Otaku are one of Japan’s most popular subcultures. The subculture is so large that it confuses observers. This essay discusses the Otaku and how they are classified as a culture. We will also look at the different types of Otakus.
Subcultures are groups of people that reject mainstream culture, and choose to live a lifestyle that is rebellious. Deviant subculture refers to a group of people who reject the mainstream culture and choose a lifestyle that is, in a sense, rebellious against it. For a better understanding of otaku it is important to analyze its origins. The word was introduced to the public during the 80s. Before otaku became a popular subculture, it was used as a term to describe an honorific person. The word is also used as a term for “nerds”, ‘geeks’ or those who have a strong obsession with anime and Manga. Akio Nakamori first used the term in an essay published in Manga Burikko.
What stereotypes are associated with otakus and their lifestyle? Some people think that it’s hard to spot them among a crowd. They also wear old clothes and have hair that isn’t styled. Some people think that otakus wear outfits that are handmade and that have been made with great passion. These images, along with others, demonstrate that otakus can be just like anyone else.
The media never treated otakus with respect and the word has been used offensively for years. Although this happens, more and more people are self-identifying as otakus. The word has also become less offensive. Miyazaki’s Tsotomu was the first to be stigmatized as an otaku after he murdered four girls. Media has used other crimes to portray otakus negatively. Kaoru Kobiashi, who was convicted of murdering and sexually assaulting a seven-year old in 2004, committed another crime that further damaged the image of Otakus. Akihiro Oktani was a journalist and he suspected the crime as being related to his otaku status, even though he wasn’t one. Akihiro was quoted as saying “Although otakus are not criminals, they could be.”
Only one type of otakus is associated with anime and manga. Tetsudou Otakus is a type of train otakus. They are obsessed with riding and photographing trains. Train uniforms, model trains and even train uniforms may be of interest to them. Interests vary among anime and manga otakus. Others play video games and others read manga. They play massively multiplayer roleplaying online games where players go on a virtual adventure. Gamers otakus create virtual characters that are a reflection of who they want be. Or they perform actions which bring them joy. Games have also been shown to be helpful for people who suffer from autism or other psychological or social issues. It has been proven to help patients gain confidence and create a simulated environment by playing the game.
Cosplay otaku is another type. Cosplay is a way to make new friends and meet people who are interested in costumes. Otakus are seen as being obsessed with their hobbies, and this can negatively affect their lives. They may spend too much money or time on it.
The anime and manga business is huge, but mainly aimed at satisfying customers. Otakus consume the majority of manga and anime products. The anime and manga industry continues to grow in terms of size and creativity. The industry is diverse, from a whole region in Tokyo named Akihabara that aims to give otakus everything they could ever want and sponsoring anime characters and trains. These details illustrate how a multi-billion dollar business benefits from otakus’ interest in its consumable products.
Otaku is no different. It has been adopted by many other countries. USA and Philippines have a high number of manga and anime fans. It is a way to promote Japan as a country that allows people to express themselves and their beliefs.
My humble opinion is that the most important moral or subculture remains accepting people’s different. The world would be much better if people learned to accept differences.