Japanese talent Akase Akari, widely known for her impressive cosplay and rising music career, sat down for an exclusive interview to discuss her journey, inspirations, and upcoming projects.
Recently, Akari performed at the JAM Concert during Cosplay Carnival 2025 last March 23 at SMX Convention Center, where she captivated fans with her energy and vocals. The setlist featured a mix of her songs and beloved anime tracks, making for an unforgettable night.
In this interview, she shares insights into her experiences as a cosplayer, her transition into music, and what fans can expect from her in the future.
Akase Akari in her Cosplay Journey
Akase Akari is admired for her ability to bring anime characters to life. She shares how she started in the world of cosplay and what keeps her passionate about it.
Q: Who would you acknowledge as the person who got you into cosplay and into performing?
Akase Akari: I can’t say there was one specific person who pushed me into cosplay, but I’ve loved anime since I was young. That passion naturally led me to start cosplaying and getting involved in related activities. Since anime has always been a big part of my life, it also inspired me to pursue singing and other projects connected to it.
Q: Do you have a favorite character that you’ve cosplayed?
Akase Akari: I’ve done a lot of cosplays, but my favorite is Nino Nakano from Gotoubun no Hanayome (The Quintessential Quintuplets). I truly love all the characters I’ve cosplayed, but Nino holds a special place in my heart. In fact, my own room is filled with posters of her! She’s definitely my number one.
Q: What do you think is the most challenging part of cosplaying and how do you overcome it?
Akase Akari: Every cosplayer has their own way of interpreting a character, and for me, the most challenging part is bringing that interpretation to life in a real, 3D form. There are so many details to consider—wigs, costumes, makeup—each cosplayer emphasizes different aspects to highlight in their portrayal. Some might focus on using specific fabrics, perfecting the wig, or even choosing the right colored contacts. Since everyone has their own vision of a character, I always wonder if my interpretation aligns with how others see them.
That’s what makes cosplay both challenging and exciting—it’s all about finding the right balance between personal creativity and staying true to the character!
From Cosplay to Music
Beyond cosplay, Akase Akari has ventured into music, gaining recognition for her singing career. She discusses the challenges and excitement of this transition.
Q: You debut song, Koi no Yukue became a hit among anime fans. What was the most memorable part of performing the theme song for My Dress up Darling?
Akase Akari: The anime highlights cosplay as its main theme. I, myself likes anime so that’s one of the great things about it. I was also asked to make a music video for the song. Since I had my own highlights of what I wanted for the specific video, I asked the team if I could make my own wig and make-up. Of course, we talked with the team, and with their support, we were able to do a music video that we think was originally from ourselves.
So I am very happy, as I was also told that the music video and the song was good. I received such good feedback, so I am very thankful for that, and that’s the most memorable part of making the ending theme for My Dress Up Darling. Thank you.
Q: What was your initial reaction when you were informed that your debut song will be the ending theme of My Dressed Up Darling?
Akase Akari: When I was told that I’d be releasing a song, I was excited—but then I found out it was an anime tie-up, and I got even more curious. I wondered, What kind of anime is it?
Then, when they told me it was My Dress-Up Darling, I was completely shocked! I had already been reading the manga, so I was like, Wait… what?! I love this series! I was so happy that I immediately went back and reread the manga. At first, I didn’t realize it was for My Dress-Up Darling, so when I finally found out, I was beyond excited!
Q: Can you share your fondest memory when you were performing live?
Akase Akari: Since it was my debut song, I was really nervous at first. I kept wondering how everyone would react when I performed.
But once I stepped on stage, I saw the audience cheering for me, and all my worries disappeared. During the performance, I could see everyone, and I could feel their energy and support. It was such a fun and unforgettable experience—I’m really glad I did it!
Q: You recently performed at the JAM Concert during Cosplay Carnival 2025. How was that experience?
Akase Akari: It was amazing! Performing in front of such an energetic crowd was unforgettable. Seeing fans singing along and cheering made me so happy. It’s moments like those that inspire me to keep improving as an artist.
Dream Collaborations and Future Plans
Akari shares her aspirations, including dream collaborations and upcoming projects that fans can look forward to.
Q: Given a chance for an anime role, can you share us what type of character would you like to play?.
Akase Akari: Rather than a specific character, I would love to voice a tsundere character! For example, someone like Asuka Langley (Neon Genesis Evangelion). I don’t have a particular character in mind, but I’ve always been drawn to tsundere personalities.
If I ever get the chance to do voice acting, I’d definitely want to play a tsundere role!
Q: Do you have any dream collaborations, either in cosplay or music?
Akase Akari: Yes! There are so many artists I admire, both in the cosplay and music industries. I’d love to collaborate with more singers and even work on a song for an anime someday.
Q: What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects your fans should look forward to?
Akase Akari: I can’t reveal too much yet, but I’m working on new music and planning to do more international activities. I hope to meet fans in different countries soon!
A Message for Fans
Q: I believe this is your first time visiting the Philippines. What are you most excited to experience while you are here?
Akase Akari: When I was in elementary school, I had a Filipino friend, and whenever I went to her house, she would always serve me Filipino food. I remember it was very delicious, so I was very excited to come here and eat Filipino food again. Now, after a lot of years since my elementary school life, I am excited to eat Filipino food again. Thank you.
To wrap up the interview, Akase Akari expresses her gratitude to her supporters and shares a heartfelt message.
Q: Do you have any messages for your fans?
Akase Akari: Thank you so much for always supporting me! Your encouragement means everything, and I will continue doing my best to bring you more music, cosplay, and exciting projects. I hope to see you all soon!
