Celebrating 50 Years of Comic Market: Fans and Celebrities Go Wild at Japan’s Biggest Anime and Doujin Event

Marking the 50th Anniversary of Comic Market

On December 30, 2025, Japan’s largest fan convention, Comic Market (Comiket), kicked off its 50th anniversary celebration. This milestone event, which has been bringing together anime, manga, and doujin enthusiasts for half a century, featured a special commemorative wall where fans could sign and share their memories. Thousands of attendees witnessed this historic moment firsthand.

Celebrity Appearances and Cosplay Photos Take Center Stage

On opening day, December 30, several well-known celebrities joined the festivities, delighting fans. Cosplayer Ena Co made her first appearance at Comiket in six years, hosting a cosplay photo session. She dressed up as characters from hit series like “2.5 Dimensional Temptation” and “735,” drawing huge crowds of fans eager to snap photos.

Additionally, talent Noa Tsukuyomi appeared dressed as the popular game character “Hensel” from NIKKE. Haruka Hoshina showcased a limited-edition cosplay of “Cirno” from the Touhou Project at the Sponichi booth, captivating fans and generating buzz across social media.

Exciting Year-End and New Year TV Specials Announced

As Comiket kicks off, the entertainment industry is gearing up for a series of special programs for the holiday season. On January 2, TBS will air a special episode of “Unnan’s Uplifting Mood” featuring stars like Uchimura Koichi, Shino Ohtake, and Jun Nagura, who will embark on a rare surfing adventure for the first time in 23 years. Fans are already looking forward to this unique lineup.

Rehearsals for the New Year’s Music Festivals Are Underway

Preparations are also in full swing for the upcoming NHK Red & White Song Festival. On December 30, rehearsals took place with hosts like Hiroyuki Ariyoshi, who humorously struggled with a kendama during practice, hinting at a lively show. Actress Haruka Ayase, returning after six years, expressed her excitement for the event and shared playful banter with Ariyoshi.

Industry Moves and Changes Keep the Entertainment World Busy

Meanwhile, the entertainment industry is experiencing some shakeups. The rock band “Yohaku” announced the departure of drummer Hiroa Fukuda, leaving fans surprised. Moeka Shiozuka also issued a heartfelt apology for not being able to share better news, adding to the buzz. Additionally, comedy duo Chimon Chouchu announced their disbandment, signaling a period of big changes as the year wraps up.