Cosplay has long been an essential part of anime fandom in Japan. For many fans, it is not only a way to express love for a character but also a chance to showcase creativity and individuality.
Recently, a survey conducted by NEXER INC. revealed the top 10 anime characters most desired by Japanese women for cosplay in 2025.
Usagi Tsukino: An Irreplaceable Childhood Icon
Unsurprisingly, Usagi Tsukino from Sailor Moon ranked first. Despite debuting decades ago, Usagi remains a timeless cultural icon. Her sailor-style blue-and-white uniform, paired with charming accessories and iconic poses, continues to captivate generations.
One survey participant commented, “The sailor uniform has always been my dream,” while another noted, “The poses are easy to recreate and always look beautiful in photos.” This mix of nostalgia and practicality secures Usagi’s place as the queen of cosplay.
Variety in Cosplay Choices
Second place went to Kiki from Studio Ghibli’s Kiki’s Delivery Service. Her long black dress and oversized red bow earned praise for being “simple yet adorable”. One participant in her 40s reflected, “It’s easy to put together, and I loved this movie years ago.”
Classic figures like Fujiko Mine (Lupin the Third) and Maetel (Galaxy Express 999) prove that mature, stylish characters retain their appeal. Fujiko, with her wavy brown hair and glamorous figure, was described as “the embodiment of feminine beauty.” In contrast, Maetel’s long blonde hair and mysterious black cloak struck a chord with older respondents, especially women in their 50s and 60s, who admired her as a “sophisticated lady.”
Full Ranking of the Top 10 Female Cosplay Choices in 2025
- Usagi Tsukino – Sailor Moon
- Kiki – Kiki’s Delivery Service
- Fujiko Mine – Lupin the Third
- Maetel – Galaxy Express 999
- Shinobu Kocho (Demon Slayer) & Frieren (Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End) – tied
- Nezuko Kamado – Demon Slayer
- Conan Edogawa – Detective Conan
- Maomao – The Apothecary Diaries
- Lum – Urusei Yatsura
What Influences Women’s Cosplay Choices?
The survey also highlighted that ease of cosplay plays a major role in women’s choices. Simple outfits, like those of Kiki or Conan, are highly favored for their accessibility. On the other hand, characters with iconic and nostalgic designs, such as Usagi Tsukino or Fujiko Mine, remain popular because of their cultural significance.
Ultimately, cosplay for Japanese women is not just about imitation it is an act of personal expression, nostalgia, and admiration. And at least in 2025, the moonlight of Sailor Moon’s Usagi Tsukino still shines brightest in the hearts of female cosplayers.
Sources: GameK
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