They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but for the devotees of Tokyo Marui, the recent absence of a grand reveal at the All Japan Model & Hobby Show 2025 felt less like a romantic parting and more like a collective case of the vapours. However, dear readers, we now have a splendid spot of good news to smooth ruffled feathers: the company will be lifting the veil on their latest innovations at the Tokyo Marui Festival 2025, which is scheduled to take place next weekend, the 8th and 9th of November.

The anticipation is, naturally, palpable. This event, taking place at Bellesalle Akihabara, serves as an essential pilgrimage for anyone remotely interested in the sport. They shall be displaying the new additions to their legendary lineup, alongside models that are apparently in the latter stages of development, perched precariously on the precipice of release. One can only hope that their development schedule is as sharp as the engineering in their latest Gas Blow Back pistols, which have certainly caused a stir earlier in the year.

A crucial element to note for those planning their visit is the rather sensible, albeit necessary, division of the venue into two distinct zones: the "18+ Area" and the "All Ages Area." This segregation is based entirely upon the target age of the exhibits and products, a direct acknowledgment of the strict regulations that govern the sale and use of airsoft guns in Japan. Entrance Gate 1 is reserved exclusively for those who are a minimum of 18 years of age, ensuring a measure of decorum and legality.

Those under the age of seventeen must utilise Entrance Gate 2, which leads directly to the "All Ages Area." This arrangement is in stringent adherence to local "Youth Development Ordinances" across the prefectures. These regulations stipulate that airsoft replicas intended for those under 18 years must have a firing power not exceeding 0.135 joules. Guns exceeding this rather modest power limit are simply forbidden to be sold or transferred to younger persons, making the age check more than a mere formality—it is a matter of legal compliance and safety.

For those of us old enough to remember dial-up internet and questionable fashion choices, the "18+ Area" offers a unique opportunity for both education and enjoyment. This is where they will be hosting the Safety and Skill Improvement Experience Corner, with notable experts such as firearms and knife writer Hiro Soga and competitive shooter Takeo Ishii offering short, informative lectures. It is here that one can receive guidance on handling handguns in a manner that is both safe and, dare we say, rather stylish.

The event's famed Shooting Experience Corner is, quite rightly, divided as well, with the main range reserved for those aged 18 and over, utilising the full-power airsoft guns. They will be on hand to guide attendees through safe operation, a necessary bit of handholding for the uninitiated. A few common-sense precautions are strictly enforced: the wearing of goggles always (available for complimentary rental, no less), keeping fingers off the trigger until the final moment, and, crucially, never, ever pointing the muzzle at anything that is not the target. No one wishes for a sticky situation at an airsoft jolly.

However, the younger enthusiasts, and those of a nervous disposition regarding potential bruising, are by no means forgotten. The "All Ages Area" is hosting a variety of exhibits, including the intriguing VR Airsoft Experience Corner. Here, visitors can try their hand at virtual reality airsoft combat on the official Tokyo Marui survival game field. While they recommend bringing one's own motion sickness medication, it promises an exciting, and entirely bruise-free, way to enjoy the thrill of the game.

Furthermore, both age categories can explore the Exhibition and Experience Corner, which will feature a large selection of airsoft guns that punters are actively encouraged to handle. Getting a real feel for the weight and texture is, after all, a far more gratifying experience than staring wistfully at a computer monitor.

The Airsoft Learning Corner is an 18+ area dedicated to introducing you to the exciting world of airsoft, which includes one of its most popular game types, the "survival game"! We'll cover all the basics of airsoft, ensuring you understand the necessary rules for safe and fun play, as well as providing guidance on what to wear so you can be fully prepared for the field.

The inclusion of a dedicated Merchandise Corner and a Tie-up Exhibition Corner, featuring collaborations with the 'Scavengers: Another Sky' manga and 'Hot Spring Shark' film, ensures there is a little something for everyone, even if one's interest in imitation firearms is purely peripheral.

The "Girls & Airsoft Guns ver.9," will feature the collected works of popular illustrators, including original illustrations created specifically for this event that will be on display at the venue. Please note that this area is restricted to ages 18 and older.

Ultimately, the Tokyo Marui Festival 2025 is shaping up to be far more than just a consolation prize for the no new product announcements at the All Japan Model & Hobby Show. It is a genuine celebration of the hobby, an opportunity to see, touch, and shoot some of the finest airsoft guns in the world. They gather at Bellesalle Akihabara, offering an inviting atmosphere for both veterans and the curious newcomers—and as they are not charging an entry fee, if you are in Tokyo next weekend and thinking about airsoft, then this is an event that you should be at.