Do you know Comiket? Step Into Japan’s Doujin Events with a Comiket Veteran’s Survival Guide

Experiencing Doujin Events: General Attendee

The author regularly attends doujinshi conventions and took part in Comic Market 106 this summer. Drawing on this experience, they illustrate what it’s like to attend such an event, highlighting both the atmosphere and practical aspects.

Two Main Types of Doujinshi Sales Events

In Japan, doujinshi sales events fall into two categories: all-genre events, which cover a wide range of content, and only-genre events, which focus on specific works or characters.

All-Genre Events
One type is the all-genre event, where various genres across anime, games, and more are represented. Circles are organized by genre in large venues, creating crossover opportunities. The most famous in Japan is "Comic Market," held at Tokyo Big Sight, gathering thousands to tens of thousands of circles for a massive event.
When events grow large, not only do general circles take part, but companies also join in with their own booths. They are given dedicated spaces, and with no genre restrictions, companies get creative-offering unique exhibits, quirky giveaways, and impressive displays. From eye-catching installations to humorous items made to entertain fans, the corporate booths are always bustling with visitors.

Only-Genre Events
The other type is the only-genre event, dedicated to specific genres or characters, often labeled with "Only" in their names. Creators of the same content gather, fostering strong community bonds. Examples in Japan include "Hakurei Shrine Reitaisai," dedicated to the Touhou Project, and the Hatsune Miku-focused event "Protean Sound." Sometimes, these events are held at sacred sites related to the works. While smaller in scale, they attract enthusiasts who can quickly connect with one another.
At this event too, fan circles offer wonderful creations, and a special point is that there are occasionally official releases for sale.

How to Enjoy Attending as a General Participant

This guide shares my August 17 visit to Comic Market 106 and practical tips for first-time attendees of doujinshi sales events held in many locations.

Comic Market is held at Tokyo Big Sight every time. Instead of tickets, you need a wristband, so purchase it in advance via online shops or anime-goods stores. You can buy one on the day, but advance purchase is cheaper. Cosplayers must also buy a dedicated wristband; without it, they cannot use the changing rooms.

I arrived at Tokyo Big Sight at 9:00 a.m. When I reached the nearest station, an enormous number of participants poured out of buses and trains. After leaving the station, we waited in designated lines until the venue opened. Because Tokyo Big Sight is vast, areas are divided by genre. Accordingly, queue locations differ by area, so choose the correct line with care.

Once in Line, It’s Just a Matter of Waiting

Once you are in line, all that remains is waiting for the venue to open. Since the waiting area is outdoors, bring rain gear, drinks, and something to pass the time. The gates open around noon, but some attendees arrive early and queue for hours. Do not, however, arrive excessively early—overnight lining is prohibited as it inconveniences staff managing traffic from morning. On the day I attended, the heat was extreme, but winter events can feel just as hot. Wear clothes that are easy to layer and take off, and drink plenty of fluids to prevent heatstroke.

Moving In: Calm, Orderly, and Wristband Ready
When the event begins, the outdoor lines move toward the venue. Do not rush. With hundreds of thousands of attendees moving at once, it’s essential to proceed in order. Along the way, staff will check tickets, so raise your wristband clearly as you walk. The sight of so many fans marching forward resembles an army heading toward the battlefield.