Your first HanaCon

Is this your first HanaCon, or your first convention at all? Here is how a visit works, from getting ready to heading home.

Tickets: You can get them in advance in the ticket shop and at the box office. Prices and ticket types are listed in the shop.
Date, place and opening hours: You will find everything on the Info page.
Getting there: You reach the CongressCentrum Wienecke XI in Hannover by tram line U1 (stop “Wiehbergstraße”) or by car. The Info page explains all routes and parking.
Cosplay: If you come in costume, read the cosplay rules first. Some props are banned, others are checked at the entrance.
With children: Children up to 13 need an authorised adult companion (Muttizettel). More under Awareness and safety.

You get your entry wristband at the box office or the wristband counter. With it you can leave and re-enter the venue as often as you like during opening hours.

If you bring props, go to the cosplay check at the entrance first. They check what you may take in.

The info desk at the entrance next to the box office is your point of contact for questions. The lost property office is there too.

There is a cloakroom as well. It can only be reached via stairs and is therefore not accessible. If you need help, the HanaCon team will support you.

HanaCon is a convention for Japanese and Korean culture. On site you will find, among other things:

Stage: Performances by bands, performance groups and more on both days.
Workshops and talks: Talks on Japanese and Korean culture and curiosities, plus hands-on workshops.
Mirror Room: Creative hands-on workshops and signing sessions with guests.
HanaHall: The largest area, with vendors and exhibitors.
Artist Alley: Creators show and sell their own work.
Bring & Buy: Second-hand finds from fellow visitors, a kind of flea market with fixed prices.
Café HanaBon: The themed café with maids and butlers.
Gaming Room: Indie games to try.
Karaoke: Anime openings and J-/K-Pop hits to sing along.
Matsuri: Our take on the traditional Japanese folk festival, with games and activities.

Which areas are part of this year’s event is shown in the menu and in the programme. Words you do not know yet are explained in our glossary.

Cosplay is allowed at HanaCon. Make-up and masks must be suitable for all ages and must not contain banned symbols.

Always ask for permission before you photograph someone, and make sure not to disturb anyone or block escape routes. More under Photography and filming.

If you have questions or problems, the info desk at the entrance next to the box office helps you. HanaAid, our team for first aid and awareness, is on site. Just approach them if you need help. A large team of volunteer crew members also takes care of order and support. If you feel uncomfortable, use our safe word.

The whole site is on a single level, and there are ramps at the entrance. Companions of people with a disability get a free ticket. All details are on the Info page under Accessibility and Families and children.