AX 2026 全活动中文速览

Khaimera is an LA-Based DJ/Producer blending EDM, Anime, and Video Game sounds into high energy sets. Known for EDM and Anime remixes and rave edits, he delivers nostalgic, and high energy performances where gaming and rave culture collide.

Formed by five jazz and rock instrumentalists who met through college and high school communities, SodaPop is a music project based between San Diego, CA and Cleveland, OH rooted in a deep appreciation for Japanese pop culture. The project interprets the emotional and musical depth of J-POP, anime and video games music into conversations with cohesive jazz interplay and the drive of instrumental rock. Original arrangements, reimagined classics, and spontaneous improvisation: that’s when music transcends the recording and becomes a living expression of SodaPop's own.

On his fifteenth birthday, Elymas undergoes the Ritual of Divine Blessing but is exiled and stripped of his inheritance after receiving the "defective" Heavy Knight class, which is widely mocked for its unbalanced stats and cowardice. However, Elymas secretly recognizes this world as the exact game he played in his past life, where the despised class is actually the most formidable of them all. Armed with this exclusive knowledge, he sets out to utilize his gaming memories and conquer the entire world. Join us for an early screening of The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System. The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System - Episode 1-3

[This panel is not affiliated with INFOLD] Calling all MCs, how well do you know your bias from Love and Deepspace? Have you collected every myth? Join the cast of Love and Deepace in a battle of your game knowledge on your beloved characters!

Join scholars at the JAMS@AX Academic symposium to discuss anime imagery in protest movements, ornamentation, cosplay, and mental health!

Game creator Fuyuki Hayashi and illustrator & animator odyk join for a special panel. Featuring a live drawing demonstration, the session explores the works’ core concepts, development process, and unique visual direction, alongside the creative philosophy behind their distinctive worlds.

The Welcome Ceremony is one of the most highly anticipated main events programming. It is where many AX attendees kick off the start of their Anime Expo journey.

Join us in voicing your favorite anime in Japanese! We'll learn vocal warmups and tips and tricks from professional voice actors before tackling the ultimate challenge: voicing short scenes together! Don’t worry about your Japanese language learning experience or level; everyone is welcome!

Join Harmony Gold U.S.A. as we celebrate Robotech into its fourth decade of growth. Get the latest news and updates on our new toy lines, comics, board and role playing games, and the reveal of our new video game from JOYCITY! (Yes, you read right)

An anime looking doll? Have you seen those dolls that look like anime characters around the convention? Wanna know more about them? Then come to our panel where you can see them up close and hear more about the ball-jointed doll (BJD) community. And anyone who has a doll is welcome to join us too.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Game developers WayForward return to Anime Expo to showcase their latest anime-inspired video games with new trailers, behind-the-scenes, Q&A with game directors, prizes, and exclusive reveals!

Join our screen of the premiere episode of "Goodbye, Lara"! 200 years after dissolving into bubbles over a failed true love, Mermaid Princess Lara awakens in Lake Biwa. Following the show, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes talk featuring the director, Takushi Koide! (Supported by Crunchyroll)

A wildly popular immersive pop-up experience presented in partnership with Anime Expo, taking place July 2–12 in the heart of Little Tokyo. Visit us at 701 E. 3rd Street and step into a one-of-a-kind anime experience.

Umi Kyoku is a crazy whale shark VTuber, voice actor, and singer, here to help you find your peace within the current of the ocean. She's enjoyed swimming all over the world to perform at different conventions, such as DoKomi in Germany and AniManGaki in Malaysia. Despite being a virtual entertainer, that does not stop her from performing remotely across the globe to share her music and storytelling.

Step into the world of cutting-edge style at Anime Expo’s Fashion Show. A showcase of both legacy and up and coming Japanese Fashion brands presented by a diverse range of models. From striking silhouettes to innovative materials, each look on the runway reflects the spirit of creativity and modern expression. Don’t miss this unforgettable fusion of fashion, fandom, and art in motion. ***This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Asian Standard Time is a high-energy rock group delivering powerful J-Rock hits and anime favorites from "JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure", "Fullmetal Alchemist", "Erased", "Naruto", and more! Get ready to sing along, jump in, and rock out to the sounds you love!

All is not what it seems! A demon king becoming friends with the very person responsible for his reincarnation?! A hero forced into disguise lest his comrades find out he’s a skeleton monster?! Join us for two exciting screenings where there is more than meets the eye! Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life - Episode 1 Skeleton Knight in Another World - Season 2, Episode 1

Join Ben Applegate (Kodansha), Hope Donovan (VIZ), Leyla Aker (Square Enix), Rebecca Taylor (Inklore), and Whitney Leopard (Ink Pop)for a behind-the-scenes look at manga acquisition. Featuring editorial perspectives, this talk explores what makes series stand out, trends, and how they break through.

Interested in adding some machine embroidered touches to your next cosplay project but not sure where to begin? Join Dessi-Desu to learn how to get started creating machine embroidery for your own cosplay projects! Dessi-Desu will discuss topics that include how to get started with digitizing, selecting hoops and stabilizer, and the variety of approaches to machine embroidery to inspire you with your next cosplay. *Presented by AX26 Cosplay Senpai Dessi-Desu

Discover the rich history and modern traditions of Japanese masks! From theater to festivals, explore how masks have been used across generations in Japan. In this family-friendly workshop with Kizuna Little Tokyo, you’ll design your own paper mask while connecting with Japanese American culture and Kizuna's beloved home, Little Tokyo.

Meiji to Doujinshi! Join the scholars of the JAMS@AX Academic Symposium as they discuss anti-war messaging, the history of doujinshi, Ainu narratvies, and histocial characters.

You can count on the Anime News Network staff to be familiar with every anime each season. Join ANN Executive Editor Lynzee Loveridge and ANN review team members to discuss the season's best anime and get personalized recommendations of what you should watch next.

FirahFabe is a Filipino-American VGM musician & composer. From the island of Oahu, Hawai'i now relocated to the Bay Area. As a multi-instrumentalist, he mains the Laud, a mandolin-like instrument from the Filipino Rondalla traditional ensemble family. He arranges and plays video game and anime music in a mix of acoustic traditional folk rock fusion style.

In this panel we will be exploring the history behind the Japanese line dance called ParaPara that was popularized by Gyaru girls in the 2000's as well as an interactive demonstration.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Who’s truly the strongest? Join J-Novel Club for a high-energy showdown ranking overpowered light novel & manga heroes and villains! Debate mystery matchups before the characters are revealed and vote on who wins. Bold claims, fierce arguments, and ultimate bragging rights—who reigns supreme?

Calling all Housewardens! Come join us at Night Raven College for a special meeting featuring all of the school's dorm leaders! There will be a lively Q&A featuring Twisted Wonderland Cosplayers, filled with games, prizes and more! And don't worry! We will make sure a certain housewarden gets his invitation!

Doki Doki Literature Club creator Dan Salvato shares his approach to designing and writing characters in DDLC and beyond, and how real human imperfection can be applied to simple character designs in order to bring out their most lovable traits. Q&A at the end.

Drew Jackson, a nerdcore rap artist and content creator

Risk reality and join producer Yosuke Futami, along with special guests, as he welcomes players to Echoes of Aincrad, the latest game in the Sword Art Online franchise. Attendees will receive exclusive giveaways and be among the first to see a teaser for the new anime, Unanswered//butterfly.

Join us for the BIGWEST MACROSS panel at Anime Expo 2026! Be among the first to hear the latest news, upcoming projects, and new merchandise announcements from the world of MACROSS.

Come meet our 2026 Cosplay Senpai! They'll discuss everything from their favorite techniques and proudest projects to some of their greatest cosplay/conventions fails. Ask them anything as they provide advice for newbies and veterans alike.

Be among the first to experience the next chapter of Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation! Join us for an exclusive premiere screening of Season 3, as Rudeus’ journey continues with new challenges, deeper bonds, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss this early look at one of the most anticipated isekai returns!

From Mixed Nuts to Kura Kura! Close out Day 1 of the JASM@AX Symposium with professors David F. Lopez, Elliott Jones, and John Marr, in their all new panel, as they look at this amazing, and moving music!

Square Enix Manga & Books, the publisher behind Daemons of the Shadow Realm, My Dress-Up Darling, & The Apothecary Diaries invites manga fans to get the exclusive on their newest publishing announcements! Join us for editorial insights, new manga & book licensing announcements, & some surprises!

Join cosmosy for a fun and interactive dance workshop where members will teach choreography from their hit songs. Learn signature moves step by step, dance along with the group, and experience the energy of cosmosy up close in this special Anime Expo session.

Together since 2020, BLOW Brass is an 8-piece brass band comprised of members that have recorded with Beyoncé, Karol G, John Williams, Herbie Hancock, and many others. Combining the modern with the retro and jazz with pop, BLOW transforms well-loved anime openings into something new and exciting.

GUY JEANS is a band bringing high-energy anime, video game, and city pop music to the stage! From nostalgic classics to modern hits, their live performance gets fans singing, dancing, and feeling the full energy of their favorite songs!

Enter the high-energy, high-stakes world of “Dragon Striker,” where fierce competition meets powerful magic and destiny hangs in the balance. Go behind the scenes with the creative team as they reveal how the series fuses European fantasy and Japanese anime influences into a breathtaking original world full of rich mythology, epic music, and a deeply personal hero’s journey. Audiences will be treated to exclusive insights, live artistry, and can’t-miss surprises.

Join us for a fun Random Play Dance, featuring a variety of different J-Pop songs! Ranging from Vocaloid, idols, and anisong, come join the crowd and show us your moves!

On its 30th anniversary, Japanese game developer CyberConnect2 announced .hack//Z.E.R.O., a new game in the series, which they’d gained permission from BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment to plan, develop, and publish. CC2 representatives will discuss the company’s history, self-publishing, and IP projects.

Join BookWalker's Sam Pinansky and Susan McCulloch for a (mostly) fine-print-free look at the digital manga and LN experience. Dive into how LCP tech grants cross-platform freedom and true ownership. Explore 79,000+ licensed volumes and see how BookWalker makes "digital" feel like yours to keep.

International comedian and rising filmmaker Yuriyan Retriever (Netflix Is A Joke Festival, America’s Got Talent) returns to Anime Expo following her 2025 Guest of Honor appearance, now presenting MAG MAG, her live-action directorial debut from Japan. Following early buzz from international screenings, including Hollywood’s Egyptian Theatre, the film marks the emergence of a distinctive new voice blending horror, humor, and personal storytelling. Join Yuriyan for a special screening followed by an in-person Q&A and live comedy segment, where she will discuss the film, her creative approach, and her journey from Japan to Los Angeles as she expands her work globally. A rare opportunity to exper…

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Join Aniplex of America as we celebrate our past, present and future of anime and games with our brand new Industry Panel! Come experience the excitement, community, and nostalgia with us on a grander stage! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Everyone loves a good adoption story right? Victoria’s a former spy just trying to redo her life and Sasaki just adopted a... Magical bird? I’m sure this will all go smoothly... Right? Join us for two early screenings that put a surprising spin on parenthood: Victoria of Many Faces and Sasaki and Peeps Season 2. Join us for two early screenings where being a parent becomes a bit too interesting! Join us for early screenings of Victoria of Many Faces and Sasaki and Peeps. Victoria of Many Faces - Episode 1. Sasaki and Peeps Season 2 - Season 2, Episode 1

Join A-to-J Connections as we examine the various bands, genres, and songs that helped define one of the most memorable decades in music. Chart toppers like THE CHECKERS, Hikaru GENJI, and Anzen Chitai cross paths with City Pop artists like ANRI, Akira Terao, Mariya Takeuchi, and MANY others!

Think you know anime better than everyone else? Step into Anime IQ LIVE, an interactive anime game show where fans compete in trivia, rapid-fire challenges, and the viral "Guess the Anime in 3 Seconds" round. Volunteer to play or test your knowledge from the crowd!

Katie Shesko is a video game and anime cosplaying flute player who plays games fast. She is known for merging her love of flute with nerdy music, so join her as she performs tunes from your favorite animes and video games with a rock flute twist!

Create your very own Plushumi The Plushie Workshop plushie at Anime Expo 2026! Choose between our adorable White Bear or Beige Bunny and bring your plushie to life through stuffing, assembly, and customization. You'll even get to see our signature knitting devices in action and try them yourself! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Bluemoon Sanitizer is a San Diego anime & game music cover band known for energetic live performances of anime openings, game soundtracks, and J-pop hits, performed with vibrant instrumentation and a passion for the anime community!

Join the Manga Mavericks Books team (store.mangamavericks.com) for an inside look into the rising indie manga publisher! Learn more about how we work directly with manga creators and be the first to hear our newest manga license announcements! We’ll have prizes, surprises, special guests, and more!

Step into the chaotic world of internet fame with a dive into Nyalra’s cult indie hit NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE. This panel explores and social media simulation and psychological themes examining online identity parasocial relationships and the pressures of stardom, plus a look at their upcoming game.

We are one of the leading publishers of visual novels in the West. Come join us for a discussion on the current state of our part of the gaming industry as well as learn about current and upcoming projects.

Have you seen people going crazy with their lightsticks at your oshi’s concert and thought, “That's so cool!”? Have you heard about wotagei from Oshi no Ko but never knew where to start? Join this panel and start your wotagei journey!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Join us as we go over upcoming product releases and new information for Bushiroad in 2026! Featuring "Palworld OFFICIAL CARD GAME", "Cardfight!! Vanguard", "Weiß Schwarz" and more! Let's Bushiroad!

Level grind with us for the North American premiere of the HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing! 2nd Season.

Some stories don't just end — they stay. Infinite pours passion and emotion into crafting anime made to be loved for ten years and beyond. Come meet the Producer behind ”This Monster Wants to Eat Me" and discover their next unforgettable story: "I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day" — and more.

Welcome to the survival audition program, ALIEN STAGE! This is your chance to hear exclusive insights about ALIEN STAGE from Chief Director VIVINOS and KANG PD. Plus, we’ve got a special announcement, so make sure to stay until the end! Guests: VIVINOS, KANG PD.

Youngwoo’s a deadbeat gamer who is about to exchange all his levels for the experience of a lifetime, while Tanya has to find (or fight) faith before she’s dragged back to hell. It’s the job of a lifetime for these two! Join us for early screenings of Overgeared and Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2! Overgeared - Episode 1. Saga of Tanya the Evil - Season 2, Episode 1

Imagine your favorite anime theme songs remixed into the hottest EDM beats with a high-energy, captivating rap about that anime for one incredible, interactive concert experience!

“CHAINSAW MAN”, a wildly popular dark hero action manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, has been adapted into a stage play! The premiere production is now streaming on Crunchyroll. Come watch a special event hosted by Nelke Planning featuring a screening of the stage highlights video and comments video from the original cast and creative staff.

This panel explores the craft of cosplay photography, drawing on five years of experience. I'll share practical strategies for collaborating with passionate, hands-on clients, communicating effectively, and elevating both creative process and final images. Attendees will learn trends, best practices, and common pitfalls in cosplay shoots.

Journey with us to the feudal era for a game of Inuyasha Hedbanz! Win prizes by working together with your team to guess a random person/place/or thing from within the InuYasha universe using only yes or no questions. Difficulty ranges from easy to hard so all fans are welcome!

Calling all Fujoshi, Fudanshi, & Romance Lovers! Square Enix Manga & Books presents a special panel with the beloved creator of the BL smash hit, Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?! Join Yuu Toyota for a live drawing panel, career retrospective, moderated Q&A, & more!

Join us for an hour-long conversation all about LOVE as TOKYOPOP staff discuss the latest upcoming titles from our LoveLove brand, what LoveLove is all about, and more!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Come hang out with BluPetal! We’re revealing our latest titles and sharing our love for the BL, GL, Shoujo, and Josei fandoms. Join the conversation and snag an exclusive BluPetal gift while you’re there!

The term "cosmic horror" has taken the horror world by storm in recent years, but where did it come from? What does it truly mean? Join Angel Rose as she discusses the style, its origins, its effectiveness, and its prevalence in Japanese and inspired media. Bring your favorite examples!

Dolly Ave earned airplay on major stations like 103.5 KISS FM in Chicago, the tastemaking KEXP, and Los Angeles' ALT 98.7. Dolly has graced stages at major music festivals and received coverage from Rolling Stone, Billboard, and Harper’s Bazaar. In 2024, she was named to the Recording Academy’s prestigious NEXT Class. She is currently apart of the Converse All Star Class of 2025. Her music has been featured across editorial playlists on Spotify, YouTube, Vevo, and Amazon Music, and her most recent independently produced showcase earned support from both Coca-Cola and Live Nation.

Kodansha—purveyors of exciting manga like Blue Lock, Gachiakuta, Witch Hat Atelier & more—invites fans for a first look at Kodansha's latest slate of print manga licenses coming to a bookshelf near you! Join Kodansha to get this sneak peek, stay for the Q&A, & even come away with surprise giveaways!

A smoking gun and smoking behind the market. Not a bad combo with these two characters. Join us for an early screening of The World's Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat, plus a screening of Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You! The World's Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat - Season 2, Episode 1. Smoking Behind the Super Market With You - Episode 1

The annual MADEBYBILIBILI Party Returns! Join us exclusive cuts and announcements from your favorite MADEBYBILIBILI titles—Link Click, Heaven Official’s Blessing, A Mortal’s Journey, as well as brand-new releases: Tomb Raider King, Eleceed, and many more! Expect quizzes, giveaways, mystery guests, and surprises to be revealed on X @madeby_bilibili.

Join Production I.G and Lucasfilm for a screening of the first episode of Star Wars: Visions Presents - The Ninth Jedi, a new, animated limited series coming this summer to Disney+, and hear about the creative process from Supervising Director Kenji Kamiyama, Director Shunsuke Tada, Producer Hitoshi Ito, and Lucasfilm Executive Producers Jacqui Lopez and Josh Rimes. The episode will be screened in Japanese, with English subtitles. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

A relaxed, beginner-friendly panel that introduces the tools, techniques, and ideas needed to build -and wear!- Gundam and mecha cosplay, hosted by a cosplay veteran with over a decade of experience bringing Gundam Cosplay to Anime Expo. Hang out, ask questions, and connect with other Gundam fans. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Discover the world of Ink Pop: your go-to for manga, manhwa, and webcomics for kids and teens! Join us for new title announcements, first looks, all-ages recommendations, and behind-the-scenes insights from our editors. Celebrate great stories, big adventures, and don’t miss fun giveaways! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

NecroBarkley is a DJ/VJ from California that's bringing the underground anime EDM scene to the dance floor. Having performed around the world in places like Tokyo, San Francisco, and New York City, his new mashups and creative visuals are always ready to get the audience partying the night away.

Why is Japanese content gaining momentum now? With presentations from SEGA CORPORATION on globally beloved content and IP, TV Asahi Corporation on Akane-banashi, and Dentsu Group on Gachiakuta, this symposium explores what is driving this moment and sustaining future growth. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Welcome to the ultimate debate battle between two amazing shows! This will be an audience participation event where two teams will be formed to see who is superior! Quirks Versus the X-gene! Come check out which team will come on top as they are asked various questions in an attempt to win over the crowd! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Experience a showcase of fan-created music videos that blend anime with carefully selected music to create unique and compelling visual stories. Celebrate the creativity of the anime community as finalists compete for top honors in a variety of AMV categories.

Why do people dance? Join us for this exclusive Director’s Cut of Episodes 1 & 2 of this sweeping historical drama that will make you laugh, cry and maybe even dance. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Since its release, Takopi's Original Sin has deeply moved fans and become a major sensation. In this special panel, producers reveal behind-the-scenes stories, creative insights, and the passion that brought the series to life, followed by an exclusive presentation of TBS’s upcoming anime lineup. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Ever hear of a game series called Kingdom Hearts? Have you played all of the games, or skimmed some lore videos (or AX panels ;) )? If there's one or two games you may have passed on, come take a look with us as we take a little dive into the design of Kingdom Hearts across the series! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

KZA is a Bass House and Trap Artist with an background of being an open format dj and artistic influences from Animemo/ shibuya punk aka Grind fiction which consist of titles/genres such as, jet set radio, the world ends with you, persona, gachiakuta, and more,

Echoheart is a Los Angeles-based anisong and J-pop cover band dedicated to bringing the world of anime music to life. Inspired by iconic anime bands and soundtracks, the group combines live musicianship with cosplay and performance to recreate the excitement of seeing your favorite 2D bands on stage. From high-energy rock anthems to emotional ballads, Echoheart celebrates the music that connects anime fans around the world.

WLL is a DJ and producer blending House, UK Garage, and electronic music with the energy of anime culture. Known for high-energy sets packed with anime edits, J-pop remixes, and euphoric club grooves, WLL transforms iconic fandom moments into dancefloor experiences. From Anime Expo to anime afterparties across the U.S., WLL brings together rave culture and anime fandom into one unforgettable vibe.

Turning the volume all the way up, Anime Expo brings you a must-see night where J-POP and anime music take over the stage. From powerful anime theme songs that hit the moment the first note drops, to high-energy rock sets that will have the whole crowd moving, to genre-blending sounds that bring something completely unexpected - this is a concert built to be felt live. Featuring ALI, Roselia, SPYAIR, Yoko Kanno, and Yoko Takahashi.

Welksie is an LA-based producer/DJ passionate about musical storytelling, emotional journeys, and challenging expectations. Weaving EDM/Bass/J-Pop in concert with hand-synced anime visuals, Welksie’s unique sound and “live-AMV” aesthetic aim to break down barriers between music and cultures alike.

Come join us as we categorize anime characters into red and green flag categories based on some of their most prominent personality traits! Can we fix your fave or do they deserve to be made worse? ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Think you can find your soulmate - or at least your new favorite con buddy - in 3 minutes? Come test your fate at our speed dating and friending event! Romance, friendship, and chaotic good energy all welcome. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Back for a 5th year in a row! Is your favorite character a bit… problematic, evil, or morally gray? Step into this court-style panel to defend or prosecute their actions, and make your case! In the end, you, the audience will decide: guilty or not guilty! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Animal girls, monster girls, demihumans: no matter what you call them, they've never been more popular! Join the staff of J18 Publishing and Kemonono★ as they explore one of the biggest genres in modern hentai manga! (Kemonono★ will be live drawing during the panel, creating a brand-new original shikishi to give away—stick around for the Q&A!) ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

For fans of Pokémon and drawing, challenge yourself by sketching various new Pokémon under multiple categories within the time limit. No two (2) challenges are the same, and the audience will decide who made the best original drawing and receive fun prizes. Use your imagination to draw them all! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Fandom is no stranger to falling in love with a character, but if we really had a chance with them, COULD we actually survive even one date? Let alone be their partner? Anime experts and comedians break down their wildest fantasies and whether they would even be a relationship that could last. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Have you ever wanted to play Jeopardy but you have no idea what any of the answers are cause same??? Thats why we are hosting Yaoi Jeopardy! Where all the Fujin can play, foolish things are sure to ensue. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

StarCrusaders is a high-energy tribute band celebrating BEAT CRUSADERS and the broader Japanese rock/anime-rock vibe. We bring the singalong hooks, crunchy guitars, and dancey punk energy to the stage—mixing faithful renditions with a live-show punch that feels like a festival set.

ZOA is a Metalcore and bass music project from Denver Colorado.

Get ready for the most outrageous trivia show for the truly cultured anime fans. Watch and play along with 3 teams competing for points, knowledge and glory! Who will win and be crowned our "2026 Cultured Anime Fan" and who will be revealed as cringe? ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Mariachi Eclipse is a mariachi ensemble that brings anime and video game music into a live performance setting. Rooted in traditional mariachi instrumentation, the group explores well-known Japanese soundtracks through a different musical lens while maintaining the character of both styles. Their performances focus on ensemble balance, musical detail, and a strong connection with the audience, creating a sound that feels both grounded and distinctive across cultural spaces.

Ken Harada is a distinguished music producer and DJ from Tokyo, Japan, who rose to prominence in the music industry with his production of Ayumi Hamasaki's iconic hit, Duty, which sold over 3 million copies and won a Japan Record Award for Best Album. Known for his collaborations with major Japanese artists like EXILE, BoA, Kumi Koda, Ami Suzuki, SKE48, TM Revolution and many more.

Audition to for a chance to compete in the LCS Finals! Contestants will perform a 2-minute set comedy set in front of a live panel of judges. All sets must adhere to AX guidelines.***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Come on in! Pick a card! Careful though! Only the strong AND silent survive- and then get prizes! (ooh~) Team up and work together to complete these ANYTHING goes type tasks- BUT without creating a single sound. If you do, you shall be rewarded. Break the silence- and more punishment shall be had. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Seen some kinky stuff in anime? Wanna talk about and learn about it in a fun way? Welcome to the "Kinky side Anime ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

(*Note: We are NOT affiliated with Infold or Papergames. This is an unofficial panel with unofficial cosplayers). The cast of Love and Deepspace are back for another fun night at Anime Expo! Come and help decide how their night shall go by playing games, asking questions, and much more! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Since 2021 Waifu Wars has brought people all over the anime community from Fujoshis to Power-scalers all under one roof. We have returned to Anime Expo to answer one question on everyone's mind... Who is THE best waifu? Come celebrate the 5th anniversary by defending your one true love! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

A panel that will go over even more tropes and trends that occur in many yaoi & bara manga, anime, & date sims. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

From the creators of Guilty or Not Guilty comes Heaven or Hell! An argumentative court-styled panel where you, the people, will play God and decide if a deceased character will go to heaven or hell based on their past actions. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Southern California based Anisong and J-Rock cover band Candy Bomber will rock your socks (and cosplay wigs) off with their eccentric humor and high energy performance! From nostalgic classics to current popular Anisongs, the audience will be sure to enjoy and sing along to their favorite tunes. Get your Wota-gei moves ready and show us your final form!

Join Angel Rose for an exploration the visual novel game style! We’ll discuss what factors make up a visual novel, genres within the medium, localization, the role of eroge, Western creations, and which underground stories went on to become your favorite anime. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Tokyo-born and LA-based, MEIRLIN is an international DJ and producer known for her high-energy main-stage house and techno sound. She has released charting tracks on leading labels including Revealed, Smash The House, and Protocol, earning support from Hardwell, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Nicky Romero, and more. Her 2024 single “Spaceflight 2099” premiered by Hardwell at Ultra Miami and surpassed 500,000 streams. A former resident at Zouk Las Vegas and part of Insomniac’s artist since 2019, MEIRLIN has performed at top venues worldwide and continues to build global momentum across the U.S., Asia, and Europe.

We are Neo Sanctum and we are a Touhou doujin music circle based in Toronto, producing both Touhou and Anime EDM, with a focus on drum & bass! We love both organize and play events in Toronto and we will be bringing our sound live as DJs at AX for the first time!

San Diego native DJ Okami turned a high school hobby into a lifelong craft. Known for taking his listeners on a rhythmic journey, DJ Okami specializes in curating high energy sets that keep the dance floor moving from start to finish!

KZA is a Bass House and Trap Artist with an background of being an open format dj and artistic influences from Animemo/ shibuya punk aka Grind fiction which consist of titles/genres such as, jet set radio, the world ends with you, persona, gachiakuta, and more,

Mikan Project is an online collective of musicians delivering a zesty sound to the Western J-Music scene. They have performed at major industry events, notable ones being Anime Expo and Anime Boston. Online, their tight horn section is a go-to for Vocaloid producers, cover artists, as well as both indie and corporate VTubers; contributing to a wide range of projects spanning original compositions, anime, and video game music. Whether they’re in the studio, supporting the show, or taking center stage, Mikan Project brings a citrus fresh energy that leaves a lasting impression.

Step onto the field with "AOASHI"! Join our special MC and guests for exclusive sneak peeks of Season 2 (currently in production), behind-the-scenes talks, interactive fan challenges, and giveaways. Don't miss this special session that explores what sets "AOASHI" apart in the world of sports anime.

Join scholars at the JAMS@AX Academic Symposium as they discuss black anime fandom and character identity!

This garbage is getting serious! Come celebrate the thrilling, trash-filled first season of Gachiakuta with very special guests Aoi Ichikawa (voice of Rudo), Fumihiko Suganuma (director), and Naoki Amano (producer). Then, be among the very first to see what's in store for Season 2, including an early sneak peek at brand new footage!

This panel includes the U.S. Premiere of episode 1 and episode 2 before Netflix streaming, and the panel discussion of Director Minoru Ota and Producer Satori Senami.

Learn about the process of shoemaking from start to finish,including tools, materials, techniques, and other tips to help you get started.

Styling wigs can be hard! This panel, open to wig beginners and veterans alike, walks through basic styling techniques, advanced styling techniques, wig care and ways to troubleshoot difficult wigs. *Presented by AX26 Cosplay Senpai Twinfools

Aksys Games is back with a panel at Anime Expo delving into our upcoming releases and possibly a few surprises. Come and see what we have in store!

New release news and announcements from AnimEigo, the oldest anime label in North America, and parent company MediaOCD.

Would you like to work and live in Japan while teaching your language and culture to the Japanese people? Our panel of former participants will discuss how the program works and how you can apply. We will share our experiences and take questions. If you like to learn more, please stop by.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Congratulations, you’ve mastered anime OPs and EDs. You have unlocked New Game+. Questions you face will be more difficult, with extra modifiers like OSTs and mismatched anime openings. Come face the next challenge in anime music trivia.

Come celebrate Danganronpa's 15th anniversary & pre-launch of STEINS;GATE RE:BOOT! Danganronpa Producer Shohei Sakakibara, Kazutaka Kodaka and English VAs join us as guests. There will be STEINS;GATE quiz, live VA performance, giveaways and more! There might be a sneak peek of Danganronpa 2x2...!?

Explore anime’s influence on the sci-fi epic: Warframe! Join Digital Extremes’ Rebecca Ford & Megan Everett, along with friends of Warframe for a look at the past, present and future! Attendees will receive codes for a Garuda & Ash Protoframe Glyph.

Hamu Cotton is a Japanese cosplay performer and YouTuber based in California. She combines her favorite hobbies and passions - dancing, singing, acting, film, and event coordinating - to bring her favorite anime characters to life. Along with her performance activities, she hosts her own specialized event called "HamuFest" in both America and Japan. Follow her social media @hamu_cotton to keep updated on her next activities and projects!

A wildly popular immersive pop-up experience presented in partnership with Anime Expo, taking place July 2–12 in the heart of Little Tokyo. Visit us at 701 E. 3rd Street and step into a one-of-a-kind anime experience.

Join scholars at the JAMS@AX Academic symposium to discuss horsegirls, dungeons and dragons, and women in sports anime!

Learn about Japan's traditional cultural art Shodo Calligraphy - A Hands-On experience

Are you a fan of Haikyuu!!, Kuroko no Basket, BLUE LOCK, Yuri on Ice, SK8, or just sports anime in general? If so, this is the panel you’ve been waiting for! Join a talented cast of English voice actors from your favorite sports anime. Participate in exciting games like Jeopardy and more, all centered around the world of sports anime!!!

For over a decade, Yen Press has been one of the biggest publishers of manga, releasing the likes of Black Butler, Fruits Basket and Toilet-bound Hanako-kun. Yen Press has also given a home to fan favorite categories such as light novels, audiobooks and manhwa. Join us for new announcements and Q&A!

Suzuki and Tani are calling, are you ready to go? Join Sayumi Suzushiro and Shogo Sakata for one final hangout before class is back in session as they treat us to the first episode premiere of Season 2, live dub some of your favorite scenes, reminisce about their favorite memories from the series and share some behind-the-scenes stories.

Asian Standard Time is a high-energy rock group delivering powerful J-Rock hits and anime favorites from "JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure", "Fullmetal Alchemist", "Erased", "Naruto", and more! Get ready to sing along, jump in, and rock out to the sounds you love!

Join the English dub cast and staff for a delightful peek into the dub production of this winter's new anime hit, Fate/strange Fake!

Join MangaPlaza and our special MC & influencer guests for the ultimate BL/GL/Romance celebration! Build trope tier lists, test your manga knowledge, and connect with fans who share your passion. Discover original titles, win exclusive giveaways, and fuel your love for the genres you live for!

Are villains truly evil or just misunderstood? From tragic backstories to questionable life choices, we’ll explore what redeeming qualities they might have. Bring your hottest takes, your moral gray flags, and your sense of humor; things are about to get chaotic.

Katie Shesko is a video game and anime cosplaying flute player who plays games fast. She is known for merging her love of flute with nerdy music, so join her as she performs tunes from your favorite animes and video games with a rock flute twist!

Join founder RJ McKeehan for a beginner-friendly longsword workshop based on medieval combat manuals. Learn stances, footwork, and cutting techniques in a safe, engaging environment

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Class is in session! As Shonen Jump's breakout hit "KILL BLUE" reaches its Season 1 finale, join creator Tadatoshi Fujimaki (Kuroko's Basketball) and the production team for a special homeroom featuring behind-the-scenes insights, live drawing, a "KILL BLUE" pop quiz, and exclusive giveaways.

Experience the latest updates on Yoshitaka Amano’s new anime project, ZAN, including an exclusive trailer screening, introductions to the legendary creative team, and previews of upcoming projects from Yoshitaka Amano’s newly launched company.

Join Kyoto Animation Chief Director Tatsuya Ishihara and Producer Satori Senami for a special “Sound! Euphonium” panel. Be the first in the world to see newly revealed footage and hear directly from the creators behind Kumiko’s final chapter.

With over 25 years of experience, Anime News Network is the leading source of information for anime and manga industry professionals and fans alike. Join the ANN team to learn how we bring you everything you need to know, straight from Japan.

Celebrate the highly anticipated STEEL BALL RUN JoJo's Bizarre Adventure with a special panel featuring acclaimed composer Yugo Kanno, Daman Mills and Kaiji Tang! Experience a special live performance, plus a conversation with the guests you won't want to miss.

Together since 2020, BLOW Brass is an 8-piece brass band comprised of members that have recorded with Beyoncé, Karol G, John Williams, Herbie Hancock, and many others. Combining the modern with the retro and jazz with pop, BLOW transforms well-loved anime openings into something new and exciting.

This cosplay crash course breaks down the process from concept to completion. Topics include character selection, material choices, build planning, and key techniques to help create cohesive, well-executed cosplays. *Presented by AX26 Cosplay Senpai Mega Mite

JAMS' Keynote Speaker, Daniel Ambord, delivers an academic lecture about anime, ecology, and eco-criticis

Kodansha presents a conversation with Muneyuki Kaneshiro & Yusuke Nomura — the egoist creators behind the wildly popular manga and anime, Blue Lock. Enter this panel as lumps of talent to be shaped by Kaneshiro & Nomura’s discussion about their process, highs & lows of manga serialization, & more!

Join Kira and Ari of award-winning Kirari Cosplay for a fun, interactive workshop on making a basic cosplay pattern out of plastic wrap, masking tape, and sharpies! We'll walk you through the basics and help you make a basic pattern of your choice that you can take home with you!

Since graduating with a Bachelor’s in Music (Violin performance) in 2018, Allie has become an established musician in the Salt Lake City music scene. She has performed with various artists, including Kurt Bestor, Jon Batiste, Olivia Rodrigo, Lindsey Stirling, and more. As she loves to play video games and watch anime in her free time, Allie enjoys combining her passions by arranging and performing electric violin covers from her favorite franchises. She’s especially excited to bring her arrangements to the Anime Expo stage!

Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan or just getting started, Crunchyroll brings you closer to the action with sneak peeks, studio spotlights, announcements, and surprises along the way.

The consumer insights team at FanserveUs presents all-new data on what fans are watching and what audiences want to see, read, and collect more of. Join us for a palate-cleansing side quest into the techniques and developments shaping research in fandom and market analytics, then flex your smarts and win a treat in our lightning round quiz!

Join Dokibird as she celebrates her birthday at Anime Expo! With special guests from the Sloppy Sisters!

Whether you're a fan of Gundam or a fan of building things, this panel is for you. We'll teach you all about the basics, from deciphering grades, reading manuals, and what tools you'll need. We'll also be raffling out a kit to get you started on your building journey. So kick back, learn a little and join the wonderful world of Gunpla building!

Imagine your favorite anime theme songs remixed into the hottest EDM beats with a high-energy, captivating rap about that anime for one incredible, interactive concert experience!

Join Reigning WBO World Super Flyweight Champion Mizuki Hiruta for a fun, family-friendly introduction to boxing-inspired movement. This no-contact workshop focuses on balance, footwork, and defensive coordination. Participants will learn how boxers train their bodies through simple, guided exercises that are easy to follow at any age or experience level. Along the way, watch as Mizuki shares insights from her journey and demonstrates how discipline and mindset shape performance.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Learn how to fight with a naginata, the weapon used by One Piece's White Beard, JJK's Maki, and KPop Demon Hunter's Mira. We will cover basic techniques, stances, and fighting combos. Gear will be provided and the workshop will be instructed by US national champions. All ages welcome!

Join us for the grand U.S. premiere of Episodes 1 and 2, featuring special guests Executive Director Naoko Yamada, Director Abel Góngora (Science SARU), and more! Be the first to learn exclusive behind-the-scenes details exploring the series’ world, themes, and unique setting.

High school girl × Kaiju?! This over-the-top romantic comedy is finally stomping its way into AX! Join us for a special screening of Ep 1 and the North American Premiere of Ep 2. Featuring exclusive giveaways and a Kaiju-sized stage packed with laughs and love!

Join the team from Inklore and discover your next obsession at this sneak peek at what's new and upcoming on our list of best-in-class manga, manhwa, and global pop comics!

A-1 Pictures, the studio behind hits like Fate/strange Fake, MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES, and Sword Art Online, invites you to be among the first to watch their new series coming this summer, GROW UP SHOW -Sunflower Circus-! Plus, learn about the studio’s other upcoming titles directly from the staff!

Come join us as we talk about what's new and upcoming at Bandai Namco Filmworks with appearances from special guests!

Eastern Leaf will host a bonsai workshop for registered attendees. Attendees will learn what a bonsai tree is and how to create one from raw plant material. The workshop includes materials to create a bonsai tree with instruction from Jason Chan, the owner of Eastern Leaf. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

The hit rhythm game HATSUNE MIKU: COLORFUL STAGE! comes to Anime Expo for a special one-day fan meeting! Featuring Daisuke Hirose (voice of Tsukasa Tenma) and Machico (voice of Nene Kusanagi). Enjoy talk shows, music, and more. Don’t miss it! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

From BTS to Blackpink, there are a lot of iconic K-POP songs and dances! Now, you can learn one of these dances! Come and join us to learn one of these iconic K-POP choreographies as well as dance with other K-POP fans alike!

Cosplay vocalist niccodilly is making her first appearance at Anime Expo as one of the most iconic anime bassist ---- Mio Akiyama from K-ON!. Featuring beloved anisongs and J-rock hits from the 2000s-2010s, get ready for a nostalgic anisong experience with live vocals, cosplay and bass guitar (!?)

Peek into the world of SEGA’s short-form animation as we celebrate 35 years of Sonic the Hedgehog. Join Sonic Creative Director Takashi Iizuka, Austin Keys, and Jasmin Hernandez, with special guests Tyson Hesse, Evan Stanley, and Alan Wan to discuss their creative processes.

Are you an aspiring mangaka? Meet the editors and mangaka behind VIZ Originals and One-Shots and discover how to publish your manga with VIZ. From writing to art, walk through the manga creation process! Plus, get advice on what’s important to include when pitching your manga series or one-shot!

Join renowned character designer and illustrator Mika Pikazo for a special live panel and drawing demonstration! Explore her creative process, artistic inspirations, and career journey, followed by audience Q&A and a final artwork reveal.

Step into the atelier! Let's take a magical look at Witch Hat Atelier behind-the-scenes with special guests: Kamome Shirahama (Manga Creator), Rena Motomura (Voice of Coco), and Natsuki Hanae (Voice of Qifrey). Learn what it takes to become a master witch in this exciting discussion!

Dance, jump and rock out wtih Aimai Mirai as they perform fresh and classic Anisong for an unstoppable anime song concert! Hailing from San Francisco Bay Area, Aimai Mirai is a high energy anime cover band composed of five passionate cosplayers, musicians, and more!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Join us as we meet up and share our love for the anime pin community and oogle at collections, trade, and swap!

Be among the first to see Episode 14 on the big screen right after its streaming premiere! Stay after the screening for a special talk with director MANQ and producer Yoko, who’ll share behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the production. A surprise exclusive preview may be in store!?

WLL is a DJ and producer blending House, UK Garage, and electronic music with the energy of anime culture. Known for high-energy sets packed with anime edits, J-pop remixes, and euphoric club grooves, WLL transforms iconic fandom moments into dancefloor experiences. From Anime Expo to anime afterparties across the U.S., WLL brings together rave culture and anime fandom into one unforgettable vibe.

Be among the first to see what’s next! Join J-Novel Club at Anime Expo 2026 for exciting new manga and light novel license reveals! From fan favorites to surprise pickups, you won’t want to miss it. Stick around for insights, live reactions, and a possible audience Q&A! 📚✨

Join us for a special behind-the-scenes discussion with Studio KAI, the creators of Sentenced to Be a Hero! Discover the passion and secrets behind the creation of the action-driven stories, offering fresh perspectives. Don’t miss out!

Be among the first to experience the world premiere of To You in the Beyond, an animated film based on a novel by Akiko Abe, winner of the 2025 Japan Booksellers’ Award for Cafune. The screening is followed by a talk with director Junichi Wada, voice actor Anna Nagase, and producer Koichiro Mukai.

Weekly Shonen Jump's Kagurabachi is getting a TV anime adaptation! Join us for the world premiere screening of the first 20 minutes of Episode 1 followed by a special panel discussion with the staff and cast. They will be sharing their passion for the series and taking you behind the scenes!

Be part of the acclaimed JRPG Last Cloudia's 7th anniversary celebrations—join the developers, AIDIS, for a panel discussion to mark their first ever Anime Expo appearance! Attendees will get exclusive original merch and a sneak peek at upcoming releases.

Celebrate the world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle at Anime Expo 2026 on July 3 at the Peacock Theater! Join us for a special event looking back on the theatrical release of Infinity Castle, featuring guests Natsuki Hanae (Japanese voice of Tanjiro Kamado), Takahiro Sakurai (Japanese voice of Giyu Tomioka), and making her Anime Expo debut, Saori Hayami (Japanese voice of Shinobu Kocho). Fans of studio ufotable won’t want to miss a special video of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle! Also, fans won't want to miss seeing the latest footage from ufotable’s newest film project!

Don't miss the exclusive Re:ZERO S4 The Recapture Arc Ep 1 Premiere! Celebrate 10 years of KADOKAWA Anime with the producers of Re:ZERO, KONOSUBA, and Bungo Stray Dogs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes stories and announcements for the next decade. Supported by Crunchyroll. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Join Kazuo Maekawa (Ace Attorney) for a hands-on introduction to Japanese manga creation. Learn character design, paneling, and storytelling, then create your own 4-panel comic. Open to all skill levels. Presented by JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles.

Come and learn more about BL (Boy's love) manga and enjoy exclusive announcements from KAIOHSHA, the publisher behind GUSH COMICS, one of the leading BL comic labels in Japan. Join us for a deep dive into the world of BL with insights from the Japanese publishing industry and more!

NYC-based jazz band, Catbus Collective performs unique covers of anime, Ghibli, and City Pop classics. Ranging from Sailor Moon to Jujutsu Kaisen, the audience will hear their favorite anime openers, closers, and soundtracks in an exciting musical presentation with plenty of burning instrumental solos.

Dark Horse Manga returns to Anime Expo! Join us as we celebrate our 40th anniversary--38 of those spent publishing manga! Also, learn about the past, present & future of Dark Horse Manga--including multiple exciting new manga license announcements! Panel attendees will also receive a free poster, and have the opportunity to score some manga prizes!

Come play a game of Demon Slayer trivia! Attendees will be called to answer a trivia question and if you’re correct, you win a prize! Come test your knowledge! Hosted by @mia.whorror

Don’t miss the official Blue Box panel with special guests Yoshino Aoyama (Japanese voice of Yumeka) and Zach Aguilar (English voice of Taiki)! Relive the most unforgettable moments from Season 1, get the latest information on Season 2, and score exclusive giveaways!

Rocket Panda Games returns with Volume 3 of its “Game Making” series, spotlighting Aleks Le and a special guest. Dive into an inside look at how the right voice can make or break a character, complete with live voice-over performances.

To all our beloved Senseis, we've missed you! The IO Division is thrilled to announce our return to Anime Expo 2026. Let's make new memories with untold developer stories of Blue Archive, and step into the future as we unveil our highly anticipated new title. Join us for the next big adventure!

ZOA is a Metalcore and bass music project from Denver Colorado.

ARTFX J, BISHOUJO, Oshi Works, scale figures, model kits and more! Kotobukiya presents the latest product updates, first time reveals, and announcements. And as always there will be plenty of giveaways! Don't miss out!

A panel for the anime-dedicated FAST channel "Its Anime"! Please welcome Zeno Robinson and Caitlyn Elizabeth to dive deep into the appeal of their shows and their work as voice actors! We'll also be showing exclusive video and dropping some shocking news!!! If you love ANIME, VOICE-ACTORS and super cool GIVEAWAYS, you absolutely CANNOT miss this—come join the ultimate panel! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Be the first to watch the BLACK TORCH Episode 1 subbed premiere presented by VIZ & Crunchyroll! Join special guests AJ Beckles (Jiro) and Keith Silverstein (Rago) for an exclusive screening, behind-the-scenes insights, and exciting giveaways as this supernatural action series ignites the stage.

Join the Japanese voices of Yuru (Kensho Ono) and Asa (Yume Miyamoto), as they talk about their experiences with Daemons of the Shadow Realm, the latest anime based on the original story by the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist Hiromu Arakawa. Don't miss the chance to hear their thoughts behind from the recent season, and participate in an exclusive live dubbing for the Anime Expo audience!

Everything is a Jojo reference, and the stand user can be anyone! Join us for this interactive panel with prizes on the line! We talk about Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, pose like Jojo characters, and answer Jojo trivia. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Junji Ito Masterpieces — A horror anthology from TV Tokyo, premiering July 2026. 17 dark masterpieces across 12 episodes. Presented by Global Stage Hollywood Film Festival. Panel & screening at Anime Expo ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Faith in the Glitch has been a resident DJ for the nationally touring Future Funk party Yoi Toki, sharing stages with artists like Yung Bae, Saint Pepsi, and Macross 82-99. A lifelong anime nerd with a deep love for the culture, FitG blends anime edits, nostalgic mashups, fresh scratching, and high-energy party vibes into unforgettable sets. With decades behind the decks, Faith in the Glitch has rocked crowds at Otakon, Katsucon, Sakura-Con, and more—bringing convention energy and dance floor chaos wherever they go. Now, FitG is ready to bring that same energy west to Anime Expo in Los Angeles.

pinponpanpon is a groundbreaking Japanese powerhouse boldly defying traditional idol norms. Created by French Cries and featuring members Domenatsu, Tokyo, and Katherine, the group has replaced the standard J-pop blueprint with a rebellious, dynamic movement designed for the global stage.

Get ready for Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2! This brand-new, standalone story will show an even more brutal, raw, and painfully human side of Night City, so join us live to hear directly from voice actors and creators of the series, and brace yourself for what’s to come. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Join us at the 2026 Anime Expo for a paint-your-own pottery workshop. This workshop is a great way to get creative, create a one-of-a-kind keepsake from the Expo, and, as a bonus, you get time to rest your feet after a long day of exploring. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo or curious about what cosplay is like there? Come learn about the best places to buy supplies, popular events and photography spaces, and the rules of cosplay culture in Japan!

Ham Sandwich is one of the fastest rising artists in the underground rap ecosystem -- especially within the anime & nerdcore rap scenes. Quietly amassing over 100 million streams across all platforms, Ham has proved that his unique blend of wit, cheekiness, character, and heart has legs.

8 months per character. Quality without compromise. The untold story of Chaos Zero Nightmare‘s developer, Super Creative. Join Hyung-seok Kim, director of CZN and Epic Seven, as he shares an honest behind-the-scenes look at the values that those who love animation refuse to give up on. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Feel the power of "BAKI-DOU: The Invincible Samurai" in real life with the team behind the anime. Explore how "BAKI-DOU" was adapted into anime and what to expect from the new season's intense fight scenes. Featuring special guests and a fun challenge, be prepared for an action-packed experience! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

NINJ3FF3C7 is an Atlanta-based DJ and producer specializing in anime-inspired EDM, blending iconic anime tracks and Vocaloid with bass house, dubstep, and drum & bass. NINJ3FF3C7 delivers high-energy sets that bridge anime culture with club environments for both niche and mainstream audiences.

A Japanese female pro-wrestling league, will make its triumphant return to Anime Expo with a World Championship Fight. Sukeban brings together the toughest wrestlers and girl gangs from Tokyo to fight for world domination, in an event that will also feature special appearances and surprise cameos.

Join legendary hentai manga and doujin artist MEME50 as they make their triumphant return to Anime Expo! At a one-of-a-kind Q&A and live-drawing session, MEME50 will share stories and experiences from the industry in Japan and talk about releasing their books in English. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Join C’moA Comics, one of Japan’s leading digital manga publishers, for an inside look at how digital titles become anime. Enjoy behind-the-scenes stories from recent adaptations and a fan screening of Episode 1 from "Pardon the intrusion, I'm Home!", plus prize opportunities for attendees. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Atara Ara is a four-piece rock band from Orange County mixing Japanese rock and American alt. Energetic, melodic, and shaped by a love for both scenes.

The pioneer of VTubers, Kizuna AI, is coming to Anime Expo for a special live performance! Kizuna AI herself will perform a DJ set featuring her original EDM tracks and remixes of her popular songs, including a live performance. Don’t miss this chance to see Kizuna AI at a stage at Anime Expo!

Join Crunchyroll and NTV as they bring out some special guests Aoi Yuki and Takeo Otsuka from Japan to talk about the hit anime series, The Apothecary Diaries! Hear directly from the talent and more!

You’ve been summoned for jury duty! Help us put your favorite characters and friends in cosplay on blast so we can cancel them on TWITTER! Let’s charge Goku with public indecency, Sephiroth for environmental pollution via shampoo bottles, and clutch our pearls at other dramatic accusations! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

An unhinged 18+ throwdown with the Big 3 and Dragon Ball (Z/Super), plus a messy debate on the ‘new Big 3.’ Expect wild takes, shameless character slander, plot roasting, and zero chill. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Waifu Wars is a panel where audience members are randomly selected to compete in custom challenges to defend the honor of their favorite characters. Winners will walk away with a photo of their Waifu or Husbando while the loser must throw their photo in the trash live on stage.

KYKY is an energetic bass sound designer/producer known for high-energy sets that unite diverse crowds through movement and music. Under the mentorship of multiple well-known San Diego DJs and producers, he’s gained invaluable knowledge and stage experience from the vibrant nightlife scene. He then expanded his audience nationally, touring with Canadian EDM Artist ALEX KADE, granting him to play for hundreds of people at well known venues across the US.

Curious about the spicier side of the gaming industry? Join us for a humorous but informative evening discussing all the latest developments with Denpasoft. Check out some of our new projects and perhaps a visit from a special guest as well. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Join Mangagamer, the largest localizer of Visual Novels, as we discuss the newest games we're bringing to fans worldwide and showcase the steamy appeal of this growing medium. Our staff will also be presenting our newest license announcements, and answer questions from the audience if time permits. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

V!CE is a content creator, cosplayer, singer, and songwriter who makes content and music inspired by her interests including anime and video games. With her music reaching fan worldwide she has amassed a strong following worldwide and over a million streams overall. Her upbeat personality and music always gets the crowd moving and having a good time.

An interactive anime comedy showdown at Anime Expo starring Jimmy Here, where voice actors and creators cosplay on stage while performers embody iconic shonen heroes, villains, and magical girls to make them laugh. Every laugh costs a life in this high-energy celebration of cosplay, fandom, and anime culture!

Come see some of Hoyo's most handsome and beautiful men for a night filled with spicy conversation about their needs & desires. There will be games, prizes and more to be shared so drop on by to support and thirst for your favorite Hoyo man! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Flipboitamidles is an innovative DJ and producer known for his captivating remixes and mashups. He gained popularity for creating unique and nostalgic remixes that transport listeners to their favorite gaming and animated worlds which garnered him a dedicated fanbase across various online platforms.

We are back for a 2nd year! Do you have a favorite love interest from Love and Deepspace? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to interact with them in person? Well, now's your chance! Join our group of Love and Deepspace cosplayers for a night of full of games, prizes, and a Q&A! *Note: We are NOT affiliated with Infold or Papergames! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Prepare your hearts and hold on to your seats! We'll be setting sail and diving into the world of anime romance. Before you jump to a happily ever after let's decide if these couples are truly meant to be or are they toxic AF? In this panel we'll be discussing your OTP is true luv or mirror and fog. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Studio Phoebe is a live band dedicated to reimagining anime, Studio Ghibli, and video game music. Blending jazz, orchestral textures, and modern grooves, the group transforms beloved soundtracks into concert experiences. With a focus on musical storytelling and emotional depth, Studio Phoebe connects audiences to the worlds and characters they love while showcasing the artistry and global impact of Japanese pop culture.

JAST doesn't just publish VNs, we've got a whole storefront dedicated to selling them. And we take a lot of joy in platforming indie devs and their passion projects! Whether yours is just getting off the ground, totally finished, or still just an idea, we're here to offer some advice from folks just about seen it all. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

After a long day at con theres nothing like a BL... themed game of BINGO?! Swing by! We give great reccomendations of new and old BL alike and have fun questions and quizes. Meet other fujin like yourself and more! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

ChromeSyndicate is a SoCal based DJ that primarily specializes in high energy EDM, dubstep, and heavy bass music, while incorporating a variety of elements such as anime, kpop, emo, cyberpunk, memes, and video games.

Do you have beef with an anime character and or fandom? Are you the biggest and funniest hater at AX? Then sign up for a hilarious roast with the top three fans getting cash prizes. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Starting in 2015, NTXC is an electronic music artist known for delivering high-energy, immersive DJ sets that blend elements of hardstyle, techno, and bass music. With a growing presence and a focus on authenticity, NTXC continues to build a reputation as a versatile and engaging artist, connecting with audiences through both sound and energy.

Starting in 2015, NTXC is an electronic music artist known for delivering high-energy, immersive DJ sets that blend elements of hardstyle, techno, and bass music. With a growing presence and a focus on authenticity, NTXC continues to build a reputation as a versatile and engaging artist, connecting with audiences through both sound and energy.

DJMACHINEGOD is an anikura DJ currently residing in the San Francisco Bay Area, playing dubstep, hardcore, and hard dance remixes of popular anime or idol music. His main passion is anime horse girls and has spent hundreds, and possibly even thousands more on Uma Musume. He has performed at nightclubs, local events, anime festivals, and online shows throughout the Bay Area and aims to bring the fattest drops to any anikura set.

NYC-based jazz band, Catbus Collective performs unique covers of anime, Ghibli, and City Pop classics. Ranging from Sailor Moon to Jujutsu Kaisen, the audience will hear their favorite anime openers, closers, and soundtracks in an exciting musical presentation with plenty of burning instrumental solos.

Don’t miss this exclusive Akane-banashi panel right after the anime’s final episode, featuring Anna Nagase and Abby Trott—the Japanese & English voices of Akane—plus the producer! Enjoy exclusive content, behind-the-scenes stories, character insights, and exclusive giveaways!

Get ready to return to the Shadow World with Crunchyroll at the Anime Expo two-episode premiere screening of A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special Season 2. Featuring a special guest appearance by Sayumi Suzushiro, this screening offers fans an early look at the next chapter of the fantasy adventure.

Get hyped with Arc System Works! Devs share updates, upcoming releases, creative insights, and gameplay from multiple titles, including Guilty Gear -Strive-. Free swag while supplies last!

The final battle begins! Celebrate BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity with special guests Masakazu Morita and Johnny Yong Bosch (Ichigo Kurosaki). Join VIZ for a discussion with the guests, door giveaways, and advanced screening of the subbed Episode 1 of the Final Part!

It’s been 10 years for both of these two shows! Luck is a war veteran who held the line for 10 years, and the only thing he kills now is time… and Bananya is a silly cat. Join us for two early screenings of I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand and Banaya 10th Anniversary! I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand - Episode 1-2. Banaya 10th Anniversary - Episode 1

Join scholars at the JAMS@AX Academic symposium to discuss ai, elves, monstrosity, and shoujo manga!

Learn the step by step origami basics of folding paper. Fold a claw for your finger, a swan, a jet plane and a hopping frog.

When the heroine and the villainess switch places, the unlikely pair must work together to survive. TOHO animation (The Apothecary Diaries, My Hero Academia) presents the North American premiere of episodes 1-2 of Though I Am an Inept Villainess with special guests Hana Hishikawa & Makoto Furukawa!

Step up to the mic & take your shot at LIVE Voice Acting Open Auditions featuring auditions in front of our casting director, live anime dubbing on stage, and special industry & voice actor guests. Whether you’re trying out or cheering on, don’t miss the action! Follow @bangzoom for more details!

Join KADOKAWA to launch your career as MANGA-KA! Legendary editor Hiroyuki Watanabe (Evangelion) shares the core of hit-making and insights from approx. 2,000 global submissions. Master the DNA of manga at this panel and use our new online submission portal to aim for your professional debut!

Do you love dogs? Do you love anime dogs? Well here's your chance to test your knowledge of man's best friend in the anime universe. How many good bois to do you and how many more do you need to learn about and give them some pets! A fun spin on the guess that anime game. Small prizes for the winners. Hosted by 2 cosplay wolves

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Manga publishers DENPA and KUMA return to AnimeExpo to share their publishing insights and discuss new acquisitions.

Step into the story of the UNTOLD 27-YEAR WAR in SOLO LEVELING: KARMA. Get a first look at gameplay for this upcoming roguelite action RPG, featuring Aleks Le (voice of Sung Jinwoo), development insights, line readings, exclusive giveaways, surprise guests, and more!

A wildly popular immersive pop-up experience presented in partnership with Anime Expo, taking place July 2–12 in the heart of Little Tokyo. Visit us at 701 E. 3rd Street and step into a one-of-a-kind anime experience.

Touzan Taiko, founded in 2009 at Cal Poly Pomona is a student-run taiko drumming group dedicated to sharing Japanese cultural music through dynamic performance, exciting collaboration, and community events while training new generations of collegiate taiko players.

Celebrate 15 years of Warner Bros. Japan Anime Production with STEEL BALL RUN JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Record of Ragnarok III, FIST OF THE NORTH STAR: HOKUTO NO KEN, Devils' Crest, BLADE & BASTARD, special guests Laura Post & Damien Haas, latest updates, special giveaways, and more!

Join Atlus West for an exclusive look at what's ahead, featuring special guests and exciting updates you won't want to miss!

Interested to know what cosplay craftsmanship judges are looking for? Wondering what makes a good build book? Dying to know what it takes to win best in show? Come join our 2026 Cosplay Masquerade judges as they answer all your questions!*Moderated by AX26 Cosplay Senpai TwinFools

Join scholars at the JAMS@AX Academic sympsoium as they discuss manga in museum, geogrphaic evolutions, social media, and survelience in anime!

Join Kazuo Maekawa (Ace Attorney) for a hands-on introduction to Japanese manga creation. Learn character design, paneling, and storytelling, then create your own 4-panel comic. Open to all skill levels. Presented by JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles.

SHIHORI is an LA-based J-pop singer-songwriter known for the viral fan-made JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure theme, ”Holy Steel." A Billboard-charting artist with multiple Gold works in Japan, she has written 150+ songs for major acts and contributed to League of Legends, Fairy Tail, and Macross Frontier.

Go 100% with Crunchyroll, Setsu Ito (Mob), Takahiro Sakurai (Reigen) and Yuzuru Tachikawa (Mob Psycho 100 Director) and celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Mob Psycho 100!

Monsters did not always exist in the island country of Hexaldoria, once known as Japan. With their arrival, eighty percent of the world is now too dangerous for people to live in. With the monsters' arrival, the world bestowed ""Classes"" upon its people. Despite being the weakest class, Kouji Kagami is determined to make money and soon becomes LEVEL 999. With his enormous strength, things are about to change! Join us for an early screening of The Villager of Level 999! The Villager of Level 999 - Episode 1-2

Think you know your anime intros? Come test your knowledge and win a prize! Hosted by @mia.whorror

REMOW returns to Anime Expo 2026—welcome to the game. Step into LIAR GAME with special guests, exclusive reveals, and a live game experience. Plus, sneak peeks of upcoming anime, including Livid Lady’s Guide to Getting Even. Free giveaways for all attendees!

Join special guests Rie Takahashi (Fuu Hououji) and Saori Hayami (Emeraude) for the world premiere of the first two episodes of the upcoming Magic Knight Rayearth anime, and be among the first to hear exciting new updates!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Hosted by Maki Terashima-Furuta, the Production I.G and WIT STUDIO joint panel returns to AX once again! In addition to Founders Mitsuhisa Ishikawa and George Wada, this year features an incredible lineup with directors Kenji Kamiyama, Tetsuro Araki, and Shunsuke Tada. These three leading directors will gather to discuss everything from behind-the-scenes stories to the future of animation. The panel will also feature an "Interactive Cult Quiz" where you can win autographed items directly from the directors, and a "Q&A session" with the creators! July 4th at 12 PM, at the Crypto.com Arena. Don't miss this historic moment in anime!

Anime is a $30 billion industry, but how did we get here? Industry veteran Dallas Middaugh — BluPetal, Kodansha, Crunchyroll — traces the business behind anime's American conquest. This isn't a nostalgia panel, it's a front-row account of one of entertainment's strangest shifts… and what comes next.

Experience the World Premiere of ”From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman” S2 with Director Akio Kazumi! Plus big reveals for "Suikoden: The Anime," "A Certain Dark Item," "Mission: Yozakura Family" S2, and score exclusive limited-edition giveaways!

Experience the dynamic sound of Touzan Taiko, Cal Poly Pomona’s Japanese drumming group, as they present a live performance followed by an introductory taiko workshop! Through powerful rhythms, synchronized movement, and spirited performance, Touzan Taiko showcases the energy, discipline, and sense of community at the heart of taiko drumming.

Expanding anime storytelling through 3DCG. Join Studio Orange for an inside look at creating dynamic emotion, expressive character acting, and cinematic action, with production insights from TRIGUN STARGAZE, BEASTARS, and Ensemble Stars!! Masterpiece MV—and how these ideas continue to shape the studio’s work.

With voice actors Makoto Furukawa (V.A of Iarumas) and Daiki Yamashita (V.A of Raraja) as special guests, we’ll be hosting a talk session about “BLADE & BASTARD” anime. We’ll also share the latest updates on Drecom, including titles with TV anime currently in production! Please come and join us!

LJT is a project team made of professionally-trained dancers who love to perform. With experience across international stages and tours, and roots in both the community and industry, we come together to bring that energy into a space that’s all about having fun and putting on a great show.

Are you ready to gaze upon the greatest "Internet Angel" to captivate the world wide web? Welcome our special guests (including the voice of KAngel) as they look back on the world of NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE and delve into this chaotic internet of the modern day!

Join 3 NASA scientists for one-part physics lecture, and one-part geek-out session. For the Closing Seminar of the JAMS@AX symposium, math, science, and anime will combine to reveal the Physic of Anime! Thanks for another INCREDIBLE JAMS@AX!

Join Gakuto Kajiwara (Voice of Asta) and Ayataka Tanemura (Director) for the premiere of the first episode of Black Clover Season 2! Be among the first to witness the continuing saga of Asta's journey to become the Wizard King!

Come join us at AX for the first ever reveal of Director Norihiro Naganuma's (Director of "The Apothecary Diaries") brand new series! There will be a panel discussion, promotional videos and visuals for this completely original, action-packed series along with a Q&A with the director himself!

Cosplay and the performing arts have always intersected. Curious about acting but unsure where to begin? Join a trained actress with 14 years’ experience for an introduction to auditions, prep, training opportunities, voice acting resources, and performance skills to level up your cosplay content.

Since graduating with a Bachelor’s in Music (Violin performance) in 2018, Allie has become an established musician in the Salt Lake City music scene. She has performed with various artists, including Kurt Bestor, Jon Batiste, Olivia Rodrigo, Lindsey Stirling, and more. As she loves to play video games and watch anime in her free time, Allie enjoys combining her passions by arranging and performing electric violin covers from her favorite franchises. She’s especially excited to bring her arrangements to the Anime Expo stage!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Studio TRIGGER is BACK at AX 2026! Join the director and scriptwriter of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 for behind-the-scenes insights into the upcoming anime! We’ll also share the latest updates on our current projects… and unveil our next flagship title!

Create your very own Plushumi The Plushie Workshop plushie at Anime Expo 2026! Choose between our adorable White Bear or Beige Bunny and bring your plushie to life through stuffing, assembly, and customization. You'll even get to see our signature knitting devices in action and try them yourself! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Formed by five jazz and rock instrumentalists who met through college and high school communities, SodaPop is a music project based between San Diego, CA and Cleveland, OH rooted in a deep appreciation for Japanese pop culture. The project interprets the emotional and musical depth of J-POP, anime and video games music into conversations with cohesive jazz interplay and the drive of instrumental rock. Original arrangements, reimagined classics, and spontaneous improvisation: that’s when music transcends the recording and becomes a living expression of SodaPop's own.

The final revenge begins at Anime Expo! Join Yuki Shin (TAKE-MITCHY), Yuu Hayashi (Mikey), and Masaya Fukunishi (Draken) for a “Tokyo Revengers” panel featuring an exclusive recap video and behind-the-scenes stories from the cast. Grab a special giveaway while supplies last!

Echoheart is a Los Angeles-based anisong and J-pop cover band dedicated to bringing the world of anime music to life. Inspired by iconic anime bands and soundtracks, the group combines live musicianship with cosplay and performance to recreate the excitement of seeing your favorite 2D bands on stage. From high-energy rock anthems to emotional ballads, Echoheart celebrates the music that connects anime fans around the world.

My Hero Academia hits its 10th anniversary! Join Daiki Yamashita (Deku) and Koki Uchiyama (Shigaraki) to celebrate this incredible milestone. Don't miss the world premiere of the short clip, ”I am a hero too"! Go beyond, Plus Ultra!

Kid the Phantom Thief makes his grand debut at AX! Don’t miss the U.S. premiere of Detective Conan: The Million-dollar Pentagram earning $150+ Million worldwide. Witness the dazzling battle of blades and illusions that thrilled fandom!

Step into the fascinating world of voice acting with OceanVeil, a new streaming platform, and its partner studio, Ascendent Animation! Enjoy a special screening of a brand-new dubbed title and go behind the scenes to see how your favorite dubbed moments come to life—featuring English voice actors!

The legendary cyberpunk series "THE GHOST IN THE SHELL" returns in a bold new form, brought to life by animation studio "Science SARU". We present the U.S. premiere screening from the new series. Staff members will also share insights into the concept, and visual world behind the new series.

Step into the dazzling world of idols from around the globe in this exclusive, up-close experience! Enjoy live performances and immerse yourself in the excitement of wotagei. Don’t miss the rare chance to meet and connect with the idols, browse exclusive merch, and snap some adorable chekkis to remember the evening!

"That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime" Season 4 is underway! Miho Okasaki (Voice of Rimuru) and Megumi Toyoguchi (Voice of Raphael) from "SLIME" are coming to Anime Expo 2026!

Join us for the premiere screening of "Thunder 3" episodes 1-2! The production staff takes the stage to share behind-the-scenes stories, insights into the creative details poured into the animation, series highlights, and insider moments found only at Anime Expo!

The Japanese creative staff will provide insight into the creation and technical animation behind Clevatess paired with an early premiere of Episode 1 exclusively for our Anime Expo audience. Stay until the end for an extra special surprise ahead of Season 2!

Are you a cosplay enthusiast looking to take the next step in your competitive cosplay career? Learn what it takes to achieve success in the preliminary and final rounds of the international competitive opportunities available from two-time USA representative and AX26 Cosplay Senpai Chikkupea.

Hear behind-the-scenes stories from legendary anime creators Moriyasu Taniguchi, Ryosuke Takahashi, and Toru Yoshida, whose careers span over half a century. Explore the past, present, and future of Japanese anime production through the eyes of industry masters with MyAnimeList staff.

pinponpanpon is a groundbreaking Japanese powerhouse boldly defying traditional idol norms. Created by French Cries and featuring members Domenatsu, Tokyo, and Katherine, the group has replaced the standard J-pop blueprint with a rebellious, dynamic movement designed for the global stage.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

A brand-new anime from the extraordinary world of Mika Pikazo—visionary creator and official guest of AX 2026—is finally here! Plus, a special appearance by the creators of ELECEED, sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes insights from webtoon to anime.

The studio behind SPY x FAMILY, BOCCHI THE ROCK!, My Dress-Up Darling, The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity, and many more, presents the CloverWorks Industry Panel! Don't miss the exclusive info and announcements from special guests visiting Anime Expo from CloverWorks!

Want to try cosplaying but don’t know where to start? Then join SuncakeMooncake Cosplay in this beginner-friendly panel and see what all the buzz is about! We'll discuss just what cosplay is, how to assemble your first outfit, and our favorite tips for wearing costumes and attending conventions!

Want to work in anime or animation? Industry insiders reveal how studios discover, recruit, and hire new talent. Producers, executives, and creative leaders discuss what anime and animation studios look for and how artists, writers, animators, and creators can break in.

Mikan Project is an online collective of musicians delivering a zesty sound to the Western J-Music scene. They have performed at major industry events, notable ones being Anime Expo and Anime Boston. Online, their tight horn section is a go-to for Vocaloid producers, cover artists, as well as both indie and corporate VTubers; contributing to a wide range of projects spanning original compositions, anime, and video game music. Whether they’re in the studio, supporting the show, or taking center stage, Mikan Project brings a citrus fresh energy that leaves a lasting impression.

It’s Fate/Grand Order’s 9th anniversary celebration! Join Aniplex of America’s Albert Kao and special guests Ayako Kawasumi (Altria Pendragon and Anne Bonny) and Kana Ueda (Ishtar and Ereshkigal) to discuss FGO’s past, present, and future along with other TYPE-MOON projects!

Acky Bright returns to Anime Expo! Known for his McDonald’s campaign, plus collaborations with DC, Marvel, and Red Bull, and his MLB Players–backed IP, GalaXic Baseball Leagure. Enjoy laughs with a comedian MC and score limited giveaways—don’t miss it!

Pitch a tent with HIDIVE for this simulcast premiere where being isekai’d meets gourmet, campfire cooking! Plus, savor a Q&A with special guest director Atsushi Nigorikawa!

Come and join a special panel discussion featuring the main staff and cast of MARRIAGETOXIN. Join us as we dive deep into all the work and details that make this series so charming!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Step into the beloved world of Hana-Kimi, where romance and outrageous school antics take center stage! Join special guests Aya Yamane, Japanese voice of Mizuki, and Kikunosuke Toya, Japanese voice of Nakatsu, for a lively discussion celebrating this iconic story of disguise, friendship, and first love. Hear behind-the-scenes insights, explore what makes the characters so enduring, and even see iconic scenes performed live!

What the heck is a build book? What do you even put in it? And do they really expect you to explain your whole costume in 10 pages or less??? Get answers to these questions and more from AX 2025 Cosplay Senpai and build book enthusiast Luluko!

VIZ presents a powerhouse anime showcase with special guests Masakazu Morita and Johnny Yong Bosch (BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War), AJ Beckles and Keith Silverstein (BLACK TORCH), sharing behind-the-scenes stories. Fans won’t want to miss exciting exclusive announcements revealed live!

Join YTV group for an exclusive behind-the-scenes journey into the world of their up and coming anime backed by WIT studio, 100studio, LIDENFILMS and more. Enjoy live drawing sessions, a special watch party featuring sneak peeks of exciting titles, meet special guests, and fun surprises. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

JAPAN MUSIC VOCALOID Powered by Dwango at Anime Expo 2026! Get ready for an electrifying night celebrating the sound of Vocaloid with an incredible line-up of legendary DJs straight from Japan! This one-of-a-kind event brings together some of the most influential producers in the Vocaloid scene for an unforgettable live experience. Get ready for an electrifying night of beats, visuals, and pure Vocaloid energy with: Hachioji-P, kz(livetune), picco, SatapanP, and TeddyLoid (Special Appearance). This will be a FREE ticketed event. Head to the Ticketing booth to pick up your free ticket on July 4, 2026.

Omoi (omoi.com) is a manga app and publisher that provides easy access to hundreds of series, including Hikaru in the Light!, Natsume & Natsume, and The Elf Husband and Dwarf Wife. Meet the team and learn about our upcoming digital + print releases, app features, and more. We’ll have prizes too!

Keeping current with the most popular manga & anime can be tough—especially for busy librarians & educators. From age-appropriate starter manga, to anime-inspiring hits, join this panel of manga pros & experts eager to help with recommendations & resources perfect for any growing manga section!

Join the "Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End " panel! Director Tomoya Kitagawa, Supporting Director Keiichiro Saito, and Animation Producer Yuichiro Fukushi look back at Season 2 and discuss the upcoming Season 3, with a live drawing by Character Designer Keisuke Kojima. See what's next for Frieren!

Kazuki Tokaji is a Japanese guitarist based between Los Angeles and Tokyo, blending dynamic 7-string guitar with anime and video game-inspired melodies and modern metal intensity. An official ESP Guitars artist, he delivers high-energy performances that connect with fans worldwide.

You dream of moving to Japan? At Go! Go! Nihon, we have helped over 17,000 people from all over the world live in Japan and learn Japanese at a language school. In this panel we will share everything you need to know about our free service and how to get started.

JooHee (@musicbyjoohee) is a Korean-American YouTube artist and cosplayer performing anime and game music. With a global audience, her top covers include "I Really Want to Stay at Your House" from Cyberpunk, "Dark Aria" from Solo Leveling, and Naruto’s "Blue Bird."

Firefly Wedding: On the surface, Satoko has it all—she’s beautiful, the daughter of a nobleman, and at a prime age for marriage. Unfortunately, she is also quite ill and only has a short time left to live. Before she can secure a marriage that will redeem her worth in her family’s eyes, she finds herself the target of the mysterious assassin Shinpei, and her plans are put in jeopardy. In order to save herself, she makes a desperate proposal—of marriage! When it comes to love, however, Shinpei takes “until death do we part” seriously. The Ogre’s Bride: The ayakashi and humans coexist in harmony. The ayakashi, having superior abilities and beautiful appearances, sometimes find their partner am…

The saga continues! Ironmouse and CDawgVA are back at AX for their fourth chaotic showdown. Bring on your questions and show off your best cosplays! You don’t want to miss the kind of unpredictable energy that’s made their panels legendary. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Join Chairman Takanori Aki & Kahotan & feel the energy at Good Smile Company’s Official Hatsune Miku panel! Be there for a worldwide reveal of an all-new special Miku project, latest figure updates, a high-speed look at Racing Miku & GOODSMILE RACING, & a chance to win special prizes—don't miss it!

Don't miss your chance to be among the first to watch the premiere of the second episode of The Oblivious Saint Can't Contain Her Power! Featuring special guests from Japan, cast members Rie Takahashi and Makoto Furukawa share their thoughts on the new anime series and invite you to enjoy the premiere!

Planning a trip to Japan? Discover real-world locations from anime and manga. Then find yourself standing next to a giant robot, eating in themed cafes, snapping pictures of character statues, and spending all day at manga and anime museums. You will have a full itinerary of all things nerdy! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Ever wished you could go to a summer camp just for anime lovers? Well wish no more! In the second installment of Cosplay Summer Camp we’ll be making little crafts to swap with other people! As usual we’ll be adding a fun nerd-y twist to it, so be ready to laugh, have fun, and make new friends! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Seven Seas Entertainment is an award-winning publisher that specializes in bringing the best of Japanese manga and light novels to English-language audiences, alongside the hottest danmei, webtoons, and other books from around the globe. Join us for news, announcements, and more in this exciting industry panel! ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Hosted by the so-called King of Shounen from a viral anime street interview, Galaxy Shogun ignites Debate Time. Is Kakashi a failed mentor? Is Demon Slayer boring and overhyped? No safe opinions, no mercy—only the hottest Shounen takes and crowd chaos. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Join us for an exclusive double-feature! First, the untold story behind the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners collaboration. Then, Fast Travel Unlocked: a retrospective of Wuthering Waves, from its storytelling to the character arcs that shaped its era. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

How well do you know your anime trivia? Come challenge other con-goers and see who knows more. Clues are taken from all eras of anime, from classics to the hottest shows currently airing. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Black girls are taking center stage in the cosplay world, bringing colors, culture, and confidence to characters that aren't always created with us in mind. For this panel, we will explore how Black cosplayers redefine iconic anime through a blend of creativity and cultural expression. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel. This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

The AX Masquerade is Anime Expo’s longest-running and most prestigious cosplay competition, where talented cosplayers will now take the Main Events stage at Crypto.com Arena to compete for incredible prizes and the coveted Best in Show title.

Bluemoon Sanitizer is a San Diego anime & game music cover band known for energetic live performances of anime openings, game soundtracks, and J-pop hits, performed with vibrant instrumentation and a passion for the anime community!

LJT is a project team made of professionally-trained dancers who love to perform. With experience across international stages and tours, and roots in both the community and industry, we come together to bring that energy into a space that’s all about having fun and putting on a great show.

When Satou Takahiro is swept away from his ordinary life into the world of his favorite video game, a universe of space battles and danger awaits. Don’t miss Crunchyroll’s Anime Expo two-episode premiere of Reborn as a Space Mercenary: I Woke Up Piloting the Strongest Starship!, featuring a special guest appearance by Makoto Furukawa (Voice of Hiro / Satou Takahiro).

Come listen to the folks at JAST talk about the Visual Novel industry, how it's changed over the years, and what it might look like going forward. With help (and live drawing!) from our special guest, Itaru Hinoue; founding member of Key, and artist behind Clannad, Air, and other works you love. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Ready to risk it all for your (no longer pixelated) husbandos? From flirty questions to spicy scenarios, MCs shoot their shot in a collective delulu era. Come laugh, flirt, debate and maybe even embarrass yourself a little in this intergalactic romance. [This panel is not affiliated with INFOLD] ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Mariachi Eclipse is a mariachi ensemble that brings anime and video game music into a live performance setting. Rooted in traditional mariachi instrumentation, the group explores well-known Japanese soundtracks through a different musical lens while maintaining the character of both styles. Their performances focus on ensemble balance, musical detail, and a strong connection with the audience, creating a sound that feels both grounded and distinctive across cultural spaces.

Art Director Hyulla, known for his work on Goddess of Victory: NIKKE! Join a live drawing show with a surprise guest as MIRESI's bishojo characters come to life on stage, plus a talk on the Art of Thicc Proportions. Enjoy our free limited-edition merch, too!

We are Neo Sanctum and we are a Touhou doujin music circle based in Toronto, producing both Touhou and Anime EDM, with a focus on drum & bass! We love both organize and play events in Toronto and we will be bringing our sound live as DJs at AX for the first time!

Ken Harada is a distinguished music producer and DJ from Tokyo, Japan, who rose to prominence in the music industry with his production of Ayumi Hamasaki's iconic hit, Duty, which sold over 3 million copies and won a Japan Record Award for Best Album. Known for his collaborations with major Japanese artists like EXILE, BoA, Kumi Koda, Ami Suzuki, SKE48, TM Revolution and many more.

Which comedian will hold the championship title for LCS? Watch the finalists compete in a night full of endless laughter! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Panel going over some of the most over the top violent scenes in numerous anime this panelist has encountered. Back for a second year of even more gory goodness! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Back for year five! Join our open discussion on horror, thriller, and dark anime, manga, and light novels as we navigate through the decades. Share hidden gems and classics alike while connecting with others to explore the darker side of storytelling. All fans and newcomers welcome! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

FAKKU is the largest independent manga publisher in the United States! They have released thousands of manga, games, and anime and quickly became the largest English hentai publisher in the world. Join FAKKU as they talk about their history, current projects, and brand new announcements. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

In Korean stories, a word like “hyung” can convey character, relationship, and emotion all at once. Join Publang as we explore how we balance cultural nuance, authorial voice, and natural readability in our localization process across our catalog, from shifter rom-com to sweeping military drama. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Welksie is an LA-based producer/DJ passionate about musical storytelling, emotional journeys, and challenging expectations. Weaving EDM/Bass/J-Pop in concert with hand-synced anime visuals, Welksie’s unique sound and “live-AMV” aesthetic aim to break down barriers between music and cultures alike.

Curious about garage kits? Get the unfiltered reality from a 20 year veteran. What it takes before the final photos, the mistakes, the challenges, and what it really means to grow as a painter and artist. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Do you have a really embarrassing anime crush? Did you think Panda was hotter than Gojo? Does Zooble make you blush? We want to know! Come give us your best “hear me out” and see if you're alone in your love or if your take is based! UwU ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Jase Cloud is a multi-format music producer and DJ from San Diego, California. Over the years, he has developed his sound based on a unique blend of Bass House, Trap, and Hard Dance. Jase Cloud lives to keep things interesting by incorporating a wide range of EDM genres in his DJ sets but has a history in curating music spanning Hip-Hop, R&B, and House. Jase Cloud has made much of his notoriety from his stellar DJ sets at many anime and K-pop themed raves across the country. He strives to grow further in his musical style and creation as well as bringing non-stop, high energy to his DJ performances.

In a world of Mc (main characters) who's the real deal and who's performing for a audience? Join us as we jump into the world of anime series dissecting your favorite protagonist and by audience voting we'll decide if they're the real deal or performative. Let's decide where the lines blur! ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

We are a Japanese-American melodic metal band inspired by anime culture, creating original songs and powerful anime covers in our signature high-energy, fast-paced style. Our music feels like an epic anime opening cinematic, emotional, and full of spirit. Through our sound, we aim to spread the passion, positivity, and strength of anime culture to a wider audience.

Fujoshi have been a part of fandom since conception. Fans of BL (Boys Love), they have built the genre up from humble shoujo manga and glamrock doujin beginnings into a massive industry. Join us for a deep dive into fujo culture, the history of BL, and the current state of the 2d gay boy industry. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Josei manga has embedded itself in the hearts of women around the world. Covering mature themes, career struggles, romances, motherhood, marriages, and even divorce, it is not simply “hentai for women”. See why Josei manga is beloved, our favorite series, and why it gets confused with shōjo manga. ***This room will NOT be cleared prior to this panel.***

Gege Akutami had captured and crushed the hearts of millions when writing Jujutsu Kaisen. This has created the fandom subsect, Lobotomy Kaisen. We will go over its history; the cursed memes created and discuss how it is a coping mechanism and a way to gain partial ownership of the characters. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

Tokyo-born and LA-based, MEIRLIN is an international DJ and producer known for her high-energy main-stage house and techno sound. She has released charting tracks on leading labels including Revealed, Smash The House, and Protocol, earning support from Hardwell, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Nicky Romero, and more. Her 2024 single “Spaceflight 2099” premiered by Hardwell at Ultra Miami and surpassed 500,000 streams. A former resident at Zouk Las Vegas and part of Insomniac’s artist since 2019, MEIRLIN has performed at top venues worldwide and continues to build global momentum across the U.S., Asia, and Europe.

Neujack is a Los Angeles-based electronic music producer, DJ, and digital artist known for blending heavy electro-house, hyperpop, and breakcore with anime/gaming influences. He is also called "Neujack the Demigod" and creates visual-heavy, high-energy, and often lofi-influenced, music.

Khaimera is an LA-Based DJ/Producer blending EDM, Anime, and Video Game sounds into high energy sets. Known for EDM and Anime remixes and rave edits, he delivers nostalgic, and high energy performances where gaming and rave culture collide.

Studio Phoebe is a live band dedicated to reimagining anime, Studio Ghibli, and video game music. Blending jazz, orchestral textures, and modern grooves, the group transforms beloved soundtracks into concert experiences. With a focus on musical storytelling and emotional depth, Studio Phoebe connects audiences to the worlds and characters they love while showcasing the artistry and global impact of Japanese pop culture.

Celebrate the best in anime and music fusion at the Anime Expo 2026 Anime Music Video (AMV) Competition Awards! Join us as we unveil the winners across various categories, showcasing exceptional artistry, storytelling, and technical prowess.

Are you always rushing to finish your cosplays at the last minute? Do you show up to conventions sleepless and covered in hot glue? If so, you’re not alone! Learn how to avoid the dreaded con crunch and manage your time when deadlines get tight at this fun and interactive panel!

From editing, marketing, translation, production, sales & more, learn about the many ways to start a career in the exciting (but exhausting) manga industry! Join this panel of veteran manga pros ready to discuss how they got their start, how you can too, & how we all can survive the experience.

JUJUTSU KAISEN 5th Anniversary Panel – celebrating five thrilling years of this blockbuster anime! Reflect on its journey so far, including Season 3, key battles, story milestones, and character moments. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and enjoy fan experiences you won’t want to miss! ***This room WILL be cleared for the next panel.***

Learn more about the gaming and voice acting industry! Voice actor Jimmie Yamaguchi (Zenless Zone Zero, 2XKO, Star Wars) is joined by game industry veteran Chris Harada (Square Enix, Gearbox, and more) and Audrey, CEO of Japan-based Aitai Japan, to discuss how voices, games, and IP come together—from performance and production to global releases.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Join us for a special behind-the-scenes look at how the team delivers each Set, including the creative process from concept to live gameplay, and how the team prepares for future Sets. We will also have a dedicated Q&A to get to know our panelists!

TOKYOPOP Presents: An industry panel all about the latest and greatest from TOKYOPOP! Join us as we unveil news about upcoming releases, licensing announcements, and more!

Join The American Anime Otaku as he takes a look at the careers of two legendary animators and how they indirectly influenced each other and the medium of Japanese animation.

Awai is an Idol and singer-songwriter currently based in Tokyo Japan, she is credited for doing vocals for J-Pop duo YOASOBI on songs such as PLAYERS and HEART BEAT. Awai puts on an engaging show full of upbeat anime and Jpop classics as well as original songs featuring Japanese and English lyrics.

A wildly popular immersive pop-up experience presented in partnership with Anime Expo, taking place July 2–12 in the heart of Little Tokyo. Visit us at 701 E. 3rd Street and step into a one-of-a-kind anime experience.

Join the team from Anime Trending, the industry recognized platform for Top 10 anime rankings/charts, awards, news and more! The team has worked on promoting hit titles like Delicious in Dungeon, Re:ZERO, 【OSHI NO KO】, and more, helping bring these titles to fans outside of Japan.

From “thermoplastic” to “chiaroscuro,” how strong is your cosplay vocabulary? Step up to the mic for a cosplay-themed spelling bee where crafting knowledge meets friendly rivalry. Expect laughs, tricky words, and plenty of “wait… how do you spell that?” moments. Come compete or just enjoy the chaos!

Life on hard mode is a total grind! Kenichi Yamada leaps at the chance to try out a game with a “Hell Mode” difficulty but finds himself reborn in the game! Join HIDIVE for the 2nd season dub premiere of the isekai smash hit!

Experience the first official North American screening of The Super Dimension Fortress Macross: Do You Remember Love? during Anime Expo 2026. Join the premier presentation of the legendary masterpiece that has come to define the MACROSS franchise.

Get ready to dance like your favorite anime idols! Join us as we will go over a fun J-Pop dance routine that will have you dancing like your favorite performers! Bring your energy, and show us what you’ve got!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Cosplay vocalist niccodilly is making her first appearance at Anime Expo as one of the most iconic anime bassist ---- Mio Akiyama from K-ON!. Featuring beloved anisongs and J-rock hits from the 2000s-2010s, get ready for a nostalgic anisong experience with live vocals, cosplay and bass guitar (!?)

Step into the world of Zenless Zone Zero at our special voice actor panel, where the voices behind this urban fantasy action RPG bring its fast-paced combat and stylish, story-driven city to life through behind-the-scenes stories, live interactions, and exclusive insights.

Dance, jump and rock out wtih Aimai Mirai as they perform fresh and classic Anisong for an unstoppable anime song concert! Hailing from San Francisco Bay Area, Aimai Mirai is a high energy anime cover band composed of five passionate cosplayers, musicians, and more!

From the team that brings you films from celebrated filmmakers like Mamoru Hosoda, Masaaki Yuasa, and Studio Ghibli, comes the GKIDS Industry Panel! Join us for an inside scoop on what it takes to release the best films and series from around the world, and a sneak peek at what’s to come!

Are you dreaming of a career in the manga/manhwa/comics industry? This panel of editors, marketers, and other industry professionals will talk about how they got their start working in the field and share insight on how you can reach your own career goals!

You're thinking of living in Japan? Whether you want to study, find work or just stay temporarily, understanding your visa options is crucial. This panel will cover the different visa types, their requirements and benefits, so you can make your transition to life in Japan as smooth as possible.

The Nikkei Choral Ensemble (also known as NiCE) is the University of California, Berkeley's premiere Japanese and English acapella group. This Bay Area-based ensemble has been singing songs from anime, games, and pop culture for over 15 years, and will be making their Anime Expo debut this year! All of the music that NiCE performs is chosen and arranged by members of the group. They hope that you enjoy their favorite songs as much as they do!

Join us at the 2026 Anime Expo for a paint-your-own pottery workshop. This workshop is a great way to get creative, create a one-of-a-kind keepsake from the Expo, and, as a bonus, you get time to rest your feet after a long day of exploring. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel. This room will NOT be cleared after this panel.***

Anime Expo works with our special guests from the industry to provide one-of-a-kind items for the annual Charity Auction. By participating in the Charity Auction you can do your part to support this years charitable cause: Los Angeles and Nagoya Sister City Affiliation (LANSCA).

Time to put your K-POP dance knowledge to the test! Join other K-POP Fans and Dancers and come together on the dance floor as you all dance together to different songs from different K-POP generations, artists, and styles!

Anime Expo has come and gone once again. Let us know what you loved, what you want to see more of, and what we can improve on for next year. A team of SPJA staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you this year's event will be there to listen. Thank you for your continued support!

Faith in the Glitch has been a resident DJ for the nationally touring Future Funk party Yoi Toki, sharing stages with artists like Yung Bae, Saint Pepsi, and Macross 82-99. A lifelong anime nerd with a deep love for the culture, FitG blends anime edits, nostalgic mashups, fresh scratching, and high-energy party vibes into unforgettable sets. With decades behind the decks, Faith in the Glitch has rocked crowds at Otakon, Katsucon, Sakura-Con, and more—bringing convention energy and dance floor chaos wherever they go. Now, FitG is ready to bring that same energy west to Anime Expo in Los Angeles.

Ever dreamed of publishing your story as a light novel —manga or even an anime— in Japan? Join KADOKAWA editor Satoshi Arima (The Rising of the Shield Hero, Full Metal Panic!) and authors Frettiko & Kazesenken, to learn how English writers can break into the Japanese market via our upcoming contest.

Atara Ara is a four-piece rock band from Orange County mixing Japanese rock and American alt. Energetic, melodic, and shaped by a love for both scenes.

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

Los Angeles based saxophone quartet who specializes in performing covers of popular anime and video game music. S4X has played numerous Anime Expo and AX Chibi events and even participated in the closing ceremony of Anime Expo 2019.

Are Maomao and Jinshi endgame? Who would be the best emperor? Is cat Maomao the best animal sidekick? Let's find out! Come to this Apothecary Diaries fan panel to discuss, debate and determine whose actions were justified and if we would have done the same.

Join in on this panel by game developer NextNinja to learn about the latest and upcoming news for the hit Anime RPG Grand Summoners! All participants will receive a free original gift as well as have a chance to receive exclusive merch!

Intimidated by helmet wigs? Join Wei’s beginner-friendly ponytail wig panel to learn how to build a structured base, budget-friendly ponytail attachment/core, and select the right glue for each step. This class is ideal for cosplayers who've been eyeing a character but need a detailed walkthrough. *Presented by AX26 Cosplay Senpai Weichiadi

How do anime, manga, and music heal us? Psychiatrist Dr. Francesco Pantò — Anime Therapy originator at Yokohama City University — shares clinical findings on stories, characters, and sound as medicine. Featuring an exclusive video interview with FINAL FANTASY composer Nobuo Uematsu, plus Q&A.

A timeline of Japanese Pop music from the 60s-80s. Learn about the origins of Japanese Idols, the rise and fall of City Pop, hear 80s anime themes, and answer trivia questions for media prizes!

OVER ALLs is a mural artist collective specializing in large-scale public murals. We create works for buildings and urban spaces worldwide. This April, we painted murals in Los Angeles for OC Japan Fair, Tenkaippin Little Tokyo, and Fame Yard. Enjoy our live drawing on the NOVO stage!

Escape from reality and step into a world full of moe! Inspired by the maid cafes of Akihabara, Anime Expo’s Maid Café has been one of our most popular events. Our cute and courteous maids are ready to entertain you, whether they break out in song and dance or facilitate an activity. Enjoy a drink and an interactive show, and don’t forget to thank the maids on your way out!

As Anime Expo 2026 concludes, the Closing Ceremony will give AX attendees the chance to reflect and wrap up their experiences with various performances and closing traditions. ***This room WILL be cleared prior to this panel.***

SHIHORI is an LA-based J-pop singer-songwriter known for the viral fan-made JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure theme, ”Holy Steel." A Billboard-charting artist with multiple Gold works in Japan, she has written 150+ songs for major acts and contributed to League of Legends, Fairy Tail, and Macross Frontier.