It is curious that Brazilians, mostly young and largely without Japanese ancestry, have an interest in the so-called “Otaku” culture, which has been winning hearts and minds throughout the country. “Otaku” culture is a rich and multifaceted expression that includes not only anime and manga, but also practices such as cosplay, electronic games and a lifestyle that values Japanese aesthetics. The phenomenon is, in fact, a reflection of a broader desire for exploration and escapism in an increasingly complex and challenging world.
In this context, young people find a rich universe that addresses issues ranging from friendship and love to existential dilemmas, awakening interest and empathy through narratives that, although often set in a fantasy universe, resonate with their everyday experiences. For example, series such as Naruto and One Piece explore universal themes of friendship, love, and heroism, which resonate with the life experiences of these young people. In addition, the stories portrayed in anime often include journeys of overcoming and personal development, which resonate with the challenges faced by young people in contemporary society.
Another important aspect is the refined aesthetic that characterizes anime and manga. The vibrant illustrations, detailed lines, and immersive storylines attract a wide audience. In addition, the variety of genres – ranging from romance to horror, comedy and drama – allows each young person to find something that aligns with their personal preferences. At pop culture events and conventions such as the well-known “Anime Friends”, young people come together not only to consume, but to celebrate and share their passions, creating a vibrant and engaged community. Coming together through these collective experiences strengthens bonds between participants and reinforces their identity as part of a single group.
The search for Japan by these young people is almost a consequence and goes beyond the simple consumption of cultural products. Japan, with its ancient history and technological innovations, exerts a natural fascination on these young Brazilians. For many, this trip represents not only a dream, but a way of materializing the passion they have for this culture. Getting to know “in loco” the landscapes, the architecture and the greatness of those who were their idols in animated series is an experience that transcends entertainment, transforming itself into a journey of self-knowledge. The idea of visiting Japan thus becomes a tangible dream.
Anime festivals, cosplay events, and festivals that take place in Brazil help cultivate this interest, creating a vibrant community where young people come together to share their passion. At these gatherings, they not only discuss their favorite series and characters, but also make friends who share the same love for Japanese culture.
Despite the high cost of making this dream come true, many young Brazilians work hard to make this trip happen. This includes saving money, working temporary jobs or doing odd jobs, all in the name of the dream of seeing up close what they only saw on screens or pages.
Social media, which allows young people to share experiences and travel tips, also helps them feel more prepared and motivated to visit the country. Japan is not just a tourist destination for them, but a place where fantasy and reality intertwine in a way that seems unique to them.
This determination is a reflection not only of their passion for the culture, but also of the hope that by experiencing Japan they will find new personal and professional opportunities. There are countless examples of young people who, for various reasons, have remained there to this day, and some have already started families. Thus, the “Otaku” culture becomes one of the many paths that young Brazilians follow to seek belonging, identity and, above all, a future full of possibilities.
Examples include young Caíque Carlos de Campos, who, with this goal in mind, works extremely hard as a cashier at a supermarket, working overtime in order to save enough money for the trip. At the same time, he takes online Japanese language courses to gain a basic understanding of the language that will help him adapt. “If God allows, I’ll be able to travel this year!” he says.
Luana Moreira is another young and beautiful Brazilian woman who is pursuing her dream with determination while finishing her third year of high school. Working as a promoter, she tirelessly works on promotional activities, including weekends, to obtain the necessary financial resources. At the same time, she is a regular at parties and festivals in the Japanese community, where she performs as one of the liveliest cosplayers. Luana has many Nikkei friends, spread across the prefectural associations (Kenjinkais), who help her familiarize herself with Japanese culture.
It is worth mentioning the young Pablo, an Argentine, son of an illustrious writer who, since childhood, had an inexplicable passion for Japanese culture. At just 6 years old, he already said that when he grew up he would live in Japan. One day, after finishing high school, he surprised his astonished mother by confessing that he had obtained a scholarship from the Japanese government to attend a university in the city of Tokyo.
Almost finishing his studies, the young man received his mother ’s visit for the first time, welcoming him with almost fluent Japanese, as she clearly demonstrated when she took him to see the main tourist attractions in Tokyo. He seemed like a native, such was his ease. At that moment, “ the mother , the writer” realized that the shy and withdrawn boy, who had left Argentina a short time ago, was a different person. “Now, he was an independent adult who had built his life in another dimension.”
It is the almost inexplicable fascination that the ancient Japanese culture, with its traditions and modernity, has enchanted many young people, both Brazilians and from other countries.
© 2025 Katsuo Higuchi
