Hours and Location:
Q: When and where is AkibaFest?
A: AkibaFest will take place on October 15 and 16 in the Little Tokyo area of downtown Los Angeles. The main exhibition area is at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC) Plaza, located in the heart of Little Tokyo. Additional panels and screenings will be held at the Doubletree Hotel. Ticketed film events will be held at the Aratani Theater and Downtown Independent Theater – just a short walk from the JACCC Plaza.
Q: What are the hours at AkibaFest?
A: The main exhibition/panel hours are 10:00AM until 6:00PM on both days. Screenings at the off-site venues will continue after 6:00PM. Please see the schedule for more details: http://www.akibafest.com/schedule.html
Q: How do I get to AkibaFest?
A: Please refer to our Map/Access page for more information: http://www.akibafest.com/map.html
Registration, Tickets, and Ticketed Events:
Q: I bought my ticket to AkibaFest online – Where do I pick up my wristband?
A: Bring your confirmation email (printed or mobile) to the on-site pickup window in our Registration tent at the JACCC Plaza. Registration will be open from 9:30AM until 6:00PM on both days.
Q: Pre-Registration Tickets for 2-Day Access and Saturday are sold out – Will tickets be available on site
A: Yes, a limited number of 2-Day, Saturday, and Sunday passes will still be available for on-site purchase at the AkibaFest registration tent on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: I purchased a General Admission Ticket (2-day, Sat. 1-day, Sun. 1-day) – What does this include?
A: Your general admission ticket will grant you access to the main exhibition area at the JACCC, as well as all of the panels, video rooms, and autograph sessions at the Doubletree Hotel. Access to ticketed films IS NOT INCLUDED with your general admission ticket.
Q: Do I need a separate ticket for the screenings at the Aratani and Downtown Independent theaters?
A: Yes, all of the screenings at the Aratani and Downtown Independent theaters require an additional ticket, which can be purchased online or on-site. More information regarding these ticketed events can be found at www.akibafest.com/films.html
Q: Do I need a General Admission Ticket to attend the ticketed films?
A: No, you just need a ticket for the specific event. This applies to all screenings at the Aratani and Downtown Independent theaters.
Q: Do I need a General Admission Ticket to enter the Maid Café?
A: Yes, a general admission ticket is required. There is also an additional cover charge for the Maid Café.
Q: Do I need a General Admission Ticket to join the After Party at the Downtown Independent?
A: No, a general admission ticket is not required. However, there is a cover charge for the After Party.
Q: I purchased a ticket to (X ticketed film) online – Do I need to go to the on-site registration tent first or can I go directly to the theater?
A: You can either bring your confirmation email to the on-site registration tent or go directly to the theater – Tickets can be processed at all three locations (registration tent, Aratani, Downtown Independent).
Q: Is there a discount for kids?
A: Yes, children 5 and under will be admitted free of charge. (Age determined as of October 15, 2016) All children (13 and younger) must be accompanied at all times by an adult (18+) with a paid admission ticket.
Q: I bought a ticket online but can’t attend anymore. Can I get a refund?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot give refunds on any of our tickets, but you can transfer your ticket to another person if you are unable to attend. To transfer, please send an email to info@akibafest.com before the event.
Autograph Sessions:
Q: Do I need an additional ticket for the autograph sessions at the Doubletree?
A: No, access to the autograph area is included with your general admission ticket (2-day, Sat./Sun. 1-day).
Q: Does my general admission ticket guarantee an autograph during each autograph session?
A: No, the autograph sessions will be accessible on a first-come, first-served basis. We encourage you to come early to wait in line – a designated area waiting area will be available thirty minutes prior to each session.
Q: What kind of items will the guests sign?
A: As a general rule, only one item will be signed. All items must be officially licensed. Bootlegged products and fan art will not be signed. The final decision to sign or not sign is subject to our staff’s discretion. Attendees are recommended to bring a backup item.
Other Useful Information:
Q: Can I take pictures and video?
A: For the most part, you’re welcome to take still pictures and video at AkibaFest. Note that recording and photography are not permitted during the Panels, Screenings, or Autograph Sessions.
Q: I heard there will be a giveaway at the end of some ticketed films – How do I enter the raffle?
A: Your numbered theater ticket will be used as a raffle ticket. You must be present to claim the raffle prizes.
Q: Is there an Artist Alley?
A: No, there will not be an Artist Alley at this year’s AkibaFest.
Q: What do I do if I find/lose something?
A: Please bring all found items to the Event HQ/Information booth at the JACCC Plaza.
