The debate on what defines a true fan has always been tricky, but when Japan’s most famous cosplayer speaks, the entire community listens. With over 17 years in the industry, Enako spoke out against those imposing strict rules on how characters should be portrayed, making it clear that elitism has no place in an activity born purely for enjoyment.

In a detailed message on her social media, the talented model explained that everyone has a different definition of what it means to portray a character. She recalled that when she started in cosplay nearly two decades ago, it was common for participants to sew their own costumes, style wigs, and handle all makeup. However, she stressed that not knowing how to sew a costume or choosing not to use colored contacts doesn’t make someone a fake fan or mean they lack love for the original work.

For the Japanese celebrity, the key is personal satisfaction. Forcing others to meet rigid technical standards or discrediting those who buy custom-made costumes destroys the hobby’s essence. As she put it, the reasons for dressing as a character and how each person experiences it should be completely free, without requiring others to value the same aspects.

Her stance comes after years in the public eye and dealing with criticism of her career. As one of Japan’s most sought-after entertainment figures, Enako combines traditional photo sessions with magazine covers and commercial gravure work.

While acknowledging purist sectors who discredit her as an artist due to her massive commercial success outside conventions, she doesn’t reject those views but insists no one has the right to set absolute rules on the matter.

Her call aims to protect both beginners buying their first costume online and veterans seeking to make a living from their art. By defining cosplay as a hobby driven by personal taste, not a mandatory technical exam, the sector’s leading figure took a firm stance: everyone has the right to enjoy this art in their own way.

With such an influential figure defending freedom of expression without fear of purist criticism, do you think the community should be more open to beginners buying ready-made costumes?