The anime culture has gone through a remarkable transformation over the years, and a user of X with the pseudonym hirokatz has done a fascinating analysis on how this subculture has evolved and thrived over time. In his reflection, hirokatz highlighted the acceptance and rejection that the anime industry has experienced throughout the decades, as well as the change in the public perception of anime fans, also known as otakus.
The anime and otaku culture are now well regarded
It is no surprise to anyone that otaku culture are living a period of unprecedented popularity today. What used to be considered a cultural niche has become a global phenomenon, and the expectations are that this trend will not only persist, but also continue to grow in the different markets around the world4. This analysis by hirokatz provides us with a deeper insight into how the perception and acceptance of otaku culture has evolved in Japan and beyond.
The starting point of this reflection was hirokatz’s visit to the most popular anime merchandise store in Japan, Animate in Ikebukuro. What he observed there was a tangible testimony of the evolution of otaku culture. His initial comment was revealing: “When I went to Ikebukuro Animate for a social study, I was very surprised to see a large crowd of stylish customers, teenagers and twenty-somethings”.
This contrast with the previous decades is notable. During the 80s and 90s, otaku culture was wrapped in a kind of darkness and was considered a minority subculture. The Animate store, back then, did not attract crowds and was frequented mainly by women. The social perception of otakus and their passion for anime was laden with stigma. The few males who ventured into the store felt ashamed and wanted to get out as fast as possible to avoid possible mockery or judgments.
However, the analysis by hirokatz reveals a profound change in otaku culture. Nowadays, people of all ages share this passion for anime without any kind of shame or fear of judgment from others. What used to be seen as something ugly and shameful has become something completely acceptable and, in many cases, celebrated. Anime culture has won over many people, making them participate openly in the community without fear of being judged as in the past.
One of the most notable changes highlighted by hirokatz is the transformation of the genre “Moe”. In the past, the Moe genre was very appealing to otakus and was at the center of the anime industry. However, this new generation of otakus shows less interest in it, reflecting an evolution in tastes and preferences within the community.
The public perception of anime and otaku culture has changed drastically. What once was considered a dark and marginal hobby has now become an integral part of the global pop culture. The acceptance and openness towards this subculture have allowed anime fans to join in solid communities and share their love for this form of entertainment openly and proudly.
The analysis by hirokatz highlights how anime is no longer exclusive to a small group of people, but has transcended generational and gender barriers. The diversity of ages and genders that is observed in the Animate store in Ikebukuro is a testimony of how anime has managed to connect with a much wider and diverse audience.
