Author Sue Lynn Tan on Weaving Romance in Chinese Fantasy Stories

Those who are part of fandoms aren’t strangers to cosplay. In fact, it’s an integral part of the community, one that allows each member to express their admiration and love for a particular show or character. Also known as costume play, this performance art form is where individuals dress up as their favorite characters from various forms of fiction, including TV shows, comics, and video games. 

But cosplay is more than just wearing colorful wigs and elaborate costumes, it’s an expressive art form that involves embodying the characters’ persona, which cosplayers often showcase at conventions and events. During the recently concluded Cosplay Carnival, we got to witness otakus at full force as they paraded in their cosplay get-ups, and we were both amazed and impressed by their creativity and efforts in creating their respective looks. But among the casual cosplayers were also the pros, the bona fide cosers who have made a name for themselves online with their impressive cosplay projects. One of them was Hong Kong cosplayer and streamer Baobao.

We caught up with the Malaysia-based coser as she met with her avid Filipino fans, taking the opportunity to get to know her more — from her inspirations and favorite characters to her advice on pursuing a career in costume play. 

Pursuing a Childhood Dream

Baobao’s cosplay journey began like any passionate endeavor: as a dream. The cosplayer shared with us what sparked her interest in cosplaying, and how the first time she pursued it was a challenging adventure on its own.   

“Since I was young, I always dreamed of becoming the characters I love — like wanting to be Sailor Jupiter and having her toy wand! While studying abroad at university, I finally made that dream come true. I started cosplaying as a hobby because I loved the characters so much and wanted to become them.”

“I still remember my first convention — AniManGaki in Malaysia. I walked two kilometers in full costume under the hot weather from my dormitory just to attend! That experience really marked the beginning of my cosplay journey.”

As for who she cosplayed, it was Asuna from “Sword Art Online!” Baobao described the character as her all-time favorite waifu (“wife” in anime fandom) who inspired her to start cosplaying. She also mentioned that despite attending her first convention alone, Asuna gave her the courage to pursue something she had always wanted to do. This had also led her to form many wonderful friendships with fellow fans who share the same love for Asuna, showing that this art form is not just about creating costumes but also about forming meaningful connections. 

Baobao’s passion for cosplay has allowed her to meet fellow enthusiasts and anime fans as she’s often invited to events and conventions across the region. Since starting in 2012, the cosplayer has grown a massive online following with over 659k on Facebook alone. Meanwhile, her most viewed TikTok reel has amassed over 2.8 million views, which was her appearance at Anime Fest Malaysia dressed as Yor Forger from the anime “Spy Family.”

If you scroll through her content, you’ll often see her cosplaying impressive female characters from popular shows and video games. When asked what kind of cosplayer she believes she embodies, she answered, “A waifu-loving cosplayer! I’m always drawn to waifus who are brave, courageous, and have a kind heart! But overall, I’d say a friendly cosplayer because I love interacting with my fans.”

Cosplayers are known for their creativity as seen from their elaborate costume pieces, which are mostly handmade. It’s one of the things that makes the activity a little intimidating if you’re not that clever with handicrafts or have a good eye for fashion and styling. But Baobao pointed out to us that being good at something only requires persistence and practice. 

“When I first started, I didn’t know how to apply makeup at all! I had to learn step by step, taking screenshots of character details and trying my best to recreate them. Even now, I’m still learning and improving!” 

She also shared that although she doesn’t create full costumes, with most of them being commissioned, she’s still heavily involved in the process from requesting the fabrics she believes would best suit the character to crafting her accessories, which she admitted was something she enjoys doing. 

As for the preparation process? Baobao told The Beat Asia that it takes her approximately two hours, but if the costume is complicated, it usually takes more time — at least two and a half hours!   

“Nana and Theresa from ‘Honkai Impact 3rd,’” Baobao said when asked about her most difficult cosplay projects. “Nana was challenging because I had to do full-body paint, which kept smudging and coming off. It was a struggle to keep it looking good throughout the event. On the other hand, Theresa was tough because I wanted to recreate the exact pose from the artwork, but the wig was super heavy, making it hard to move naturally.”

Baobao also expressed that there are challenges to being a full-time cosplayer despite it being a viable career to pursue, such as dealing with various misconceptions about the craft and having to learn how to budget properly. The latter, she admitted, she struggled with because she would often spend too much on her costumes. 

“A big misconception is that cosplay is just about being sexy or being sexualized. But in reality, cosplay is about bringing a character to life and staying true to their originality. It’s a form of self-expression and passion!”

For those who want to follow in Baobao’s footsteps and achieve professional success in the world of cosplay, she advised, “Try starting it as a secondary career first. See if your earnings can cover your commitments before going full-time. That way, you can build a stable foundation.”

Pursuing a passion or hobby requires hard work, but in the world of cosplay, you can be sure that you can do it while having fun. At least, that’s what we’ve observed through our conversation with Baobao. When asked about the best part of her job, she mentioned the connections she has made through cosplay being the highlight of her career.  

“Meeting people from all over the world has been one of the best parts of this journey. It makes me so happy that cosplay has brought me opportunities to guest at events in different countries like Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand! I’m looking forward to attending more conventions and visiting new countries! I also want to cosplay more childhood characters this year — so stay tuned!”

You can follow Baobao on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram for updates on her latest cosplays and event appearances. 

If there’s one cultural event that has Hong Kong abuzz this spring, it’s the return of The French May Arts Festival (French May) 2025 and the French GourMay Food and Wine Festival 2025 (French GourMay). 

French May and French GourMay are more than just an arts and F&B showcase; they are a full-blown celebration of French creativity, taste, and spirit — literally, so secure your ticket, grab a fork, and dive in!

What is French GourMay?

Nothing celebrates French culture quite like its exquisite food and wine. French GourMay is Hong Kong and Macau’s premier festival dedicated entirely to French gastronomy and spirits. 

Organized by Business France, this month-long celebration in May brings the finest flavors of France to the heart of Asia, offering unforgettable culinary experiences.

This year's 16th edition is all about French spirits, from Cognac to Calvados. Over 150 partners across restaurants, bars, retailers, and markets are coming together to toast to tradition — and a bit of indulgence.

Throughout May, Michelin-starred restaurants and cozy neighborhood bistros will serve up exclusive French menus. Picture Armagnac-glazed duck, flambéed mains, and Calvados-infused crème brûlée.

This year, French May will be showing delightfully buttery and flaky pastries from French ingredients suppliers: seven distinguished bakeries in Hong Kong and one renowned establishment in Macau.

In France, the digestif — a small but significant drink like Cognac, Chartreuse, or French whiskey — finishes a meal perfectly. If you’re more into cocktails than cuisine and want to lift your spirits, you’ll want in on the citywide bar-hopping extravaganza, featuring French spirits. 

In partnership with Whisky Magazine, bars around town are crafting cocktails using French spirits, inviting guests on a self-guided tour with a splash of fun. You can even collect stamps along the way that can be redeemed for rewards later!  

The French GourMay Food and Wine Festival also offers a unique chance to delve into French spirits through expert-led tastings and culinary workshops. 

Specialized learning centers will unveil the artistry behind renowned French liquors and showcase their diverse uses in gastronomy. 

For those who want to learn more, there are tastings and workshops led by experts in the industry. Expect deep dives into distillation, food pairings, and even a few rare vintages usually reserved for insiders.

Shop the French Way

Retailers are getting in on the action too. All month long, wine shops, gourmet boutiques, and online platforms will feature deals on rare French liquors and fine foods — perfect for bringing a little bit of GourMay home with you.

agnès b. CAFÉ is a prime example, unveiling limited-edition cakes at all their cafes and their online store to honor their 30-year anniversary in Hong Kong and celebrate French May. 

Enjoy authentic French flavors with the Fleur d'été (Tropical Fruit Cheesecake) and L’amour (Sea Salt Caramel Vanilla Cake). Don’t miss their La Belle Fleur, a Rare Sugar Pink Guava and Strawberry Cake — a standout dessert embodying a delicate rose. 

Don’t Miss the Markets

Set a reminder for the French GourMay Markets as well for the full experience. Take a stroll through gourmet stalls, sample fine food and spirits from all over France, and enjoy live cooking demos. Catch these at Central Market from May 1 to May 5, 2025, and at Nina Mall from June 6 to June 8, 2025. 

What is French May Arts Festival?

Since 1993, French May has grown into one of Asia’s biggest cultural festivals and a fixture on Hong Kong’s creative calendar. 

This year is the 32nd edition, themed “Vive L’art – In Art We Live," bringing together French and local artists for a lively mix of theatre, film, dance, music, and more. French May aims to attract not just the French community in Hong Kong, but also the Hong Kong visitors, inviting a vibrant cultural dialogue.

With over 60 events stretching from Mar. 15 to July 13 in just about every corner of the city, this is a cultural takeover like no other. 

Whether it’s a contemporary art show or a free hip-hop performance, the festival’s mission is to make art accessible to all. As a result, there is something for every kind of cultural appetite, from ballet lovers to indie film buffs, from jazz heads to classical music purists.

Some of the highlights include The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series “Picasso for Asia – A Conversation” at M+ (Mar. 15 to July 13) which kicks off the showcase, and Hong Kong Ballet’s rendition of the romantic “Giselle” at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (May 30 to June 8).

Catch cellist Gautier Capuçon performing Shostakovich (May 8 to 9), jazz trumpeter Erik Truffaz (June 7), and the explosive dance-circus crossover “Corps extrêmes” (May 30 to June 1). 

Cinephiles can also look forward to the curated French May Cinema Program, from May 20 to June 4, 2025, across Broadway Circuit cinemas, organized by the Alliance Française de Hong Kong. 

Prepare to see cinema at its best, from French films taking place in Asia (South Korea and Japan) to retro classics, a tribute to Maria Callas, and documentaries by director and photographer Chantal Stoman. 

Or if you want to tune in onscreen, RTHK is also presenting Cinema Enchante by screening La Vie en Rose, The Intouchables, Léon: The Professional and more iconic French films!

French May’s outreach programs also extend outside concert halls, bringing guided tours, free performances, and creative workshops to schools, local communities, and public spaces across the city.

Plan Your Festival Calendar

Here are a few more dates to pencil in:

• Le Bal at Tai Kwun (May 9 to 11, May 13 to 18) – a striking mix of street performance, music, and movement celebrating the Belle Époque period  
• Trio Wanderer’s Hong Kong debut – for classical music fans (May 14 and 17, City Hall)
• Jazz Female Duo – Paris Rendezvous (June 6, City Hall) – a cross-cultural collab between Joyce Cheung from Hong Kong and Sarah Lancman from France
• Echoes of the Heart (June 14, Cultural Centre) – with Cantopop star Jay Fung and French singer Joyce Jonathan.
• Souvenirs, a poignant theatre piece at Sheung Wan Civic Centre (June 14 and 15)

How to Get Tickets

You can find the full program details at French May’s website, Instagram, and Facebook. Visit French GourMay’s website, Instagram, and Facebook.

French May Arts Festival 2025:

Location: Hong Kong City Hall, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Space Museum, Sheung Wan Civic Centre, Kwai Tsing Theatre, Sha Tin Town Hall, Tuen Mun Town Hall 

Various prices of admission.

Tickets for official French May events are already available for purchase via URBTIX on French May's website. 

French GourMay Food & Wine Festival 2025:

Multiple Locations and varying prices of admission.

The Beat Hong Kong's Up and Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from Hong Kong, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and to promote the music they (and us too!) would love for the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at [email protected] or slide through our DMs on Facebook or Instagram!

Hong Kong’s music scene has long thrived on its homegrown talents, and Luna Is A Bep is no exception. 

A staple of Hong Kong’s alternative music scene, known for her razor-sharp Cantonese lyrics and experimental spirit, Luna is set to electrify the stage at this year’s Star Street Blok Party.

Luna has been nurturing her creativity since posting her rap lyrics on online platforms as early as 2018, songs which transform everyday observations and social dynamics into sonic gold. 

Based in Hong Kong, her music traverses different styles, from Hip Hop and Cantopop to Drum and Bass, a sound that is as unpredictable as the city she calls home.

Her raw, authentic style has quickly gained traction, earning her spots on ViuTV’s Chill Club and the 903 Music Awards. Luna also clinched the Best Electronic Music Single at the Tone Music Awards 2022 for her track "每當幻變時."

As she gears up for her performance, The Beat Asia caught up with Luna to talk about her creative process, the evolution of her music style, and playing the upcoming neighborhood bash. 

How did you come up with your name "Luna Is A Bep?"

In 2018, I started posting songs anonymously and wanted a fun stage name. "Luna" is my real name, so I thought of "Luna something." It was originally "Luna Is A Bitch," but I changed it to "Beep." When I made my Facebook page, I made a typo, and it became "Luna Is A Bep," which doesn’t really mean anything.

How did you get into rap and why pursue music?

I come from a grassroots background, and Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) opened my eyes to art. My music reflects local experiences, like Hong Kong’s busy life and social issues.

How would you describe your music and how has it evolved over time?

It’s hard to define—it's very much "me" and evolves over time, often being quite honest.

My taste has shifted. I choose music styles that fit the themes [of the song]. My latest song "到時" is a ballad about my father's loss, and I felt a Cantonese pop vibe suited it best.

Are you experimenting with different styles in the future?

Definitely! I’m exploring my feminine side, and I want to create related concept art.

Can you describe your creative process and where do you go for inspiration?

I focus on staying chill and letting inspiration flow, without a strict routine.

[I find inspiration] everywhere! Conversations, people watching, traveling, and life’s ups and downs.

Which artists impact your music the most?

I didn’t have an idol growing up, but The Low Mays back then really inspired me to embrace wild ideas. I love their absurdity and freedom.

Do you take an on-stage persona? How do your live shows differ from studio work?

I do! I'm more introverted offstage, but onstage, I connect with the audience and enjoy making them laugh. 

What do you think about Hong Kong's underground scene?

Social media has changed things. We used to have strong online communities; now it feels more about self-branding. But creativity is alive, and the younger generation's visual sense is more promising now.

Are you excited to perform at Star Street's Blok Party?

Yes! This is my first gig this year after my solo show in January. I appreciate every opportunity to showcase my work and can’t wait to see the audience!

What's next for Luna Is A Bep?

I’m taking a break. As the world slows down and AI tech moves fast, I want to stay calm and prepare for the next steps. I’m researching concepts and working on music, focusing on quality without rushing!

Stay connected to Luna Is A Bep on her website, Instagram and Facebook. 

Details on Luna Is A Bep's Star Street Blok Party Performance:

Location: Starstreet Precinct

Time: Friday, Apr. 18, from 2:40 PM to 3:25 PM

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.

Ready for another summer weekend filled with good music, high spirits, and water gun fights? 

After its successful inaugural run last June 2024, South Korea’s Waterbomb Festival will be making a powerful return this 2025! 

In their announcement posted last Apr. 8, 2025, organisers of the much-awaited Waterbomb Festival said that “water splashes and music will once again bring the heat back to Hong Kong!”

Waterbomb Music Festival: Music, Water, and A Whole Lot of Fun

First held in 2015 in Seoul South Korea, the Waterbomb Music Festival, or Waterbomb, is an annual summer music festival blending music, water, and epic water fights. 

Artist lineups to the summer event usually include some of the biggest names in the K-pop, K-Hip Hop, and K-R&B genres, such as Jay Park, Jessi, Hwasa, HyunA, and more. 

According to the organizers, “music, water, and passion” will once again come together to bring in new exhilarating moments for festival goers to enjoy. 

Waterbomb Hong Kong 2024

Hong Kong was able to enjoy South Korea’s much-anticipated Waterbomb Festival for the first time last June 1 to 2, 2024, at the AXA x Wonderland in West Kowloon. 

Last year’s lineup included popular Hong Kong artists like PACT, Tony Yu, Yao Chen, and TIAB, who electrified the Waterbomb stage with its headliners Jay Park, Jessi, HyunA, Loco, Yugyeom, Kwon Eunbi, Rain, and more. 

Follow Waterbomb Hong Kong on their official Instagram page to know more details! And stay tuned to The Beat Asia for more updates and let us know who’s on your Waterbomb Hong Kong 2025 Artist Wishlist! Visit our Instagram for more details.

Those mourning the vibrant celebrations of Art Month, get ready to dive into a world of creativity again as the 12th edition of Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong (AAF) takes over the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from May. 22 to May. 25, 2025.

With 98 local and international galleries showcasing contemporary masterpieces—all under HK$100,000—this is your chance to snag stunning art without breaking the bank.

From rising stars to established names, the fair brings together top galleries from across Asia-Pacific and beyond, many veterans of the global Affordable Art Fair circuit. 

Plus, this year’s GREAT Art zone, curated by Wong Ka Ying in collaboration with the British Consulate General Hong Kong, spotlights the bold, dynamic creativity of UK artists, adding an exciting cross-cultural twist.

Don’t miss the spotlight on emerging talent with Young Talent Hong Kong, curated by Peony Hung, where five rising artists explore themes from generational connectivity to environmental awareness. Highlights include Jason Chan’s pixelated sculptures made from recycled plastics and Aria Chan and Irene Lee's mesmerizing printworks.

Families, take note! Art Loop will bring interactive workshops and tours for kids (ages 4–12), while adults can join a one-time-only Saturday workshop with award-winning Hong Kong illustrator Kitty N. Wong from 2 PM to 4 PM, presented by Young Soy Gallery. 

Acclaimed artist Eleanor McColl, a long-time exhibitor and staple of the Hong Kong Arts Collective, will also lead an exclusive artmaking session for grown-up creatives, complemented by a free glass of wine.

Travel through time with Century of Glory – Kai Tak, a collaboration with Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), featuring 20 artworks reinterpreting the old airport’s legacy. And for pure sensory delight, this year's Special Projects will unveil six unique projects exploring connection, cultural identity, and tradition vs modernity. 

Step into The Tiny Smile’s vibrant, interactive installation or explore Li Shudan’s whimsical Fruit Market, featuring 365 hand-carved wooden apples—with a special surprise reveal!

Prices for the Opening Night and Fair Pass are HK$340, General Admission is priced at HK$195, Family Morning (minimum purchase 2 tickets or above) is priced at HK$180, and Concession (senior citizens aged 65 or above and full-time students) is priced at HK$145. Get your tickets here!

For a full list of the participating galleries, visit their website here, or find AAF on Instagram and Facebook for more details. 

Location: Address: Hall 1D – E, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai

Opening Night Hours: Thursday May. 22, 2025, from 4 PM to 9 PM 

Public Opening Hours: Friday May. 23, 2025, from 12 PM to 9 PM, Saturday May. 24, from 10 PM to 8 PM, Sunday May. 25, from 10 PM to 7 PM 

Family Morning Hours: Saturday 24 May, from 10 AM to 12 PM, Sunday 25 May, from 10 AM to 12 PM.  

Everyone, say hello to CHIIKAWA! 

One of Japan’s cutest obsessions, CHIIKAWA, is having its first-ever official pop-up at Harbour City in Hong Kong from Apr. 2 to 27, 2025! 

Presented by local lifestyle brand NIKO-NIKO, this highly anticipated pop-up store measuring 3,000-square-feet will be bringing over 400 adorable and authentic CHIIKAWA merchandise from Japan, with some exclusive, limited-edition items that will only be available at Harbour City. 

This pop-up is the first official one in Hong Kong, featuring a range of official printed T-shirts, stationery, plushies, lifestyle items, and trendy fits you’ll surely want to cop!

Plus, from Apr. 9 onwards, 21 classic Japanese figurines and charms will be released with limited stocks, with a purchase limit of one per design — so you’ll have to be quick to not miss out on it! 

The pop-up will also have three cute photo spots, including a two-meter-tall plushie display wall with over 600 CHIIKAWA dolls and a 10-meter-long photo wall for cute pictures and selfies with your favorite CHIIKAWA characters!

Make A Wish with Chiikawa at the CHIIKAWA Wishing Garden!

Harbour City is bringing the charmingly pretty CHIIKAWA Wishing Garden to Ocean Terminal! The spring-themed garden has three wishing trees, with Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi waiting for everyone to come in and make their wishes!

The garden also has a cute photo wall for fans to capture some shots from their time there! 

After spending HKD$300 or more at the pop-up store, fans can redeem a CHIIKAWA Wishing Card, where they can write down new CHIIKAWA merch they’d like to see in the future, or express their love for CHIIKAWA, and hang it on the tree right after!

Location: CHIIKAWA Wishing Garden, Atrium, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City

Fans are encouraged to pre-register at KKday for priority entry to the pop-up! Same-day tickets will also be distributed during designated time periods at the pop-up store. Register here!

Don’t miss out on this chance to see Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi, and to cop exclusive CHIIKAWA merch! Follow NIKO-NIKO on Instagram for more information and sneak peeks. 

Who is CHIIKAWA?

Chiikawa is the main protagonist of the Japanese manga and anime series “Chiikawa” or “Nanka Chiisakute Kawaii Yatsu”. Their name is derived from the Japanese title meaning “Something Small and Cute.”

They are creatures of unspecified species or gender that’s small, cute, and easily moved to tears. They also express themselves through sounds, and they often say “Yada” or “Iyada,” a childish way of saying “no” in Japanese. Their best friends are Hachiware, a bicolor cat, and Usagi, a rabbit. 

Location: Ocean Terminal, Main Concourse, Harbour City, 3 – 27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Time: 11 AM to 9 PM (Last entry: 8:30 PM)