Comiket 105, also known as C105, is set to take place on December 29 and 30, 2024, at the Tokyo Big Sight. This grand event has become synonymous with the celebration of pop culture, drawing enthusiasts from across Japan and beyond. After enduring pandemic delays and restrictions, this year’s Comiket promises to be bigger and more vibrant than ever, showcasing special arrangements like exclusive merchandise and expanded operations at cafes near the venue.
At the forefront of catering to the expected influx of visitors is Cafe Veloce located near the venue. Known for its swift service, the cafe will ramp up its operations by fivefold, featuring special black cat merchandise and limited-time menus. Store Operations Manager Makihara emphasized the importance of recruiting experienced staff during these busy days, saying, “We will operate with about five times the usual number of staff during Comiket.” This change warrants preparation as the cafe will accommodate thousands of fans on both days.
Hattori from the cafe added, “The rumor about your order being ready before you can put your wallet away is true!” Their training regimen aims to optimize service efficiency even as visitor numbers swell. During previous events, such as during the summer event, they witnessed approximately eight times the normal customer flow, achieving astounding sales numbers.
Comiket 105 will also see notable presences from the VTuber community, which has gained immense traction over the past few years. Influential VTuber agencies and illustrators will have booths, highlighting the blend of animated characters with Japan's rich idol culture. Many are drawn by the unique opportunity to interact with their favorite creators, be it through purchasing merchandise or attending live drawing sessions.
Takashi Ichikawa, one of the representatives from the Comiket Preparatory Committee, shared insights on the changing demographics of the attendees. He stated, “Currently 50% of our attendees are under 30 years old.” This evolution reflects the broadening appeal of the event, moving beyond niche fandoms to engage with younger audiences fully passionate about manga, anime, and gaming culture.
Illustrators connected to notable VTuber series like Hololive will also feature prominently at C105. Booths will be set up to showcase their work, and various limited-edition items—ranging from art books to buttons can only be grabbed at the convention. Participators are encouraged to search for their favorite illustrators’ booths, including favorites like Tejima nari, Aruyuki, and Tomari themed around their respective characters.
SHIFT UP, the developers behind the popular game 'NIKKE', are expected to make their presence known with promotional materials and exclusive goodies during the event. “There are numerous limited items, make purchases early!” the company highlighted, emphasizing the demand expected for their booth located at Space No. 2621.
The buzz around Comiket also reflects broader cultural engagements seen within the community, marking it as not just any convention but as part of the fabric where fans can celebrate shared interests and hobbies. The blend of traditional and new media at Comiket 105 demonstrates the event's integral role within the Japanese pop culture phenomenon.
The preparations point to the excitement building as the date draws near. There’s palpable anticipation stemming from past experiences, along with the opportunity to reconnect at this beloved annual convention. Anyone attending should prepare for not just large crowds but immersive experiences celebrating art and connection, turning Comiket 105 not only as another event but also as a historical milestone approaching its 50th anniversary by 2025.
