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Frequently Asked Questions


General Questions

  1. When & Where is San Japan :3 happening this year?
  2. Do I need to dress up in a costume in order to attend San Japan?
  3. Is there a minimum age in order to attend San Japan?
  4. If I buy I membership badge, does it cost extra to enter the Cosplay Show or go to the concert?
  5. What are some of the general rules for San Japan including cosplay, events, dance and other things?

Travel Questions

  1. What airport should I arrive into? How far away is the convention location?
  2. What is the minimum age to rent a car?
  3. I am coming from another country. What should I know about traveling to the United States?

Hotel Questions

  1. What is the minimum age to rent a hotel room?
  2. Does the hotel have high-speed internet?
  3. Are cheaper accommodations available?
  4. Is there a charge for parking?
  5. What about elevators?
  6. Where can we get food?

Photography / Videotaping / Media Questions

  1. Is photography allowed?
  2. What if I do not want to be photographed?
  3. Will videotaping be allowed?
  4. I am a member of the media. Can I cover this event?

Programming Questions

  1. I have an awesome idea for programming that I'd like to help with. Who can I talk to?
  2. What kind of programming will be available at San Japan?
  3. How can I be a panelist?
  4. Can I use space in the convention area for a private function?

Cosplay Questions

  1. Will cosplay be welcome at San Japan?
  2. What type of events will be available for cosplayers?

Safety Questions

  1. I know of a potential safety risk. Who can I talk to about this?
  2. How is safety being handled at San Japan?
  3. What is San Japan's policy on weapons, props and cosplay attire?
  4. What about water guns and silly string?
  5. I'm worried about someone threatening me at the convention?

Volunteering Questions

  1. How can I volunteer?
  2. Can I volunteer for a specific function?
  3. What do I get for volunteering?

Miscellaneous Questions

  1. What is the San Japan room party policy?

General Questions

  1. When & Where is San Japan :3 happening this year? San Japan is happening on July 9th-11th, 2010 in downtown San Antonio, Texas on the famous Riverwalk at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter Hotel located next to the Rivercenter Mall. All events will be happening at the hotel.The address is:
    San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter Hotel
    101 Bowie Street
    San Antonio, Texas 78205
     Back to top
  2. Do I need to dress up in a costume in order to attend San Japan? It is not required at all. You will see a lot of people who will be dressed up but all we ask is to bring yourself and try to have fun at San Japan. Back to top
  3. Is there a minimum age in order to attend San Japan? San Japan is an all-ages convention. However, if you are under the age of 13, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian who is 18 or above on-site. Back to top
  4. If I buy I membership badge, does it cost extra to enter the Cosplay Show or go to the concert? No, it does not. Your membership badge is your ticket. We will NOT be charging you to see the big band we're bringing in or charge to enter the cosplay show. Also, we will not be charging to play on the arcade games (like DDR). We want everyone to enjoy all the fun they can with just their badge. Back to top
  5. What are some of the general rules for San Japan including cosplay, events and other things?
    • Treat the Hotel and Convention staff with Respect.
    • Convention Staff, Guest, and Attendees may not engage in any activites that are prohibited by law. If it is illegal anywhere else, it is illegal at San Japan (And don't think otherwise).
    • Convention Staff, Guest, and Attendees may not be in possession of any item defined as a weapon, Illegal or not. (See Weapons Policy for more detail.)
    • Convention Staff, Guest, and Attendees may not bring any animals onto the premises, with the exception of ADA Working Animals.
    • Badges must be worn at all times, and must be visible.
    • Shoes must be worn at all times.
    • No Sleeping in any Convention Areas at any time. This applies to video room and events room at the hotel.
    • Alcohol is not permitted in Convention Space. -ZERO TOLERANCE-
    • Usage or Possession of illegal drugs is strictly forbidden. -ZERO TOLERANCE-
    • Signs will not be allowed at the convention unless the sign is part of a costume/cosplay (I.E. Genma from Ranma 1/2). This includes 'Free Hugs', 'Will ____ For ____' or any other similar signs. Any signs that is not obviously apart of a costume will be confiscated by the safety team. Blatant disregard or multiple violations of this rule will not be tolerated.
      We aren't trying to be mean, this is to cover our behinds as it falls into huge gray areas of the laws under solicitation.

    • Harassment of any type is forbidden. -ZERO TOLERANCE-


    FYI - Violation of the preceding rules are grounds for Immediate Expulsion from the Convention (Without Refund), as well as contact of the local authorities based on the severity. Also, please read all rules thoroughly. Ignorance is not an excuse for breaking the rules.     .

  6. Addendum Rules for Cosplay
    • Cosplayers may wear lyricals in place of shoes.
    • The Convention reserves the right to deem a costume as unacceptable and request that the wearer make modifications, or change entirely. (Just do not walk around the convention space with hardly a sliver of clothing. Only consider wearing the costume if you would gladly wear it in the middle of the Riverwalk for EVERYONE to see it).
    • Weapons must be checked by Safety Staff.
    • Review Weapons Policy for in depth information regarding weapons.
    • No Live Steel of any kind. This includes blades, chains, blunt, etc.
    • If you wish to have photos taken with Live Steel, there will be an area set aside near the Safety Desk.
    • Please be mindful of your costumes.

    Events/Lines
    These rules are in place for the sole reason of getting you to the event sooner and with less hassle. The closer everyone abides by them, the less hang ups we have, and the sooner you get back to what you love.

    • Keep lines single file, and stay close to the wall/barricades.
    • No cutting.
    • Do not argue with the staff if they attempt to correct you or give suggestions.
    • Keep in mind that the staff is not yelling at you, but they have to speak loudly enough for the entire line to hear which can be difficult at times. The convention is LOUD. The staff has to BE LOUD in order for everyone to hear us. Don't take OFFENSE to it.
    • Completely fill in seats. Try not to leave empty spaces. We will ask everyone to move in next each other for popular events.
    • Any event specific rules will be announced at the start of the event. Please listen while they are being announced.

    Dance Rules
    For the most part, Safety will attempt to stay out of your way, however as time has proven, we are a potential necessity in this environment. If you see someone in violation of these rules, don't be afraid to help our your fellow Attendees, and politely point it out to them.

    • No Bags larger than a hand bag are allowed. This includes: Laptop Bags, Backpacks, Duffle Bags, and messenger bags.
    • Safety will not watch bags/items for you, Period. Take your items to your vehicle or room before attending the dance.
    • Safety Staff reserves the right to bar entry, with good reason.
    • Safety Staff may initiate a voluntary bag/pocket check for contraband.
    • Nothing attached to a string/chain that can be swung are allowed on the main dance floor (A safety area will be set up for this).
    • No cosplay props or weapons are allowed into the Dance area.
    • No Lightsabers.
    • Shoes must be worn at all times.
    • No fighting, or Dance Fighting. RAVE CIRCLES ARE ALLOWED.
    • If you have a history of seizures, asthma, or heart attack, please AVOID the Dance. The heat and flashing lights may trigger attacks.
    • Be mindful of those around you at all times.
    • No means No. Harassment will not be tolerated. If you are being Harassed, please indicate so to one of the Safety Members.
    • Any solicitation of Alcohol or Drugs, will lead to an Immediate Expulsion from the Convention (Without Refund), as well as contact of the local authorities.

    Back to top

Travel Questions

  1. What airport should I arrive into? How far away is the convention location? You'll want to fly to San Antonio International Airport (SAT). It is 8 miles from the Airport to the Marriott Rivercenter so we recommend looking into transportation to the hotel before arriving. They do not offer a free shuttle service. Back to top
  2. What is the minimum age to rent a car? Rules vary between companies. Most require a valid, insured driver to be 25 years old, though some will allow 21-year-olds to rent. Check with your car company for more information. Back to top
  3. I am coming from another country. What should I know about traveling to the United States? Please follow all guidelines and instructions to the letter. Be prepared with at least three forms of current identification and full details about your travel plans including how you plan to get to your location and full contact information. If you are not sure, contact your airline or a travel agent; they should be able to assist you. Back to top

Hotel Questions

  1. What is the minimum age to rent a hotel room? You will need to be at least 18 years old with a major credit card. Contact the hotel if you have questions about policies and setting up your reservation. Remember, hotel rooms are $117+night ($133-$135 total with tax) a night and limited by the amount of rooms allocated to our group. Back to top
  2. Does the hotel have high-speed internet? Yes, the hotel has free wireless Internet in the lobby area and it is $12.95/night in the hotel room. Back to top
  3. Are cheaper accommodations available? While there are other hotels in the vicinity, we ask that you stay in the convention hotel. The very financial future of the convention is dependent on us booking a certain number of rooms. You'll have a much more pleasant experience if you stay at the convention hotel - you're just minutes from the action instead of a hot walk in July. Back to top
  4. Is there a charge for parking? Parking is $13 day IF you are staying at the Marriott AND the room is under your name. Parking around the area in garages is $18-$25/day. Uncovered parking is $5-$12/per day. Beware: they do tow unauthorized vehicles. Back to top
  5. What about elevators? All activities at the hotel will be on the third floor. There is a elevator for disabled people at the and there will be escalators too. Back to top
  6. Where can we get food? Snacks will be for sale at the Marriott Rivercenter including Japanese snacks. There is a food court at the Rivercenter and eateries in walking distance. For places to eat around the convention, check out the Essential Information Page. Back to top

Photography / Videotaping / Media Questions

  1. Is photography allowed? It's more than allowed - it's encouraged! Back to top
  2. What if I do not want to be photographed? You can request that the person not take your photograph or simply walk away. Back to top
  3. Will videotaping be allowed? Videotaping for PERSONAL USE will, of course, be permitted. However, videotaping for any commercial or revenue project will not be permitted at San Japan without the consent and accompaniment of the staff. We do encourage videos to be placed on YouTube.Back to top
  4. I am a member of the media. Can I cover this event? Please contact the Press Coordinator for more information. Back to top

Programming Questions

  1. I have an awesome idea for programming that I'd like to help with. Who can I talk to? Please e-mail the Events Director with your proposal or post it on the message forum. Back to top
  2. What kind of programming will be available at San Japan? As an Anime convention, we will be bringing you two viewing rooms, gaming (both live action and console), industry panels, and more. Further, as a cultural convention, we will be bringing you panels, performances, and demonstrations of Japanese culture. Please refer to our Events page for more details. We should have our full schedule posted by beginning Summer of 2010. Back to top
  3. How can I be a panelist? THANK YOU! Go to our message forum with your suggestion. We would love to hear them. Back to top
  4. Can I use space in the convention area for a private function? Sorry, but liability and space constraints prohibit us from offering this. You may setup a meetup on the message forum. Back to top

Cosplay Questions

  1. Will cosplay be welcome at San Japan? ABSOLUTELY! Back to top
  2. What type of events will be available for cosplayers? Stay tuned for a list of events to be offered! We are planning to have workshops, panels and demonstration along with the always expected Cosplay Masquerade on Saturday evening of the convention. Back to top

Safety Questions

  1. I know of a potential safety risk. Who can I talk to about this? Please e-mail the Safety Director. Back to top
  2. How is safety being handled at San Japan? Safety is being handled in-house by our trained staff this year and we will have off-duty police officers on hand at the Hotel. Back to top
  3. What is San Japan's policy on weapons, props and cosplay attire? If you have anything that could possibly be considered a weapon, do the smart thing and take a trip to the Safety Desk as soon as you enter the Convention. Here are the rules for weapons at San Japan:
    • NO LIVE STEEL OF ANY TYPE. PERIOD!
    • NO FUNCTIONING AIRSOFT, PELLET, BB, OR WATER GUNS. PERIOD. They must have the orange tip and be presented to my safety desk as non functional and not able to hold water or ammo in any form.
    • IF IT IS NOT PG-13 AND ABLE TO BE LEGALLY WORN IN PUBLIC IT WILL NOT BE WORN AT SAN JAPAN. PERIOD. There will be children present and we are in public folks.
    • NO METAL SPIKES ON COSTUME OR BRACELETS AND SO FORTH THAT CAN HURT SOMEONE ELSE. YOU ARE IN A CROWDED VENUE.
    • NO PLAY FIGHTING OR SWINGING YOUR PROPS.
    • YOU CAN CARRY YOUR PADDLES, BUT YOU SWING THEM OR HIT SOMEONE THEN YOU WILL BE ESCORTED OUT OF THE SHOW.
    • SHOES MUST BE WORN WITH ALL COSTUMES. You may take them off for pictures, but please remember to put them back on.
    • Lastly, you MUST have your badge on at all times to show you paid to be in the show. Make sure when you costume it is still visible. Moving it or taking it off for pictures is fine, but please remember to put it back on.
    • If Safety decides a Weapon is too dangerous you will be asked to return the item to your room/car. If you take this as a mere suggestion, you will be expelled from the convention without refund.

    A discussion thread has been setup on our forum if you have any questions.

    Back to top

  4. What about water guns and silly string? Please leave these at home. We have a good relationship with our hotel so we don't want to damage anything, thereby damaging our relationship with them. Back to top
  5. I'm worried about someone threatening me at the convention? Safety at the convention is designed to keep the attendees safe and everyone happy. They are not body guards. We suggest you avoid said person. If you ARE threatened on the convention floor, do contact safety and we will be on it immediately. Safety will be wearing bright color shirts which are easily recognizable. Back to top

Volunteering Questions

  1. How can I volunteer? Thank you! San Japan is always looking for volunteers to help out around the convention. Here is the quick rundown:
    • We are doing a new system where volunteers pay $20, work 8 hours, then get a $30 voucher for the dealers room. Work 6 hours per day at the convention = Free badge
    • Work 18+ hours at the convention = Free badge & Crash space (pending availability)

    You will need to work at mininum 5 hours a day to receive any perks and over 6-7 hours a day in order to get crash space at the convention.

    Please check our Volunteer page for more information on lending a hand. A volunteer table will also be set up at the convention. Back to top

  2. Can I volunteer for a specific function? All our volunteer needs are being coordinated through our Volunteer Director. E-mail the Volunteer Director with your request but keep in mind that we might have to place you where we need you the most. Back to top
  3. What do I get for volunteering? You can check the Volunteer page for information! Back to top

Miscellaneous Questions

What is the San Japan room party policy? It is the policy of San Japan that what goes on in the privacy of a hotel room is not of the convention's concern. However, we do ask that room parties be kept to a reasonable size (remember the fire marshal restrictions) and that the noise be kept at a reasonable volume. Hotel security WILL break up parties that receive complaints. However, if San Japan safety personnel have reason to believe that illegal activities or activities that could threaten the welfare of the convention are taking place at a room party, they have a duty and a responsibility to act to ensure the safety of all involved. Back to top

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