MMN Interview: w-inds. creates international entertainment—”We want to break down stereotypes and create new paths”（Part2）
Ever since their debut back in 2001, Japanese male pop group w-inds. have gained immense popularity not only in Japan but across East and Southeast Asia, their presence spreading through Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, China and Vietnam, which has in turn earned them many awards overseas. In recent years, lead vocalist Keita Tachibana has taken to self-producing the songs of the group, taking influence from worldwide trends with genres such as tropical house and future bass and tying them to an edgy sound in the style of Japanese pop, earning the trio new support form music fans. We spoke to the three members about their international approach to and intentions with their work.
＜This is part two of the interview. Click here for part one.＞
Interview & Text: Mami Naruta / Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
■It doesn’t matter even if it’s free, the value of music today lies in how many people are listening to it
――w-inds. takes an international approach even in the promotional side of things. For example, you held a remix contest last year for We Don’t Need To Talk Anymore. Remix contests are held overseas on music services, and famous artists like Avicii and Beyoncé have done them too, so they’re a widespread thing.
Keita: That’s right. It’s not a prominent thing in Japan’s major scene, so I felt strongly in wanting to do it. And having done it, I was able to meet great trackmakers. I was able to see that there are many talented trackmakers out there. It’s like there were lots of people who just wanted a chance but never had it before.
It’s been about 5 years since I started making tracks, but there were already so many pros around me after I debuted who taught me the know-how, so I had an advantage over regular beginners. In the same way, if there’s an environment where more trackmakers can offer their professional knowledge, they can inspire each other. I felt I could expand the breadth of what I’m doing with music even more, so that’s why I held the remix contest. During the application period, we distributed the paradata which divided sounds by each individual instrument. The idea was to show detailed information on what music professionals were creating so that even people just starting out could see. I thought that showing and teaching the professional know-how was the way for new trackmakers to grow.
――Do you think that there was variety in the remixes?
Ryuichi: Oh yes, yes, yes… Even now I have all of the material we received on my iTunes, so I play them on shuffle. Sometimes when I think “Oh! That’s a pretty good intro” I get surprised and realize it’s our song (laughs).
――When you released Time Has Gone in September too you held an international share campaign on Spotify for Time Has Gone “Future Pop Remix” which Keita worked on himself.
Keita: We did. The tool Spotify is the number one streaming service in the world, isn’t it? It might sound a little misleading for me to say, but I think there’s much more value in listening to music on Spotify than with purchasing CDs. The value of today’s music lies in the number of people listening to it, even if it’s free. Because of that, I felt I wanted to do something specialized with streaming services, so we held this measure.
Ryuichi: In the end, it ranked at number 1 on the viral charts in Japan and Taiwan and peaked at number 4 in Hong Kong. In terms of which countries were listening to the song most, next on the list from Japan was America which was unexpected.
Keita: We live in an age where it’s said that CDs don’t sell, so I personally think that it’s a good thing there being different ways to sell music. For example, it’s also interesting to sell things like paradata. That’s something I can do precisely because I’m making the tracks. Our band’s weapon right now is being able to make songs. And that means being able to listen to songs. We make a song, receive support from various people, it spreads and people listen to it. That’s the thing I want to do the most. It’s something I just have to do. That’s why we collaborated with AWA for This Love and challenged ourselves to strategize using streaming services.
■The necessary thing for us is to reconstruct the idea of “J-pop”
――Early on just three years after w-inds. debuted in 2001, you advanced through the countries of Asia. You released your original recordings in places like China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea, and were able to win music awards in numerous countries. The American pop-like sound of your music now is mainstream in Asia where you receive support, so I also get the feeling it was inevitable in some way.
Keita: You’re right. I sense that around 2004 to 2007, J-pop was the coolest thing around when we appeared at festivals. It’s rude of me to say, but the sound of a lot of the tracks around China sound kinda novice. Though, everyone is good at singing.
Ryuichi: There’s a lot of ballads and stuff, isn’t there? Year by year I realized things like, “Huh? Everyone’s music has gotten much cooler,” “The music videos have gotten good,” and “Perhaps J-pop is taking over?”
Keita: Exactly. It was clear to see how the level of entertainment had gone up. We might have been a little impatient though. That’s one of the reasons we chose to take on this kind of sound.
――Just how did the countries of Asia have a musical revolution? Were they successful in incorporating the trends of Europe and America?
Keita: It’s probably because everyone was good at gathering info online. That, and because sales of Japanese music thrived. Million sellers were being put out left and right. Since that music sold so much it became commonplace, and everything else that wasn’t J-pop came to a halt. That’s what I feel. The music we put out, as Japanese people, is always taken as “J-pop,” but I feel the ‘us’ right now are outside J-pop.
Ryuichi: For sure! The music we sold back then continues to sell even now.
Keita: That’s the biggest pity. If we don’t throw that away and reconstruct ourselves, I don’t think it’ll be easy to create a sound and entertainment that gets through to the world.
――Each of you know the good things about both Japan and overseas from your bounty of overseas activity. What do you think are the characteristics of each?
Ryuichi: The stage set in Japan is safe, it’s amazing! Around Asia it’s kinda rough…
Ryohei: Ahaha (laughs). They’re used to accidents, aren’t they? Talking crowds, if you put on a good performance for people overseas they’ll receive you well without question. Conversely, there are things that are easy even if we’re away in another country.
Ryuichi: For sure. And Japanese people really are all good people. To date, I’ve dropped my phone twice, and both times I had it returned. I’ve also forgotten my wallet on the train before, and when I went back to get it, it was still there as it was. I can’t think of any other place like that.
Keita: They’re honest, aren’t they? That, and they’re considerate. They invent things like washlets and warm toilet seats.
Ryuichi: They think about other people! They’re very considerate.
Keita: We’re also Japanese people, so I think we should also cherish those things. It’s wrong for people who are thinking about going abroad to think they can copy American stars and say and do reckless things. It’s good to do things in a Japanese way when overseas. That’s why I’m piling up research on how to make Japanese-like music. I don’t necessarily think they style we create is the correct one even while overseas trackmakers are clamouring. I’m the type to do things in an artisan-like way and research things like frequencies.
■2017 was a turning point for w-inds.
――The number of overseas visitors coming to Japan is increasing every year. In the run up the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, international interest in Japanese culture is also increasing. It’ll be a big opportunity for them to experience it. When that time comes, how do you want to be in the music scene?
Keita: I don’t want to change the now and what we’re doing. I think there are a lot of people who want to execute a certain musicianship but can’t because of various circumstances. A common one is, “You have to create music that will sell in Japan.” There are still a lot of cases of people saying that. We want to go ahead and create paths from the beginning so we can eliminate that mindset. But the ones who will form the big waves in the end will be the younger people below us. When they appeared in the scene, I wanted to create an environment where they make music healthily and do things easily. I think that’s a good way to expand the range of J-pop.
――Looking back over the past year, how was 2017 for you?
Ryohei: We’ve been able to shine through to people outside our hardcore fans because of Keita creating music to put out there. I wanted our reach to be like it is right now but wondered why it wouldn’t get there. I’m honestly so happy that our music has been so well received because of what it is, and we’re moving differently to last year.
Keita: That year was a turning point for w-inds.. That goes for our global way of seeing things too. Our awareness and way of thinking changed in a huge way that year.
――I’m looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for you in 2018.
Keita: Every year we decide on what we can do to up our game from what we’ve always been doing. We’re expanding ourselves a lot, but what has made us able to properly cherish our fundamental aspects like singing and dancing is because we’ve been doing it for 17 years. We’re constantly crazy about making our listeners think, “They were able to do this?” so I hope people look forward to what we go on to do next.
■Information
w-inds.
Official Website: http://www.w-inds.tv/
w-inds. LIVE TOUR 2017 “INVISIBLE” – Now On Sale
First Press Edition DVD [2 Discs]
*Bonus Content: Live ver. of “Time Has Gone” / Tour making-of footage pamphlet
Regular Edition Blu-ray [1 Disc]
Regular Edition DVD [2 Discs]
*Bonus Content: 30-minute tour making-of footage from members’ perspectives
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Information
Chogakusei
Born in 2001, Chogakusei posted their first cover song at the age of 11. Ever since, he’s consistently posted videos online, currently posting at a rate of one per week. With over 300 million views on his cover tracks, his aggressive voice and mysterious masked appearance have caused him to gain traction with fans around the world. Chogakusei released his first album Cho on February 15, 2023, and his first solo concert, School Admission Briefing, is to be held at the Nippon Seinen-kan Hall in Tokyo on March 5, 2023.
Official Site: https://chogakusei.com
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Recently, we sat down with the members to chat about their first year as idols since debuting in April 2022.
ーWhat has the past year been like as members of FRUITS ZIPPER?
Manaka Mana
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“Every day seemed to fly by. I met and talked with so many people, and I was finally able to do the job I had always dreamed of doing.”
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“I was so happy to see how many people knew about FRUITS ZIPPER–it was more than I could have ever imagined! So many fans told me how happy they were to meet me and it made me so thrilled!
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Luna Nakagawa
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ーDo you have any goals for the next year in terms of overseas activities?
Suzuka Chinzei
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Karen Matsumoto
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ーGive a message to your fans both in Japan and abroad!
Manaka Mana
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Noel Hayase
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Information
FRUITS ZIPPER
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fruits_zipper
Instagram: https://instagram.com/fruits_zipper
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCW8Q9LBGGBgK6a-u0C0h95A
TikTok: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSen7dJAT/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FRUITSZIPPER
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Q. MIOCHIN, what store is a must-visit in Harajuku?
“That would be SUGAR HIGH at Harajuku Alta! You can find colorful sweets and cute goods from all over the world. I always stop by when I have time because they have popular snacks I’ve seen on TikTok, tons of jewelry, and things I can use every day♪
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Q. What store in Tokyo really embodies your personal worldview?
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Not only did I design this shop, but I’m also selling cute accessories in collaboration with minacute!!”
“The store feels like a big toy box and it’s filled with so many items that kids would love. Not only that–you can find popular brands from around the world and tons of sparkle too★
We also hold workshops and events on weekends, so please come visit!♪★”
Q. What’s your go-to Kawaii Spot?
(The HARAJUKU Room)
“If you’re looking to surround yourself with everything cute, it’s all about MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS! Each room is perfect for snapping photos–I’ve visited so many times for parties and photo shoots★
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Q. Where can the readers find cute clothes like the ones found in your wardrobe?
(Skirt, Jacket: grapefruitmoon)
“Check out grapefruitmoon, a vintage clothing store. They have so many neat items from the 60s to the 80s, and the designs and shapes are so unique. I’d recommend browsing their retro dresses and funky bottoms★Whether you’re into more monotone fashion or something more flashy and bright, you’ll find it!♪”
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“ANNA SUI. I just can’t get enough of the brand’s vision, and the cosmetics are really one-of-a-kind. Honestly, I buy most of them–I especially love the perfumes. I love the scents and the designs are just too damn cute! It’s my favorite collection.”
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“I’m so glad that so many people are interested in Japan. I post so many colorful things on social media and always want to share Japanese culture with the world!♪
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PROFILE: MIOCHIN
Active as an illustrator, TikToker, and streamer, MIOCHIN is known for her colorful pop world MIONOSEKAI. She has fans young and old from around the world and often broadcasts on YouTube and TikTok, recently attracting attention for her duet videos on the latter. Her original videos focus on everything from makeup and art to impressions.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dtdq2828/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mionosekai
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnyOak5Hd4WG0oLECz6L0Og
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dtdq2828
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FRUITS ZIPPER, a new idol group from ASOBISYSTEM, has a simple concept: “From Harajuku to the World.” Ready to transmit what they call ‘NEW KAWAII’ from Harajuku, an area known for fashion and individuality, to their soon-to-be global fanbase, the group consists of seven members: Amane Tsukiashi, Suzuka Chinzei, Yui Sakurai, Luna Nakagawa, Mana Manaka, Karen Matsumoto, and Noel Hayase.
A while back in Report #12, we chatted with Karen Matsumoto, Yui Sakurai, and Luna Nakagawa about their makeup routine and tips. This time, we’re asking Noel Hayase, Suzuka Chinzei, Mana Manaka, and Amane Tsukiashi to share their thoughts on makeup!
Tell us about your favorite lipsticks and what makes them special!
－Noel Hayase
When I do my own makeup, I use b idol’s Glossy Lip No. 08 and then layer PERIPERA’s G Tint No. 06 on the inside. I’ve tried so many b idol lipsticks and I finally found one that matches my skin color perfectly. The tinted one was a gift but I love applying it on the inside of my lips–it gives this neat blood-colored look. It also doesn’t fade which is awesome.
－Suzuka Chinzei
I like THREE Lyrical Lipstick Bloom 11 RUN FREE.
The texture is soft, the color doesn’t fade, and the color is really cute. When I found it, I was so thrilled–it was the exact color I was looking for. Seriously, it’s the best lipstick! It’s honestly all I use in fall and winter♡
－Mana Manaka
Jill Stuart’s lip oil!
We call the people who support us Soragumi, and some of them gave us these gifts along with letters and flowers after our first solo concert. We were so happy☁️
I love the colors and the cloth wrapping, but I feel like it would be such a waste if I ran out so I only carry them as good luck charms. (Laugh)
－Amane Tsukiashi
DIOR ADDICT 524 DIORETTE
DIOR ADDICT Maximizer 103 Pure Gold (This one was a gift🙇♂️)
04 rom&nd Dewiful Water Tint
I have so many favorite lipsticks, but lately I’ve been into layering this shimmery gold maximizer with brown, orange, red, and darker lip shades. It’s really cute!🤍
What do you use for your foundation?
－Noel Hayase
I don’t put a lot on my skin, but I do apply a makeup primer called UV Idea XL Protection Tone-Up by La Roche-Posay first. After that, I use Dior Skin Forever Skin Correct Concealer to hide dark circles and redness. That’s all!
－Suzuka Chinzei
I moisturize with VT’s CICA cream. Depending on the weather, I’ll apply Chant a Charm sunscreen followed by The Skin Minimalist by Decorte. I put on powder last. I use CANMAKE’s Secret Beauty Powder or Elegance’s La Poudre Haute Nuance. No foundation for me!
－Mana Manaka
These were also gifts, but I use Lunasol sunscreen, Dior primer, and foundation!
The bottle is really beautiful, with the engraving…❤️
I ran out of powder when I was in Thailand recently, so I’m just using what I bought locally!
I don’t know if it’s because it’s makeup from a really hot country, but it goes on so smoothly that it doesn’t feel sticky at all, even with a mask on. I’ve been using it even after I got back to Japan!
－Amane Tsukiashi
CHANEL Base Hydra Luminere
(I might upgrade.)
CHANEL Fluid Foundation de CHANEL B10
Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer 0N
SUQQU Oil Rich Glow Loose Powder
clé de peau BEAUTÉ LE REHAUSSEUR D’ÉCLAT 105 (This was a gift! 🙇♂️)
What do you typically do when it comes to skincare?
－Noel Hayase
First, I use &honey cleansing balm to remove my makeup. When I heard that you could cleanse and wash your face at the same time, I gave it a try and it was amazing, so I’m never going back. After my bath and before putting on my makeup, I use a complete skin care set like La Roche-Posay’s skincare set, which includes mist lotion, toner, and skin cream. It’s not cheap, but since I started using it my skin feels so incredible. Remember to always buy products depending on what kind of skin you have!
－Suzuka Chinzei
Before makeup in the morning, I always cleanse with Bioderma. If I don’t feel moisturized enough, I apply a lotion emulsion. After cleansing at night, I use Bioderma again and then a toner emulsion. Sometimes I like doing face masks, and when I do, I use Mediplorer’s CO2 Sheet Mask. It was recommended to me by someone with really beautiful skin and it’s amazing. I also use a Cell Cure. It’s crazy after how much dirt it removes. (Laugh)
－Mana Manaka
I use lotion, then a face mask, then a serum!
When I used the MediHeal mask that Luna recommended, I was so surprised at how good it was that I started buying and trying tons of different masks.
I’m trying different things to see what fits and what doesn’t, and lately I’ve been buying a lot of Korean masks.
－Amane Tsukiashi
I haven’t been doing much skincare, but I have been moisturizing a lot lately since my skin gets super dry. On some days I’ll do a face mask and use steam. On the day before an important photo shoot, I use my favorite CellCure 4t Plus.
Oh no! You’re running late! You only have time to apply one product! What part of your face will you focus on and why?
－Noel Hayase
I’d only do eye makeup. In this day and age, everyone wears masks, so when you meet someone, you always make eye contact, right? Besides, if it’s just eye makeup, I can get by without base makeup, and I can do the rest of my makeup whenever. (Laugh)
－Suzuka Chinzei
I just need sunscreen!
Sunscreen is life. It’s so important!
Starting when I was in junior high, my parents told me to wear sunscreen, so I can’t imagine not doing it now. No matter how busy I am, I put on sunscreen, even while walking to the station.
I was on the track team in junior high and I’d put some on every 30 minutes.
At the time I thought it was so annoying, but now I’m so glad my mom told me to do it.
(Strangely enough, my mom doesn’t wear sunscreen at all.)
－Mana Manaka
On days when I actually have a whole day off or if I’m just at rehearsal, I don’t wear makeup. I hide behind a mask and a hat! (Laugh)
If I use anything at all, it’s sunscreen or foundation with sunscreen in it.
It covers my eyebrows and eyes so much that I can’t see at all, but I do want to prevent spots!!! (Laugh)
－Amane Tsukiashi
Eyes!
I always think that wearing eye makeup makes a huge difference.
I’d want to do my eyebrows too, but at least I can hide them with my bangs. Eyes it is!
Information
FRUITS ZIPPER
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fruits_zipper
Instagram: https://instagram.com/fruits_zipper
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCW8Q9LBGGBgK6a-u0C0h95A
TikTok: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSen7dJAT/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FRUITSZIPPER
Amane Tsukiashi
Twitter
https://twitter.com/amane_fz1026
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/am1026_official/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@am1026_official
Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYH_GZdDHYrrh_8iQOi4P0g
Suzuka Chinzei
Twitter
https://twitter.com/suzuka_fz1124
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/tarasuzuka24/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@oooooossssss24
Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0XgLUbhD1Wdj_hgknrDo7A
Mana Manaka
Twitter
https://twitter.com/manafy_fz0422
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/manafy_baby/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@manafy_fz0422
Noel Hayase
Twitter
https://twitter.com/noel_fz1229
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/noel_hayase/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@hysnl1229
Youtube
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“Japan is such an interesting country, where so many cultures blend and evolve.”
Moshi Moshi Nippon is dedicated to sharing Japanese pop culture with audiences around the world. Recently, we launched a new interview series with foreign influencers active in Japan, and for the third edition, we’re chatting with Zhu Zhu! A popular influencer with over 2 million followers on Weibo, Zhu Zhu claims that since coming to Japan, her fashion has become ‘softer.’ We sat down to ask her what kind of Kawaii she’s found in Japan.
Q. Why did you first come to Japan?
“In 2013, I moved to Japan with my family because Beijing’s air pollution had become really bad. It’s already been nine years!”
Zhu Zhu when she first came to Japan
Q. When you first arrived in Japan, what surprised you?
“When I first came to Japan, what really surprised me was the wide use of the word ‘kawaii.’ It’s so interesting that literally anything can be called kawaii. Sure, it makes sense to call girls, animals, or clothes cute, but in Japan, people call things cute that people in other countries would never refer to in that way. I mean, I think calling things ‘cute’ when you mean ‘good’ is something really commonplace here. (laugh)”
Q. Tell us what you find the most Kawaii in Japan!
“There are so many cute things in Japan, but I think that the sweets take the cake. I was surprised by how small they are unlike in other countries. And there are so many kinds! Cakes, baked goods, wagashi, they’re all so incredibly kawaii!”
Q. How did your encounter with Kawaii culture in Japan change you?
“Since I first came into contact with the Japanese version of kawaii, I think my style has become softer. When I was overseas, I typically just worse really simple outfits and makeup, but now, I’m always conscious of looking girly and cute.”
Q.In Japan, what are you interested in right now? Where do you want to visit in the future?
“I recently read an article about Yufuin Floral Village, which is England-inspired. It looks so cute and I really want to go!”
Q. Do you have anything to say to our readers who want to visit Japan in the future?
“Japan is such an interesting country, where so many cultures blend and evolve. No matter how many times you visit, you can always find something new. Please visit!”
Zhu Zhu Profile
An influencer from China with 2 million followers on Weibo. Nicknamed “Big Cousin” on social media, she has been a favorite of many Japanese brands for years. Since moving to Japan, Zhu Zhu has actively shared fashion, beauty, travel, and food posts on social media. In addition to appearing on TV and in magazines, she has collaborated with a number of major Japanese apparel and cosmetics companies.
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FRUITS ZIPPER, a new idol group from ASOBISYSTEM’s KAWAII LAB project, has a simple concept: “From Harajuku to the World.”
This summer, the group’s track Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro took off on TikTok with the music video racking up over 500 million plays, propelling the girls into the idol spotlight. Along with regular monthly performances, tickets for the girl’s first solo concert in September and their second solo concert in November were sold out immediately. FRUITS ZIPPER is scheduled to go on tour in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka in February 2023, and even the fashion industry has become obsessed, with the group serving as the seasonal ambassadors for Samantha Vega starting in August 2022.
Only six months after its debut, the members of FRUITS ZIPPER are already taking their first steps outside of Harajuku. Their first overseas trip was to Thailand, called the land of smiles.
FRUITS ZIPPER performed as one of more than 50 artists representing Thailand and Japan at the THAI-JAPAN ICONIC MUSIC FEST 2022 from October 21 to October 23. The music festival was held to commemorate the 135th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Japan.
Four different stages were set up during the event, and FRUITS ZIPPER managed to attract fans not only from Japan, but from Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Myanmar, the Philippines, and other Asian countries. Many guests even knew the choreography to a number of FRUITS ZIPPER songs, including, of course, Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro. The audience was thrilled when the members addressed them in Thai, and a collaboration interview video shot with local idols was also taken. It’s now available on FRUITS ZIPPER’s TikTok channel, so check it out!
We sat down with the seven members of FRUITS ZIPPER to hear about their best memories from Thailand!
-How did you feel about your first overseas trip to Thailand?
Noel Hayase
“It was our first time performing in Thailand. Not many people knew who we were and we were far away from home, but people welcomed us with open arms. So many people came to watch us, and I was happy to see the audience dancing along to the songs!”
Yui Sakurai
“When I became an idol two years ago, Thai fans really supported me. Back then, I told them I’d love to come to see them, but I never got the chance.
I’m happy that I was about to finally achieve that goal, or my dream, I guess, of going to Thailand to meet all of those fans. There were so many more people waiting for me than I could have imagined, and even though we couldn’t communicate very well with the language barrier, we could easily communicate through music. I was so happy.”Karen Matsumoto
“So many non-Japanese fans came out to support us! Even though they didn’t speak Japanese, they did their best to tell us they were rooting for us, and that they loved us. I was so happy, I can’t wait to go back!”
Mana Manaka
“This was my first visit to Thailand, and part of me felt a little uneasy since everything felt so different when compared to live shows in Japan. I was allowed to take pictures and to really use my voice, and the stage configuration was really confusing. But everyone in Thailand was super welcoming and kind, and I was so happy to see them trying to learn Japanese. They’d listen to me talk and nod, looking me in the eyes, even if they didn’t understand what I was saying. It was a wonderful trip that reminded me how excited I am to travel abroad. I hope I can see everyone in Thailand again, thank you so much!”
Luna Nakagawa
“Even though I’ve been an idol for a while, this was my first trip overseas. Going to Thailand had always been a dream of mine, but at the same time, I was nervous. I didn’t know what kind of fans I’d find there, or if there would be any fans at all. But the Thai people were so unbelievably kind.
During our performance, a girl held up a board that said ‘Lunapi’ and waved a purple penlight. She shouted that she was looking so forward to meeting me, and it made me so happy.We started to share information with the Thai people after our performance was decided, but it seemed that they had known about us before that. I felt that so many people had been excited about coming to see us, and now I just want to go to Thailand again to see everyone a second time. Kob kun kaa!”
Amane Tsukiashi
“This was the first time I had visited Thailand, and I thought it was so beautiful. Seeing ICONSIAM was unbelievable–the biggest building I’d ever seen! I was so happy to see the fans, and so many told me that they had been waiting to meet us. Thank you so much.”
Suzuka Chinzei
“Before going to Thailand, I wondered how many local people knew about FRUITS ZIPPER and how many would actually come to see us. When we actually took the stage on the first day, there were so many Thai people, and Japanese people too! Since I was able to use my voice to the fullest in Thailand, I was thrilled when the audience could sing along with the ‘Ne, ne, ne’ part in Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro! This live show was so unique to Thailand, and it felt so much freer than live shows are in Japan right now with all the restrictions. Since there was a language barrier, I wanted to put all of my feelings and emotions into my performance. I felt like I could communicate with the audience with my eyes, and those three days of performances were so unforgettable. We’ll be back and we’ll be even stronger, so wait for us until then! Kob kun kaa!”
FRUITS ZIPPER is on course to become a smash hit not only in Japan, but around the world.
Information
FRUITS ZIPPER
Twitter: @fruits_zipper
Instagram: @fruits_zipper
YouTube: FRUITS ZIPPER
TikTok: @fruits_zipper
Facebook: FRUITS ZIPPERKAWAII LAB.
Twitter: @kawaii__lab
YouTube: KAWAII LAB. -
Interview: Shakuhachi Player Yoshimi Tsujimoto Discusses Her Craft and the Upcoming Concert at Kumano-Nachi Taisha
Each year, an incredible event is held at Kumano-Nachi Taisha, a Shinto shrine and World Heritage Site located in the Kii Mountain Range of Wakayama Prefecture.
To kick off the ‘diamond celebration,’ a special concert will mark the 1,250th anniversary of the birth of Kobo Daishi, the Japanese Buddhist monk who founded the Shingon school of Buddhism. Yoshimi Tsujimoto, a shakuhachi player from Hashimoto, will perform in the concert scheduled to begin on October 22 at 13:30.
Moshi Moshi Nippon sat down with Yoshimi Tsujimoto to discuss her music and, most importantly, her interest in sharing the sound of the shakuhachi with the world.
−How did you become interested in the shakuhachi?
My father loved the shakuhachi, and because of that, I grew up surrounded by the sound of it. That’s how it all began!
−What attracts you to playing the shakuhachi?
I love the timbre of the shakuhachi.
Those who play the shakuhachi often say that a single note has the power to bring someone to enlightenment.
Curiously, individual differences in tone are more easily discernible with the shakuhachi than with other instruments. That means that a person can express themselves in more unique ways.
−You’ve performed in many different countries. Do you get different reactions to the shakuhachi in other countries when compared to Japanese audiences?
I have a vivid memory of a time I performed a classical shakuhachi piece solo. This particular type of classical music is called ‘wabi-sabi,’ and it isn’t very loud or lively.
In Japan, when I finish a performance, people usually clap. But when I performed in South America, as soon as the piece concluded, there was a standing ovation with people shouting “Bravo!” That would never happen in Japan, and it left such a lasting impression on me.
−Are there any countries that have left a lasting impression on you, or that you would like to visit in the future?
I have good memories of every country I’ve visited, but I think that Cuba left the biggest impression. I just made me think about how incredible music can be.
I’d love to visit Bulgaria, Morocco, Armenia, Uganda…it’s tough, because I want to visit every country I haven’t been to yet. (laughs)
−You’re from Hashimoto City, near Mount Koya. How did you feel when you heard that this concert would be held so close to your hometown?
What I felt was pure joy.
Personally, I’ve always loved Mount Koya, and I went there many times as a child. It’s such a pleasure to be able to perform there.
−Tell us some of your favorite memories involving Mount Koya.
I go to Mount Koya at least three or four times a year. It’s not a particular memory per se, but every time I go, I love to eat vegetarian food, explore, and buy wheat buns and sesame tofu as gifts to take home.
−Are there any local foods or places that you’d recommend?
The fruit is delicious in Wakayama, and my hometown is famous for persimmons.They are so yummy, and I just want everyone to try them!
Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo are both World Heritage sites, and they are both absolutely breathtaking. Other than those, I’d recommend Adventure World! It has adorable pandas roaming around freely and the most wonderful dolphin shows. Everyone from around the country should visit!
−Finally, do you have a message for Moshi Moshi Nippon readers?
Japan is filled with incredible places and culture. The shakuhachi, a beloved traditional Japanese instrument, is one piece of that culture.
I want audiences around the world to hear the sound of the shakuhachi and to make it more familiar. If you have a chance to hear it, I hope you will.
Be sure to follow Yoshimi Tsujimoto’s activities going forward as she shares the beauty and culture of shakuhachi with the world.
Information
Concert at World Heritage Site Kumano-Nachi Taisha (Wakayama)
Date: October 22, 2022 at 13:30
Venue: Danjo-garan Buddhist Temple
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“Kawaii is marshmallow-flavored medicine for the soul.”
Moshi Moshi Nippon is dedicated to sharing Japanese pop culture with audiences around the world, and today, we’re featuring a foreign influencer living and working in Japan! This time, we interviewed Etsuna, a popular influencer from China, discussing how Yume Kawaii fashion brings her comfort and the many types of ‘kawaii’ she’s found during her time in Japan.
Q. What brought you to Japan?
“After graduating with a major in animation, I was working at a university in Shanghai as a teacher, but I decided to enroll in Tama Art University’s graduate program to study for my master’s degree. That’s when I came to Japan, and I’ve been here for 15 years!”
Q. When you first came to Japan, what surprised you? Was anything different than what you had imagined?
“Everyone wore such bold makeup, and that really surprised me! When I first came to Japan 15 years ago, I think the gyaru trend was still big, and a lot of girls had that strong Harajuku style and big personalities. Heavy eye makeup and blush was the big thing. I thought everyone was getting ready to film for a TV show.”
Q. What do you think of when you heard the word ‘kawaii’ in Japan?
“MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS, character cafes, and Yume Kawaii fashion…they are all so unique and so adorable! Those things are what I think of when I hear the word ‘kawaii.’”
Q. Did finding Japanese kawaii culture change you in any way?
“Before I experienced kawaii culture, I was a teacher, so I wore a lot of black, white, and gray every day. But after encountering kawaii style for the first time, I started experimenting with different kawaii subcultures, like the Mori Girl trend back in the mid-2000s. Eventually, I fell in love with Yume Kawaii (Dreamy Kawaii) fashion, which is filled with pastels and a fantasy-like aesthetic. I’ve been dressing in that particular style for about ten years now. To me, kawaii is like marshmallow-flavored medicine for the soul. It’s very healing.”
Q. When it comes to Japan, what interests you now? Where would you like to visit in the future?
“Today, it feels like Japanese fashion is becoming more and more simple, and the Harajuku kawaii trend is starting to disappear. Is that because people don’t like standing out in that over-the-top way? Do they feel embarrassed if they dress differently than most people? I’ve met a lot of people who love Yume Kawaii fashion, but they might not have the courage to wear it themselves. That’s why I’m currently researching how to bring Yume Kawaii to AR. If I can bring it to the virtual world in a way that blends with the real world, I can create a brand-new experience for everyone. Using mobile AR technology, people will be able to transform their everyday clothes into something with more Yume Kawaii style!”
Etsuna’s Original Yume Kawaii AR Filter
Q. Please give a few words to those living abroad who are interested in visiting Japan!
If you really want to experience Japanese kawaii culture, stay at MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS in Harajuku! There are so many fashionable people in Tokyo too, and if you hang out near Harajuku Laforet on the weekend, you’ll see people taking plenty of pictures. Come have a special trip to Japan and surround yourself with all things kawaii! Have fun!”
Information
PROFILE
Etsuna
Born in China, Etsuna is a graduate of Tama Art University in Tokyo. In addition to sharing kawaii culture on her social media accounts, she founded her independent brand ‘Etsuna otsukA’ in 2011, which has been featured in a number of magazines. Her Weibo video channel TokyoGoGo, featuring uploads edited by Etsuna herself, has become incredibly popular. She is currently active as a designer and TV personality, mainly in Japan and China.
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In a new interview posted to YouTube, Yuichiro Hayashi, the director of Attack on Titan The Final Season, and Yusuke Tannawa, the CG Producer and Screen Designer for the show, are discussing the series’ incredible success. Both creators also chat about the struggles they’ve faced during production, their relationship with the original manga creator Hajime Isayama, and much more.
Attack on Titan The Final Season Part 2 – Yuichiro Hayashi (Director) × Yusuke Tannawa (CG Producer, Screen Design) Special Interview
Attack on Titan Final Season Part 2 is currently airing on NHK General each Sunday at 24:05. It is also available to stream on dTV, d Anime Store, GYAO!, Netflix, TELASA, Hikari TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
©諫山創・講談社／「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会
Information
Attack on Titan The Final Season Part 2
Now Airing
Airing on NHK General Sundays at 24:05
Streaming on dTV, d Anime Store, GYAO!, Netflix, TELASA, Hikari TV, and Amazon Prime Video
Official Site: https://shingeki.tv/final/
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Dance vocal group w-inds. released their 14th original album ‘20XX “We are” on November 24, 2021. This is the group’s first full album in three years, their last being ‘100.’ It’s also the first original album for the new two-member w-inds.
The new album includes the song Beautiful Now, released in December 2020, along with ten other tracks all composed by lead vocalist Keita Tachibana. Produced during the pandemic, this release marks the group’s 20th anniversary and conveys the incredibly deep emotion related to both this happy occasion and the painful state of the current world.
Check out an interview with w-inds. Below, where they already hint at another album in the works.
w-inds. Official Interview About ‘20XX “We are” with Shoichi Miyake
‘20XX “We are” ranked 4th on the Oricon Daily Album Ranking on November 23. Even after 20 years, the group still makes a splash each time new music is released!
The official music video for The Christmas Song (feat. DA PUMP & Lead) is premiering soon as well, so don’t miss it!
The Christmas Song (feat. DA PUMP & Lead) / w-inds.（Official Music Video）*Video will premiere on November 27, 20:00
On December 29, the duo will hold an online show nine months after their last stream.
Information
20XX “We are”
Limited Edition [CD+Blu-ray]: ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition [CD+DVD]: ¥4,000 (Tax Included)
Regular Edition [CD Only): ¥2,750 (Tax Included)
Special Box [CD+Blu-ray+Photobook+ ‘2022 “THE BEST” Instrumental CD]: ¥8,800 (Tax Included)
Pony Canyon Special Sales Site: https://ps.ponycanyon.co.jp/w-inds/20xxweare/
Official Site: https://www.w-inds.tv/
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Dance vocal group w-inds. has released a new song perfect for the holiday season! The Christmas Song (feat. DA PUMP & Lead) is now available to stream. The track is from the group’s upcoming original album 20XX “We are,’ scheduled to be released on November 24, 2021.
The release has already become a trending topic in Japan. This year w-inds. is celebrating 20 years since their debut. Their first time serving as opening act was at a DA PUMP’s concert, while Lead performed as the opening act for the first time at a w-inds.’s concert. The three groups are, as expected, very close friends at this point, and this Christmas track is filled with good vibes only. The jacket artwork was designed by U-YEAH from DA PUMP, and each singer wrote lyrics for their respective parts.
The music video for the song will premiere on November 27 at 20:00, after the release of the album 20XX “We are.”
The Christmas Song (feat. DA PUMP & Lead) / w-inds.（Official Music Video）
https://youtu.be/3uE9FhIv-dU *Video will premiere on November 27, 20:00On December 29, the w-inds. Online Show 20XX “We are” will be held, marking nine months since the duo’s last online show.
Information
The Christmas Song (feat. DA PUMP & Lead)
Streaming Link: https://lnk.to/the_christmas_song
20XX “We are”
Limited Edition [CD+Blu-ray]: ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Limited Edition [CD+DVD]: ¥4,000 (Tax Included)
Regular Edition [CD Only): ¥2,750 (Tax Included)
Special Site: https://ps.ponycanyon.co.jp/w-inds/20xxweare/
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Dance vocal group w-inds has released the cover art for their upcoming 14th original album, titled 20XX “We are.” The album will be released on November 24, 2021.
The photo features the two performers in front of a building that looks distinctly not Japanese. After 20 years in the business, it captures the refined elegance and dignity of w-inds and makes us more excited to hear what this album will bring to the table.
This will be the first album released by the group in three years and the first original album for the group as a duo, after Ryuichi Ogata’s departure in June 2020. 20XX “We are” will include 10 songs, including Beautiful Now, with all tracks being produced by Keita Tachibana.
On September 24, a new music video appeared on the official w-inds YouTube channel.
Pony Canyon’s special site has also opened preorders for the Special Box edition of 20XX “We are,” which includes an 80-page photo book and an instrumental version of the album. These are made-to-order, and preorders will be open until October 8, 2021.
Information
20XX “We are”
Release Date: November 24, 2021
Preorder: lnk.to/20xxweare
Special Site: https://ps.ponycanyon.co.jp/w-inds/20xxweare/
