I agree. It is acting a persona. The people beneath aren't at all like the character they project. I'm pretty sure if you were to meet the mascots and the people portraying them you would then be disappointed as they wouldn't be at all like what you expect.

Do you have to go all the way to Japan? There are, I understand, fan groups out there pertaining to mascots and the like. Perhaps you might make a connection with one of these and get a feel for if this is right for you.

Also you are 22. What other interests do you have to build upon?