The Behavior and Hygiene Dilemma at Anime Conventions

For many, attending an anime convention is a dream come true—a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for Japanese animation, manga, and video games. However, the excitement and enthusiasm often led by the sheer volume of activities can sometimes result in peculiar behaviors and questions about personal hygiene practices. In this article, we will explore the various factors that contribute to these issues and dispel common misconceptions.

Excitement and Enthusiasm

Highly Stimulating Environments: Anime conventions are known for their dynamic and exhilarating atmosphere. Panels, exhibitions, and social events can be overwhelming, leading to behaviors that may seem unusual or exaggerated. Participants may abandon their usual routines, including personal hygiene, in the spirit of the event.

Social Dynamics

Community and Belonging: Many attendees feel a strong sense of community among fellow fans, which can encourage more expressive or eccentric behavior. This environment fosters a welcoming space where attendees feel free to act in ways they might not in everyday life, sometimes at the expense of personal norms.

Cosplay and Identity

Immersing in Characters: Cosplay, the act of dressing up as characters from anime, manga, or video games, is a significant part of many conventions. Some attendees may become deeply immersed in their characters, leading to behavior that aligns with those characters but sometimes at the expense of personal hygiene.

Long Days and Lack of Routine

Disrupted Routines: The long hours of activities and socializing at conventions often disrupt normal routines, including hygiene practices. Attendees may prioritize events and socializing over personal care, particularly if they are staying in shared accommodations or are on a tight schedule.

Cultural Differences

Variations in Cultural Norms: The diversity in anime and manga cultures can lead to behaviors that might seem strange in one context but are normal in another. This diversity can cause misunderstandings, highlighting the wide range of acceptable behaviors at conventions.

Nervousness and Social Anxiety

Overwhelming Environments: For some individuals, conventions can be an overwhelming experience, leading to coping mechanisms such as acting out or withdrawing. These behaviors, while strange, are a response to anxiety and the overwhelming experience of the event.

Personal Hygiene Challenges

Heat and Crowding: Despite the understandable concerns about hygiene, crowded environments and intense heat can contribute to the perception of a 'con-funk' or offensive odors. The combination of intense heat, sweating, and countless layers in cosplay can result in less-than-ideal personal hygiene conditions.

Living Spaces: Some attendees may spend extended periods in hotel lobbies, convention centers, or other public spaces, without access to proper cleaning facilities. This lack of adequate bathing and changing spaces can exacerbate hygiene concerns, especially over multiple days.

Energetic Events: Dance parties, raves, and other energetic events can also contribute to the smell and hygiene issues. The combination of physical exertion, clustered individuals, and the buildup of sweat and bacteria can create an unpleasant environment.

The Reality of Conventions

The reality is that while some individuals may neglect personal hygiene, the overwhelming majority enjoy the celebration and camaraderie of the event. The excitement and enthusiasm often lead to a collective sense of smell adaptation, where the attendees become less sensitive to odors over the course of the weekend.

Furthermore, conventions often provide amenities such as bars of soap in swag bags to accommodate participants. This not only acknowledges the challenge but also offers a practical solution.

For all but the most severe cases, attendees tend to become nose blind over the course of the weekend. It is essentially like any other multi-day festival—funk happens. Attendees should be prepared and bring their own soap if necessary.

Conventions are vibrant and exciting events that showcase the passion and dedication of fans. While issues related to behavior and hygiene may arise, they are generally manageable and part of the overall experience.