What this is
One of Tokyo's most popular cosplay-focused events, Ultra acosta! runs as a dedicated cosplay gathering inside Ikebukuro Sunshine City, where attendees come dressed as characters from anime, manga, games, and tokusatsu franchises. Unlike general anime expos, the cosplay itself is the main attraction — there are no major stage shows or dealer halls, just a large organised space for costume showcasing, photography, and community meetups. Sunshine City's indoor halls make it a year-round format that runs regardless of weather.
Who should go
Cosplayers of any skill level, from first-timers to veterans, and photographers who want access to a dense, willing subject pool. Spectators with a genuine interest in costume craft will find plenty to admire, but passive anime fans with no cosplay interest may find the format limited.
Good to know
Tickets are sold through the official acosta website and sometimes via eplus.jp — foreign credit cards are generally accepted online, and e-ticket or QR code entry is standard so no convenience store pickup is needed. Sunshine City is a large indoor complex in Ikebukuro; the acosta event typically occupies a designated hall or floor within the World Import Mart building, with clear signage on the day. The venue is fully indoors and air-conditioned, which is a significant advantage for cosplayers in elaborate costumes during the September heat. Separate ticket types exist for cosplay participants and for photographers, so confirm which applies to you when purchasing. Cash is useful for any on-site merchandise or food stalls, though card payment is increasingly accepted at Sunshine City facilities.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.