Makibi Park, in Mabi, where nature and Chinese-style architecture blend in harmony.
A perfect park for taking cosplay photos in costumes inspired by anime and manga with an exotic feel, it hosted a cosplay event.
The cosplay event at Makibi Park was the first in a while in Mabi, which suffered extensive damage in the July 2018 heavy rains.
Here, we introduce scenes from the cosplay event at Makibi Park and share what the organizers of “Okayama Cosplay Event Beryl” told us about how the event came to be held!
The information presented was current when this article was published in March 2020. Please note that it may differ from current information.
What is Okayama Cosplay Event Beryl?
Okayama Cosplay Event Beryl is an event exclusively for women cosplayers, launched in June 2019 by two female friends who are active cosplayers living in Okayama.
The event’s changing room is stocked with mirrors and tissues, as well as cosmetics, irons, magazines, snacks, and more, with thoughtful touches to make women cosplayers feel welcome.
“Beryl” is the English name for the gemstone known in Japanese as ryokuchuseki.
Beryl is a gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, rather than just one color such as white or red.
The name was chosen with the wish that, like the many different sparkling gemstones, cosplayers could each express their individuality and have a great time at the event!
Scenes from “A Cosplay Event in a Chinese-Style Garden Steeped in History!”
Event schedule
“A Cosplay Event in a Chinese-Style Garden Steeped in History!” was held at Makibi Park on March 15, 2020.
The event was limited to 20 women cosplayers, but cancellations due to COVID-19 meant that around 10 cosplayers took part.
It was a slightly windy and still chilly day, but the occasional song of a Japanese bush warbler heralded the arrival of spring.
The weather was just right for photography.
After checking in in front of Chikuyo-an, next to Makibi Memorial Hall, participants changed into their costumes in Chikuyo-an, which served as the changing room. Groups of participants and photographers then explored Makibi Park and were free to take photos.
Photo shoot scenes
A popular spot is the circular window at Makibi Park!
Participants take turns, follow the rules, and enjoy the photo shoot by striking a variety of poses.
The area in front of the pond inside the garden, which spreads out before the hexagonal pavilion, also seemed to be a popular place for photos.
The colorful Chinese-style costumes stood out beautifully, and I was captivated by the scene, which looked as if I had stepped into a foreign land.
While taking a break from the photo shoot, I spoke with some participants and was surprised to learn that they had come from outside Okayama Prefecture, including Nagasaki, Kyoto, and Hiroshima Prefectures.
The Cosplay Event Beryl staff includes a male photographer, who offers to take photos for groups without a dedicated photographer, asking, “Would you like me to take some photos?”
Participants appreciated this thoughtful attention to detail.
Everyone is enjoying the photo shoot in a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere.
What event participants had to say
When we asked participants what they thought of the event, we heard comments like these:
- “There aren’t any Chinese-style buildings where I live, so I’m happy to be able to take photos in a Chinese-style garden like this.”
- “I take part in cosplay events as a way to sightsee.”
It can be difficult to take photos at crowded places or large events, so I felt that one of the charms of this event was that each group could enjoy taking photos at a leisurely pace.
Takenoko Chaya also serves set meals of udon and soba, as well as drinks such as coffee and tea.
Since participants can use the cafe while still wearing their cosplay costumes, some took a break there between photo shoots.
Next, we spoke with the organizers of Cosplay Event Beryl.
cosplay event in a Chinese garden steeped in history Information
| Name | Cosplay event in a Chinese garden steeped in history |
|---|---|
| Date | March 15, 2020 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
| Location | Makibi Park |
| Participation fee (tax included) | Participation fee: 1,000 yen |
| Website | Cosplay Event Beryl |
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