If you’re an anime fan like me, you’ve probably heard of Wonder Festival Tokyo, Japan. It’s one of the biggest events for anime figures and hobbies, and I recently had the chance to go to this amazing show in Tokyo. In this blog post, I’ll share my experience, tips, and why every anime lover should visit at least once. Let’s dive in!
Table Of Content
- What is Wonder Festival Tokyo?
- How to Buy Tickets for Wonder Festival Tokyo?
- How to Get to Wonder Festival Tokyo?
- Where to Stay in Tokyo for Wonder Festival Tokyo?
- My Day at Wonder Festival Tokyo, Japan
- Finding Limited Products
- Food and Cosplayers
- Why You Should Go to Wonder Festival Tokyo?
- Tips for Your Trip
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What is Wonder Festival Tokyo?
Wonder Festival Tokyo, often called “WonderFes,” is the biggest figures and hobby show on this planet held twice a year—once in winter (February) and once in summer (July). It takes place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, just outside Tokyo, Japan. This event is all about anime, toys, and collectibles. Big companies like Good Smile, Kaiyodo etc. show off their latest products, but the most special thing is this: individual fans and small-scale studios can buy an official 1-day copyright to sell their own anime products at Wonder Festival Tokyo. These handmade figures, called “garage kits,” are unique because they’re crafted with love by true fans—often hand-painted and super limited. If you’re an anime lover, Wonder Festival Japan is a dream come true with so much to see and buy!
How to Buy Tickets for Wonder Festival Tokyo?
Getting tickets is simple but requires planning. You can buy them from the official website (check wonfes.jp for details). I recommend getting the earliest time slot possible because the best stuff sells out fast. When I went, foreigners like me could only get the 10:00 AM slot—locals can grab the 9:00 AM one. So, book early! Tickets usually go on sale a month before the event. After paying, you’ll get an email with a URL to show your QR code. When you arrive in Japan, you need to pick up your physical ticket during the Pickup Period. Go to a Lawson or Ministop store—there are tons of Lawson shops in Japan, so no need to worry! At the store, use the Loppi machine: scan your QR code, and it will print a receipt. Take that receipt to the counter, and the staff will give you your ticket.
How to Get to Wonder Festival Tokyo?
Wonder Festival Tokyo happens at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, just outside Tokyo, Japan. It’s easy to get there by train! From Tokyo Station, take the JR Keiyo Line to Kaihin-Makuhari Station. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes. Trains leave often, so you won’t wait long. From Kaihin-Makuhari Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to Makuhari Messe—follow the signs and the crowd! If you’re coming from Narita Airport, take the Keisei Bus straight to Makuhari Messe. It takes about 40 minutes.
Where to Stay in Tokyo for Wonder Festival Tokyo?
If you’re only going for the event, pick a hotel in Chiba near the venue—it’s closer and more convenient. But if you also want to explore Tokyo, staying in a hotel near Tokyo station is a good choice. It’s just a 30-40 minute direct train ride to Kaihin-Makuhari Station from Tokyo Station. For the best spots to stay and travel around Tokyo easily, check my guide on Where to Stay in Tokyo for more ideas!
My Day at Wonder Festival Tokyo, Japan
Arriving Early and Queuing Up
I learned quickly: arrive as early as possible! My ticket was for Group B at 10:00 AM, so I got to Makuhari Messe before 9:00 AM. Even then, there were already tons of people lining up in my group.
You queue based on your ticket group—Group A goes first, then Group B, and so on. I had to wait until Group A entered the event space, and I didn’t get inside until around 11:30 AM! Once you’re in, they give you a wristband. You have to wear it the whole time and can’t lose it—it’s your pass to stay inside.
Exploring the Massive Venue
The place is huge! When you enter, grab a map at the entrance—it’s your best friend. There are hundreds of counters selling all kinds of products, from anime figures to rare garage kits. I spent hours walking around, but I still didn’t see everything. If you’re a true anime fan, plan to spend at least 4-5 hours there.
The venue has an exhibition hall where big companies like Good Smile, Kaiyodo etc. show off their newest or upcoming products. I saw figures I’d never seen online before—it was so exciting!
Finding Limited Products
Most products at Wonder Festival Tokyo are super limited, especially the handmade ones. I checked X beforehand using the hashtag #wf2025w (use “w” for winter or “s” for summer, plus the year you’re attending) to find what I wanted. Many items are fan-made or hand-painted, so they sell out fast. My tip? If you have a target, run to that counter as soon as you get in! I missed out on a few things because I didn’t move quickly enough.
Food and Cosplayers
Don’t worry about food—there are plenty of food counters inside. Another bonus? Cosplayers! They’re everywhere, and you can take photos with them. It adds such a fun vibe to the event.
Why You Should Go to Wonder Festival Tokyo?
Wonder Festival Tokyo is a paradise for anime lovers. Whether you’re into collecting figures, admiring handmade art, or just soaking in the otaku culture, it’s worth the trip. The energy, the rare finds, and the creativity make it unforgettable. I’m already planning my next visit! Want to make the most of your Tokyo trip? Take a look at my 5 Days in Tokyo Itinerary for a perfect plan.
Tips for Your Trip
- Search on X using hashtags like #wf2025w (use “w” for winter or “s” for summer, plus the year you’re attending) before you go. Find the counters you want to target and head straight to them as soon as you enter the venue.
- Plan Ahead: Buy tickets early from wonfes.jp and arrive before your slot.
- Find a hotel near Tokyo Station for the easiest access to the venue and to explore other parts of Tokyo.
Have you been to Wonder Festival Tokyo? Let me know your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!
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