Upon my arrival on Thursday, November 16, I wondered if the intimate space of the Amsterdam Bar & Hall in downtown St. Paul, Minnesota would be able to contain the massive personalities of ATARASHII GAKKO! The four members never hold back–either on or off the stage, it seems–and as fans began to arrive en masse, it was clear that the Twin Cities wasn’t lacking a fanbase for the dance-vocal group currently taking the world by storm.

Just under three weeks prior, ATARASHII GAKKO! had performed for a whopping 8,000 fans at their first arena concert, held at the famed Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Now, they were preparing to walk out to a crowd of only a few hundred, most with cocktails in hand and lyrics memorized. The majority of the concertgoers seemed more than passingly familiar with the group, though a few bewildered onlookers couldn’t possibly have been prepared for what the night would bring. Needless to say, although the stage was quaint, the concert was anything but. None of the members’ usual energy had diminished, and despite this being the final stop on the U.S. portion of the tour, there wasn’t a hint of fatigue to be found during the hour-long set.

The show was sold out weeks in advance, and plenty of eager fans equipped with glowsticks and wearing the group’s signature socks rushed toward the stage to secure the best spot. Other attendees swarmed the merch booth, eager for a hoodie or bag to show their pride.

For the show to be standing room only was a boon–it’s unlikely anyone in the audience could have remained seated once the four girls appeared following the intro, quickly leading into the high-energy number Seishun wo Kirisaku Hado. Fans were instantly chanting in unison, responding eagerly as Suzuka addressed the room, her enthusiasm bordering on contagious.

Nine years after its formation, ATARASHII GAKKO! Recently announced that the group would be making its Kouhaku debut at this December’s 74th Kouhaku Uta Gassen. The New Year’s Eve staple features performances from the most popular musical acts of the year, proving that the group has found its footing both domestically and abroad.

Fans swatted balloons around and jumped in time to the beat as saisyu jinrui, one of the group’s older songs, began to a sea of applause. Suzuka, Rin, Mizyu, and Kanon didn’t seem phased to hear the largely American audience singing along in Japanese, though their appreciation and joy were palpable as they moved in perfect unison. CANDY and The Edge followed, with the members taking turns asking the audience to raise their hands or clap along. Anyone who wasn’t already a fan was likely converted by the commanding energy sweeping the room, making it impossible not to move along.

During the MC portion, the members showed off their English, asking the audience “do you know Seishun?” They explained that it means “to live your life to the fullest,” and quickly invited the audience to celebrate this important idea. Throughout the show, they would often initiate a call and response, teaching those assembled a few words in Japanese and expressing their interest in returning to America for another tour in the future. Given how quickly the tickets sold out this time around, the sky’s the limit for concerts in the future.
In January, ATARASHII GAKKO! will perform at Nippon Budokan for the first time, ushering in a new era of popularity for the four members. It makes me wonder what massive U.S. venues may someday play home to another of their unforgettable shows. Madison Square Garden? Radio City Music Hall? The Hollywood Bowl?

As the question “Suki?” rang out, the crowd cheered, as Suki Lie has become a fan favorite since its release earlier this year. The girl’s choreography, as usual, was a highlight of the show, with Fantastico and the Yohji Igarashi remix of Pineapple Kryptonite quickly sending the audience into a rhythmic frenzy.

Just in front of me, I watched a couple mimic the vast majority of moves in perfect unison, taking time to laugh and joke when they failed to hit the mark. That’s the essence of ATARASHII GAKKO!–fun. The group represents ‘fun’ in its purest form, asking fans to recall the freedom of youth and to reach out to grasp it one more time, without fear of failure or embarrassment. Dance as if no one is watching, sing along in a language you cannot understand, and dress up in a school uniform despite being in your upper 30s. Why not?

As expected, the entire building shook as fans marched along during the group’s newest release Tokyo Calling. It had been enough of a warm-up, and as each of the girls placed a hand behind their heads, Otona Blue, the group’s magnum opus, rang out to a sea of screams. The track has amassed an incredible response on TikTok over the past year; this, despite being released way back in 2020. ATARASHII GAKKO! performed the song on THE FIRST TAKE, with the YouTube video now sitting at 50 million views. Everyone likely woke up with a sore neck after mimicking the classic choreography during the chorus.

After the explosive energy of WOO! GO! and NAINAINAI, the girls began to say their goodbyes, asking their fans to visit Japan someday and promising to return to St. Paul sometime in the future. Exiting the stage, they returned only a few minutes later after the audience demanded an encore, this time dressed more casually and eager to chat with a few fans at the front, one of whom was holding up a skilled drawing of Suzuka. The singer accepted the gift gladly, with other fans handing bouquets to the other members. As the lights in the venue brightened, the group snapped a few photos with the audience, creating the perfect keepsake for such a perfect night.

No one wanted such an energetic time to end, and the group knew just how to bid farewell to America–with the lively rock track Free Your Mind. The venue became a sea of clapping hands, and the concert came to a close on the highest possible note.

With a performance at Kouhaku fast approaching and their first-ever Budokan show only two months away, it’s almost certain that ATARASHII GAKKO! will return to the U.S. in the future. Until then, American fans will continue to support these four powerhouses from afar, eager for the day we meet–and dance–again.

Report: Carley Garcia

 

USA

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

ATARASHII GAKKO! 新しい学校のリーダーズ(@japan_leaders)がシェアした投稿

On October 28, the idol group FRUITS ZIPPER held their first arena concert at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium and announced that they would perform a solo show at Nippon Budokan on May 18, 2024 to celebrate the group’s second anniversary.

During the concert, the group also performed the new song Kimikoi (Dear you) for the first time. The track is filled with gratitude for the legions of fans who have supported the group since their debut and is available to stream now.

This September, FRUITS ZIPPER’s first nationwide tour ‘FRUITS ZIPPER JAPAN TOUR 2023 -AUTUMN-’ took the girls to Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, and Kanagawa. The tour culminated in a sold-out show at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, the first arena performance for the group. Presale tickets also sold out, and around 8,000 people attended the event. Even before the show started, there was plenty of excitement both inside and outside the venue.

When the show’s opening video began to play, the crowd’s fervor exploded. Penlights incorporating wireless lighting were introduced for this concert, and once the entire venue was flooded with beautiful, unified light, the members appeared. The concert began with Pure in the World, which has been popular throughout the tour. Continuing with Kanpeki Shugide☆ and Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete, the girls were ready to show off their skills in their first-ever arena show.

Once the girls had a chance to breathe, the audience’s cheers echoed throughout the venue. Each member asked the crowd if they were excited, and the fans quickly responded as loudly as they could.

During Fre-Fru Summer!, the girls rode in a giant float that traveled around the arena, bringing the members and fans even closer. Despite the show taking place at the end of October, the vibes inside the arena were entirely mid-summer. As the excitement of the fans grew, RADIO GALAXY began, featuring lasers and other flashy effects, turning the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium into a dance hall. Not letting up, the group transformed the atmosphere into something more emotional, performing Roller Coaster Heart, We are Frontier–remixed for the tour–and Zutto, Zutto, Zutto! The final song of the first half was CO-Kosei, which was performed for the first time at the Kanagawa concert in September and shows off FRUITS ZIPPER’s individuality.

During the halfway point titled WORLD KAWAII CLASSIC, the seven members were divided into three groups and performed a unit song for the first time. First on stage were the friendly Amaren Sisters (Amane Tsukiashi, Karen Matsumoto) to perform their song Pinky Red. The song’s comical lyrics and catchy melody transformed the venue into a sea of cuteness, playing into the pair’s standard interactions. The audience was also excited to see the world’s most adorable JoJo Pose during the performance. The next unit was comprised of Suzuka Chinzei, Yui Sakurai, and Mana Manaka, who performed their song Tenshinranmanwhile showing off both their cute idol-like appearance and their uniqueness. Finally, Luna Nakagawa and Noel Hayase performed Bye-Bye, showing off a next-level melody and rap segment not heard in any FRUITS ZIPPER songs in the past. Fans couldn’t take their eyes off the girls’ performance, which was completely unexpected for an idol concert. During the MC, the members shared the story behind each song and praised one another.

The second half of the show continued with the same incredible momentum as the first. Each member appeared in new costumes covered in ribbons before performing Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru, Welcome to the ♡ Furuppa, and the incredibly popular Happy Chocolate. Yui Sakurai’s line ‘Naani, naani,’ which trended on TikTok earlier this year as ‘Naaze, naaze,’ immediately struck a chord with fans.

During the second half of the show, the girls gave an energetic and cool performance of Re→TRY & FLY as flames illuminated the stage. The voltage in the venue continued to ramp up as the group performed skyfeelan and Going!, making it the perfect environment for FRUITS ZIPPER to perform their new songKimikoi (Dear you) as a surprise. The track is packed with gratitude for the group’s fans who have supported them from the start and urged them to aim higher, through their first CD release, nationwide tour, and solo concert at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Kimikoi (Dear you) was produced with the hope of “continuing to make dreams come true together with the fans.” The lyric-like posts that have been posted on FRUITS ZIPPER’s Twitter over the past few days caused a stir among fans, and all foreshadowing led to this new song. The girls thanked everyone from the bottom of their hearts as they sang the moving lyrics with all of their might.

The concert came to a close with FRUITS ZIPPER’s signature track Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro. As the members danced along to their signature track, many people in the audience did as well. 8,000 people dancing in unison truly embodied the heart of “NEW KAWAII.”

But the concert wasn’t over yet. The members returned to the stage after hearing the audience loudly begging for an encore, thanking the fans for their support. “We’re not done yet, so I’d like to show everyone an even more incredible performance,” said Yui Sakurai. The group filmed a TikTok with the 8,000 audience members as they performed Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, so visit FRUITS ZIPPER’s social media to check it out!

For the encore, the girls performed Kimikoi (Dear you) again, this time allowing the audience to record video. “Let’s get this trending,” said Matsumoto as the performance began.
Suddenly, a video began playing on the large screen on stage, announcing that FRUITS ZIPPER would be celebrating its second anniversary with a performance at Nippon Budokan on May 18, 2024. The members were also speechless, as they hadn’t been made aware of this exciting news. As some of the girls were moved to tears, the fans congratulated them with loud voices and warm applause. Fittingly, the group then sang Chou Medetai Song ～Konnani Shiawasede Iinokana?～, and the entire venue celebrated the overwhelmingly exciting news. The shouts of “Congratulations” rang out louder than ever before at the massive Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

Luna Nakagawa commented on the final performance of the tour with tears in her eyes, expressing her joy at being able to stand on the stage she had always dreamed of. Yui Sakurai, who celebrated her 10th idol anniversary on October 20, also reflected on the day she passed her first idol audition and the day she quit her part-time job to pursue showbiz. “I’m so happy to be able to stand before you all today as an idol, and I’m so glad I came back. Today, I was able to fulfill my dream of making so many people happy, and I hope I was able to repay everyone for their incredible kindness.” Suzuka Chinzei continued with her final remarks. “I want everyone here tonight to be happy,” she yelled with a huge smile on her face before the group launched into their debut song Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete. The girls showed their determination to strive towards the next stage of their careers, and after the song, Luna Nakagawa asked that the lights in the venue be turned off so that the girls could only see the penlights in the crowd. The seven-colored lights illuminating the venue may as well have been beacons leading FRUITS ZIPPER towards their bright future.

FRUITS ZIPPER has had a total attendance of over 16,000 people since its nationwide tour began in September, and is scheduled to perform at Nippon Budokan in May. Fans look forward to seeing what kind of happy performances await them in the future as the girls continue to evolve.

<Member Comments>

Comment from Suzuka Chinzei
“It’s a miracle that we’ll be able to perform at Nippon Budokan on our second anniversary, and it’s all thanks to the fans and people who have always supported us that this dream is coming true. We’ll give the best possible performance as a girls’ idol group worthy of standing on stage at such a legendary venue, so I hope that everyone in the world and the universe comes!”

Comment from Yui Sakurai
“I can’t believe that we’ll soon be standing on stage at Budokan. It’s the goal of every idol, and we’re doing it just two years after our debut. I hope that the fans will look forward to that special day–we’ll work hard and do our best to truly become idols worthy of Nippon Budokan!”

■Set List
OP OVERTURE
M01 Pure in the World
M02 Kanpeki Shugide☆
M03 Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete
M04 Fre-Fru Summer!
M05 RADIO GALAXY
M06 Roller Coaster Heart
M07 We are Frontier -Tour Remix ver-
M08 Zutto, Zutto, Zutto!
M09 CO-Kosei
M10 Pinky Red (Amane Tsukiashi, Karen Matsumoto)
M11 Tenshinranman (Suzuka Chinsei, Yui Sakurai, Mana Manaka)
M12 Bye-Bye (Luna Nakagawa, Noel Hayase)
M13 Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru
M14 Welcome to the ♡ Furuppa!
M15 Happy Chocolate
M16 Re→TRY & FLY
M17 skyfeelan
M18 Going!
M19 Kimikoi (Dear you)
M20 Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro

Encore
M21 Kimikoi (Dear you)
M22 Chou Medetai Song ～Konnani Shiawasede Iinokana?～
M23 Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete

Kimikoi (Dear you) – FRUITS ZIPPER (New Digital Single)

On October 29, ATARASHII GAKKO!’s First Arena Solo Concert 2023 HAMIDASHIHTEIKU was held at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

The four members made their world debut in 2021 as part of 88risinng, a record label introducing Asian culture and artists to global audiences. Recently, they have continued to garner attention for their appearance on the music program Music Station and the premiere of their first-ever television show. Tickets for the first arena show were sold out immediately, including extra sales.

The concert kicked off with MANINGEN, beginning with Suzuka’s commanding vocals as the group suddenly appeared on top of the massive set. The 8,000 fans in attendance were already as excited as they could be, and as Saishuu Jinrui began soon after, the group’s intense performance raised the energy in the venue to even higher levels. The girls even performed covers of Dounimo Tomaranai and Neraiuchi, and Suzuka asked the audience to clap along to these popular songs from the past. Following this, H ZETT M, who produced many tracks on the group’s first and second albums Maenarawanai and Wakage ga Itaru, appeared on stage. Fans cheered loudly for such a major player behind ATARASHII GAKKO!’s early hits, and the girls performed the tracks Koi no Jadanki, zzz, and Koigeba in quick succession, creating a super special collaboration for the audience.

Although the members are typically seen in their signature school uniforms, they dressed up in the American Family costumes they wore in the music video forPineapple Kryptonite for a rare performance never seen at one of their live shows before. The audience roared in unabashed excitement as OTONABLUE, which has garnered 3.1 billion views in related videos on TikTok and subsequently won the 2023 TikTok Trending Grand Prize for the first half of the year, began to play. Fans were eager to move along with the chorus, performing the popular neck-swing dance with enthusiasm.

“Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, can we keep going,” the girls asked as they performed SEISHUN WO KIRISAKU HADO, showing the true extent of their energy. During the interlude towards the end of the concert, the venue was full of over-the-top cheers and dances as fans begged for more.

To bring the show to a close, ATARASHII GAKKO! performed Tokyo Calling, their newest song released on October 20. Wearing their Earth Defense Force costumes that were shown in the music video, Suzuka addressed everyone in attendance. “From Tokyo, Japan, to the world, let’s show our power! You all represent the youth of Japan!”

During the encore, ATARASHII GAKKO! announced that their first solo Budokan concert would be held on January 9, 2024. “You’re all coming, right,” the members called out.

The girls performed a total of 25 songs to an overjoyed sea of fans. ATARASHII GAKKO! will begin their first overseas tour in November, and this rare domestic solo concert ended as a massive success.

■Setlist
01. MANINGEN
02. Saishuu Jinrui
03. Koibumi
04. Suki Lie
05. Giri Giri
06. Dounimo Tomaranai
07. Neraiuchi
08. Koi no Shadanki
09. zzz
10. Koigeba
11. Happy Hormones
12. CANDY
13. Fantastico
14. Pineapple Kryptonite
15. Free Your Mind
16. OTONABLUE
17. NAINAINAI Remix
18. NAINAINAI
19. Pineapple Kryptonite Remix
20. Odoru Honno 001
21. SEISHUN WO KIRISAKU HADO
22. Tokyo Calling

Encore
01. OTONABLUE (Hyperschool Remix)
02. Que Sera Sera
03. Amoeba Toutoshi

The idol group FRUITS ZIPPER has been picking up steam since its debut in February 2022. On September 13, 2023, the group’s first single CD Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro was released, ranking 3rd on the Billboard Japan Top Single Sales chart and 4th on the Oricon Weekly Single Ranking chart. Yui Sakurai, one of the group’s members, celebrated her 10th year as an idol on October 20, 2023. For the next year, the Yui Sakurai 10th Anniversary -IDOL OF IDOLS- project will be held.

Yui Sakurai has amassed incredible support over the past year. Her line “Nani Nani” from the song Happy Chocolate inspired “Naze Naze,” which hit the top spot in the SNS Trending Word Ranking for 2023. Sakurai was also voted #1 in the “Idols Who are Simply Cute” ranking seen on Fuji TV’s program Neru, Shuzai Ittekimasu ~Tokyo Idol Times~.
FRUITS ZIPPER was formed in April 2022, but Yui Sakurai’s roots as an idol began before the group came together. Over the next year, a number of projects and events will take place to celebrate her incredible idol milestone.

The project’s official website was unveiled today and features commemorative goods for sale, as well as comments from the members of FRUITS ZIPPER. A request page has also been opened, allowing fans to send requests to Yui Sakurai detailing what they’d like to see her do for her 10th anniversary.

A live event is also scheduled for December 24, 2023. For the latest information, check FRUIT ZIPPER’s social media.

<Comment from Yui Sakurai>

“I, Yui Sakurai, have been an idol for ten years.

Thank you so much for your continued support!

I treasure sooooo many of the memories I’ve made with all of you, both during the tough times and the happy times. Those treasures have supported me in the past, and they continue to support me now.

This year, to show my gratitude to all of you, I’m beginning my “10th Anniversary Year!”

I just want to give something back to all of you, and I hope that you’re excited to see much more of me in the future.

I’m working with everyone on staff to come up with a lot of ideas, so please look forward to it!” ♡♡♡

Yui Sakurai 10th Anniversary -IDOL OF IDOLS- Official Site
URL: https://yuisakurai-10th-anniversary.com/

The Harajuku-based brand KAWAII MONSTER CAFE has announced a traveling store, KAWAII MONSTER SHOP. As the project’s first event, a Halloween pop-up shop named ‘KAWAII MONSTER SHOP – Colorful Halloween’ will open for 10 days starting October 19 in the birthplace of the brand, Harajuku.

KAWAII MONSTER CAFE is an entertainment restaurant that embodies the vibe of Harajuku in Tokyo, a town that swallows fashion and culture from places around the world and reimagines them into unrestrained originality. Originally opened in 2015 and produced by artist Sebastian Masuda, the colorful and crazy space offered photogenic food and drinks, and guests were served by the iconic Monster Girls clad in future Harajuku fashion. It became a ‘new Tokyo landmark,’ attracting over 700,000 visitors from both Japan and abroad. Even after the restaurant closed in January 2021, its one-of-a-kind concept has lived on in pop-up shops, events, and collaborations with various brands and creators.

The pop-up shop, open in Harajuku for a limited time starting October 19, offers food and drinks, merchandise, special experiences, and photo spots themed around the spooky Halloween season. Additionally, a collaboration with the popular Harajuku accessory store 6%DOKIDOKI will be held from October 19-22. Colorful hair accessories will be on sale, and shop girls with Monster Girls makeup experience will be giving seasonal makeovers to visitors.

■FOOD & DRINK

During the first half of the event, the pop-up shop will be serving food made in collaboration with the hot dog specialty restaurant HOTDOG CAFE STAND STATION TOKYO. The limited-edition menu includes the crazy Monster Dog, consisting of a monster holding a sausage in its mouth, and the monstrous Philly Cheesesteak, made with juicy tenderloin and tons of cheese.

The second half of the event will feature the Colorful Pop Burger Blue Monster (Teriyaki Chicken) from KAWAII MONSTER CAFE’s popular menu, along with French Fries with Monster Dip served with five different colorful sauces. Visitors are welcome to get into the Halloween spirit by enjoying the Monster Float during the pop-up event.

<10/19~10/22 Exclusive Menu>
Monster Dog: ¥880 (Tax Included) *In collaboration with HOTDOG CAFE STAND STATION TOKYO
Philly Cheesesteak: ¥1,350 (Tax Included) *In collaboration with HOTDOG CAFE STAND STATION TOKYO

<10/26~10/31 Exclusive Menu>
Colorful Pop Burger Blue Monster (Teriyaki Chicken): ¥1,200 (Tax Included)
French Fries with Monster Dip: ¥700 (Tax Included)

Monster Float: ¥800 [Rose/Passionfruit/Kyoho Grape]

■GOODS

New KAWAII MONSTER CAFE goods will make their first appearance at this pop-up shop! Guests can visit the Sweets Factory to create their own candy assortment by filling their favorite containers with chocolates, gummies, and other goodies. Harajuku Icing Cookies will also be available in collaboration with SHONPY, a popular cake shop. Be sure to grab some incredible souvenirs!

In addition, popular KAWAII MONSTER CAFE collaboration items from years past will be available, along with adorable plushies from the globally beloved brand Ty. Visitors can also snag some unique zipit pouches and flexible PLUS PLUS blocks starting October 26.

■EXPERIENCE

During the event, KAWAII MONSTER CAFE’s iconic Monster Girls and the character Choppy will greet guests and take photos, as well as shoot cute Halloween-inspired videos together. Visitors wishing to be transformed into Monster Girls themselves can speak to the store girls, clad in Decora fashion and rocking accessories from 6%DOKIDOKI. These ladies will provide POP Harajuku Monster makeovers featuring original tattoo stickers and unique hair accessories to get you ready for Halloween.

■PHOTO SPOT

At the event, guests will find the 3-meter tall Sweets Cake Balloon inspired by the Sweets-Go-Round Cake, the symbol of KAWAII MONSTER CAFE. Surrounded by colorful decorations and captivating monsters, visitors are sure to leave with plenty of special memories.

Guests of all ages are invited to spend the Halloween season surrounded by the unique wonders of Harajuku!

After debuting in March as part of the idol project KAWAII LAB., CANDY TUNE announced that it would hold its first solo concert, -NEW WAY-, on October 18. The group will also hold its first tour in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Nagoya in March 2024.

The tour will kick off on March 16 at Nagoya ReNY limited, followed by Fukuoka DRUM LOGOS, and Osaka Umeda TRAD, before wrapping up with a finale at Tokyo’s Toyosu PIT, the largest venue in the group’s history.

■October 18 Solo Concert Report

Presale tickets for CANDY TUNE’s first solo concert quickly sold out. The venue, Zepp Shinjuku (Tokyo), was overflowing with fans, and when the Overture began accompanied by excited shouts from the members, the energy in the space immediately became more electrified.

The cheers became louder as the girls appeared on stage, starting the show with a new version of CATCH YOU in which each member introduced themselves during the song. Fans called out the names of their favorite members, and as the first number came to a close, the energy changed as TUNE MY WAY began, the members confidently switching to their cool and sharp choreography. Mikanna Seishun followed, showing the group’s variety as the girls captivated the audience with their youthful voices.

CANDY TUNE took the stage in new cute yet elegant costumes for this live performance. “I tried to design costumes with autumn flare that kept to our usual style but was also a little different than usual,” said member Bibian Murakawa. “I want to make this the most euphoric space ever,” said member Shizuka Miyano, her enthusiasm for the concert clear.

Following the first MC, the group continued with Cu Cu Cu Cute, WAO！ AOHARU！, Maewo Muke, and Nanairo Prologue in one go. The audience cheered louder and louder, and keeping up the momentum, CANDY TUNE performed the new song Twilight Dilemma released on October 18. Fans couldn’t take their eyes off the incredible performance, which offered a glimpse of a totally different side of the group. “I think you’ll see an entirely new genre of CANDY TUNE,” said Miyano.

The second half of the show featured Kiss Me Patissier, one of CANDY TUNE’s most popular songs, with a call and response portion from Rino Fukuyama. The members performed with all their might, and as the energy hit an all-time high, the final song hanamaru inspired the biggest cheers of the day.

When the members left the stage, the audience immediately begged for an encore. As the girls returned to the stage, they performed their new song Hissatsu Azato Pose for the first time. The lyrics and choreography of the track are cute and flirty, and during the performance, the members addressed the audience with plenty of flirtatious lines and poses that seemed to strike a chord. “The choreography is simple and cute, making it easy for anyone to dance along! I’d be happy if you learn it and dance at live performances or make it go viral on TikTok,” said Nanako Ogawa.

Miyano had plenty to say about the solo concert. “We’re only able to perform on bigger and bigger stages because of our dedicated fans and staff members who support us. I also think that fate brought these seven cute girls together. Please continue to watch over us as we grow,” she said. As the atmosphere became more emotional, the group performed their well-known track Nanairo Prologue as their second encore song. In the midst of so much excitement, Miyano suddenly stopped the performance, standing in the center of the stage to announce CANDY TUNE’s 1st Anniversary tour, with the finale to be held at Toyosu PIT. The audience was shocked by both the new song and the announcement of such a major milestone.

“Thanks to all the publicity from Ame-chan, we were actually able to achieve our goal of filling up Zepp Shinjuku today. I truly believe that we’ll also be able to sell out Toyosu PIT,” said Ogawa, expressing her sincere gratitude. Natsu Minami, in tears on stage, stepped forward to share her feelings. “Before our debut, the seven of us set this goal. For a while, we thought it might not happen, but thanks to everyone’s love for us, it’s actually coming true. Will you come and see the grown-up version of us on April 27 in Toyosu?”

The audience immediately burst into loud applause, and the excitement remained at a fever pitch as CANDY TUNE performed Kiss Me Patissier one more time to bring the solo concert to an end.

■Set List
CATCH YOU
TUNE MY WAY
Mikanna Seishun
Cu Cu Cu Cute
WAO！AOHARU！
Maewo Muke
Nanairo Prologue
Twilight Dilemma
Kiss Me Patissier
hanamaru

EN
Hissatsu Azato Pose
Nanairo Prologue
Kiss Me Patissier

CANDY TUNE, an idol group from ASOBISYSTEM’s KAWAII LAB. project, released the new song WAO！AOHARU！ on all major streaming platforms today, September 27. The group debuted in March of this year.

Like the group’s popular song Kiss Me Patissier, which has created plenty of buzz on TikTok and inspired a recent music video, WAO！AOHARU！ also features sound production by Naoki Kubo and lyrics by Suu, both from SILENT SIREN. This catchy and fast-paced coming-of-age track expresses the wide range of emotions felt so deeply at a young age, from love and friendship to depression and melancholy. CANDY TUNE expresses their earnest feelings as girls living through the peak of their youth as idols. WAO！AOHARU！ will be performed live for the first time at Nanako Ogawa’s Birthday Event at Spotify O-WEST on September 28.

On October 18, CANDY TUNE will hold its long-awaited first solo concert at Zepp Shinjuku in Tokyo. Tickets are available now from a variety of retailers.

CANDY TUNE 1st Solo Concert -NEW WAY-

小川奈々子生誕祭

An incredible event combining video, music, and fashion, Tomioka Silk Fantasia ~Festival of Silk~ will be held at the Tomioka Silk Mill, a National Treasure and World Cultural Heritage Site. The event will be held with support from the city of Tomioka, Gunma Prefecture, and will run for approximately two weeks starting on October 6, 2023.

Guests will be able to enjoy the NAKED Yorusampo -Tomioka- and Tomioka Silk Fantasia as they explore the historic site. The special event was directed by renowned international director Junya Yamada in collaboration with NAKED Inc., which continues to captivate audiences with its digital artworks including projection mapping and illuminations.

<NAKED Yorusampo™ -Tomioka->

‘NAKED Yorusanpo™’ is an outdoor immersive night walk concept by NAKED. Previously, the unique event has been held in various regions, including the Ikaho Onsen town in Gunma Prefecture and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Zuiganji Temple in Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture, to promote the nighttime economy of different areas. Even in tourist destinations where businesses tend to close early at night, this event breathes new life into the city’s landmarks through illuminations and projection mapping, allowing tourists to make the most of their evenings and supporting measures for dispersed tourism.

Experience NAKED’s grand projection mapping, lantern art, and Flower Fortune while enjoying the night at Tomioka Silk Mill, a national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage site.

＜Tomioka Silk Fantasia＞

On October 14 and 15, guests can enjoy live music and a fashion show on a special stage in front of the Tomioka Silk Mill’s West Cocoon Warehouse. Live music performers include DE DE MOUSE, a composer, producer, and DJ from Gunma Prefecture; bala, a Tokyo-based creative collective of female artists and creators; and Yasushi Yamabe, a taiko drummer active both in Japan and abroad.

DE DE MOUSE

bala

Taishi Yamabe

Visitors will also be able to enjoy a tour of the area between Jyoshu-Tomioka Station and Tomioka Silk Mill in cooperation with local restaurants and facilities. Please come experience a fantastic night in Tomioka City, where silk and fantasy are woven together in a fusion of images, music, and fashion, as if you have entered a different dimension.

Contents

・NAKED Distance Lanterns®

Introducing NAKED’s unique art-inspired lanterns, born during the COVID-19 pandemic. When you take a leisurely stroll with one of these lanterns in hand, the ground comes alive with colors and patterns unique to each location, allowing you to be a part of the mesmerizing light display.

For this event, inspiration was drawn from the location of Tomioka Silk Mill in Gunma Prefecture, which has strong ties to the art of natural dyeing. As a result, five color variations will be available: red, blue, pink, green, and yellow, all inspired by the vibrant hues of plant-based dyes.

*Lantern rentals: ¥500 per turn (Tax Included)

・NAKED Flower Fortune®

Introducing the wildly popular art fortune-telling, NAKED Flower Fortune®, which even ranked high in domestic rapid retweets on X (formerly Twitter). Choose your favorite flower from a variety of colors and shapes, and you’ll encounter the perfect message for that moment. The flower ornaments attached to the fortune can be transformed into art by tying them to a wooden branch to make the flowers bloom, making them a great souvenir to take home as a keepsake.

*Price: ¥500 each (Tax Included)

・Tomioka Silk Mill West Cocoon Warehouse

The highlight of this event is the massive projection mapping show on the stage of the national treasure, Tomioka Silk Mill West Cocoon Warehouse, spanning approximately 45 meters in width. As the giant silk wraps around the building, the lush flora of Tomioka bursts forth. After enjoying the changing seasons of nature, step into a nostalgic world featuring retro signs and lanterns. Experience the unique and culturally rich presentation that is characteristic of Tomioka’s deep historical heritage.

・Tomioka Silk Fantasia

A special event will unfold at the Tomioka Silk Mill World Heritage site. Come enjoy an event featuring artistic direction by renowned director Junya Yamada, a mesmerizing live performance by DE DE MOUSE, a high-art fashion show that seamlessly harmonizes with  live music, and a powerful taiko drum performance by Yasushi Yamabe. Additionally, guests can enjoy an energetic performance by the creative collective girls group bala. Projection mapping will enhance the space, adding even more charm to the beautiful Tomioka Silk Mill, where history and the future intersect. From Gunma to the world, immerse yourself over the course of one special night where various cultures can come together to exchange unique experiences and celebrate.

・Tomioka Silk Mill East Cocoon Warehouse Illumination

The Tomioka Silk Mill East Cocoon Warehouse World Heritage site is illuminated, allowing visitors to savor its unique nighttime beauty that differs entirely from daytime. Enjoy the enchanting and fantastical nighttime scenery that you wouldn’t typically be able to see.

・The Historic Nirazuka Silk Mill Illumination

The historic Nirazuka Silk Mill is illuminated, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy its beauty in a way that differs from daylight. Enjoy this enchanting and fantastical nighttime scenery that you wouldn’t typically be able to see.

・Tomioka Night Gourmet Stroll

A collaborative event with “Tomioka Silk Fantasia – Festival of Silk.” We introduce dining and souvenir shops around Tomioka Silk Mill that are open during the event period. Enjoy delicious local cuisine unique to Tomioka.

Presale tickets are now available from ZAIKO and Rakuten Ticket.

Additional information will be announced in the future.

BG, an apparel brand directed by Toua, has officially launched. The online store began accepting orders on September 7, 2023.

The name ‘BG’ stands for ‘Borderless Gradation,’ implying that the brand’s creations represent freedom without boundaries. Buyers can expect unisex items with a playful and modern touch.

<CONCEPT>

No matter your age or your gender,

empower yourself just the way you are.

As sure as your heart beats, always keep your curiosity.

Make today the best day of your life.

On September 13, 2023, popular idol group FRUITS ZIPPER released its first single CD Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro. Immediately upon release, the album reached the #3 spot on the Billboard JAPAN Top Singles Sales chart and #4 on the Oricon Weekly Single Ranking chart. The titular track was released digitally in April 2022 and has received over 900 million views on TikTok and 13 million music video views on YouTube.

FRUITS ZIPPER is currently holding its first nationwide tour, FRUITS ZIPPER 1st JAPAN TOUR 2023 -AUTUMN- The parlor of FRUITS ZIPPER. The long-awaited tour began on September 3, and on September 16, the group held a semi-final show at KT Zepp Yokohama in Kanagawa.

The title of the tour, ‘The Parlor of FRUITS ZIPPER,’ hopes to inspire the audience to discover the individuality of each member, akin to a parfait with different layers. Tickets for the Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Hokkaido shows have completely sold out. Tickets for the Kanagawa performance were also sold out, and the show was held in front of a completely packed house, even when accounting for the second-floor seats.

Multicolored lasers inspired by the member’s colors swept across the venue, cueing the group to start the show with the hit song Pure in the World, which was released digitally in August. The peppy track instantly captured the hearts of fans in the audience, and that excitement carried into the following songs: Kanpeki Shugide☆ and Fre-Fru Summer!

During the MC, the members took the time to explain the theme of the tour and their new costumes prepared exclusively for the long-awaited event. Each member has a representative fruit, and their flashy costumes feature adorable aprons and other details reminiscent of parlor clerks. “Welcome,” the members yelled, inviting fans into their unique world for a few hours to have a happy and sweet time.

The concert resumed immediately following the MC with Happy Chocolate, and inspired by the TikTok trend, many fans danced along during the chorus. Transforming the energy into something gentler, Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru began soon after, captivating fans with its addictive sweetness. The girls showed their sexy dance moves during We are Frontier and their cooler side during the upbeat Going! With incredible momentum, FRUITS ZIPPER powered through six songs in a row, including the hyper RADIO GALAXY and Roller Coaster Heart. The audience was lucky enough to experience all sides of this multifaceted idol group, subverting expectations and wowing everyone lucky enough to attend.

After the impressive performance, Mana Manaka and Luna Nakagawa shared memories of the national tour, including a moment in Hokkaido when the two felt their lives were in danger from an enzyme bath, drawing laughter from the audience. Suzuka Chinzei also excitedly announced that she would play the starring role in the upcoming CBC drama Link!, and that the theme song for the drama would be the group’s popular track Sekaiwa Kimikara Hajimaru. Mana Manaka touchingly reflected on the group’s past performances, which visited each member’s hometown. “It felt like our triumphant return home. It was such a great experience, to show everyone how much we’ve grown.”

After the members and audience calmed down after the MC, Nakagawa eagerly began the second half of the show. “Are you excited, Yokohama,” she called out. The group ignited fans’ hearts with Welcome to the ♡ Furuppa! and Re→TRY & FLY, leading into one of the happiest songs in recent memory, Chou Medetai Song ~Konnani Shiawasede Iinokana?~ The audience called out the members’ names in loud voices and clapped in unison, creating a deep sense of unity between FRUITS ZIPPER and their fans. As many would expect, the final song performed was Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, the group’s most popular song which was just released as a physical single. TikTok photography was allowed for this song, and legions of fans kept their phones pointed at the stage. Check TikTok to see the colorful and adorable performance!

In typical FRUITS ZIPPER fashion, the show didn’t end there! After fans begged for an encore, the members returned to the stage to perform the new song CO-Kosei. Composed by Sho Yamamoto, the composer of Watashi no Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, the track fit the tour’s theme perfectly. The lyrics are filled with overwhelming individuality from each member, and the catchy choreography instantly grabbed the audience’s attention, with easily mimicked moves sure to be the next trend. Following the performance, the members showed their eagerness to make the ‘CO-pose’ more popular.

Following the TikTok shoot with fans throughout the venue–a popular trend during FRUITS ZIPPER concerts–the group performed a few more tracks, including Zutto, Zutto, Zutto! Sending love to the fans, Yui Sakurai announced the last song, asking fans to “make memories together with them.” The performance finally came to an end with a heartfelt rendition of Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete. The audience couldn’t help but dance along, making it the most earnest moment of the performance.

After the show ended, Yui Sakurai and Luna Nakagawa were so moved that they immediately hugged each other. “The song Kimi no Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete was where everything started for us, and every time I sing it, I just have so many flashbacks of the past year and a half,” Suzuka said with tears in her eyes. “The tour isn’t over, and I can’t wait to meet the fans at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium! Let’s keep making memories together, all of you and FRUITS ZIPPER.” The sweet and incredibly action-packed performance came to an end amidst a sea of loving applause.

During this tour, FRUITS ZIPPER has grown to new heights. Their next appearance on the national tour will take place on October 28 at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, the group’s first arena performance and their largest venue to date. There’s no telling what to expect!

Text: Masatoshi Mayuzumi

Photo: Yuuna Yoshimori

Limited First Edition

Standard Edition

Seven-member edition

In collaboration with illustrator meeco, LaLaport TOKYO-BAY is currently holding the cashless ‘AUTUMN FESTA 2023 Find Happiness;’ event for the entire month of September.

In a special area of the shopping center, the latest fall items and fashions will be displayed along with an art exhibit dedicated to meeco’s creations. Visitors will receive an original card featuring a new illustration by meeco (while supplies last).

Be sure to browse the special website for more details.

Utano Aoi and Takuma Usa will appear in Fuji TV’s Wednesday 10 drama series Ya Boy Kongming! scheduled to debut on September 27.

In this miraculous success story, Zhuge Kongming, a famed military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period in China, is reincarnated as a young man in present-day Shibuya. Soon after, he meets a young girl at a nightclub and devises a magical plan to help her achieve her dream of becoming a singer. The drama is an adaptation of the popular manga series Ya Boy Kongming! which has sold over 1.6 million copies. The series is serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine.

Utano Aoi will play Ichika, a member of the idol unit AZALEA. Takuma Usa’s role has not yet been announced, so tune in to see how the actor appears in the series.