The summer highlight for anime geeks and gamers is here again. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran of the ACGHK (Animation, Comics and Games Expo), better known as Ani-com, keep these useful tips in mind before you head for the cute and quirky cartoon spectacular…

Do bring a suitcase
Leave the recycled bags at home and stuff all the comic books, figures, posters and other treasures you’ve bought in your valise so you can stroll through the packed-to-the-rafters exhibition hall like a boss.

Don’t hug
Last year, an infamous ‘hugging activity’ in which fans lined up to hug pseudomodels on a stage resulted in backlash from moral do-good groups. Organisers are still deciding whether to let the event go on this year – but probably best to play it safe and keep your hugs to yourself (or your partner, of course).

Do dress up
Join cosplay groups all the way from Japan, China and Taiwan, as well as the Hong Kong costumed crowds, to show your support for your favourite anime characters. Accessorise accurately to make sure you don’t become a laughing stock in front of the veterans.

Don’t camp out
Exhibitors are banned from selling limited products this year so it’s not worth the effort to queue up early without these hard-to-get goods.

Do buy tickets in advance
Get your $20 tickets from any 7-Eleven and Circle K so you can skip the ticketing booth on your arrival and hit the comic booths running.

John Yip

The Ani-com runs at the HKCEC from July 27 to 31. For more details: ani-com.hk.