At the recent Cosplay Matsuri, guest cosplayer Kiyo took the time to answer a series of thoughtful questions from O’Taco Bites, offering valuable insight into the realities of cosplaying abroad, starting out in the hobby, and the importance of consent within the cosplay community. The Q&A highlighted not only Kiyo’s experience as an international cosplayer, but also her passion for encouraging respectful and inclusive fandom spaces.
Kiyo also expressed her gratitude to CosplayPH for providing the opportunity to take part in the interview and connect more closely with Filipino fans and fellow cosplayers. Through her candid responses, she shed light on both the exciting and challenging aspects of cosplay, especially when traveling overseas for events.
Below is the full Q&A from the written interview, with some responses lightly edited for clarity:
Q: As foreign cosplayer, how do you prepare for a cosplay event abroad? And do you have any tips for cosplayers who are planning to visit and cosplay at an overseas event out of their home country?
Kiyo: I CAN NOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH BUT MAKE SURE TO BUY LOTS OF CHECK IN KGS!!! You don’t know how heavy your cosplays are until you pack it in a suitcase and oh brother are they HEAVY!! For wigs; if they are hard styled try your best to transport them in cake boxes or put it in a sturdy box in your hand carry. Tips wise, I guess it’s mostly to just keep in mind of the cosplay etiquette and rules in the country you’re going to.
Q: What 3 main tips can you give for people who want to start or are still giving some thoughts about cosplaying?
Kiyo: Don’t think too much about looking good, we all start off a little crunchy so don’t worry! Go out there and make some new friends, and just have fun!
Q: What is the weirdest thing you experienced or at least a memorable moment you have as a cosplayer?
Kiyo: Wow, um… I don’t have any weird experiences per say. However I have had bad experiences with people touching parts of my costume without my consent. I really really hate that and would like to remind people to PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE ask before grabbing or touching anything a cosplayer is wearing or has with them. Because if it breaks, we’re the ones that have to fix it. I had a friend have one of their fans just randomly grab her prop and started swinging it around without her permission and breaking it, and just walked away afterwards. Absolutely disgusting behavior. Don’t do that guys.
Through this exchange, Kiyo not only shared practical advice for aspiring and traveling cosplayers, but also reinforced one of the most important principles in the community: Cosplay is not consent. Her message resonated strongly with fans, serving as both a reminder and a call for greater respect at conventions and events.
With Cosplay Matsuri continuing to spotlight international talent and meaningful conversations, moments like this Q&A show how cosplay events can go beyond visuals fostering education, awareness, and stronger community values.