Japan Expo 2024, held from July 11 to 14 at the Parc des Expositions de Paris Nord Villepinte, was once again a successful celebration of Japanese culture in all its forms. This annual event attracts a diverse and passionate crowd, harmoniously blending pop culture and traditional Japanese elements to offer a rich and varied experience for all visitors. Every corner of the festival was packed with discoveries, from manga and anime stands to martial arts demonstrations, concerts and craft workshops.
One of the most memorable moments of this year's festival was the stand dedicated to the world of Cobra. This area paid tribute to Buichi Terasawa, the talented creator of Cobra, with an exhibition of magnificent drawings that perfectly illustrated the author's overflowing imagination. Visitors could admire an impressive collection of original illustrations, each revealing the richness and complexity of the Cobra universe. These works of art transported spectators into fascinating interstellar adventures, demonstrating Buichi Terasawa's creative genius and the depth of his stories.
In addition to the drawings, the stand also offered an exclusive preview of various merchandise related to Buichi Terasawa's work. Cobra fans could find figurines, posters, clothing and other collectibles, allowing them to take home tangible mementos of their immersion in this iconic universe. This diverse offering delighted collectors and fans of the series, reinforcing Cobra's enduring appeal.
In addition to its visual and material impact, the Cobra exhibition at Japan Expo 2024 underlined the importance of Buichi Terasawa in the world of Japanese comics. With a career spanning more than 40 years, Terasawa has created fantastic new worlds that continue to captivate readers the world over. In collaboration with publisher Isan Manga and the Japan Expo festival, a collector's edition has been published, retracing the exceptional career of this visionary. This 300+ page book brings together previously unpublished documents, images and interviews, offering a fascinating rediscovery of Terasawa's work.
Cobra, Buichi Terasawa's flagship creation, is a Japanese manga set in the distant future. It tells the story of an adventurer of the same name who, to escape his enemies, changes his face and erases his memory. Cobra eventually recovers his memories and resumes his adventures alongside his partner, Lady Armaroid. The series blends elements of spaghetti westerns, samurai tales and various cinematic influences from James Bond to Disney, creating a unique and captivating mix.
Since its first publication in Weekly Shōnen Jump in 1978, Cobra has enjoyed phenomenal success. The series has spawned numerous spin-off works, including animated films, TV series and video games. With 50 million copies sold, Cobra remains one of the most popular mangas of all time. Its influence extends beyond Japan's borders, notably in France, where the series gained immense popularity in the 1980s.
The festival site at Paris Nord Villepinte was a bustling hub of activity, with thousands of attendees exploring the many offerings available. The Artists' Alley was a highlight of the festival, showcasing a wide range of original works and fan creations. Visitors could discover books, figurines, accessories and cosplay items, offering something for all tastes and ages. This diversity helped to create a dynamic and immersive atmosphere, where everyone could find something to satisfy their passion for Japanese culture.
Japan Expo 2024 reaffirmed its status as a major cultural event, attracting visitors from all over the world and celebrating Japanese culture in all its forms. From manga and anime to traditional crafts and modern technology, the festival left a lasting impression on its attendees. This year's edition not only rediscovered classics such as Cobra, but also explored new trends and innovations in Japanese culture. The timeless appeal of this culture, combined with the power of social media, ensures that Japan Expo will remain a fixture on the cultural calendar for years to come. Visitors left with a renewed appreciation of Japan's rich cultural heritage and a palpable excitement for future editions.
Our selection of photos from the Buichi Terasawa Cobra Stand at Japan Expo 2024
Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville