SWITCH x Kimika Onai (Nogizaka46's Costumes, SWITCH Magazine; 20.06.2024)
How the Sakamichi Series' costumes are made
COSTUME DESIGNER: Kimika Onai.
So that you can take to the stage with confidence. Having supported the Sakamichi Series with her costumes ever since the [Series'] dawn, the stylist Kimika Onai, gives people a push.
20.06.2024
The stylist Kimika Onai has been involved in creating more than half of Nogizaka46's costumes, and has since worked on many of the costumes for Sakurazaka46/Keyakizaka46 and Hinatazaka46, handling many costumes for each of the groups in the Sakamichi Series. It all began with the MV costumes for 'Ushitakunai Kara', from Nogizaka46's debut single 'Guruguru Curtain', released in 2012.
"At that time, I knew very little about idols, and since I'd never created costumes for a group of people that large, I was so anxious that I was practically on the verge of tears, but as a novice stylist, I raised my morale by thinking this was a chance that I couldn't pass up on, so I took on the challenge."
With a smile, she reminisces. Ever since, she's been in charge of the costumes for many of Nogizaka46's representative songs, playing an essential role in establishing the group's image in terms of costumes. So, what were the key points emphasized in the making of those costumes, one wonders.
"As a fundamental principle, the members are THE main characters, so [the costumes] shouldn't stand out too much. I am mindful of the costumes. Because I want everyone to see [the members'] shining faces first. Furthermore, centered on Nogizaka46's image as neat and clean - as well as elegant - we aim to incorporate the trends of the moment, while also seeking out new things that are specific to Nogizaka46, with us always striving to move in a direction that satisfies everyone that's involved with the group, as well as the fans. That same fundamental approach remains unchanged in terms of the production of Sakurazaka46 and Hinatazaka46 costumes."
And, she wants to keep on [making] costumes that the members can wear with confidence.
"Y'know how your outfit for the day can really change your mood, right? When my outfit just doesn't feel right for one reason or another, I get down, thinking "I don't look my best today", while, on the other hand, when you wear your favourite clothes, you spend the whole day feeling positive. In much of the same way, if the members take a liking to their costumes for the day, I believe their expressions will light up, and I think they'll face their performances with more confidence. To achieve that feeling, I go to great lengths in terms of fabric production and pay meticulous attention to details, so much so that some people will tell me "Surely you don't need to go to such lengths?"
Take, for example, the performance costumes for Nogizaka46's 33rd single, 'Ohitorisama Tengoku'. They were inspired by the image of the girls jumping around and glittering on the shore, thus leading to [the costumes] being created with a mermaid concept [in mind]. Including the "scales" made out of fabric, each costume was put together using a total of 3000 parts. Looking back now, I can't help but tease myself - "Did I need to go to such lengths in order to create over twenty of those intricate pieces?" - the process took that much effort and time. All that effort paid off, and when the members saw the costumes, they said "It's crazy how cute they are!" and that made me so happy, knowing that they could now go on stage with confidence."
Onai had previously been in charge of almost all of Keyakizaka46's costumes, but, has there been any change in her approach to costume design ever since the group's restart as Sakurazaka46?
"Since both the groups have intense dance routines, the costumes are made in order to be able to withstand that, while incorporating elements such as sturdier buckles or sections of the clothes that flare out dramatically while dancing, therefore enhancing their dynamic and cool appearance. Among all these [costumes], Keyakizaka46 often had androgynous outfits that suited both men and women, but since becoming Sakurazaka46, I got a slightly softer impression from the group, so I made costumes that were slightly more feminine than Keyakizaka46's. In terms of Hinatazaka46's costumes, the focal point is a fresh and cutesy image, and since many of their costumes are entrusted to Yamazaki Hikaru, a stylist at our company (ALCATROCK), we strive to capture that atmosphere while also bringing in new perspectives."
This year, twelve years will have passed ever since she started designing costumes for the Sakamichi Series. When asked which costume among them all was particularly memorable, she gave a slightly wry smile and answered "There isn't one".
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"I'm always only ever thinking about creating something that will leave a strong impression on the members, so I can't think of anything that has left a lasting impression on me. I want the costumes to be something that the graduated members will be able to forever take pride in, and, above all, from here on out, I want to keep on creating costumes that can push the currently active members forward, so that they can take to the stage with confidence and think "Today too, let's give it our all!"."
Kimika Onai: Born in Tokyo, in 1986. Graduated from Bunka Fashion College in 2007. Currently serving as the representative of ALCATROCK Co., she works as a costume designer and stylist. The costumes she has created for the Sakamichi Series so far include Nogizaka46's 'Influencer', 'Synchronicity', 'Koko ni wa Nai Mono', Keyakizaka46's 'Silent Majority' (the above-mentioned being the MV costumes), among many others.
Introduction of the 6th generation (Setoguchi Mitsuki, anan; 14.05.2025)
Introduction of the 6th generation, by Setoguchi Mitsuki
14.05.2025
Atago Kokone: Kokonen is someone who laughs easily, bursting into laughter right away. On the other hand, she's a kind-hearted person who pays close attention to the members, down to the little things. Whenever I'm in a bind, she'll call out to me right away.
Okoshi Hinano: Hinano takes really good care of us! Whenever anything happens, she'll pat me on the head, praising me and going "So cute~". But there's also an absentminded side... (laughs), so we support one another as the eldest bunch.
Ozu Reina: She's so mature that I can't believe she's [only] 18 - furthermore, she's incredibly smart, so I really rely on her. Even during the lessons, when I'd ask her "Is this correct?", she'd thoroughly teach me, which is very dependable!
Kaibe Akari: She may seem quiet, but as a matter of fact she's SUPER talkative and funny! That time we shared a room at the place we stayed, the two of us just kept laughing our heads off. And, out of the 6th generation, she's the most beauty-conscious!
Kawabata Hina: Although she's the youngest member of the 6th generation, she's a girl who speaks kindly to those around her. But then there's also this innocent side to her that is befitting of her age, which is so endearing that I can't help but just want to pat her on the head LOL
Suzuki Yuuna: [She's got] a babyface, a warm, gentle and soothing air about her. We often go home together, and the fatigue from the lessons is always dispelled by her warm and gentle atmosphere! But on the inside, she has a strong heart... that contrast also is part of her charm.
Nagashima Rio: Riotan usually comes across as naïve, but frankly she's the serious type. That might be why her emotions are written all over her face at any given moment~ I can't help but think that's adorable ♡ She's the representative of the 6th generation and a girl who goes all-in!
Masuda Mirine: She may seem like a cool beauty, but usually she's someone who stares blankly with her mouth open and goes at her own pace. You might find yourself wondering "I-is she okay...?", but she's actually a hard worker who can really analyze herself, self-reflect and grow (laughs).
Morihira Urumi: Urumin is straightforward, highly sensible and easily moved to tears. She'll cry both before and during a performance but, since she also has a strong will, after crying, she'll get it bang on. When it comes down to it, she gets things done.
Yada Moeka: Yada-chan and I are such good pals that we can't stop chatting when we're together. Both of us are foodies, so we're always discussing which restaurants we'd like to go to. I'm jealous of her great communication skills, which allow her to also talk to the seniors.
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Okoshi Hinano, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Okoshi Hinano: Born on the 1st of December, 2004. From Shizuoka prefecture. Blood type: B.
22.03.2025
"My strong point is my mindset of 'loving idols'"
Q: Okoshi-san, have you always wanted to become an idol?
A: Yes, from an early age. What got me into idols was seeing Watanabe Mayu-san (AKB48) on TV when I was five years old. From there on, my curiosity kept growing and growing, so much so that I ended up loving all female idols, from one end of the spectrum to another (laughs).
Q: Among the various idols you had grown to like, what did you think about Nogizaka46?
A: I'd known the group ever since the year they were formed. I liked the group Nogizaka46, and I enjoyed their songs too, so I've been listening to them frequently, for a long time. I wanted to try being an idol in a group I had admired, so I took the audition.
Q: In Nogizaka46, are there any seniors you admire?
A: My admiration for Kubo Shiori-san and Hayashi Runa-san is growing stronger and stronger. In January of this year, I went to see Kubo-san's Seishun Bunkasai (youth culture festival). From singing songs, to acting, talking, and even doing impromptu comedy skits! Not only is she almighty [= multi-talented in this context], but everything she does is so high-quality that it's overwhelming, and I found myself loving the entire flow of her performance. I like Hayashi-san's singing, and I also like her face. It's difficult to put it into words properly, but I like Hayashi-san's [whole] being.
Q: Well then, when it comes to being an idol, what parts [of yourself] would you name as your appeal?
A: I don't have any particular strengths to show off, but the one thing I do have is my 'mindset'. I believe that my love for idols is strong.
Q: Are there any skills you want to acquire or aspects you want to develop [while being] in Nogizaka46?
A: I'm not very good at speaking, so I'd like to get better at it. That's why I often listen to 'All Night Nippon', where Kubo-san is one of the hosts. I'd like to improve my speaking skills in order to someday also get radio work.
Q: Finally, please tell us about your aspirations for your future activities.
A: Without forgetting my gratitude, I hope to have activities that will continue to support the group Nogizaka46, which has been sustained by our seniors for so long.
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Setoguchi Mitsuki, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Setoguchi Mitsuki: Born on the 16th of July, 2005. From Kagoshima prefecture. Blood type: A.
22.03.2025
"I've received lots of messages from friends back home, which is encouraging!"
Q: First of all, Setoguchi-san, please tell us how you came to know about Nogizaka46.
A: 'Ohitorisama Tengoku' made me like Nogizaka46, and I came to love Inoue Nagi-san. Carrying such high expectations, I'm sure the pressure must have been immense. Despite it all, seeing her standing so dignified on stage, I thought she was very cool. I also like the contrast between the crinkling smile she has on during variety shows and the awe-inspiring countenance she has on stage. Inoue-san is someone I look up to. I hope to someday become someone like that.
Q: How'd you feel when you auditioned for your favourite group and were told you got in?
A: Even after I was told I'd been accepted, it didn't really sink in for a while, but lately it's only just starting to hit me bit by bit. Since my name was announced to the world, I've received messages from various friends back home telling me 'Congratulations! do your best, yeah~' which felt reassuring, and made me realize the importance of human connections. I think Nogizaka46, too, is a group that values human connections, and I want to make sure I'll properly carry that tradition on as well.
Q: How do you like Tokyo?
A: I'm still not used to it at all. The roads are so wide and the scenery is totally different from my hometown, so I thought "[now] THIS is the city.......!" (laughs) I was also surprised by how many railcars there are. The trains in Kagoshima only have about two [railcars].
Q: When you analyze yourself, what kind of character do you think you have?
A: [Someone] who does things at their own pace & in their own way, yet who's also surprisingly serious. There's also a part of me that won't feel right unless everything's done perfectly. I think that's a virtue, but I also have the tendency to overthink when things don't go well, so I guess that might be a weakness too.
Q: What are your impressions of the 6th generation with whom you're currently working?
A: Even though many of the members are younger than me, everyone's calm and reliable, so I can depend on them. On the contrary, it makes me wonder "Am I REALLY 19 years old?" (laughs).
Q: Which one of the members is particularly reliable?
A: (Kawabata) Hina. Whenever I seem anxious, she calls out to me and even gives me advice! She has SUCH a broad outlook that I can't believe she's only 14.
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Atago Kokone, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Atago Kokone: Born on the 17th of September, 2005. From Hyogo prefecture.
22.03.2025
"For the first time in my life, I found something I really wanted to do"
Q: First of all, please tell us what made you decide to audition for the 6th generation.
A: While the friends around me were each finding their own dreams and goals and going on their own paths, I couldn't find anything I wanted to do. I had neither something I was passionate about, nor a dream job. In such a moment, I found out that Nogizaka46 - which I had always loved - was holding auditions for the 6th generation. I was planning to audition for the spring group, so I filled out all the columns [in the application form]. I'd finished, but then one minute before the deadline I unexpectedly got scared and at that very moment, I gave up on applying. Afterwards, I spent every day regretting it. But at the same time, I realized that "If I feel this much regret every day, it might mean that this is what I really want to do". It was the first time in my life that I genuinely wanted to do something, so I applied anew during the summer group audition.
Q: So you've liked Nogizaka46 from the get-go, right?
A: Yes. My cram school teacher during junior high was a fan of Nogizaka46, and when I first heard the teacher talk about them, it made me wonder "What kind of group are they?", which made me look them up and that's [what got me interested in them]. When I first heard 'Boku wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru', I remember instinctively thinking "This is it! I love this!!".
Q: At that time, did you have any thoughts of wanting to become an idol yourself?
A: In those days, there weren't any such thoughts. Just watching was enough to make me happy.
Q: Are there any seniors you admire?
A: Ichinose Miku-san. I think her cuteness is wonderful. She's someone funny who can handle both boke and tsukkomi [= being the 'wise guy' and the 'straight man' in a comedy routine], and she gives me the impression of being someone who can do 'anything and everything', making her someone I admire.
Q: Now, Atago-san, what do you like?
A: I like ikebana* [= the japanese art of floral arrangement] - which I did in high school for three years - the most. I freely put together flower arrangement materials in a large vase, which was so fun! My specialty was spontaneously putting arrangements together. Images would come to me naturally, so I arranged flowers the way I felt like.
Q: Well then, is there anything you'd like to do as a 6th generation member?
A: Much like the seniors did on the programme, us 6th gen members would like to have something of a sports day!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Kaibe Akari, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Kaibe Akari: Born on the 14th of February, 2007. From Hyogo prefecture. Blood type: O.
22.03.2025
"I was deeply moved by Endo Sakura-san's tears"
Q: Kaibe-san, what made you audition for the 6th generation?
A: I learned about Nogizaka46 on tv while in primary school, and when watching the behind the scenes footage of their concerts and the like, I thought it was wonderful how they moved forward while encouraging each other.
Q: You wanted to become a part of Nogizaka46 yourself, and pursue your dreams together with your friends.
A: Yes. Then, in middle school was when that desire to 'join' became particularly strong. When I saw the '8th Year Birthday Live' footage with Endo Sakura-san performing 'Kaerimichi wa Toomawari Shitaku Naru' with tears streaming down her face, I was deeply moved. I thought about Endo-san's feelings, wondering if the tears might have flowed from a mix of positive and negative feelings.
Q: Endo-san is someone you admire, right?
A: I like how naturally cute and laid-back she usually is, and I also like how the moment she gets on stage she transforms all at once, delivering cool performances. I admire that contrast.
Q: Do you remember the time you were told that you passed the audition?
A: Yes. I think I'll never forget that day. We were called in number order, but I was SO scared that I kept my eyes closed and my head down the whole time. I was really happy when I was called!
Q: Kaibe-san - as a member of Nogizaka46 - what are your goals?
A: The surname 'Kaibe' is unusual, so first of all I hope that many people will remember it. And, my goal is to become a member who can convey the charms of Nogizaka46 - such as warmth or unity - to many people.
Q: The surname 'Kaibe' is difficult to read at first sight, isn't it?
A: Since it's often read as 'Umibe' [= seaside], I'd be happy if you could memorize it as 'Kaibe'.
Q: Finally, if you could please leave a message to the fans of Nogizaka46 and Up to Boy's readers.
A: Although I am still immature, I want to learn each and every thing with a feeling of gratitude. Well then, I'll be in your care!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Yada Moeka, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Yada Moeka: Born on the 27th of January, 2008. From Akita prefecture. Blood type: B.
22.03.2025
"I feel like it's destiny with Ikeda Teresa-san, and my heart is racing!"
Q: Firstly, Yada-san, what made you decide to take the 6th generation audition?
A: The main reason why was when I danced to a Nogizaka46 song at the school festival in my first year of high school. Up until then, I had only had a feeling of 'They're cute; I like them' towards Nogizaka46, but when I actually watched their music videos and footage from their concerts, memorized their dances and songs and then performed on stage, I saw lots of smiling faces in the audience. I thought that was a really wonderful sight, and a feeling of 'I want to join Nogizaka46 and stand on stage too' was born. At that time, the auditions hadn't been announced yet, so I was eagerly waiting, all like "When will it start, it can't start soon enough!!" (laughs)
Q: That is to say, as soon as the auditions were announced, you applied without hesitation?
A: There was some hesitation. I had great anxieties about whether being an idol - who surely must be busy every day - could coexist with my studies or not. But for me, the decisive factor in terms of applying was the existence of Ikeda Teresa-san. I was encouraged by seeing how Ikeda-san balances both her studies and her group activities. I want to become someone that can bring a smile to others' faces while also achieving my own goals. Ikeda-san is my ideal!
Q: What is your favourite part of Ikeda-san the idol?
A: I think it's really wonderful to see her dancing on stage, getting immersed in the worldview of the song. And then, what I like most of all is Ikeda-san's blog. There's a lot of text in each blog, it's updated frequently, furthermore, all the content is interesting, so there's a great feeling of satisfaction each time you read it! Also, like Ikeda-san, I too enjoy watching anime, and the lineup of my favourite works, such as 'Hunter X Hunter' or 'Neon Genesis Evangelion' and the like, is alike to a remarkable extent. "Could this perhaps be, fate??" - I got excited all by myself (laughs).
Q: Have you already met Ikeda-san, whom you love so much that you feel it's fate?
A: Yep. But I haven't been able to have a one-on-one conversation with her yet. I hope to someday be able to talk with Ikeda-san about our favourite anime.
Q: Finally, please leave a brief message for all the fans of Nogizaka46.
A: I believe that many people will be starting a new life this spring. I too have started anew as a member of Nogizaka46. Together with all the fans, I hope to move forward!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Morihira Urumi, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Morihira Urumi: Born on the 5th of October, 2008. From Tokyo. Blood type: A.
22.03.2025
"Much like the name 'Urumi' (麗心; 麗 -> beautiful, lovely; 心 -> heart, mind, spirit), I'd like to work without forgetting kindness*" [a kind heart = a beautiful heart based on her handwritten profile - thank you Mero for clarifying this for me!]
Q: Morihira-san, what made you decide to take the audition?
A: It all started when a friend from high school suggested "Why don't you try applying?". I was enjoying my day to day high school life, but somewhere in my heart I had a desire to 'change'. I applied while thinking 'If I don't audition here, I might regret it'.
Q: When you were told that you had made it, weren't you overjoyed?
A: I never thought I'd pass, so I was taken aback when I heard the news. I felt happy, but at the same time there was a lot of pressure. I felt like I'll have to work really hard from now on.
Q: Morihira-san, your name is written as 麗心 [麗 (kunyomi: uruwa(shii)/ura(raka), onyomi: rei) from uruwashii = beautiful, lovely and 心 (kunyomi: kokoro/gokoro, onyomi: shin) = heart, mind, spirit] but pronounced as 'Urumi', right?
A: My parents gave me this name with the hope of 'growing up with a kind heart for my whole life'. I myself like this name. In Nogizaka46 - before anything else - I want to do my activities without forgetting kindness, so that people will come to remember this name.
Q: Much like your name suggests, do you typically try to conduct yourself while keeping kindness in mind?
A: It's not like I've been able to accomplish anything great, but for instance, if a friend drops an eraser on the floor at school, I'll pick it up for them or something like that (laughs). I try to keep kindness in mind even when it comes to the little things.
Q: So, which senior do you admire in Nogizaka46?
A: Kaki Haruka-san. I feel like she's overflowing with kindness at all times, and above all, I love her sparkling smile! I have no confidence in my own smile....... but someday I'd like to become someone like Kaki-san and cheer up others with a smile.
Q: Lastly, please leave a message for Nogizaka46's fans and the readers of 'Up to Boy'.
A: As my name suggests, I hope to grow up with a kind heart from now on. I'd be happy if even one person felt like they like me. It's a pleasure to meet you!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Masuda Mirine, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Masuda Mirine: Born on the 1st of November, 2009. From Osaka prefecture. Blood type: O.
22.03.2025
"I want to find something that'd make people say 'That's SO Mirine'"
Q: First up, Masuda-san, what motivated you to take the audition?
A: I wanted to change myself. I lacked confidence and couldn't show my true self in front of others. However, I did want to be true to myself. I applied for the 6th generation audition in hopes of finding something that'd make people say 'That's SO Mirine'.
Q: Once you heard about the audition, did you immediately decide to take it?
A: No, I was really torn about whether to take it or not. But I felt as if - if I don't take it now, I'll for sure regret it once I grow up, thinking "I should've taken it". And finally, when I saw the tagline of the audition - 'The world can change with just one step' - I took that step forward.
Q: Did you like Nogizaka46 beforehand?
A: Yes. I saw them on TV when I was in primary school and thought "What a beautiful group of women!". From there on, I grew to like them more and more. The senior I admire is Ikeda Teresa-san. I admire Ikeda-san's stoic attitude. she's been studying while doing her activities, and she's written lots of blogs. I too want to be someone who spares no effort, like Ikeda-san.
Q: Do you have an ideal image of the kind of idol you'd like to become?
A: I'd like to be able to put on a performance or do something that'd deeply move someone. I watched the 'Nogizaka46 Daikanshasai 2024' and was moved to tears by how wonderful Kubo Shiori-san's solo dance was during 'Sing out!'. I thought I'd do my best in order to someday also inspire someone myself! I also have the desire to try my hand at acting.
Q: So you're interested in acting?
A: Yes, I like movies. My mother's a film buff, so I grew up watching old movies from an early age. I hope to also move someone with my acting.
Q: Now, Masuda-san, please tell us about your hobbies and interests.
A: My hobby is making sweets. I started baking when I was in the fifth grade of elementary. Up until now, I've made financiers, cookies, brownies and more. I don't eat them though.
Q: Huh? You make them but don't eat them?
A: I have my family eat them. I love making people smile with sweets. They were particularly happy when I made cheesecake, which made me happy too!
Q: What a wonderful anecdote! I feel like the fact that you like making others smile ties in nicely to being an idol too.
A: Indeed! I want to change within Nogizaka46 to make my fans smile too!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Kawabata Hina, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Kawabata Hina: Born on the 14th of January, 2011. From Tokyo. Blood type: B.
22.03.2025
"I went to my first Nogizaka46 concert when I was six years old"
Q: Kawabata-san, you're currently 14 years old. You're the youngest in the sixth generation?
A: Yes. I've loved Nogizaka46 ever since I was a child. Up until now I'd never been old enough to apply, but now that I'd finally reached the required age, I took a chance and sent in my application!
Q: What made you start liking Nogizaka46?
A: I saw 'Sayonara no Imi' on a music show and thought it was wonderful, so that was the beginning. From there on, as I watched their shows and went to their concerts, I started liking them more and more. The first concert I went to was Hashimoto Nanami-san's graduation concert in 2017.
Q: Kawabata-san, how old were you back when you went to see Hashimoto-san's graduation concert?
A: Six years old. 't was before I started primary school. I remember feeling shocked when I saw the venue filled with penlights of the same colour. I went to see their concert at the Tokyo Dome in 2017, and have also been to other tours and watched online streams of their concerts.
Q: You must've been a passionate fan!
A: Yes, I was in the audience waving my penlights, singing along and doing the songs' calls. So when I passed the Nogizaka46 audition and met my seniors in person, I was so happy and nervous that I almost cried.
Q: Who are the seniors you admire?
A: I've always admired Shiraishi Mai-san. She's beautiful, cool, her stories are interesting, and everything about her is so well-balanced, which I admire. I often get the question "Who among the current members is a senior you admire?", but I respect all of them so I have trouble answering....... However, after all, Umezawa Minami-san is the captain and much like a symbol of the group, so she's someone I admire.
Q: Kawabata-san, what would you say are your strengths?
A: I don't have anything in particular that I can use as my appeal, but if I had to name something, I guess it'd be the fact that I've been a Nogizaka46 fan since I was little. When it comes to my passion for Nogizaka46, I won't lose!
Q: Finally now, please share your enthusiasm for your upcoming activities!
A: I'm very happy to be able to join Nogizaka46, which I've admired since I was five years old. I'll face each and every task with all my might and do my best in order to earn everyone's support!
UTB x Nogizaka46 6th generation (Ozu Reina, Up to Boy; 22.03.2025)
Ozu Reina: Born on the 17th of April, 2007. From Tokyo. Blood type: AB.
22.03.2025
"I love dancing, so much so that I start dancing as soon as music starts playing!
Q: Ozu-san, why did you take the audition?
A: I've loved Nogizaka46 since I was in the sixth grade of elementary school. And then, I attended my first live concert at the Meiji Jingu Stadium stop of the 'Manatsu no Zenkoku Tour 2023', and not only were all of the members shining, but the faces of the spectators waving their penlights also were shining SO brightly. I thought "How wonderful it is that Nogizaka46 can make so many people so happy", which moved me, and that was the start of it all. I applied with the thought of wanting to see the sea of penlights from the stage myself.
Q: Were you confident that you would pass?
A: No, because I dropped something during the final screening announcement and messed up the lyrics during the singing screening, so I thought "There's no way I'll pass". I was crying by myself all the way up to the announcement of the successful applicants. I was shocked when I was told I'd passed, and it was very encouraging.
Q: What made you start liking Nogizaka46?
A: What started it all was seeing 'Shiawase no Hogoshoku' on a music program. Just as the Covid-19 pandemic was beginning and I was feeling distressed at home, I was encouraged by the lyrics 'Shiawase wa itsu datte, chikaku ni arunda (happiness is always nearby)'. I had a hard time not being able to go to school for half a year after becoming a middle school student, but I got a lot of energy from Nogizaka46. I admired Shiraishi Mai-san and Ito Marika-san. And nowadays, Yumiki Nao-san and Hayashi Runa-san are the seniors I admire. When I watched the concert, the performance of these two left a really big impression on me. not only their facial expressions, but also their every movement was amazing, so I'm aiming to be like them.
Q: Well then, which aspect of your activities would you name as your appeal?
A: Dancing. I love dancing, so much so that I start dancing as soon as music starts playing! When people see me dancing, I want them to think "Ozu looks like she's having fun dancing". and I'd be happy if you could feel the joy of dancing.
Q: By the way, were there any occupations you admired when you were very young?
A: I loved space, so I wanted to be someone who'd be taking others along into space (laughs). I've always been the type of person who's curious about anything and wants to do everything. I love being thrilled! I also like rollercoasters, and I'd like to try bungee jumping and climbing Mt. Fuji.
Q: Looking forward to your active participation in variety shows and location shoots then! Is there anything you'd like to try with the sixth generation?
A: I want to have a takoyaki party to get to know everyone better. I want to see everyone's reactions to a super spicy russian roulette! By the way, I'm good at handling spicy food, so even if I get something fiery hot, I'll be alright (laughs).
[just in case you're wondering why they're not here, yuuna's has been translated by her archive account on twt, while for riotan - i haven't been able to find her full interview.]
In times of loneliness, in moments of weakness, when facing decisions, and even during the mundane moments of life. Nogizaka46 and their songs have always been there, supporting us. Now the effort, thanks and smiles of the eleven members who've embraced tradition - which they admired - will bring about a new future for the group.
16.04.2025
"Nogizaka46, as well as their songs, transform us."
Before joining Nogizaka46, these 11 girls each spent their school days as ordinary women.
Kaibe: In elementary and junior high, I was the quiet type - during recess, I either read books or spent time sunbathing. I liked taking it easy. From the age of four I went to a music school in the neighbourhood - for nearly ten years - and sang just for fun, almost as if I were going out somewhere to play.
Suzuki: From nursery school 'til elementary school, I was such a tomboy that my relatives used to tell me "Won't you become a comedian?". From junior high onwards, I started worrying about others' opinion of me and became more quiet.
Atago: Back in elementary school, I was the kind of kid who LOVED playing outside, like playing tag in the park with kids I'd just met. Junior high was when I became more of an indoor person, with friends even often telling me "You needn't be so reserved".
Setoguchi: Back in elementary I was rather reserved, but when I joined the wind ensemble in junior high, I got to make friends and discovered the joy of expressing myself in front of others. Joining the cheerleading squad in high school made me brighten up even more.
Okoshi: In junior high, I was part of the go-home club. In high school, I was part of the calligraphy club but since I used to write silently, I didn't really talk much with people during my student days.
Morihira: Back in junior high, I didn't have many friends, so I spent recess reading by myself. I went to an all-girls high school, and I reckon it was one of the more lively ones. Those around me often tell me I'm absentminded, but I personally don't see it.
Kawabata: I liked talking to people and would often spend time with my friends. When one of my friends told me "Just having you, Hina, around makes things feel so warm and friendly", I realized that I had been giving them energy.
Ozu: I took ballet lessons from five years old 'til 17 years old, and was in the dance club in junior high and high school. I didn't say much and kept quiet in class, but during recess I got energetic and danced, so those around me seemed to think of me as the "kid who often danced in the classroom".
Nagashima: At school, I was the bright type of person who would speak proactively while in class, even serving as the class representative. My facial muscles are rather flexible, so those around me would tell me "Rio, you really wear your heart on your sleeve, don't you?".
Masuda: From the moment I was born, I've been extremely shy, so I didn't have any friends. After I changed schools in the fifth grade of elementary, I started thinking "I'd like to have friends". By behaving more cheerfully, I was able to make more friends.
Yada: People tend to think I'm a scary person when I keep a straight face. I was the president of the student council in my junior high days, so people thought I was the serious type. To tell you the truth, I chatter a lot and I make blunders when it really counts.
The eleven came across Nogizaka46 and found themselves getting drawn in by their live performances and conduct on variety shows.
Kaibe: I had been watching Nogizaka46 prior, but it was when I saw Endo Sakura-san performing 'Kaerimichi wa Toomawari Shitaku Naru' in tears at the 8th Year Birthday Live that captivated me - the way she seemed to embody both human strength and weakness all at once. I went from being a fan to really admiring them, and started thinking "I want to be [part of] Nogizaka46 [myself]."
Suzuki: My elder brother liked Nogizaka46 originally, and as we listened to their songs together and watched 'Nogizaka Koujichuu' (TV Tokyo), I found myself getting more and more drawn to them, because - not only are their performances elegant and beautiful to look at, but they're also funny on their show and wonderful people down to their core.
Atago: When it came to 'Boku wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru', I thought "This is it!". It wasn't for the same reasons as in the lyrics, but at that time I had lots of worries. When I listened to 'Bokuboku', I felt lighter and thought "Maybe I needn't worry so much after all". The center, Yamashita Mizuki-san, was my first oshi. I always received a lot of energy from her because she always gave it her all no matter what and you were instantly drawn to her, no matter where she might've been.
Setoguchi: At the beginning, I liked Nogizaka46 to the extent that I would get closer to the TV were they to appear on a singing show. When Inoue Nagi-san joined as a 5th generation member, I felt a shock. I fell in love with Nogizaka46 thanks to 'Ohitorisama Tengoku', in which Inoue-san was the center.
Okoshi: I've liked idols since I was six years old, and I've listened to all sorts of idol songs. Nogizaka46's songs are like a gentle tap on the shoulder when you're feeling down, and I often listened to them on my way home from school.
Kawabata: When I was five years old, I saw the first TV performance of 'Sayonara no Imi' and that's when I became a fan - together with my parents. When I was six years old, I went to see day one of the 5th Year Birthday Live (Hashimoto Nanami's graduation concert) and was struck by the energy of the whole place turning completely green. Observing their different sides - not just how cute they are, but also how cool they are during live concerts and how funny they are on 'Nogizaka Koujichuu' - I grew to love Nogizaka46 more and more.
Morihira: Watching the Kouhaku Uta Gassen every year was the reason why I started listening to Nogizaka46's songs in my day to day life. When Nogizaka46-san appeared on music programmes, I sometimes danced along with them. I learned ballet, so I loved dancing.
Ozu: When I was in the sixth grade of elementary, I watched them perform 'Shiawase no Hogoshoku' on a music programme, which turned me into a fan. The lyric 'Happiness is always nearby (shiawase wa itsudatte, chikaku ni arunda)' really struck a chord with me. I also liked the move where they shake their shoulders during the chorus, and I admired their togetherness - doing it in complete unison, despite how difficult it must've been. The time I spent unable to go to school - because of the pandemic - was fully spent researching Nogizaka46.
Nagashima: Back in elementary school, the music video for 'Synchronicity' was unveiled on an info programme and I was charmed by the beautiful ladies twirling around in their one-piece dresses. Afterwards, I became a fan of Inoue Nagi-san - who joined the group as a 5th generation member - and thus started following the activities of Nogizaka46.
Masuda: Ever since I was in the lower grades of elementary, I pretty much thought "idols = Nogizaka46", so I watched them whenever they'd appear on music shows. I was really moved by the tagline of the 6th generation audition: "The world can change with just one step".
Yada: Around the time when I was in kindergarten, I used to sing and dance along to AKB48-san's songs, but then I discovered Nogizaka46 as their official rivals. I was happy that Ikoma-san - who's from the same prefecture as I am, Akita - was their initial center. It all started when I danced to 'Girls' Rule', 'Hadashi de Summer' and 'Kaerimichi wa Toomawari Shitaku Naru' during the cultural festival in my first year of high school, and as I practiced by watching the video of Shiraishi Mai-san dancing to 'Girls' Rule' - found on her official YouTube channel - while trying on different costumes, with a feeling of admiration I thought "I want to do that too". That feeling turned into conviction when I saw the smiling faces of the audience from up on the stage at the time of the cultural festival.
The music of Nogizaka46 has impacted these girls' lives. They talk about their reasons for having selected these costumes for this time's shoot, as well as their 'favourite songs' & 'favourite music videos' as listed on their profiles from the '6th generation unveiling site'.
Kaibe: The costume I picked this time, as well as my favourite song is 'Yoakemade Tsuyogaranakute mo Ii'. When I was feeling lost and down and wondering "What should I do?", the lyrics "Until dawn, you don't have to put on a brave face anymore (yoakemade mou tsuyogaranakute ii)" really encouraged me. I like the dance where Endo Sakura-san, Kaki Haruka-san and Tsutsui Ayame-san - dubbed as the Yoake Three Musketeers - pair up with their seniors. When I actually put on the costume of 'Yoake', it felt like a dream, so much so that I found myself touching the costume throughout LOL
Suzuki: The costume I picked, as well as my favourite MV is 'Harujion ga Saku Koro'. There's a fleetingness within its brilliance, so it's filled to the brim with the Nogizaka46 I admire. Listening to 'Harujion ga Saku Koro' feels much like falling in love with Nogizaka46. My favourite song is 'Chikyuu ga Marui Nara', and the line "Wet sandals dry, but words once spoken can never be unsaid (nureta sandaru wa kawaku kedo kuchi ni dashita kotoba wa kienai)" really stuck with me. It may not be a conventional pick, but I reckon that's also what makes it 'Nogizaka-like'.
Atago: I chose the 'Bokuboku' costume, the very song that got me into Nogizaka46. My favourite song is 'Hito wa Yume wo Nido Miru', which I listened to countless times every single day during the audition period. There were times I felt lost, wondering "Is this really the path I should choose?" Auditioning for the 6th generation was the only thing I ever felt I wanted to do, but when I thought about the future after I'd passed, anxiety crept in, making me wonder "Can I really do this?" On my way to the final audition venue, I lost my nerve and actually turned around to go home, but just then I heard the lyrics of 'Hito wa Yume wo Nido Miru', "Being young means getting fired up easily, losing interest just as fast, and getting distracted—it's so easy to lose sight of what really matters (wakasa wa nesshi yasuku same yasuku meutsuri suru dake de/tottemo taisetsu na mono miushinatte shimau keredo)", which made me think "I'll for sure regret it if I don't go through with it now". I decided that if there was something I wanted to do for once, I wouldn't hesitate and just go for it instead, so I headed to the venue.
Setoguchi: The 'Monopoly' costumes I saw on a music show really left a lingering impression. The design matched the song's heartrending lyrics as well as the strength of the melody, and the weighted train looked beautiful when spinning, which made me think "I'd like to try that on". One of my favourite songs is 'Suki to Iu no wa Rock da ze!", I love the lyrics "Is love really this powerful? (ai tte konna ni mo, chikara ga aru no ka)", and just listening to it gives me a boost. I can really feel the love from my seniors' performances. Another song I mentioned as one of my favourites is 'Tsuribori' - I used to listen to it before going to school. It calms me down when I'm having a bad time.
Okoshi: Since I only ever wear black or grey clothes in my private life, I wanted to try wearing clothes with a floral pattern, so I chose the costume for 'SukiRock'. I also long to become someone like the sparkling Kaki-san. I want to become the kind of forward-facing woman that embodies the lyrics of 'SukiRock'. My favourite song is 'Yoake', and there are days when the lyrics really hit home. Things usually don't go my way, but some days are particularly hopeless. At such times, I spend the whole morning listening to 'Yoake', watching 'Yoake''s music video and trying to reset my feelings to "Just be your true-to-life self". My favourite music video is 'Nigemizu', and I like the scene where Shiraishi Mai-san is holding the rice cooker LOL
Kawabata: I chose the costumes from 'Sayonara no Imi', the song which made me fall in love with Nogizaka46. I liked Hashimoto (Nanami)-san, who looked cool but had a mischievous side to her also. I love the balance of Shiraishi-san and Hashimoto-san, and I feel like my favourite MV, 'Tachinaori Chuu', really depicts their relationship. Y'know, Shiraishi-san had that line where she told Hashimoto-san, "You're like someone I only see on TV", and when the same line was used in the music video for Shiraishi-san's graduation solo, "Jaane.", it hit me right in the feels.
Morihira: I wanted to try wearing the 'Nigemizu' costume because of the super cute skirt that flares out when you spin around. I was SO moved when I saw both of the centers performing 'Nigemizu' at Yoda Yuuki-san's graduation concert. I thought I'd bear a lot of responsibility [by choosing it], but since it was such a precious opportunity, I made up my mind on wearing it. The song listed as my favourite, 'Hodoukyou', actually had its live debut right around the time I passed the 6th generation audition. The lyrics about struggling with a decision but making one anyway really left a mark on me, because I saw my past self reflected in that very same struggle. The lyrics, "Caught between hope and anxiety, what should I do? Let's just cross anyway," made me decide, "I'm going to try doing my activities as [part of] Nogizaka46."
Ozu: I chose the costume for 'Koko ni wa Nai Mono' since the costume is primarily white with grey at the bottom, and the image of the skirt flaring out when you spin around is wonderful. Up until then, I only paid attention to the dance when watching other artists' performances, but it was then that I realized that with Nogizaka46, it's the full package - the costumes, the sets, everything - that makes it a single work of art.
Nagashima: I chose the costumes in which I came across Nogizaka46 for the first time, and in which my seniors spun around so beautifully - the ones from the song 'Synchronicity'. A lot of songs meant to cheer someone up tend to be upbeat to lift your spirits, but 'Synchronicity' cheers you up in a more gentle manner. That's what I loved about it. This lyric in particular is heartwarming: "It feels like the melancholy and heartache I've been holding onto have shrunk to just one in 7.6 billion (kakaekonda, yuutsu to ka, mune no itami mo nanajuuroku okubun no ichi ni natta ki ga suru)". Idols come in all sorts of varieties, such as 'cute' or 'cool', but when it comes to Nogizaka46, what comes to mind is 'beautiful'. I think the performance of 'Synchronicity' is one that best represents that beauty.
Masuda: When you think of Nogizaka46's costumes, for many people probably a white one-piece dress comes to mind, but for me [what comes to mind] is the sailor uniform from 'Seifuku no Mannequin'. I really looked up to Nogizaka46 when they danced to 'Seifuku no Mannequin'. The melody is cool and strong, but everyone's beauty brings a charming impression to it, and the dance had a grown-up-feel to it that drew me in. The joint performance of 'Seifuku no Mannequin' with Keyakizaka46-san (on Fuji TV's 'FNS Music Festival', broadcast in December of 2016) was one of the things that first got me into Nogizaka46.
Yada: In order to get to perform 'Girls' Rule' at the cultural festival in my first year of high school, I practiced every day after school together with my closest friend. I remember saying "The costumes for Girls' Rule are sooo cute". When I passed the audition, that girl told me "I'll be cheering for you! However, I'm sad that we'll be separated". That's why I chose it this time. 'Girls' Rule' has such a bright melody, but upon taking a closer look at the lyrics I felt this sense of sadness - it struck a chord with my own feelings about friends parting ways. The reason why I chose 'Kokoro ni mo Nai Koto' as my favourite music video is because Ikeda Teresa-san, whom I admire, is the center. At first I was charmed by her beautiful looks, but I grew to like Ikeda-san even more thanks to her clever writing and shared interests. The 5th generation dancing in the 'Kokoro ni mo Nai Koto' MV was as beautiful as the starry sky, which made me fall for them even harder. I'm not usually one to cry, but when things got tough, I'd listen to 'Kokoro ni mo Nai Koto' on purpose just to let the tears flow.
"I want to change myself. I want to make someone smile." With each one [of them] carrying their own hopes and feelings, they took the Nogizaka46 6th generation audition.
Kaibe: There was the intention of wanting to change myself too but, more than anything, I wanted companions who'd have the same dream and would support one another, which is why I took the audition for the 6th generation. When I was in a[n after school] club, each member had their own different goals, so I found myself wishing for companions with whom I'd have steadfast bonds.
Suzuki: Even though it was time to decide on my future career path, I just couldn't find something I wanted to do. I'd never been all-in about any club activities, nor did I have any accomplishments or hobbies that seemed like they'd lead anywhere in the future. I'd figured that were I to join Nogizaka46 - which had helped me countless times - and actually become able to change myself, my life would turn into something wonderful. Of course, I know that hard times may come, but being able to be in a place that I love is bound to become an asset for me. Even if I wouldn't make it into Nogizaka46, I thought that just taking the audition would boost my self-confidence.
Atago: Back in my student days, hearing the kids around me talking about their future paths made me realize "There isn't anything I'd like to do". At that time, the 6th generation audition popped up and I thought "This is it!". Back in junior high, I thought I'd push myself to be more outgoing and even ran for class representative, but - sure enough - I couldn't shake the feeling of how uncomfortable I felt doing all that. I also had this hope that maybe Nogizaka46 could help change that lack of confidence.
Setoguchi: I may have been the cheerful type, but I wasn't really good at speaking my mind. Were I to join Nogizaka46, I'd have more opportunities to talk about myself, be it at live shows, TV programmes or interviews, so I thought "Maybe that'll help me change".
Okoshi: I'd been watching idols for a loooong time, and I often wondered "What would it be like to be the one on the other side of the screen?", so when I turned ten, I realized that "It'd be better to regret doing something than to regret not doing it at all".
Morihira: I figured I'd try venturing into a new world. There might've been the desire of 'wanting to change' also.
Kawabata: I liked watching Nogizaka46, but never had thought "I want to be [part of] Nogizaka46". I'd been hesitating when I reached the age that I needed to audition, but my parents gave me a push, saying "Why don't you just send in an application?", so I decided to just go for it.
Ozu: It wasn't like I was following some predetermined path, nor was anyone forcing me, but I was worrying if the one-note routine of just going back and forth between home and school was okay, when I attended the 'Manatsu no Zenkoku Tour 2023'. Everyone in Nogizaka46 was glowing and the audience never stopped beaming! It was fun being able to do the cheers during 'Ohitorisama Tengoku'. I felt how wonderful it'd be to be an idol - this profession which makes people smile - and the thought of wanting to join Nogizaka46 was born.
Nagashima: When I was in my second year of high school, I wondered if it'd be okay to go on to university and then get a job, when I remembered what my teacher had told me one year prior: "Make use of what you're good at in order to help others" and that's when I thought - wouldn't it be wonderful to get to entertain others through singing and dancing? When I discovered that the 6th generation recruitment was on, I thought "I'll give this a try" and ended up applying for the audition.
Masuda: All I wanted was to change. When I thought about my future prospects, in the past I was dead set on becoming a city hall employee. I used to think that all I needed was a steady job which would allow me to get by, but when I found out about the 6th generation audition, I decided to apply so I wouldn't look back and regret not going for it. I found myself wishing I could fundamentally change myself, becoming someone's source of strength - that gives them the will to live and even saves them.
Yada: I wanted to go to medical school because I wanted to make people smile. There was a period where I had to go to the hospital once a month for regular checkups. Some people may have a negative image of it, but for me the hospital was a place where I felt warmly welcomed and [where I] could smile. However, after taking to the stage for the cultural festival, I realized that even if I wouldn't become a doctor, being an idol was a profession where you could make others smile too, so I applied for the audition.
After passing the audition, the girls began their lessons as trainees. Through friendly rivalry, the distance between them started shrinking and shrinking.
Suzuki: During the training period, I was under the belief that I wouldn't pass, so I thought "Maybe it'd be best not to get too friendly with everyone", which is why I barely started any conversations myself. There were many girls that talked to me even though I wasn't able to be upfront about my feelings, which made me think "Everyone's so kind". I remember staying up late in the hotel room with Masuda - who's also from the same region - and encouraging each other.
Setoguchi: Hearing what you said just now reminds me of the time I confided in Yada Moeka-chan - who stayed in the same room as me - about my anxieties about moving to Tokyo, going "I don't wanna leave my home, y'know" and the way we hit it off 'cause of it, being relieved that "There are girls who have the same worries".
Okoshi: The acting lessons were difficult, but going through that hardship together united us, and that's how I finally managed to become good friends with the other girls in the summer group.
Morihira: When we were practicing as the summer group, there were many girls who shed tears out of anxiety. But that meant we all supported each other. There was a period of time where I couldn't attend practice due to a sore throat, but everyone was there for me and made me feel better.
Atago: On the day when the spring and summer groups met in person (since the auditions took place twice, once in spring and once in summer), as a getting-to-know-each-other game, we each took turns writing our 'kanji of the year'. As I wrote '愛' (ai; = love, appreciation) to express my gratitude to my parents for having raised me up until now, I just started bawling uncontrollably. At that time, one of the girls I'd met for the first time called out to me and asked me "Are you okay?". I found myself thinking, "What kind children".
Kawabata: After the spring and summer groups linked up, we discovered "This girl can DANCE" or "This girl's great at singing", so we were able to spur each other on and lift up one another.
Kaibe: I felt depressed because my dancing was awful, and I was totally hopeless at just about everything. In such times, the girls around me called out to me and told me "It's okay", which cheered me up. It was everyone pulling me along that helped me become more cheerful. In terms of dancing, I was helped out by Ozu (Reina)-chan.
Nagashima: Ozu-chan is amazingly quick at picking up choreography.
Yada: When I didn't seem to quite get it, Ozu-chan showed me how to do it through [her reflection in] the mirror, going "It's like this".
Masuda: Ozu-chan would look at me in the mirror and ask me, "Is there anything you don't understand?". When I got home, I cried, touched by that kindness.
Ozu: I'm embarrassed LOL. As part of the dance club, I got into the habit of looking at others' dancing and thinking "If they did it like this instead, it'd be even better". It may be selfish, but I just can't help myself from speaking up.
Masuda: (Nagashima) Rio also is a good dancer. Maybe it's because she used to do hula dancing, but her movements are so graceful. I'd thought "Maybe I can do that too", but when I tried to copy her, I didn't even come close. I'm not very athletic, so I'm struggling to keep up with everyone else. I haven't really exercised at all since back in second grade, when I practiced riding a bike just to be able to go to the shopping mall with my friends. I spent every day watching videos and grinning, so I never imagined that exercise would end up becoming such a big part of my life. It's been a real shock to both my body and mind.
Yada: I'm so bad at both singing and dancing, that it'd be no surprise if someone were to come up and ask me "Why'd you even want to become an idol?". I'm supposed to have been in the tennis club, but my reflexes are SO bad. I also was the second slowest in my grade in the 50m dash. It's gotten to the point where even now, when I tell people that I used to be part of the sports club they ask me, "This ain't an April Fools joke, right?". Every time I practiced dancing, I worried "Why am I the only one who's this bad at it?". However, when I thought about it more I realized: "I've never been good at sports to begin with, so I won't be able to keep up with everyone if I only put in the same amount of effort". I made up my mind, "Everyone else is working hard, but I'm going to work even harder".
Did your first impressions of the 6th generation members change once you got closer to them?
Kaibe: When the spring and summer groups first saw each other in person, when I saw (Suzuki) Yuuna I thought "That's a cute AND soft girl." Upon actually speaking to her - even with her gentle impression still lingering - I realized that she's actually someone you can really rely on. However, there are still times where she's absentminded or ends up taking the wrong road. That too, is cute.
Suzuki: I've been together with (Atago) Kokone ever since the summer group audition, and her sheer purity made me think "This is Nogizaka46! This girl's definitely getting in!". Talking to her, however, was real interesting. I found that contrast charming, too.
Atago: I happened to spot (Setoguchi) Mitsuki before the spring and summer groups got together, and I thought "That girl's as beautiful as a doll". Upon actually linking up, I realized that she's not the quiet type. She picks up on every little thing I blurt out LOL. I always get energy from Mitsuki's positive mindset.
Setoguchi: When all the 6th generation members went out to eat, (Okoshi) Hinano-chan kept looking down the whole time. She wouldn't even look me in the eye, so I thought she might just be a quiet girl. However, once we got to know each other, I discovered that she actually talks a lot, her smile's really cute, and she has a strong personality. Nowadays, Hinano-chan has taken to talking to me first. Sometimes she'll even pat me on the head.
Okoshi: My first impression of (Kaibe) Akari was "I'm glad there's a girl about as tall as me". From the very moment we met she's been kind, never leaving anyone out and always being there for someone. I reckon she shows us kindness in a hundred little ways every day.
Morihira: When the spring and summer groups got together, (Kawabata) Hina seemed so mature that I thought "Isn't she the oldest?". When I learned that she's actually 14, my eyes nearly popped out of my head LOL. Whenever I talk to her - sure enough - she seems really composed.
Kawabata: On the day when the spring and summer groups first met, we had a get-together to get to know each other better and I was at the same table as (Morihira) Urumi, but since she didn't say much, I wondered "Maybe she's not having fun". She seemed rather nervous back then, but once we got closer, she really started talking more. Her choice of words is interesting.
Yada: Even among the many quiet members of the summer group, Ozu-chan gave off this calm impression, almost as if she'd taken a step back and was observing everyone with a detached perspective. She was like an elder sister. Even so, there was an opportunity for us - the 6th generation - to grab a meal all together, and on the way to the restaurant, we were able to talk together as same-age friends. Ozu-chan's way of speaking and writing is just so easy to follow. People who are truly smart don't talk in difficult-to-follow words, but rather in easy-to-understand terms, don't they? Ozu-chan is exactly that kind of person.
Ozu: The summer group was made up of only quiet members, so much so that lunch naturally was a silent meal LOL. When we met up with the spring group, there was this one member who was really talkative. And that was (Nagashima) Rio. Her cheerfulness made me feel like "Things are going to get fun". Once we got closer, I realized that she wasn't only cheerful - but she actually thinks carefully before she speaks and she's also really good at putting sentences together. I respect Rio.
Nagashima: My first impression of (Masuda) Mirine was "The bob girl has arrived!" LOL. When we first met, I thought she might've been nervous and since she was so quiet, I figured she might be the cool type. However, once we started talking she was SO interesting and fascinating that I couldn't take my eyes off her. I don't know if I should be saying something like this, but she's like a little sister to me.
Masuda: My first impression of Yada-chan was "So fair! Cute!". She spoke in a composed tone so I thought she sounded rather head-of-the-student-council-esque, and it turned out that she actually really was [the president of the student council]! She's so earnest and there are so many things I want to learn from her, so I really respect her. She's super talkative and will take the initiative to talk to you. Her way of speaking is really gentle, so even someone like me will be able to handle it.
The 6th generation's first original song is 'Time Limit Kataomoi'. Yada Moeka was selected for the center position. The music video was shot in the freezing cold of Hokkaido.
Yada: When I was told I'd be the center, I was overcome with anxiety. I felt as if I'd fallen behind the other girls, so I was frozen stiff with anxiety, wondering "Why me?" and "What will I do if I make a mistake even though I'm the center?". However, Morihira and Setoguchi who were next to me were grinning, while encouraging me to do my best. I also received messages from the other members. The day before the MV filming, Nagashima called me and we talked 'til late at night. Everyone's support was what made me get through the production of 'Time Limit Kataomoi'.
Morihira: I reached out to Yada-chan as I figured she'd be the most anxious. I often get told that my way of encouraging others is strange, but I'd be glad if it helped Yada-chan feel even a little bit better.
Setoguchi: I treated Moeka in a straightforward manner, telling her "Let's have fun together". I myself didn't really feel as if I were in the front, but rather it felt like we were all dancing side-by-side in one line, so I didn't feel anxious at all.
Nagashima: When I thought "We'll be filming tomorrow night", I started getting nervous. I figured, "If even I'm this nervous, Moeka must be freaking out", so I quickly got in touch with her and asked her "You OK?", and she just burst into tears.
Yada: I'm not usually one to cry LOL.
Nagashima: I told the crying Moeka, "Yeah, I thought so. But you're cute, so have some confidence!" We encouraged one another for over two hours. When I saw the completed music video for 'Time Limit Kataomoi', I thought "I'm glad Moeka was the first center". Just from the way she stands, she gives off this aura that is unique to Moeka, and while I doubt she intends to be acting, her expressions alone tell a whole story.
Morihira: The music video for 'Time Limit Kataomoi' was shot in Kushiro City, Hokkaido and at Yatsugatake* [= volcanic mountain range between the Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures]. When I started crying because of how cold it was, everyone gathered around me and encouraged me, telling me "It'll be okay. Once this is over, we'll get to have our bentos!".
Ozu: The members braved the cold by playing oshikura-manju* [= children's game in which three or more stand back-to-back in a circle and jostle] together. Having a harsh experience from the get-go gave me the confidence that we could brave anything from now on.
Kaibe: The spots that got wet from touching the snow would freeze over. Even though it was that cold, the feeling of fun won over and many of the girls were smiling. I, too, was one of them.
Suzuki: The director told us "While 'Time Limit Kataomoi' is a love song - for the 6th generation - it's also a song that expresses the time limit until graduation". I found myself thinking, "Maybe I could become the beautiful, fleeting idol that I'd always dreamed of [being]." While looking out over the Yatsugatake mountains, I thought "Had I not auditioned for the 6th generation, I may have just been lounging around at home", and I felt SO happy to have the companions I do now.
Atago: Since idols have a time limit, I want to make the most out of the time I've been given and challenge myself to try anything and everything.
Masuda: In the midst of filming, I thought to myself "There are such kind people in this world". This music video was created by everyone in the 6th generation, and it wouldn't have been possible if even one of us were to be missing. I'm glad it was these eleven people.
Yada: There was this certain tension because this isn't a song by our seniors; it's a 6th generation song. I could feel the fierce drive coming from everyone. There was such a sense of accomplishment when the shoot was over, and I think it really brought the 6th generation together. I've become able to talk with everyone now.
Kawabata: I think 'Time Limit Kataomoi' is a song that we can really make our own. I'm looking forward to seeing the 6th generation members' colours emerge from now on.
Okoshi: As an idol fan, I can't help but find everyone in the 6th generation adorable. They're cute just by being there, and they're even cuter when they start walking around. What's more, everyone's really kind and hardworking. Where have you all been hiding up until now, I wonder? I pay close attention to everyone's little quirks, be it during filming or rehearsals.
At the Nogizaka46 First Unveiling Event: "Nice to meet you, we're the 6th generation." (held on the 6th of April), they performed songs such as 'Seifuku no Mannequin'. The eleven supported each other in rehearsals, about to take to the stage for the very first time.
Masuda: I was looking forward to performing 'Seifuku no Mannequin' and got really excited, but when we started learning the choreography I realized that my skills just.... weren't there yet. When I watch videos of myself dancing - unlike my seniors - I realize that I'm just. Moving. I bought a big mirror and am [now] practicing [more] at home.
Atago: I like 'Seifuku no Mannequin'. It may be a song that's different from my usual image, but I feel like this style of dancing - where every movement is clear and well-defined - rather suits me. However, I'm not very good at performing 'Hodoukyou'. Since my body is stiff, it's hard for me to move gracefully.
Kawabata: Whenever I'm rehearsing 'Seifuku no Mannequin', the image of my seniors dancing always pops up in my head. I make a conscious effort of drawing out that pressure and expressing it. The flowing choreography of 'Hodoukyou' was difficult for me. Whenever I hit a wall, Urumi - who has previous ballet experience - kindly walked me through it. I tried copying her dancing, which is beautiful right down to her fingertips. I want us all to get on the same wavelength and put on a performance that really moves people.
Morihira: I was happy to get to perform my favourite 'Hodoukyou'. However, I worried that when it came to the actual performance, the lyrics would hit me so hard that I'd start crying. We asked the staff "Are there any days when we can practice on our own?" and they prepared a time and place for us to do so, so we're working hard.
Okoshi: We'd like to perform 'Hodoukyou' not as an imitation of our seniors, but rather as an answer coming from the 6th generation.
Nagashima: I want to convey the world of 'Hodoukyou''s lyrics not with a sad expression, but rather with an expression that's like a fleeting smile. Sometimes it gets physically demanding to keep dancing during rehearsals, but there's such a kind atmosphere that if somebody's feeling down, somebody else would always cheer them up, so that environment really helped me out too.
Setoguchi: I'm so happy to have got to dance in the center for 'Ohitorisama Tengoku', the very song that made me fall in love with Nogizaka46. Back when I was a fan, I'd get energized by 'Ohitorisama Tengoku', but now it's my turn to be the one energizing others. I want to liven up the place together with everyone in the 6th generation. Since I used to be a cheerleader, I think that smiling is my forte, but I'm worried about how much that'll get through. I'd like to find a way to truly convey my cheerfulness.
Ozu: It was fun when the entirety of the 6th generation clapped along to the beat perfectly in sync during 'Ohitorisama Tengoku'. I'm getting really excited just thinking about what it'll be like when the audience will start clapping along with us. During rehearsals, we've started discussing more amongst ourselves about how "we should do it like this [instead] here and there". I used to be shy and called everyone by "[name]-chan", but now that I'm able to just call them by their names* [without any honorifics], I feel like that's brought us closer.
Yada: Even when lessons run late, everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. There are times when I feel depressed, but there'll always be someone to brighten up the mood. We're rehearsing with the feeling of "If we're not having fun, then the audience won't have fun either".
Kaibe: When we're practicing on our own and everyone's reviewing each other's [dancing, singing], checking "This part goes like this, right?" - I keenly feel how much I love this space.
Suzuki: Some members even shed tears, going "I'm no good at dancing", but they really put in the effort and practiced on their own, they weren't afraid to ask about anything they didn't understand and just kept on steadily improving. I found myself being really inspired by that too. I'm glad that we've become the kind of team that doesn't leave anyone behind, ensuring that if someone stumbles, someone else will always be there to lend a hand. I can do my best too - because I'm not alone.
Masuda: You can really tell that everyone in the staff is thinking "Let's create something great", so we're feeling like we absolutely must live up to those expectations. I want to turn our first time on stage into a good thing and celebrate together with everyone.
Nogizaka46 currently doesn't have any 1st or 2nd generation members. How do the 6th generation members intend to carry on the legacy of Nogizaka46 that their seniors have upheld?
Kaibe: Nogizaka46 has been built up by the 1st generation-san and 2nd generation-san - and has been inherited by the seniors who are leading the group today - so we also want to carefully carry on that legacy, one step at a time.
Masuda: I believe the seniors of today have learned important things and have carefully passed them on, so we want to do our part in continuing that legacy and protecting Nogizaka46.
Nagashima: Even though we may not have been able to see the 1st & 2nd generation-san doing their activities up close, we want to learn as much as we can from our seniors - from the 3rd to the 5th generation.
Ozu: I believe that the 1st & 2nd generation-san have built up the brand Nogizaka46 from scratch. We want to introduce that brand to as many people as possible - without damaging what it stands for. I think there are things we can do to help achieve that. Above everything, I want to prioritize etiquette, decorum and love for Nogizaka.
Kawabata: I believe we mustn't forget 'doryoku, kansha, egao [= Nogizaka46's motto; effort, thanks, smiles]' and bring about a new wind while inheriting the Nogizaka-way.
Suzuki: We were warmly welcomed by our seniors. Upon our every meeting, they show [their] care for us, asking "Are you okay? You aren't struggling, right?". That must've been the example set by the 1st & 2nd generation-san.
Atago: Everyone in the 6th generation accepted me - with my flaws and all - creating a warm and supportive space where they always encouraged me. I want to cherish that warmth and strive to become someone worthy of being part of Nogizaka46.
Setoguchi: The girls taking the audition were nice, and I'd already felt as if this were a warm place. Upon joining Nogizaka46, I've come to appreciate the importance of human connections.
Morihira: I carry on with my activities while struggling with the question "What is the colour of Nogizaka46?". We hope that with our joining, we'll help make the group even more exciting.
Yada: Even when watching as a fan only, I felt an overwhelming aura coming from the 1st & 2nd generation-san. I don't know if we'll ever exude such aura ourselves, but we want to carry on the traditions while adding our own colours.
Okoshi: Rather than merely accepting kindness from my seniors, I want to pass on that kindness to everyone who's picked up this magazine and to everyone who supports us, while bringing smiles to the faces of as many people as possible.
Finally, we asked the eleven about what kind of person they'd like to become in Nogizaka46.
Kaibe: All of the seniors in Nogizaka46 are kind. Thing is - I tend to rely too much on that kindness, so I'd like to learn how to stand on my own two feet.
Suzuki: One of my shortcomings is that I lack in things I want to do. I took the audition out of my own volition and was able to become a member of Nogizaka46, so from now on I want to be greedy and aim for the top.
Atago: I tend to be withdrawn. Even if I think "Maybe it'd be better to do it like this", I just can't bring myself to act on it. In Nogizaka46, I want to change this personality of mine and become someone who can give courage to those who support me.
Setoguchi: First of all, I want to become someone who's able to put their feelings into words. Provided I'd change, I'm aiming to become an idol who can move others.
Okoshi: I want to become a human being who's truly able to embody the music of Nogizaka46.
Kawabata: I don't know my own personality or colour as of yet, but, I really hope to become someone who can genuinely express themselves, much like my seniors who always are effortlessly natural. Just as 'Sayonara no Imi' was the catalyst for me, I want to become someone who can be that same kind of catalyst for others.
Morihira: Outward beauty is important, sure, but I reckon that what's most important is someone's character. No matter what may happen, I want to become an idol who doesn't forget to be kind, so that people would think "I'm glad I came to like this girl [after all]".
Ozu: Ever since I was in elementary school, I've wanted to be someone who could awaken dreams in lots of people. I want to bring smiles to many people's faces through my performances.
Nagashima: I want to be an idol who cherishes being true to herself, without trying to be someone she's not. I hope that my presence in Nogizaka46 will help make the group even more colourful.
Masuda: I, I don't really know myself. Truth be told, there have been times where I've worried over which version of myself is the real one. I want to find myself through my activities in Nogizaka46.
Yada: I want to become an idol who can be a pillar of support for someone, who can bring others peace of mind just by being there.
She talks about her idol activities - which she worried she wasn't fit for, her acting career - and her resolution to accept her shortcomings, as well as her thoughts on Nogizaka46 - from which she decided to graduate… Yamashita Mizuki wrote this 12000-character-long last message, saying “I want to compile my current thoughts myself”.
23.04.2024
For me, writing is much like taking a deep breath. Face-to-face conversation is important of course, but as one would expect, it is writing that allows me to face myself openly.
I’d always hoped to someday have a job that'd allow me to leave behind words, so with the timing of this photobook, I asked to come up with the words myself. Will it be [a] humane, vivid, or questionable [recounting]?
That said, when it comes to essays, I feel like they could turn out to be too prettily written, so I hope to be able to confess my thoughts as they are, without using any particularly chic expressions.
I tried to find something to be proud of, but just living every day as an idol, these eight years have become a life-long treasure that I wouldn't trade for the world.
It is my greatest pleasure to write it all down here, and I apologize for my clumsy writing, but I hope you [can read it with] a feeling of ‘huh’. I'd be happy if you could read it.
What kind of person am I?
Due to my line of work, I'm often asked to introduce myself. I really am not good at it, and it makes my heart pound.
Even though I'm an idol, I have no appealing points. No, rather, I don't know how to market myself. It's critical.
“I've been learning [blank] since I was little!”
“I have a Level 1 Certificate in [blank]!”
“I have a professional certification!”
I watched people like that and was dazzled by them, thinking “These are idols”.
My true to life hobbies are watching movies, cooking and sleeping. I like taking walks - without bringing a bag along - while taking in the scent of the evening glow, and I like diving into freshly washed sheets while wearing light clothes. But the best thing is taking a nap past noon on days when you can sleep in without setting an alarm.
When it comes to sports, I was on the volleyball team in junior high, but I quit that at about the same time I started my entertainment career. Well, I was a benched member though.
I actually liked studying and was always determined to undoubtedly get into the top ranks for each test, but in the end, I never got first place in my grade. It was a power play type of thing where you got through it by relying on your memory.
In high school, I was part of the tea ceremony club. I wanted to learn etiquette and become a dignified adult, and since the activities only took place once a week, I wanted to get a part-time job and save money to enroll into college.
When I was a high school sophomore, two of my good friends took on the role of club president and secretary respectively, so I followed suit and ran for vice president.
For the school festival, the members of the tea ceremony club had the privilege of walking around in a yukata, so we came to the school during our summer holidays when the aircon wasn't working and practiced putting one on, all while we were drenched in sweat. To tell you the truth, I thought “Wouldn't it have been the same if I just practiced at home?”
By the time I quit the club, somehow I had grown to like matcha tea, which hadn't been my cup of tea.
Back then, one of my favourite things to do was catching the first train, going to a hamburger place with my friends and leisurely enjoying a muffin before going to school. On that very same day, for once I didn't get a good grade on my morning quiz, so I kept it a secret from my mother.
I worked part time at the dining hall of a Chinese restaurant. I loved carrying the steamers stacked with xiaolongbao in that all-you-can-eat restaurant and serving them on the floor, while smelling the scent of the Japanese pepper in mapo tofu. I’d pray every day not to be put in charge of the washroom. I ate too much goma dango during the staffs’ meals and got really chubby.
I was enjoying my time as a JK* [= high school student who's a girl] to the fullest, dedicating my life to curling my bangs and buying the latest Frappuccino I could get my hands on, so when I became an idol and was asked about my special skills, I was really baffled.
At the same time, I was disappointed with how lacking in originality my life had been.
I began my idol activities in 2016, and it feels like year by year, I've had more and more opportunities to feel happy. It's not merely my luck getting better or increased levels of dopamine, but rather, there's been a change in my body where I'm [now] more susceptible to happiness.
You come in contact with this job and then you adapt to it. I reckon… that's a really important part of it. I feel that all the ‘amazing people’ ‘round me have adapted to their environment and are living their lives accordingly.
I'm awkward, so that's not something I can thrive in just because I want to. When I first became an idol, every day I worried too much about how people - whom I’d be meeting for the first time - would react when I was on set, and I was perplexed with group activities - which weren't my forte in the first place. That was really challenging, but somewhere along the way I snapped out of it and learned to have an attitude of ‘no more', and only then were I able to take a big breath.
I'm always free, so I can eat ramen late at night or hop on a bus and wander around in unfamiliar places. I feel like I've become a little more positive since realizing that giving up is the greatest freedom.
It was very easy to change the resignation of “I can't do it, so it is what it is” into “If it's like that, then let's give it a try!” and become a little more positive.
At some point, people started calling me a 'careless character', but that's proof that a positive change had occurred within me.
Now - above all else - I'm happy to have work every day, to get to eat what I like and to get to soak in a warm bath.
Eight years ago I couldn't have imagined that I'd ever feel this at ease.
I believe that if you give up something - because of the constraints of having to do this or that - you'll be able to pick up something else.
Nogizaka46 and me
It was in my third grade of elementary that I started admiring idols.
My parents bought me the laptop I'd been wanting for my birthday, and I was an indoors elementary student whose only friend was the Internet.
At that time, I came across an idol music video on a video site. I instantly fell in love with [idols], thinking "Such a pretty and shining universe exists in this world!"
After that, I started watching videos featuring various idols and before I knew it, they had become my raison d'être.
I'd never seen live concerts performed in front of such a large audience, and [never known] that there were handshake events that allowed you to talk to the idols you'd seen on screen.
I didn't like school in those days, and the fact that such a world existed in real life had become a source of hope, and before I knew it the love turned into longing, and I found myself wanting to become just like my idols.
My father used to get me tickets and bring me along to the live shows that he went to, and I have vivid memories of the time the two of us went to see a documentary film about AKB48-san. Behind the smiling faces singing and dancing up on stage, privately there was a harsh [reality] offstage, and for the first time I saw the real world of idols.
On our way home, my father told me "Being an idol sure is hard. I don't think I could ever do it.", and as an elementary schooler that believed that idols were noble beings, I remember briefly replying "I couldn't do that [ever]."
I was thirteen years old when I took my first step into show business. My longing for this dazzling world grew bigger and bigger with each day, and as a junior high schooler who was struggling with interpersonal relationships, I sometimes looked for a 'daily life other than school', so I'd audition and sometimes get lucky enough to be accepted.
I joined a talent agency. On my days off from school I attended workshops, while during the weekdays, in the evening I went to audition for commercials and plays while still in my uniform.
There were times when I auditioned about 30 times and failed it all, other times I got invited to be an extra as a passerby, and there was even a time where I was photographed only from the neck down for an apparel shoot. I was happy just to get the job, even if my name wouldn't appear.
It was the one job I got after thirty turns of despair.
I think the most difficult audition had to be the one where I had to wear green full-body tights and perform CG movements, but I still failed.
While some of my peers were getting jobs, I wasn't making any progress at all, so I was all in a hurry and my health deteriorated.
I wasn't good at acting and I didn't want to become an actor, so I was at a loss as to what to pursue. I was but a child at the time, and I didn't know how to work hard, so I was tormented by extreme thoughts, like losing even more weight or having to smile more.
From there, I left my agency before entering high school and passed the audition for Nogizaka46 at 17-years-old.
I had auditioned for other idol groups but didn't pass, so in the summer of my second year of high school, I told myself "If I don't get in this time either, I'll give up [on this dream]", and this was my last chance before [I had to prepare for] university entrance exams.
Looking back now, I applied and all of the photos I sent in were with me wearing a yukata, even though it said "Please take full-body photos in clothes that show your figure". I thought, "Of course you won't even get past the first round".
But for some reason, I thought that that was the costume that suited me most! And for some reason, only [in] Nogizaka46 did I get through the first round.
I don't remember much about the audition, but I do remember being surprised by how cute and slender everybody was. There were lots of model-like girls that were walking from the nearest station to the venue, so I wasn't that nervous, given that I had already given up, thinking that I would fail each time.
If I'm not mistaken, there were about six rounds of screening, and before I knew it, I had passed.
I’d gotten used to failing the auditions, and since I was on the verge of disappointment by the time I got there and hadn't prepared to rejoice, I went home with questions hanging over my head.
The next day, as I saw my face being plastered on the morning paper & broadcast to the world on morning news programmes and as I opened the door to my classroom, I thought "This is bad".
I remember all of my classmates greeting me with a "Good morning" as per usual, and my mind - which had been elsewhere - came back to me with a bang.
Afterwards, a month later I found out that I had to transfer schools, and when I told everyone that, they asked me "Would it be okay to congratulate you now?" and they all wished me good luck in the classroom.
Until then, everyone had tried to avoid bringing it up so I could keep coming to school as usual and unbeknownst to me, the people around me - both within the school and off-campus - were protecting me.
The loneliest moment of my life was when I said goodbye to the school building after returning from my farewell party, and had to carry home the dictionaries I had stored in my locker, heavy as they were.
Despite the ups and downs, I had finally become the idol I'd dreamed of.
I think it's the most fortunate occurrence in my life, and it was a miracle to have been able to meet 'Nogizaka46' by chance, instead of any other idol group. I can only thank Nogizaka46 for pulling me out of despair.
Work stories
To be honest, I feel like I'm not fit for idol work. There were lots of girls who were good at singing and dancing and their faces also were the cute type, and I wasn't like that, so I'd look in the mirror and pull the corners of my eyes, hoping to get droopy eyes. I think I was stuck in a well of inferiority complex.
However, it was fun. I love [this work]. Wearing brilliant costumes and having our hair beautifully curled, we performed facing the camera with the lights blazing.
No matter how many times we'd perform on music shows, I always got so nervous that I felt like throwing up, but this made me feel like I was alive. 'T was a nice tingling sensation.
I myself may not have been idol material, but there were professional staff who were able to polish that into something lovely, and there were people who watched over me and supported me.
I can't say that I've ever had high self-esteem, [but here] I've found the sole place where I can like myself a little bit.
Even if there were days when I got angry at myself for not looking good in cute costumes, I could deflect from it if my fans said I looked cute.
During live performances, the pressure often outweighed the fun. Of course, looking back turns it into a fun memory, but at the height of it I was already desperate.
I guess I just don't have the guts to stand center stage.
Sometimes I'll just become 'one's self' in the midst of a concert. What I mean when I say 'one's self' is it'll feel like I'm standing on stage and looking down at myself from up above, just observing objectively for an instant. It's a strange time where you don't know why you're there.
But in that moment, you can see the faces in the audience more clearly. It's unexpected how often I can tell that "This person is so moved by me that time is standing still" or, "This person loves the member next to me" and the like.
Given that there are so many of us, there are many things we have to think about, such as where to stand, how to divide the songs into [individual] parts, the back and forth feeling of the rows [the members stand in], when to speak during the MCs, where to stand for the camera to capture you and so on, so rather than performing with 120% emotion, there are also moments when I'm surprisingly calm.
Something important for the group is a sense of unity.
Even if someone is at their best, if their sense of enthusiasm is different from that of those around them, they'll feel out of place. With nearly 40 members, it's difficult to keep track of everyone's condition day after day.
That's exactly why there is a captain, a center, and we're split by generations, so even if it's impossible to communicate with everybody every day, each person can get a sense of the atmosphere one way or another.
And so the atmosphere of Nogizaka46 is born. As an only child who mostly played on my own, here is where I learned how to act as a group.
When you take into account more detailed circumstances such as selection announcements, members' graduations, new members joining and so on, the group's colour changes every few days, doesn't it.
The good thing about us is that in moments when someone can't do their best or they need a rest, there are people who will lend a hand.
Having said that, I've never been good at either asking anyone for help or gently supporting others, if anything, I thought of it as an individual battle - not directly - but rather, no matter what happened to anyone - trying not to destroy the group but to protect it, to create a place for the members to come back to.
I've always been a lone wolf and not the type to hang out in groups at school, but I get lonely on my own so I ask others to let me in.... To this day, I guess I haven't changed much at my core.
But Nogizaka46 is warm, kind and embracing of solitude. And what surprised me above all was that there were people of my kind too. I remember being saved, almost, when realizing that we were living with similar ideals.
Saying this myself is embarrassing, but I'm really awkward. Without sugarcoating it, I find it hard to live in this world. But I'm sure I'm not the only one that feels that way.
I thought that wasn't normal and I was struggling with why I had to live like this, but it wasn't just me who was fighting this battle. Only being able to realize that is a great asset in these times.
Why did my fans come to fall in love with me?
Face, voice, figure, gestures, behaviour, dancing, appearances in variety shows and dramas.
I know that every encounter is different, but just the fact that you found me and allowed me to take up a nook of your heart, that [enough] is a blessing for me.
I really am glad to have become an idol.
Naturally, I've also experienced countless hardships and sorrows having been in this place, but I've never once regretted becoming an idol.
In that sense, I can say that it was my calling in a way.
You were able to save the me from those days, when I thought I wasn't cut out to be an idol and couldn't like myself.
Individual work
I first encountered CanCam when I was 19 years old. Once the concert at Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium had ended, my manager called to inform me that I had been selected as an exclusive model.
The [first] shoot was to take place a week later. I remember I had to go on a diet, so I pushed the cake I had been given towards my manager while on the verge of tears, saying "Please eat it in my place!"
I might get scolded for saying this, but I was scared out of my wits by CanCam. I'd been imagining a dirty, kicking-each-other-down world - like the drama based on women's fashion magazines that I used to love back in the old days.
I was convinced that no one would give their time of day to the likes of me, an idol who didn't have particularly outstanding proportions.
Nowadays it seems like a funny story, but I felt terrible for stiffly walking into the studio every time, with my awkward poses and a twitching smile.
Every time they pressed the shutter, they told me 'Cute!' and 'That's it!', they gave me advice on the things that didn't go smoothly, and the atmosphere on set was actually really warm.
There's a lovely air of tension that comes from each person fulfilling their job as a professional, and once the shooting is over, a cozy atmosphere prevails.
My stiff heart was slowly letting loose, and I found myself beginning to love my model work, where there's so much to learn every day.
Naturally, my sense of beauty has steadily improved and my entertainment knowledge also has increased, and it's a place that’s allowed me to grow as a person.
To this day I have a hard time with getting up early, but I love the set of CanCam, which is overflowing with love.
I'm thankful to also have the opportunity to get lots of acting work. I've always felt that I'm not good at acting, but I very much like being on stage.
I think of idol work as being on the opposite side of the same coin, but they're professions that head in totally different directions, so because I was allowed to do both, I was able to strike a balance without ruining myself.
The work of an idol involves self-producing, while when it comes to acting work, you face the role you're given to the bitter end and live [in it] as part of [your work].
The former polish themselves in order to become better ingredients to be cooked, while the latter thinks about how to best cook something delicious with the ingredients that they are given.
That's how I feel. The songs idols sing are decided on beforehand, so naturally they prepare as to not miss any shot, but when you're filming as an actor, you shoot various scenes every day from morning to night, and then when you get home, you have to memorize the lines for the next day all over again, so I treated it like disciplining while having to rack my brains.
One of the charms of it is that a season of a TV series takes anywhere between three to four months to film, so you get to learn from many actors and staff.
I think I was able to learn about something called 'life experience' through acting, and as opposed to the [ideal] idol-ness when it comes to being an idol, the world of so-called 'lifelike' acting is overflowing with diverse colours.
This job - which can even be used as a weapon against the person in question - is scary every once in a while.
But having been in a place that accepts such shortcomings of mine as part of my nature, I feel like I've been taught the determination to accept myself.
Before I knew it, I found myself living with seven different roles in 2023 alone. Even if I get depressed watching my own acting, I can only be grateful to have been asked to be part of [them all].
Would it be okay to name these as 'schedules'? Naturally, there was a period of time when I felt like it - but in any case, I had the mindset of taking on any role. I'm sure that once I graduate, I won't have to unconsciously avert my eyes from my schedule book any more, so I'm happy to have indulged myself in the luxury of being busy.
About the second photobook
In all honesty, when I released my first photobook I thought "This will be my first and last photobook". I got to shoot in Paris - the place of my dreams - on the occasion of my 20th birthday, and I was able to create a book that was close to what I had envisioned. And of course, it was [all] thanks to the wonderful staff.
I took on swimsuit and lingerie shoots with feelings of wanting to leave behind photographs of my 20-year-old physique, so I thought I'd turn down a second [photobook] were I to get asked to [make another one].
Three years had passed since then, and I was asked if I'd like to release a photobook with my [upcoming] graduation. I had a hunch based on previous graduates' pattern, but when it came to making my own book from scratch once more, realistically it seemed rather unthinkable, so I started out with a feeling of "Is this the real thing...?"
[But then] I switched into "Let's do it!" mode about a month or so before shooting began. In terms of showbiz timing, it was at the very last moment. Even so, I am the type of person who'll stay up all night on the last day of summer vacation to unmistakably finish her assignments, so I pride myself on being someone who can perform at their best when backed up into a corner.
This is a token of gratitude for the staff who have had to work with me as an idol up until now, a work to preserve my creativity, and a cherished gift for all of my fans.
The location [we] decided on was Los Angeles. This time's underlying theme was the 'royal road'* [= tried-and-true method, orthodox/proper way], so I thought I'd visit a place which I hadn't been to before, as well as a 'classic' one.
Ah, I chose the royal road because I have a feeling that the royal road is 'extraordinary', and in my first year I aimed to be a royal road idol. It's the royal road after all, y'know? But as I discovered what suits me and what doesn't, I realized that I was a long way off the royal road.
However, thanks to the people who like me as I am, I've been able to enjoy being an idol without being trapped by the words 'royal road'. What constitutes the 'royal road' is up to each person's interpretation, but aren't both the royal road [= orthodox way] and unorthodox way equally wonderful individualities?
I thought about making a book that would help my troubled self from the past, as that's how I feel now.
As the plan was being finalized and we were searching for filming locations, scenes from one of my favourite movies, 'LA LA LAND', came to mind. The pop melody that makes you want to hum along, the steps [in the movie] are nimble, and the man and woman are taken with each other with the dazzling nightscape in Los Angeles as the backdrop.
I like the ending of this film, as it's a happy musical love story in the beginning, which initially makes you think "It's definitely going to have a bright ending!", but then, as the man and woman brush past each other, they each already have their own different distant futures in mind, and there's a strangely comfortable feeling that this is exactly what it means to be stuck between dream and reality.
I think that it resembles the worldview of idols in some way. I watched it three times before heading to LA. The styling and location alike were wonderful, so while we paid homage [to the movie], we thought about how to showcase the dignity of the 2nd photobook with a more mature feel, as opposed to the 1st photobook - which showcases the preciousness of changing from a child into a grown-up - while also conveying a last idol-like feeling.
Afterwards, a friend of mine suggested writing a proposal, so I proceeded to work on it night after night, while staying in hotels 'round the country for our zenkoku [= nationwide] tour. All while eating shredded and dried squid, that is. It was a time that made me think creating things is fun.
Typically I wake up in the morning, get in the car, arrive at the studio where I am styled according to the purpose of that day's shoot, and then I come up with a pose and facial expression for the camera that suits the shoot's image. That's my job.
It's fun and I'm proud of it, but it was even more fun to come up with my own [creative] direction. During the spare moments in-between jobs - such as commuting or taking baths - I checked all sorts of fashion and gravure magazines in order to collect information. I thought about what would suit me and what people would like to see from me.
Actually, I've only scratched the surface and there are many people behind the scenes, putting in money and time to make this all happen, but were I to only work in the talent department, I wouldn't have noticed that, so I realized that I shouldn't ever give up on creating [things].
I took off for Los Angeles in mid-August 2023. The manager proposed two schedules: one was a tough schedule - which wouldn't make me take time off from other work, while the other was a regular schedule - which would leave me absent from two music shows.
Ultimately. After lots of deliberation, I decided on the former. Sure enough, I [still] wanted to appear on music shows. I want to sing and sparkle.
The filming was slotted in between the live shows in Nagoya and Sendai. Once the two-day concert had ended, I took the last train to Tokyo, unpacked my bags, did the laundry and backed up about a week's worth of work.
I left home at 5 a.m. to have a music show recording at a TV station, went back home to pick up my luggage and headed straight to the airport.
Writing this alone brings back prickling. Times like these are when I get really excited, so I was humming loudly as I packed my bags - and also finely chopping garlic, for some reason. If anything, I think the manager who was able to coordinate this schedule is a godsend and I’m grateful for it.
It was my first time going to the US, and I was just elated. I think I must've been like an elementary schooler in my blue one-piece. I exchanged some money for dollars at the airport.
Even though I had eaten to my heart's content at home and at the airport, I ate well in the airplane too. From Japan to Los Angeles, it took about 10 hours. 'T was the deepest sleep I had that summer.
Then, I watched LA LA LAND once again from the beginning and found myself gently swaying with such great exaltation. And at last, we arrived.
Just breathing the air in America made me go “Wow” without thinking. Another thing that was 'Wow' was that as soon as I arrived, one of my bag's handles got torn off. We took a car from the airport and the first day was spent shooting at the hotel we were staying at.
The shoot was scheduled to start an hour after we'd arrived, so I quickly took a shower and got ready to go. We took on the challenge of filming.
And here's the real sad news: I'll tell you the full truth and not conceal anything - I don't remember much after filming started. For real.
My memory's folder wasn't fully functioning, so I could fully understand the embarrassed feelings of the drama's cameraman who had to apologetically tell the director "Pardon me... I forgot to turn the camera on" after hearing 'Cut!'. I must've left my memory card in LA. There were about 20 costumes for the five-day shoot.
Each time we consulted about changing hairstyles and we made a tour of lots of filming locations while crammed into a car with the staff. In any case, we got around as much as we could, we laughed and even cried at times. Thanks to the gifted staff, I had a truly fulfilling time. The US is just so vast, everything's larger than life and the people are so kind.
I felt tiny, but I felt comfortable with that too. 'T was the land of freedom.
Outside the shoot, there were lots of things going on as well. There was a real gaudy kebab shop in front of the hotel as well, with flickering crimson lights flashing through the window all night long, so it felt like a party. For some reason, the shower head was spinning round and round, looking like a sprinkler.
During a shoot at a café, I thought I'd ordered some iced tea, but it turned out to be alcohol, so I had to drink it through a straw in broad daylight. It was freezing cold on the beach, but the showers wouldn't empty and I ended up freezing.
I'd been gaining weight in preparation for the photobook, but on the last day, I somehow looked dainty when photographed from the back.
[I thought] 'I lost weight!' And even that was funny and made me laugh as I looked at the monitor.
Also, Santa Monica was a dream come true! I vividly remember that the amusement park we visited in Paris for the 1st photobook also was loads of fun and etched into my memory, but I also had a fun time at Pacific Park in Santa Monica, even though I didn't get on any particular rides. I sure must like amusement parks. I for sure like them more [now] than I did when I was a kid.
The lobster we had for the shoot also was astonishingly delicious. I don't know what it was, but the butter sauce that went with it was exquisite.
Outside a large beach stretched out, and I would've liked to play there until sunset if possible.
The Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach also appeared as a memorable spot in LA LA LAND. I got to stop by briefly during filming and unexpectedly, a jazz band was in the middle of a performance on stage, so when I asked them, they played one of the songs from the movie. It was a lovely time.
Among the sweet memories, there was one instance where I really was saved by [someone else's] kindness.
One morning during filming, I ran into a rare problem at work and my mental health hit rock bottom. There's a 17 hour time difference between Japan and Los Angeles. It was already late at night in Japan, so I had trouble getting in touch with the staff and it was a situation that couldn't have been undone, so I had no solace from the bitterness and emptiness that welled up, and I couldn't get my feelings in order.
Since it'd happened before the shoot, I tried leaving the studio by myself to regain my composure, but my body had reached its limits and it was rather hard to flip a switch, which made me even more anxious.
I don't typically consult with my friends even when I'm down in the dumps, but I was really anxious so I gave them a call on impulse. "I don't have much time, but please just tell me a funny story." ‘Tis the worst, ain't it. They told me - a person who couldn't even tell them why they were crying - a story about how they had fallen prey to a one-click-scam.
They’d received a message from an online shopping website asking them to update their personal information, and when they entered their info in, their credit card information was stolen. I couldn't help but laugh at my friend who had fallen for such an obvious scam.
No, even though it wasn't a laughing matter, I was crying with laughter at the absurd situation I was in, listening to this story in a studio with a sweeping view of the refreshing scenery of Los Angeles in the morning. It really made me smile.
It's no overstatement to say that it was thanks to that friend that this photobook was successfully completed. Special thanks [to you]. Afterwards, they sent me a photo of the beautiful sky on LINE, with the P.S.: "I want to have a door that [could lead me] anywhere [to comfort you]!"
I felt my heart melt at their kindness, and I keenly felt the warmth of human beings.
After the five-nights-seven-days-long shoot, I flew back to Japan with a sense of accomplishment and reluctance to part in my heart. On the return flight, I forgot about the fact that the next day there'd be a live show and got a good night's sleep after five days, [so much so] that my face was swollen.
But it was a happy kind of swelling.
Graduation
As for a reason for graduation, what answer would satisfy you, I wonder?
I started thinking about graduation around the time when I turned 20. I had entrusted the staff with a vague ideal of graduating, not right away, but prettily, and I felt a little afraid that the more the number of senior members decreased, the more the reality - that one day that time would come for me too - hit me.
To put it bluntly, "I thought the time had come for my career as an idol to come to an end", but that was only my hunch and of course, each person would take it [as in, react to it] differently.
To the best of my ability, I don't want to make my fans sad, and that's why I've been pondering on how to tell everyone. That's why it feels almost cruel to even worry about it.
When I hear about the graduation of an idol I've been supporting, I want them to keep eating just fine and sleep as much as they can. I'm sure that apart from myself, the members think the same thing.
It's selfish, isn't it?
I became an idol to make people smile, so I'd be mistaking the means for the end to have them end up in tears at the end. My final goal when it comes to being an idol is to end my time [as one] laughing with the fans.
I was able to fulfill many of the dreams I had deep within while being in the group, and up until now I haven't found anything that I want to do so badly that I'd let go of my duties as an idol.
I have neither the confidence to make it on my own as a tarento* [= catch-all term for mass media personalities who regularly appear on television], nor the courage to work someplace away from show business, so perhaps I should just start a survival-like life on some desert island.
I reckon I need some time now to carefully think about my future from here on out - you could call it a new life of sorts - so I hope I can afford to take some time off and forget about being in a rush and [just] enjoy my freedom.
Now, I want to tell you this
Everyone has a different measure for happiness, and someone's happiness may be born from someone else's sorrow.
I often ask others, "When do you feel happy?"
There were people who answered with things characteristic of daily life, like getting food, sleep and so on, while others named friends and family - interpersonal relationships, and there also were some who mentioned money and time, things that give them peace of mind.
Only each person in question knows what their perception of Heaven or Hell is like. Even so, I sincerely wish for the happiness of my fans.
I hope you'll face as few painful times as possible, and that you'll live so happily that one day even your hardships and sadness will be something you'll laugh about.
Unfortunately, I don't know the things that make all of you happy, but if I myself could contribute even just an ounce to your happiness, there's nothing that would make me happier.
I may not be able to talk about it on stage anymore, but from now on too, I hope to keep communicating with you all in different ways.
Even if someday, time will pass and the traces of me being an idol will have faded away, if I could become the hope of someone who's living in the present, then I can proudly say that not a second of this time has gone to waste.
At times, I've also been told that "Having to live with so many regulations in the most enjoyable phase of your life must be difficult". However, I've gained the strength to reply "No, this right here is just as fun!"
To be honest, even if I hadn't become an idol, I have the confidence that I could've changed my mindset and lived a fairly enjoyable life someplace. lol
After all, being an idol was good work.
I believe that all the things we do come with some sort of sacrifice.
It's been eight years of endurance and suffering too, but the landscape I saw from up the stage shined SO brightly, that I've forgotten all about it.
For letting me - a nobody - dream, thank you so much.
To all of you, in the lives that you'll be leading from now on,
May you have many more moments with smiles awaiting you.
The Prologue of the Beginning (Nogizaka46 6th Generation, BUBKA; 31.03.2025)
Nogizaka46 6th generation's 'Beginning' Reportage
The Prologue of the Beginning
The audition, moving to Tokyo, meetings and partings -
The story of the chosen girls' journey to change the world.
"Human beings are the only living creatures capable of dreaming." This is the story of the 11 girls who looked up to idols and were dreaming of joining Nogizaka46, before they go on to change the world.
Why did these girls take that first step, and why were they chosen? This documentary traces their footsteps. First of all, let's start with the story of these girls when they were nobodies.
31.03.2025
The beginning of spring.
"The world can change with just one step." This was the sentence written on the web homepage for Nogizaka46's 6th generation audition. Two promotional videos were made, one version featuring Inoue Nagi and one featuring Yamashita Mizuki, with each version depicting a scene where they take 'you' by the hand and lead you into the outside world.
And so the recruitment for the 6th generation began.
The key feature of this time's auditions was that recruitment was split into spring and summer groups. For the spring group, applications were accepted from the 2nd of February until the 5th of March, while for the summer group, applications were accepted from the 28th of June until the 22nd of July, with each group undergoing a first examination - the screening of the WEB application documents. Those who progress through the 2nd, 3rd and 4th round will undergo the final trainee screening and only when they pass the last examination will they be officially unveiled as 6th generation members.
Yada Moeka from the spring group was unsure about applying.
Yada: I'm from Akita prefecture, just like Ikoma Rina-san. Ikoma-san sometimes participates in events in Akita, and I'd go see them every time. Ikoma-san is a superstar born in Akita. Ikoma-san is what drew me in to Nogizaka46. What made me decide to audition was dancing to a Nogizaka46 song during my school's cultural festival. As I memorized the dance, I really started to feel how wonderful it'd be to have a job where you could bring smiles to people's faces. It was then that I found out that auditions would be held. I was really anxious and worried about whether it'd be feasible or not to balance this with my schoolwork, but when I learned that Ikeda Teresa-san took the audition while she was a ronin* [= high school graduate waiting for another chance to enter university after having failed the yearly entrance examination], and that she put in lots of effort and still got into the university she wanted to attend, it gave me the [necessary] courage and I was able to take the leap. I submitted my application ten minutes before the deadline.
Kawabata Hina's family was the one that gave her a push.
Kawabata: When I was five years old, I saw 'Sayonara no Imi' on a music programme and thought it was SUCH a great song. That's what made me like Nogizaka46. I also went to Hashimoto Nanami-san's graduation live at Saitama Super Arena, and the members were all really beautiful, which left quite the impression on me. Even so, I never imagined that I'd become an idol myself. However, my father told me "Just give it a shot, don't worry about whether you'll get in or not", so I took the plunge and applied.
Kaibe Akari even remembers the date when she applied.
Kaibe: It seems like I've loved singing and dancing for as long as I can remember, and apparently I used to dance by myself at the supermarket, treating the fruit as my audience. I came to know Nogizaka46 around the time of 'Itsuka Dekiru kara Kyou Dekiru'. I thought they were cute and beautiful, so I started following them. Afterwards, when I saw Endo Sakura-san shining SO brightly, my feelings changed from those of liking [her] as a fan to admiration and wanting to become like her. I submitted my audition documents on the 26th of February. It's not like I had any particular idea of what I wanted to do in the future. When the audition for the 6th generation was announced, for an instant I was worried, but then I decided right away to give it a go.
Nagashima Rio had secretly decided that the 6th generation audition would be her last.
Nagashima: I had always dreamed of being part of the entertainment industry, but I devoted myself to my studies in middle school and high school. But after entering high school, I happened to see an advertisement for the 6th generation recruitment. At the time, I was in high school and while I'd started thinking about my future path, I was troubled because I couldn't find something I wanted to do. Since I liked Inoue Nagi-san, I decided to apply right away. In high school I was part of the kyudo* [= Japanese archery] club, and before tournaments I'd watch Nagi-san's kyudo videos to calm myself down, thinking "Alright, time to do my best!"
Setoguchi Mitsuki's life was changed by Nogizaka46.
Setoguchi: Ever since I started liking Nogizaka46, I've received lots of courage and energy. Especially Inoue Nagi-san! I thought she was cute ever since her debut, but during 'Ohitorisama Tengoku' I fell for her completely. The application period was right around the time I'd be graduating from high school, and I applied because I'd always wanted to do something that would move others.
After passing the initial document screening, you'll advance to the second and third rounds.
Nagashima: The third round of the audition involved us singing the chorus of a song we liked a capella, so I sang Mori Nana-san's 'Smile'. My expression wasn't that of a smiling one in the slightest LOL. For the fourth screening, I sang the song 'Ohitorisama Tengoku'.
Kawabata: Since this was my first audition, I had no idea what kind of things they'd ask, so I was quite anxious. On my way to the venue, I was listening to BOØWY-san's songs in an attempt to calm myself down. I grew to like them thanks to the influence of my dad. I thought if I could lift my spirits, I could keep the groove of the song going.
The fourth and last round of screening took place in Tokyo.
Nagashima: I bought a cute pale blue dress and wore it for my trip to Tokyo! I was just trying to lift my spirits a bit LOL. Once the fourth screening came to an end and the ones who had been accepted were settled on, there was a bit of a stand-by period. At the time Setoguchi was next to me, and because she was petite and REALLY cute, I was CONVINCED that she was my junior, so I casually asked her "[And you're] how old?", only to then find out that she's older than me... I realized just how rude I'd been right from the get-go....
Setoguchi: That, I do remember (laughs). When I asked everyone for their age, they were all younger than me. That being said, I was surprised by how grown-up-ish everyone was. Moreover, from the third screening onwards, the examinations were in-person, so I met all the applicants face-to-face, and seeing how fired-up and cute everyone was really made me feel that I had to step up my own game, and I got more and more motivated. With that in mind, I bought some clothes that were a little nicer for the audition. I got some nice pants at Yamakataya, Kagoshima's famous department store LOL.
Nagashima: I had my eye make-up done for the audition, but up until then I'd never had the experience of having my make-up done by a professional. When I saw the make-up tools spread out on the desk, I just went like "Waaaa~!!" and got super excited.
Kaibe: I was together in the same group with Yada during the final screening, and she REALLY stood out, so she left quite the impression on me.
"Because I'm an only child, my mom quietly murmured "I wish I could've spent just a little longer raising my child......." But, I went ahead and applied despite knowing that I'd have to leave my parents' home, that's how badly I wanted to pursue my dream."
They were informed of the final result on the same day.
Kawabata: Now that I'd come this far, I REALLY wanted to pass. My assigned number was #1, so I was really worried about what I'd do if [the number] wouldn't get called. But when they called out "#1", I felt really relieved.
Setoguchi: When they called out, "#2, Setoguchi Mitsuki!", I managed to reply "Yes!", but as I walked up onto the stage, a lot of questions popped up into my head, like "What's going on? Is this a dream? Did I truly pass?".
Nagashima: I was #5. I thought that I'd for sure fail, so much so that I was just staring at the wall, picturing my life after having failed, thinking "Now I'll get a part-time job... Maybe I'll dye my hair too...." And then, they called out "#5", and I was like "Huh? Did they call out [my number]........" I had no time to cry tears of happiness, I only was astonished. I ran to my mother, who had been waiting for me near the venue, and informed her "I passed!", and the both of us cried our eyes out. Once I got back to Hokkaido, my family and I went out for yakiniku to celebrate. I was told "Eat as much as you'd like" (laughs).
Yada: I headed towards my mother, who had been waiting for me at a café nearby. All while giving off an air of having failed. LOL. I wanted to record my mother's reaction, so I had my camera rolling when going into the café, and told her in a low voice, "I passed", and she yelled out "WHAAAT!!" way louder than you're supposed to in a café (laughs).
Kaibe: I sent my mother a message on LINE going "It's over", and deliberately waited a few minutes before sending her another LINE, saying "I passed". And then, I got a phone call, with my mother going "Really!?!!", she was that shocked.
Lessons for the spring group began. During the weekends, they had to go to Tokyo for lessons, while during the weekdays, they took lessons remotely also.
Nagashima: When it comes to dancing, I'm just SUPER stiff. Looking back on it now, I was so bad that it's a wonder that the instructor was able to keep a straight face.
Yada: Even now, I still have a long way to go, but at the beginning I was just. Awful. I couldn't do anything, be it ups, downs, or doing isolations. As time went on, each one of us started to notice our strengths and weaknesses, so we started teaching one another.
As a matter of fact, they had not yet passed the examination at that time. Only after finishing this training period and passing the final evaluation, will they at last earn the right to be called members of the 6th generation of Nogizaka46.
During the training period, the spring group had a harmonious atmosphere. Rather than focusing on the harsh reality that someone could be dropped, instead they decided on a collaborative system where they'd teach one another the parts of the choreography that they didn't understand. In the end, these five people were officially chosen as part of the spring group. Happiness, apprehension, astonishment - a whirlwind of emotions churned within the girls as they found themselves waiting for the summer group that had yet to join.
Summer resolution.
Recruitment for the summer group began in late June.
Atago Kokone was pondering applying for the spring group.
Atago: While my school friends were figuring out their future paths one by one, I was getting anxious as I was the only one who hadn't decided on mine. It was then that I found out about the sixth generation auditions and it suddenly came to me: "This is it!". I filled out everything on the last day, trying to apply for the spring group. However, I couldn't muster up the courage to do so. I kept thinking "What do I do, what do I do....." and hesitated right until 16:59, the minute before the deadline and after all that, I ended up just deleting the data. I spent my time regretting why I couldn't just send it in that day. I realized that the reason why I regretted it this much meant that that was what I truly wanted to do, so I applied for the summer group.
Okoshi Hinano was crazy about idols.
Okoshi: I was the type of person that didn't have lots of friends at school. I've been a huge fan of idols ever since I was little, so when I got home I'd just watch videos of their live performances non-stop. I admired Nogizaka46 and thought they were super cute, but they had such a 'prim & proper young lady' image so I just felt like "We're total opposites..." Even so, I still dreamed of becoming an idol. I've always had an inferiority complex about my height, but when I went to a concert and saw Umezawa Minami-san and Kaki Haruka-san, I was struck by how CUTE and tall they both were. It made me think, "There are people this amazing out there".
Ozu Reina took in the Nogizaka46 experience as part of the audience at Meiji Jingu Stadium.
Ozu: I think I started liking Nogizaka46 when I was in the upper grades of primary school. The first live concert I ever went to was during the Manatsu no Zenkoku Tour two years ago. So when I saw the faces of the members and the faces of the audience alike, both of them were absolutely beaming. I thought, "How wonderful it is to be [part of] such group that can make so many people SO happy". I applied on the very last day of the summer group recruitment, during the extension period.
Suzuki Yuuna was drawn in by certain words.
Suzuki: I've been a fan of Nogizaka46 since I was in primary school. However, I couldn't figure out just what I wanted to do in the future. Right at that time, the audition's tagline, "The world can change with just one step." really hit home. This summer could very well be my last chance. If I let this [chance] slip away, I wouldn't know when the next one would come, so I decided to take on the challenge.
Masuda Mirine was a third year middle school student.
Masuda: I'd always thought - for some reason - that I'd work at city hall in the future. I thought that if I could live an ordinary life, that'd be more than enough. It was right around that time that the announcement video for the audition came out. I had a gut feeling that if I didn't apply now, I'd absolutely regret it when I grew up. Even so, I couldn't muster up the courage, but then the tagline "The world can change with just one step." jumped out at me. Those words gave me the push I needed.
It was a friend who changed Morihira Urumi's fate.
Morihira: Back in springtime, I wasn't even thinking about applying. However, when I enrolled in highschool, a friend I met there suggested "Why not audition for Nogizaka46?", and that encouragement was my motive. I was a fan, but I thought it unthinkable that I'd ever take part.
Suzuki - in particular - was a huge fan of Nogizaka46.
Suzuki: Meet & greets, concerts, namajashin* [= real photographs (printed on photo stock)]... Listening to their songs every day was the norm. For Meguri, [I met] Umezawa Minami-san. I also wanted to go to handshake events, but my parents told me that I wasn't allowed to go by myself - and right when I'd gotten permission, the COVID pandemic began. I remember feeling really down about it.
The summer group's screening began.
Atago: I did ikebana* [floral art/arrangements] back in highschool, so I showed them some photos of it. That's about the only special skill I have..... So I stuck with the same photos all the way through to the final round.
Okoshi: For my minute-long self-promo, I said "My special skill is having long arms". Once I said it, I felt like something was off and I couldn't speak anymore....... There were about 30 seconds of silence, so I figured I'd failed already.
Suzuki: For the fourth screening, I pasted photos that I'd taken on my usual strolling course into a sketchbook and showed it to them. You could spot Mount Fuji - it [= the mountain] was beautiful.
Morihira: I attended the second screening online from a friend's house. I borrowed some clothes from my friend and asked her to help me brainstorm a draft for my minute-long self-promo.
"During the lessons with only the summer group, somebody was always crying - but once we started lessons with the spring group, the summer group's smiles gradually started to appear more and more; It really felt like 'spring has come'."
The final screening took place the day after the fourth round.
Atago: On the way to the venue, I felt more nervous than I ever had in my life. I couldn't even get food down my throat, my stomach hurt and I felt sick. I did think about just going home, but were I to do that, I'd have to keep living with that for the rest of my life. Remembering my state of mind as I applied, I headed to the venue nearly in tears. There was this singing screening, but the thing is, I've never actually sung in front of others - even when going to karaoke with my friends, I'm always the one just listening. Therefore, I completely missed the pitch....... I was so ashamed that I couldn't keep singing halfway through.
Okoshi: Since I figured I wouldn't pass the final screening anyway, I was actually rather at ease. During the fourth round, I arrived two hours before the starting time and ended up hiding in the station toilets, but on the final day, I got there right on time. I was surrounded by nothing but cute girls, and I had no confidence in myself, so I think I just sort of developed a 'whatever' attitude.
Ozu: Before the final screening began, I was reading from my English vocabulary notebook. I just feel restless if I'm not doing something. Of course, it went in one ear and out the other. In the midst of the screening, I dropped my smartphone while I was speaking, and I panicked, so much so that I completely blanked on the lyrics during the singing screening that followed. I thought "It's over.....", and I just cried and cried in the bathroom.
Masuda: When I arrived at the venue, everyone was just SO cute that I felt like I was sticking out like a sore thumb and thought about just going home. However, I was worried that me not being there would be a bother, so I stayed put. I was already crying while waiting in my seat, but once I entered the venue, I was overwhelmed by the sheer strength of it all, so much so that my tears actually stopped. When my turn came, I thought that just reading what I'd prepared would be no fun, so I decided to go off the cuff and just say things off the top of my head. The words flowed out easily, but I don't remember what I actually said at all. I only remember that my hands were shaking.
Morihira: I was astonished by the sheer number of staff and cameras, so much so that I ended up crying the whole time I was singing. During my self-introduction, I said "Please don't look at my face, body, eyes or anything at all", quickly mentioned just a little bit about how I was feeling at the moment and then just went back to my seat.
When Masuda told her parents that she had passed, she got an unexpected reaction.
Masuda: When I was taking the last bullet train home, I was together with my parents. They were really happy that I had passed, but it seems that there were also mixed feelings, and there were some long moments of silence. My mother wistfully murmured "I wish I could've spent just a little longer raising my child......." I'm an only child. But, I went ahead and applied despite knowing that I'd have to leave my parents' home. That's how badly I wanted to pursue my dream.
It wasn't only their family who was happy for them.
Yada: A senior got in touch with me, telling me "To think that the idol from our highschool is gonna become a national star T_T". That same senior suggested that I'd dance to a Nogizaka46 song with her for our school's cultural festival back in the day.
And so, the training period for the summer group begins. The final result had yet to be decided. They were bound to be rivals, but everyone was kind.
Masuda: Everyone was so kind and helpful to one another that I thought it was a miracle that such people had all come together. "There's nothing to talk about apart from lessons!" - I thought that such would be the atmosphere. The manager was SO kind too, which was a real lifesaver. Every time I got home, I'd say "Everybody was so kind today too! Humans are amazing!" (laughs). I'm not very good at opening up to others. Even so, it seemed like these people would be good. That's how overflowing with love it was. It really hit me how amazing people are, and how we've managed to survive by helping each other.
At the end of the training period, they all danced to 'Synchronicity'. It took Atago four hours to memorize just tens of seconds from the chorus. And so, these six people were accepted into the spring group.
A blending of seasons.
The spring group was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the summer group. Suddenly, the faithful day came.
Setoguchi: The summer group came in just as the spring group's lessons ended. We had no idea of how many people there were.
Yada: After the introductions, we had some recreational activities to help break the ice. On the first day, the summer group was REALLY quiet. We established a dynamic where the spring group would talk proactively, while the summer group would be the one responding.
On the other hand, the summer group saw the spring group in this manner.
Ozu: Everyone in the spring group greeted us and bowed, going "Nice to meet you. We're the spring group from Nogizaka46's 6th Generation!" and the way they bowed was just perfectly synchronized. The summer group was just completely blown away. We were at a loss for words, so we could only awkwardly greet in disjointed voices.
Atago: The spring group had been together for a long time, so they had already formed a bond. We - the summer group - were overwhelmed by the bright atmosphere of the spring group. I couldn't keep up with the pace of the conversation, so I only found myself nodding along.....
Suzuki: During the lessons with only the summer group, somebody was always crying. But once we started lessons with the spring group, the summer group's smiles gradually started to appear more and more, y'know. It really felt like 'spring has come'.
There was a certain memorable day for the 6th generation.
Yada: We all decided to go out for a meal together in an effort to become closer friends. Because we're a large group, we were seated at separate tables, but we still had a great time chatting away.
Okoshi: We alternated between spring and summer for each seat. I was sitting right at the end of the table, so I didn't get to talk all that much. But when I saw the kids from the spring group writing down the summer group's birthdays on their phones, I thought they were all SO sweet.
The spring and summer group have contrasting personalities, but that day marked a turning point: instead of being groups of five and six people, they became a group of eleven.
Nagashima: At the beginning we were split into spring and summer in the waiting room, but nowadays that's no longer the case, and I feel like we've really become one as the "6th generation".
The 6th generation girls have already had the chance to meet the seniors they look up to.
Atago: They were SO cute that my whole body was shaking. Also, I thought it'd be a shame not to look at them, so I couldn't help but take their faces in one at a time.
Ozu: The pressure when the seniors lined up was IMMENSE. Umezawa Minami-san was standing in the middle, wearing bright red clothes and looking really cool.
Okoshi: I couldn't look my seniors in the eye, so I just kept staring right at the floor......
Suzuki: When I heard that we'd be meeting them, my heart was in my throat and my stomach hurt, but when I heard Sugawara Satsuki-san say "Thank you for coming to Nogizaka46", I was so happy that I cried.
Nagashima: Once we finished our self-introductions, we were getting ready to take the group photo, and as I got closer, I could sense a really nice fragrance from Umezawa-san. It was the scent of a beautiful woman.
The 6th generation members attended Yoda Yuuki's graduation concert that was held in February. Some members were met with the realization that they too could come to stand on the same stage in the near future.
Atago: I keenly realized that things couldn't go on like this. Yoda-san herself said that dancing wasn't her strong suit, yet during her graduation concert she took up the challenge of a difficult dance, didn't she. It's not my strong suit either, but I know I can't just keep saying that - I need to push my own limits and catch up quickly.
Starting February 6th, the profiles were released one by one. There was no turning back now. The moment when these girls would be recognized by the world as part of Nogizaka46 had come - at long last.
Ozu: I was at school on the day of the unveiling, and my friends who noticed called out to me, going "Congratulations!" and "Do your best, yeah?". Right before that, some friends of mine who had no clue about it were looking at some of the other 6th generation members right next to me. I overheard them saying stuff like "That sure is a rare last name. How do you even read it?", but I had to play dumb to safely get through it LOL.
Namida no osekihan* [ = Red bean rice (sekihan) cooked to celebrate a happy occasion, but eaten with tears of sadness or bittersweet emotion because of the circumstances].
It was only recently that the country-bred members moved to Tokyo. Coming to the capital meant having to say goodbye.
Yada: When I'm working I can devote myself to it without having my thoughts wander off, but when I'm eating at home - sure enough - that's when loneliness sets in. I- I loved the dining table back home. I've been feeling lonely, so my family and I have been sending videos to each other. However, seeing them having so much fun in said videos just gets me lonely all over again. I think, "Over here it's so quiet".
Masuda: For the fourth and final rounds I got on the bullet train with my mother, but on the day I moved to Tokyo for good, I realized I had NO idea how to get on by myself. I'd booked a reserved seat, but I ended up getting on in the non-reserved seating area. And what's more, I ended up just standing up the whole time when I could've just sat down. lol
Kaibe: We keep in touch every day. Nevertheless - y'know - I'm still getting homesick. At home there always was someone there, with a dog too - that's the kind of life I've been leading. At night it's quiet, and I still can't seem to fall asleep.
Setoguchi: On the day of my farewell, my family came to the airport to see me off. I thought I'd feel lonely after coming to Tokyo, but because everyone's there, it's fun! I still ring my family every day though. When I came to Tokyo, I brought along a plushie of the flying squirrel Chiikawa, and a message board that's full of photos. Right before I left for Tokyo, a number of friends came all the way to my home and brought [it] to me.
Nagashima: I got lots of farewell letters from my friends. In Tokyo, I read them every night before going to bed.
Suzuki: On the day of my farewell, I ate cooked red rice* [= osekihan] - made by my grandma - together with my family. My father cried, while saying "Now that I'm in my fifties, it makes me so happy that my children are bringing me joy....." It was my first time ever seeing my father cry, so we all ended up crying too. On parting at the train station, my family gave me a big wave goodbye.
[And then,] the 6th generation song came to be. The title is "Time Limit Kataomoi". The one standing in the centre was Yada.
Yada: The moment I was told I'd be the center, I felt both bewildered and happy. When we lined up in that formation right then and there, I was suddenly overcome by a sense of responsibility and anxiety....... When I looked around, though, I saw everyone smiling and watching over me, which rather moved me. Morihira and Setoguchi came up to me and told me "That's awesome! Let's do our best together!". I've always held on to the belief of giving it your utmost in order to put on a great performance.
"If somebody is crying, we all go give them a hug. And when we overcome something really tough, that feeling of having achieved it together is so overwhelming that we just break down smiling through tears. That's the 6th generation."
Then came the memorable first MV filming for the 6th generation.
Yada: It was fun to dance, but the waiting time in-between was terribly windy! Even for me - and I'm from Akita - it was cold.
Setoguchi: I was THE happiest just to get the song. The lyrics are heart-wrenching, but the tune is bright and fresh. It's a song that gives you an odd feeling.
On April 6th, the 'Nogizaka46 First Unveiling Event: "Nice to meet you, we're the 6th generation."' will be held. What kind of performance will the 6th generation show us?
Atago: I'm determined to give it my utmost in order to achieve what I've always wanted to do.
Kaibe: I still haven't reached a point where I can envision the ideal image of the kind of idol I want to be. However, above all I want my motto to be "Never give up".
Setoguchi: The younger members of the 6th generation really have their act together. The youngest, Kawabata, even gives [us] pep talks. Ozu is quick when it comes to picking up choreo. Masuda's clumsy and absent-minded though (laughs). I can't take my eyes off her because you never know what she'll do next.
Kaibe: The 6th generation's ethos is made up of mutual aid. We're companions who help each other out when we don't understand something during our lessons. I think our appeal is that we all move forward [together] in a horizontal line.
Yada: If somebody is crying, we all go give them a hug. And when we overcome something really tough in a lesson, that feeling of having achieved it together is so overwhelming that we just break down, smiling through tears. That's the 6th generation. Oh and also, everyone loves to eat! Whenever we hit a wall, we keep our spirits up and encourage each other by going "Hey guys, once we finish this we can go grab some food!" lol
Nagashima: The 6th generation's a considerate group. I reckon that what's great about it is the warm atmosphere that flows within. When you look at each individual, each person has a distinct personality, almost like a mixture of colours.
On the 6th of April, they'll take to the stage at Pia Arena MM, ready to dye Yokohama in the colours of the 6th generation. And just like that, the world that these 11 people have stepped into will begin to change, little by little.
"The 6th generation girls are so lovely... I hope they'll feel free to come talk to me."
Q&A featuring Hinadani talking about her 5th generation center song, the 6kis and the overall photoshoot.
23.03.2025
Q: Hina-chan, since this is your first appearance on BOMB, how was today's photoshoot?
A: The shoot was so relaxing and enjoyable that it almost felt like it took place in my free time. During the shoot at the park, I got to eat some of my beloved baked sweet potatoes - which were really delicious (laughs).
Q: So you like baked sweet potatoes.
A: I LOVE sweet potatoes. In autumn, whenever I go to the supermarket I buy some, steam them at home and then bring them to rehearsals (laughs).
Q: How'd you like the costumes?
A: The shirt I had on over my loungewear was super duper cute. 'T was a bit unusual in its design and quite large. I don't usually pick out such baggy shirts myself, so it felt fresh.
[Shirt in question ⬇️]
Q: 'Tis what you'd call a 'boyfriend shirt'.
A: Ah, I see. 'T was large because it was a boyfriend shirt. Understood. I put it on while thinking it was a size too big or something (laughs).
Q: You've made great progress since the latter half of last year, and you were even selected as the center of the 5th generation song on the 37th single.
A: All the fans, the members and the staff were incredibly happy, and that's what made me the happiest. But I myself couldn't rejoice innocently, [due to] feeling pressure and anxiety... I feel like I was fighting against all sorts of things.
Q: The song itself - including the dance - feels like it was made just for Hina-chan.
A: Really? The song starts with a beautiful piano tune, and in the midst of the song there's some harp, turning it into a beautiful classical-style piece of music.
Q: Your fleeting singing voice matched the melody like a glove, and it was really wonderful indeed.
A: Thank you very much (laughs). The dance also has a lot of ballet elements, and the choreography wouldn't work unless I danced it properly. I was happy to think that so much love was put into making it, but at the same time, I thought it was super difficult LOL. It was a cold day when we shot the music video, but everyone worked hard and I think it turned out to be a very wonderful piece.
Q: In the New Year's card project on Nogizaka Koujichuu too, you ended up receiving the most cards out of everyone in the 5th generation, didn't you? You also received cards from 3rd generation members such as Ito Riria-chan and Sato Kaede-chan... Perhaps you're the type that gets doted on by your seniors.
A: No, no. I felt bad for receiving more New Year's cards than I sent out... But I was REALLY happy. Riria-chan put in a hidden message in origami in my New Year's card, and the moment I read it, I burst into tears even though we were in the middle of recording.
Q: Hina-chan has great 'junior power', but at last the 6th generation will be joining the group.
A: I understand their feelings, so much so that it hurts - like how much pressure they must be under or how anxious they must feel - because I went through it myself three years ago. Seeing them trying to introduce themselves with all their might in the midst of it all, I found them INCREDIBLY precious.
Q: Among the 6th generation members, there's also 14-year-old Hina-chan.
A: Right! The youngest girl has the same name as I do. Kawabata Hina-chan. She looks so grown-up, so I was surprised to hear that she's only fourteen. I may be an unreliable senior, but I think that makes me easy to talk to, so I hope the 6th generation girls will feel free to come talk to me. Such is the atmosphere I'd like to create.
Q: Recently, what exchanges have you had with the members?
A: I meet with Sacchan (Sugawara Satsuki) almost every day. When we were working on the musical 'Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon', I felt that we had the same enthusiasm for the stage so we started talking, and even though she's younger than me, I feel like her mental age is that of a grown-up's, so I feel at home around her. Above all, she's really funny (laughs). I never thought I'd be able to make such like-minded friends as an adult, so I'm happy.
