Shopping Guide
Have you heard of Enako? Last month, this popular Japanese cosplayer performed at the Loy Krathong festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, an event that drew in almost 100,000 people from around the world. Enako is also the leader of the very popular three-member idol group called Panache. On Dec. 15 - 16, 2012 in Chengdu, China, Panache will be performing live at CAF 2012, China’s largest comics event with over 200,000 visitors. With the event close at hand, TokyoOtakuMode recently had an exclusive interview with the very busy Enako!
Currently, Enako is a college student. She’s often busy with her studies as well as her cosplaying. The first time she did cosplay was when she was a junior high school student. At the time, The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi was very popular, so she first cosplayed as Suzumiya. Since cosplay wasn’t as popular as it is today, many of her friends were surprised. However, those around her immediately understood, and even a school teacher offered support. Being blessed with this good environment, she was able to grow up and cosplay freely.
Enako often does cosplay of anime characters she admires. When she cosplays, she tries to fully become the character; from their clothing and hairstyle to even mimicking their singing and dancing. Yes, even down to their songs, she fully becomes the character. For example, she even sings while cosplaying as Ranka Lee from Macross. Currently, Enako is a member of Panache! along with Akira Itsuki and Kuroneko, and she enjoys singing and cosplaying with them. They originally debuted with Love Plus cosplay, and since then there teamwork has always been right on point!
Enako said she is looking forward to China’s CAF 2012. On the other hand though, she said she is a bit anxious about what everyone’s reaction will be at the event. Even though she has done performances overseas before, this time is different because it will be a larger event. However, she went on to say that the group will stick with their own style and continue to bring cosplay to the world.
Apart from watching television, an unexpected side of Enako is that she also enjoys the video game series Resident Evil, as well as playing music games at game centers. We wonder what activities she will display at CAF 2012. Once she returns from China, we’d like to interview her again. Enako and the rest of Panache! will be amazing when they perform at CAF 2012, from Dec. 15 - 16!
Official site for CAF 2012: http://www.cdcaf.com/ (Chinese)
Enako’s official site: http://www.enasoku.com (Japanese)
Enako’s Facebook: http://facebook.com/enakorin
Official site for Panache!: http://www.panache.jp (Japanese)
