Centre and attracted a huge crowd with both local and international visitors. Anime Festival Asia broke new ground this year with the introduction of an almost all-new artiste line-up in its signature I Love Anisong concerts.
There were close to 200 booths consisting of anime merchandise, fan creations, gaming stations, food items and more. Fans gathered around the stage for performances from artistes and anime-themed showcases. AFA’s Regional Cosplay Championship was also held on 27th November as five regional cosplay groups representing Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand compete for the ultimate cosplay honours.
MyFatPocket explored the Festival Grounds and as anime fans ourselves, we were spoiled for choice with the variety of anime merchandise and activities that were at the convention halls. There was the first ever Movie International Premiere of Garokawa – Restore the World, and there were screenings of various anime blockbusters such as Charlotte (featuring voice actress Maaya Uchida, singer Lia and director Yoshiyuki Asai) and One Punch Man (featuring Makoto Furukawa, the voice actor of Saitama, the main protagonist) during festival days.
Danny Choo's Smart Dolls caught the attention of many visitors with their fully poseable bodies and their fashionable outfits.
Gaming enthusiast trying their hands on new games in the market.
The huge turnout at Anime Festival Asia.
Fans gathered around the stage and danced accurately to the movements and choreography.
Workshops and craft works.
Japanese beauty products and makeover booths for J-Beauty lovers.
Japanese fashion and beauty publications for purchase.
Check out the cosplayers on our Fashion Spotting page.