Nipponbashi Street Festa – Cosplay Ettiquete? Should I get changed close the event or can I commute

Hello,

Last May I happened to be in Den Den Town and walked straight into the annual street cosplay event without realizing it was on. Got off the train, turned a corner, and suddenly there were cosplayers everywhere. I was kicking myself for not bringing anything and decided that next time I’m in Osaka around that period, I’ll come prepared.

I’m aware that in Japan it’s generally not the norm to wear cosplay on public transport the way it is in some other countries, so I wanted to check what the usual expectations are for this kind of event.

The costume I’m planning to bring is a morph suit with a Colossal Titan mask. It’s not bulky and fits easily in a backpack. I know reactions and attention aren’t really the point here, and I don’t want to cause discomfort or be seen as disrespectful.

Would it be better etiquette to change closer to the event area rather than wearing it on the train? Are there any general rules or things locals usually do for this event (changing areas, mask etiquette, timing, etc.)?

Any advice from people who’ve attended or live nearby would be appreciated.

Thanks.