Kawaii Nippon Expo

Harajuku meets Akihabara at this large-scale 'idol culture' bash, held in Chiba's less-than-trendy Makuhari Messe. Visitors can shop for all the idol merchandise they'll ever need at the 'Idol Yokocho', while performers include some of Harajuku's hottest names like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Shoko Nakagawa and Yun*chi, as well as actress Ayame Goriki, 'solo idol' Ayami Muto and Akiba darlings Dempagumi.inc. Best of all, everything's completely free of charge (although registration via the official website is required).