Cyberpunk Tokyo: Step into a Futuristic Cosplay Adventure in Akihabara
Explore the Futuristic Streets of Akihabara in This One-of-a-Kind Cosplay Photoshoot Experience
Akihabara has long been a popular destination for international tourists, known for its vibrant neon streets, electronics stores, and anime culture.
Now, there’s a unique new experience for visitors to enjoy at night—cosplaying in a cyberpunk-inspired setting with a photo shoot right in the heart of Akihabara.
I recently had the opportunity to take part in this activity, and in this article, I’ll introduce you to “Cyberpunk Tokyo” and share my personal experience of stepping into this futuristic world.
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
What is Cyberpunk Tokyo?
Cyberpunk Tokyo is a cosplay and photoshoot activity created by Cosplay9, designed to immerse you in Akihabara’s vibrant, futuristic world at night. This unique experience allows you and your friends to transform into cyberpunk-inspired characters with full cosplay, including costumes, makeup, wigs, and accessories, before embarking on a photoshoot in Akihabara’s neon-lit streets.
The cyberpunk theme fits perfectly with Akihabara’s nighttime atmosphere, evoking the sci-fi aesthetic that makes the area feel like Japan’s most cyberpunk-like city.
Japan’s safety makes nighttime activities like this photoshoot incredibly enjoyable. The professional staff, including experts in makeup, costume, and photography, carefully select the best time and locations to enhance the cyberpunk atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Costumes range from customized pre-made items to original, handmade pieces by Japanese cosplayers, with the designs varying based on your size and preferences.
Booking is accessible through the website, where you’ll provide the date, number of participants (up to four), and your clothing sizes. You can also discuss specific requests, like costume or makeup preferences, in advance. The activity lasts around 4-5 hours, depending on the group size, and everything from costumes and wigs to makeup is provided, so you don’t need to bring anything. After the session, you’ll receive dozens of professionally retouched photos via email about a week later.
About Akihabara
Akihabara is a must-visit destination for most international tourists coming to Japan. Its brightly lit neon signs and high-tech vibe create an unmistakable cyberpunk atmosphere, making it a perfect setting for a cosplay photoshoot. Although many people are interested in cosplay, few have the chance to experience it thoroughly, and casually doing a photoshoot in public streets can be challenging.
In addition, Akihabara’s nightlife is relatively quiet compared to other major cities in Tokyo, offering a calm backdrop for nighttime activities. There are fewer night activities in the area compared to its daytime energy, so this photoshoot experience stands out as a great option for something fun to do after dark.
My Experience at Cyberpunk Tokyo
As I mentioned initially, I had the opportunity to experience this activity. Here is my experience!
1. Arriving at Akihabara Station
The meeting point was just outside the Electric Town Exit of JR Akihabara Station, where the staff was waiting with a sign at 6:00 PM. We were greeted warmly and made our way to the studio, a 10-minute walk from the station.
Along the way, we chatted about the activity, our cosplay experiences, and the look we hoped to achieve.
For the entire experience, we had a translator to assist us.
2. At the Cyberpunk Tokyo Studio
The studio had a cozy atmosphere and was equipped with a makeup station, wardrobe, accessories, photoshoot gear, and changing rooms.
First, we changed into black innerwear (a black T-shirt and black pants) to prepare for the costume and makeup.