#Japan #Nagoya #Akari #Kazuya Nakai #Lantern Guardian

Special Stage Event 'Akari-bi Festival'

In an exciting announcement, World Eggs Inc., headquartered in the Minato Ward of Tokyo, revealed that popular voice actor Kazuya Nakai will join the cast of the special stage 'Akari-bi Festival' as part of the 'Lantern Guardian' project on August 1, 2026. This spectacular event will take place during the renowned World Cosplay Summit 2026, which is one of the largest cosplay festivals globally, held annually in Nagoya, Japan.

The 'Akari-bi Festival' will feature riveting readings and engaging talk shows, presenting the historical and cultural significance of lighthouses. Nakai, known for his outstanding roles as Roronoa Zoro in 'One Piece' and Hijikata Toushirou in 'Gintama', will portray the character representing the Kamoi Cape Lighthouse, located in Hokkaido. Together with fellow voice actors, including Toshiyuki Morikawa, Yohei Azakami, and Sōnosuke Hattori, he will contribute to this extraordinary celebration in Nagoya.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: Lantern Guardian 'Akari-bi Festival' - A Reading & Talk Show with Voice Actors
• - Date: August 1, 2026
• - Schedule:

- Part 1: 16:30 - 17:30
- Part 2: 19:00 - 20:00

Both parts will feature unique content, each lasting approximately 60 minutes. Any changes will be communicated through the official event page.

• - Venue: Aichi Arts Theater, Large Hall
• - Original Work: Lantern Guardian
• - Director (Reading Play): Nobuhito Nakayashiki
• - Script (Reading Play): Yumei Yoshida
• - Production Company: Gouch Brothers
• - Co-organizers: Lantern Guardian Production Committee / World Cosplay Summit Executive Committee

For detailed updates, visit the special page: Akari-bi Festival Special Page

Ticket Information

Ticket prices (all seats reserved, tax included):

• - SS Seat (Admission for both parts): ¥17,000
• - SS Seat: ¥9,000
• - S Seat: ¥8,000
• - A Seat: ¥7,500

Sales Schedule:

• - Early Lottery Sales:

- Starting on May 12, 2026, at 12:00
- Apply here

• - First-Come, First-Served Sales:

- Starting on May 23, 2026, at 12:00
- Purchase Tickets

• - General Sales:

- Starting on June 6, 2026, at 10:00

Tickets can be purchased through various platforms, including Ticket Pia, ePlus, and Lawson Ticket.

Additionally, there will be an online streaming option available for fans who can't attend in person.

Merchandise and Cosplay Participation

On event day, exclusive 'Lantern Guardian' merchandise will be available for purchase at a special booth within the venue. Stay tuned for announcements regarding items on sale through the official site and social media.
Cosplayers interested in participating can apply to join the event. The application period is from May 12 to May 24, 2026. More details can be found on the official World Cosplay Summit special page: World Cosplay Summit.

About the World Cosplay Summit

The World Cosplay Summit, held annually in the summer in Nagoya, is touted as one of the largest cosplay conventions globally. Since its inception in 2003, it has attracted participants from over 40 countries, with visitor numbers surpassing 250,000. It serves as a vibrant platform for global exchange and cultural interaction, celebrating the love for Japanese pop culture, including anime, manga, and gaming.

The event will occur from July 31 to August 2, 2026, featuring various activities, including the prestigious World Cosplay Championship and a citywide celebration of cosplay. Significant landmarks of Nagoya will transform into stages for incredible displays of creativity.

Join the Adventure

Don't miss the chance to explore and celebrate the unique cultural intrigue of lighthouses through the 'Lantern Guardian' project! Discover more about the characters and updates on the official website: Lantern Guardian Official Site.

For more insights into World Eggs Inc., visit their official site World Eggs.