What I cosplay
Choosing one’s first character to cosplay is a daunting task. Some say they got into cosplay because they wanted to be a particular character and worked hard to get the costume and props right. I, on the other hand, as I was unsure (and still am) about the role I should play in my journey to the cosplay world. Should I focus on being a cosplayer, a blogger, a photographer, or reporter at events? This problem has not quite resolved on its own, which is why I decided to be all of the above. I get to cover all bases, so to speak, but unfortunately I can’t really focus and spend much time on any one. It meant that I can’t have a lot of time perfecting a costume.
In the end, I just decided on something easy to make, wear and carry, The ANBU from Naruto became my first (and probably only) character since the costume only consisted of a mask and cloak. As it was easy to wear at a moment’s notice, I was able to move around event venues easier to take photos and get some quick interviews. Since then, my costume evolved a bit with the addition of a few accessories and my 5-foot customized billhook cleaver named “Rena,” a charcter from Higurashi no Naku Koro ni. Now my costume consists of a standard active type ANBU, which I thought was more appropriate when outdoors.
What is ANBU?
ANBU is short for Ansatsu Senjutsu Tokushu Butai, which literally translates to “Special Assassination and Tactical Squad.” They are a group of elite ninjas in the fictional world of Naruto, the anime series. They carry out dangerous missions like assassinations, torture, spying and reconnaissance over enemy territory. Being chosen as ANBU is a great honor, as only the best ninjas get to be considered for entry into the group.
ANBU refers to the group as well as the individuals themselves. Their distinguishing feature is the porcelain mask most of them wear to hide their identity. The ANBU of Konoha typically have animal-motifs for their masks, like ones resembling cats, foxes or birds.
The typical ANBU of the village of Konoha have standard uniforms which consist of black clothing and chest armor reaching the waist, metal arm guards or bracers, fingerless gloves, sandals, and a ninjato, or ninja sword. They also sport a a signature spiral tattoo resembling the village symbol on their arm. Particularly high-ranking ANBU are said to wear cloaks over their standard uniforms.
Notice: Images are from the Naruto anime and belong to their respective owners, and were taken from the ANBU page of Narutopedia.
