[Cyclamen]

Please keep in mind that the word "otaku" has two very different meanings in western and japanese cultures.

In the so-called western countries, an otaku is just a person who loves manga, videogames and anime.

In Japan, an otaku is a person with heavy psychlogical problems, a maniac, totally obsessed with his passion. He/she can't relate to anybody, except with a few other otakus, and thus can't have a normal life.

So, be very careful when you label yourself as an "otaku" in Japan. You will be *always* watched with suspect, and some people would instantly leave you and run away. Obvioulsy, not everybody hates otakus, but the majority of japanese citizens are scared by them. Being called an "otaku" in Japan isn't a good thing at all!