Anikura 101

Like most cultural phenomena in Japan, the culture around Anikura is highly ephemeral and constantly changing and evolving. DJs will play the untouched, original version of the song, though remixes (particularly dance-themed remixes) are also common, depending on the style of specific DJ and event. DJs are traditionally accompanied by a video DJ (VDJ or VJ) whose job it is to play corresponding video clips displayed on a projector to match the current song: the most straightforward example is to play a clip of the associated anime opening and transition in sync with the DJ into the next opening. DJs typically play only the shortened version of the song, known to fans as the ‘TV size’ version, to maintain momentum throughout the event.

A prominent fixture in certain anikura crowds is the presence of fans who practice coordinated cheering and dancing known broadly as wotagei (ヲタ芸 ) and originates from the recognizably unique movements that define fans of idol culture. Anikura audiences tend to be practitioners of a variant of wotagei known as chikagei, which is much looser, freeform, and does not use glowsticks, making it more appropriate in a club environment.

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The most common move seen at anikura events is called thunder snake: performed during the chorus of the majority of anime openings and insert songs.  It can be seen in the first video below at the 30-second mark.