What is Oshikatsu?
Oshi (推し) – means the person or thing you wish to support
Katsu (活) – means activity (as seen on our blog about Nuikatsu!)
An Oshi can be a real person, like an idol, actor/actress, or athlete, or a character from an anime, manga, or video game. Sometimes, an Oshi can even be non-living things such as trains or historic artifacts! Anything which gives you the drive to want to “support” them, can become an “Oshi.”
Many people in Japan these days participate in Oshikatsu by purchasing merchandise of their Oshi, or making their own. Oshikatsu is about sharing and spreading your love for your Oshi, and celebrating each other’s Oshis! Anyone can participate!
In this blog, we will also share a fun, easy craft to make your very own Oshikatsu merch!
**For the purpose of this blog, we will be using the term “Oshi” to refer to the person, creature, or character being supported in Oshikatsu.
5 Ways to Participate in Oshikatsu!
A wise woman once said, “You do not start Oshikatsu because you chose it—the Oshikatsu life chose you.”
Jokes aside, if you have an athlete, idol, vtuber, or character you have been supporting, you most likely have already been participating in Oshikatsu activities. Here are 5 different ways people in Japan (and all over the world) enjoy Oshikatsu!
1. Collection Merch
(Image Source: Niko)
Collecting is at the core of Oshikatsu. Whether you purchase multiple copies of the same merch, or create a more varied collection, you (and your wallet) decide what to add!
Then, you can share your collection with others, or keep them to yourself. It is always a joy to decorate your spaces with merch of your Oshi!
2. Itabag
(Image Source: Niko)
Show off your merch by decorating an itabag with them! Many anime stores in Japan sell itabags of many sizes and shapes. You are sure to find one that’s perfect!
Itabags always have a protective plastic layer to make sure your merch is safe inside! Don’t want to risk anything being damaged during an outing!
3. Oshikatsu Fashion
(Image Source: Classy Online)
Sometimes, Oshikatsu doesn’t have to be so obvious or flashy. Find colours, trinkets, and items that are inspired by your Oshi and incorporate them into your outfit or makeup! A lot of official merch is more a motif than an exact replica of a character or person, which makes using them in daily life easier. Feel the power of your Oshi motivate you through a tough school or work day!
4. Attending Events
(Image Source: Amigo)
Going out to events, themed cafes, or concerts to cheer on your Oshi is all part of Oshikatsu! Some people may go out to visit the “sacred place” associated with their Oshi and show it off on social media. Feeling the presence of your Oshi physically truly helps elevate your daily life!
Even if you are not wanting to post photos of yourself, people often take photos of these events with their merch instead!
Of course, these aren’t the only ways to participate in Oshikatsu. As long as you are having fun and not hurting anyone else, anything goes! It is important to enjoy Oshikatsu with respect.
5. Handcrafted DIY Merch
(Image Source: Japan Wonder Travel Blog)
Sometimes your Oshi may not be so mainstream (yet). So, there is either very little or no official merch of them. But worry not! There are many resources available so you can make some oshi goods for yourself!
Even if your Oshi has official merchandise, handcrafting custom goods is a way to show off your love for your Oshi and expand your ways of supporting them. Plus, it works even when you are on a budget!
Let’s make some original merch!
We will be making easy merch with this Hamepachi Keyholder! This can be found on Rakuten!
Making original merch is perfect when your Oshi does not have much merch, is an original character, or you simply do not have the funds to purchase official merch. It may not always come out the way you wanted, but making one-of-a-kind items of your Oshi is a sure way to show your love for them!
Conclusion
Oshikatsu has grown in popularity in Japan, and now many stores sell and promote items which make Oshikatsu easier than ever! Whether it be merch, customizable trinkets, or themed outfits, there are so many ways to celebrate your Oshi! If you are looking to elevate or start your Oshikatsu life, DEJAPAN can help you purchase Japan exclusive items!
Feel free to submit an order for any of the products featured here (or anything else) via our Request Form.
If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to contact us! We’d love to hear from you.
