Once again, Downtown Los Angeles has played host to one of the largest Japanese animation conventions in the United States. Thousands of anime fans have descended on the L.A. Convention Center to check out the newest anime releases, meet other fans, stock up on anime merchandise or to showcase their amazing artistry and imagination through cosplay.
The Anime Expo (AX) really has evolved over the last few years, offering up more entertainment options for attendees than just waiting in lines to meet anime industry superstars or shopping for any kind of anime-related item you can think of, of which the expo has both in spades. Live music, dance parties, tabletop tournaments, an arcade, fashion shows and anime screenings mean that even eventgoers who aren’t counted among hardcore fans will still find plenty to do.
This year is expected to be the largest turnout AX has seen. Attendees should plan accordingly if they have any schedule they wish to adhere to. Navigating the crowds can be quite taxing, and it is easy to get lost in a sea of Sailor Moon and One Piece cosplayers. Aside for the oppressive coalescence of humanity, Anime Expo excels in areas where other conventions fall short: it is affordable and accessible. Attendees are genuinely happy to be there, and we love them for it. Now all that is left is to find a solution for the ‘spandex + body odor’ issue and this event will get a little closer to perfect!
L.A.’s Anime Expo (AX) goes on through Sunday at midnight. Find more info here. Continuing reading for our slideshow.
