Local and regional fans of anime and Japanese popular culture can look forward to seeing the latest and most popular content with fresh eyes this Anime Festival Asia from 11 to 13 November.

This annual festival, which will be held at Suntec City Convention Centre Halls 402 to 404, takes on a multi-dimensional approach with open discussion sessions with top character designers and behind-the-scene industry experts.

Fans of anime songs can take part in concert marathons which will be held with one of the largest groups of top-tier anisong artists, featuring May'n (pictured right), FLOW, LiSA and others, ever to perform in an event outside of Japan.

Popular favourites such as the merchandise areas and the highly successful maids and butler cafes will return to offer visitors a shopping and dining experience to remember.

Other key highlights of AFA 2011 include:

• Stage activities and movie screenings
• Merchandise galore
• Maids and Butler Cafes return with fresh faces and a new look

Tickets for the festival start from $8 onwards for a basic one-day pass to the festival grounds, and will be available online as well as at the festival grounds in October.

For more information on the festival and ticketing details, check out www.animefestival.asia and www.facebook.com/animefestivalasia.