Never before did I see Osaka’s Nipponbashi area this crowded. Even on the back-streets it was difficult to walk because of the large number of people. The few suicidal drivers who insisted on entering the area certainly regretted it dearly.

The former electronics store district, now a haven for figure shops, comic stores and maid cafe’s, celebrated its fifth Nippon Street Festa Osaka. As in previous years it was combined with the Nipponbashi Cosplay Matsuri.

The two events are clearly becoming well-known. Even among foreign visitors. There were far more than in previous years, although they are still clearly a tiny minority.

Have a look at the photographs of this amazing cosplay event.

The same advice as last year: Put this event in your April calendar for 2010!