Cars N Anime, Cosplay Contest, Japanese Pop-Culture & More Await At Otaku Smash Fest

Japanese Friendship Garden invites you to the 2nd Otaku Smash Fest to celebrate the art of Japanese pop culture!

This ticketed event invites guests to express themselves through the art of Japanese pop-culture! Activities include music, performances, a cosplay contest, food, Cars N Anime, nunchaku lessons and so much more!

Cars N’ Anime

The ultimate culture clash of motorsports and anime! Both passions thrive in harmony through a collective of motorsports fans addicted to anime. Inspired by the golden eras of Japanese car culture and animation, Cars N’ Anime SD is a San Diego exclusive show that builds on those legacies for future generations to enjoy!

Nunchaku: Otaku Edition

Come join us to learn the art of the nunchaku! The nunchaku is most widely used in martial arts such as Okinawan kobudo and karate. It is intended to be used as a training weapon, since practicing with it enables the development of quick hand movements and improves posture. An ancient style of Japanese combat, this can build your upper-body strength and give you invigorating workouts. Beginner or expert, this is a program for everyone!

2023 Otaku Smash Fest Cosplay Contest

Registration is now open until all spots are filled! Participants will compete for awards based on two categories:

PRESENTATION: Stage presence and costume appearance during the walk-on of the contest.

CRAFTSMANSHIP: Quality and accuracy of the costume. Contestants will need to bring a reference photo to leave with the judges. Work-in-progress photos are always recommended.

Beer & Sake Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden invites guests 21+ to enjoy beer and sake samples from a variety of vendors. Come learn about the history of sake, as well as try 3 exclusive brands from Sake Master Ayaka Ito.

Ayaka Ito is a certified Kikizakeshi (sake sommelier, essentially) and co-owner of Beshock Ramen & Sake Bar in East Village and Carlsbad. Ayaka is the organizer of the largest Sake event of the year, the San Diego Sake Festival.

See you there

There are more fun to be had. Come with your friends or make new ones at Otaku Smash Fest!

This will be a ticketed event for 21 and up. Click here for tickets.

Japanese Friendship Garden is located at 2215 Pan American Road. E., San Diego, CA 92101. For more info, visit the website here and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

See you there, San Diego!