Z. Nurkholishoh 

International Relation Department, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, Indonesia 

A. Trihartono 

International Relation Department, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, Indonesia 

F. Albayuni 

International Relation Department, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, Indonesia 

D. Ismail 

Cordoba Islamic University, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia 

DOI: 

ABSTRACT 

Soft power refers to the ability to influence international audiences by engaging them through cultural appeal. Through cultural diplomacy, a country strengthens its image and identity. In carrying out cultural diplomacy, Japan uses cosplay as part of its Cool Japan program to strengthen its soft power in local communities in Indonesia. This study analyzes how knowledge and accessibility of cosplay as Japanese pop culture among enthusiasts affect their acceptance and shape their perceptions of Banyuwangi's local cultural identity. The research location is Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, Indonesia. This study uses a quantitative explanatory method, interviewing 100 cosplay enthusiasts to examine what factors influence their acceptance of cosplay and whether it can influence their love for Banyuwangi's local cultural identity. Using analyzed partial multiple regression, this study found that Banyuwangi residents' perceptions and attitudes toward cosplay are positive, indicating that cosplay is effectively used as a tool of Japanese soft power diplomacy. However, cosplayers have not lost their love for Banyuwangi's local cultural identity. This research helps determine how effectively cosplay functions as a tool of Japanese cultural diplomacy through soft power at the local level. 

Keywords: Cosplay, Soft power, Cultural identity, Japan, Banyuwangi