RSS
Kotaku
The Japanese economy is being powered by dorks. The Nomura Research Institute estimate that the total otaku market is worth $4.11 billion US. The group broke down the subculture in each individual bracket and estimated their value. The institute defined "otaku" as someone that spends the majority of their money and time on their hobby.
"Animation" took to the largest share of money with fans spending an estimated $830 million US last year. Other sizable categories were "Idoru" at $610 mil, "Computer Assembly" at $360 mil and "Video Games" at $210 mil. The lowest ranking otaku hobby was "Trains," racking up $40 mil. a year. Oddly, "Fashion" came in at $130 mil. I'm not sure if the results refer to label whores or cosplayers, because most otaku I know dress like bums.
Full results after the jump.
Full Results in Japanese [NRI]
