On June 16, the girls’ vocal and dance group ATARASHII GAKKO! released OTONABLUE – From THE FIRST TAKE on streaming services.

 

Originally released in 2020, OTONABLUE has become incredibly popular over the past year, with its ‘neck-dance’ choreography trending on TikTok. With views on the social media site surpassing 2.5 billion, a music video was thrown together and released, pulling in over 20 million views in two months.

 

 

On April 7, ATARASHII GAKKO! performed a special version of OTONABLUE on THE FIRST TAKE, commemorating their first time on the program with new choreography. Filmed in a single take, their appearance pulled in 20 million views in record time, becoming the channel’s most popular video of 2023. This special live version is now available to stream.

 

Atarashii Gakko! took to the stage on THE FIRST TAKE for the first time. The members performed their hit song Otonablue, which has become a major hit on social media for its unique choreography during the chorus.

 

Since its release, Otonablue has continued to be a hot topic, with the live performance video racking up over 8 million views on YouTube and related TikTok videos pulling in over 400 million views.

 

Takuma Usa appears in the new YouTube short drama series Sarashiai, Konna Yoru wa Dare no Sei? (Exposed Love: Who’s to Blame for a Night Like This?)

 

The romance-focused ensemble drama touches on a wide array of difficult subjects found in today’s society, like adultery, sugar daddies, plastic surgery, friends with benefits, doxxing, betrayal, and redemption.

 

Takuma Usa, who portrays the host Tsukasa, appears in the third episode.

 

The second half of Attack on Titan The Final Season Part 3 will debut this fall!

 

The first half recently aired in a one-hour special, and the new announcement was made following its conclusion. The new trailer shows Falco flying above the clouds, a throwback to Zeke’s memories.

 

Attack on Titan The Final Season – Season 3 (Part 2) Announcement Video

 

Attack on Titan The Final Season – Season 3 (Part 1) Special Anime Video｜
UNDER THE TREE – SiM

 

A special anime video of SiM’s new song UNDER THE TREE, the theme song of Season 3, Part 1, has also been uploaded to YouTube. Fans of the series won’t want to miss the shots of Eren, Mikasa, and Armin during their childhood.

 

Additionally, Attack on Titan The Final Season – Season 3, Part 1 is now available to stream on dtv, d Anime Store, GYAO!, Netflix, TELASA, Hikari TV, U-NEXT, Amazon Prime Video, and DMM TV.

 

Season 3, Part 1 Summary
Eren activates The Rumbling to destroy the world. Countless Titans begin their march, trampling down everything in their path. Those left behind prepare to take the final fight to their former friend, including Mikasa, Armin, Jean, Connie, Hanji, Annie, Reiner, and others who hope to find a way to save civilizations around the globe.

 

Chogakusei is a vocalist who has attracted attention for the huge gap between the mysterious atmosphere of his Venetian mask and his aggressive voice. After releasing a single in January, the artist released his first full album Cho on February 15, 2023. We sat down to chat with Chogakusei about his current mental state as he continues to build serious momentum, and about his upcoming first solo concert scheduled for March at the Nippon Seinen-kan Hall.

 

 

The Theme of the 1st Album is ‘Diversity’

 

“The word ‘diversity’ can refer to utilizing elements from different people and cultures, but for the diversity used in this album, I focused more on breaking the rules and thinking outside of the box in a more general sense.”

 

“Since this is my first major album, I felt like it was the fulfillment of a promise. At the same time, I didn’t want to be bound by that feeling. As you listen to each track, I think you’ll find each of them very colorful. So many different people participated in writing the lyrics–for example, the song Ingel was written by Yu Shinda of BURG HAMBURG BURG, and the Vocaloid producers Surii and PinocchioP also contributed. I hope everyone who listens will take note of the diverse group of creators who worked on the album.”

 

Ingel – Music Video 

 

Heading Towards his First Solo Concert ‘School Admission Briefing’

 

−You have to admit, it’s a pretty unique title for a concert, isn’t it?

 

“Since this is my first live performance period, I wanted it to have the theme of a self-introduction, so ‘School Admission Briefing’ seemed to fit, given my name. It’s an unusual title, for sure. (Laugh) I hope fans who attend will feel what it’s like to be a Chogakusei (Super Student). The details of the show are still a secret, though!”

 

A Vocal Style Inspired by Fan Comments

 

–You’re popular for your deep, aggressive voice. How did your vocal style come about?

 

“Honestly, I decided on this style after reading comments from fans posted around the time I released my cover of the song Darling. That’s when I started posting on YouTube more frequently and I got a ton of feedback. Like, people would point out the parts they liked–the minute and the second. After scrolling through all of that, I decided on my current style. In a way, how I sing was completely created by the fans.”

 

−Tons of international fans have commented on your vocal style. What’s the secret of your popularity?

 

“I’d love to know myself! (Laugh) Please tell me! In my head, I know that I have this slightly rough, low voice that leads to a more masculine singing style. I also put a lot of thought into the costumes and makeup for each song, so a lot of comments tend to focus on that too. They like my style.”

 

“I want to try styles from around the world.”

 

“I’d like to try a ton of unique styles from around the world in the future, like Chinese and Arabic styles. I’m up for the challenge of representing different countries and cultures! I hope to incorporate ideas from fans around the world too, so leave them in the comments. I don’t care what language you speak, please tell me about your country and what you’d like to see!”

It has been announced that Attack on Titan The Final Season will split its third part into two halves.

 

The first half will begin airing on NHK General starting March 3 at 24:25. The second half
will air sometime during 2023 with more details to be revealed in the future.

 

Prior to this, a special compilation of all 87 episodes will be aired on NHK General from
February 25 to February 27. Every episode of Attack on Titan that has aired to date will be condensed into seven episodes.

A new trailer has been released ahead of the beginning of Part 3 inspired by the phrase “This is Freedom.” Fans will see Eren smiling as a child, a vast difference from the man he grows to be. The despair in the video is palpable, but there is still some hope being kept alive by the characters.

 

Finally, to commemorate the third part of The Final Season, fans will be able to watch episodes from the series for free on the streaming service GYAO! starting January 17.

 

After years of massive popularity, Attack on Titan is approaching its climax. Be sure to tune into Part 3 when it begins airing in March!

©諫山創・講談社／「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会

Eve has announced a special YouTube LIVE scheduled to take place on December 24 at 19:00. The stream will take place on the artist’s official YouTube channel and those with YouTube Premium memberships will be able to take place in an Afterparty starting at 19:30. 

 

Starting at 19:00 on Christmas Eve, fans can enjoy a rare live studio performance complete with a full band. The Afterparty will include a special chat with Eve in which the artist reflects on the past year and gives hints on what’s to come. Fans won’t want to miss this exclusive opportunity!

Participating Super Hotels throughout Japan are teaming up with Attack on Titan to celebrate the anime’s final season. Reservations are open now, with rooms available from January 7 until March 31, 2023.

 

 

Collaboration Room

AR Content

Mini Character Acrylic Stands

New Illustration

 

This is the second such collaboration, with the first running from April 1 until August 31, 2022. This time around, even more locations are taking part!

Guests can hear Eren (Yuki Kaji) and Levi (Hiroshi Kamiya) in special AR content available in each guest room.

 

(C)諫山創・講談社／「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会

FRUITS ZIPPER, an up-and-coming idol group from ASOBISYSTEM’s KAWAII LAB project, has a simple concept: “From Harajuku to the World.” For the past year, the girls have been transmitting what they call ‘NEW KAWAII’ from Harajuku, an area known for fashion and individuality, to their growing fanbase.

 

Recently, we sat down with the members to chat about their first year as idols since debuting in April 2022.

 

ーWhat has the past year been like as members of FRUITS ZIPPER?

 

Manaka Mana

“The past year has been a year of love. I’ve learned so much about myself and see my own weaknesses more than I ever have before!

I’ve been able to encounter emotions I wasn’t even aware that I could, and I’ve even been able to recognize and verbalize a lot of new dreams and goals for the future!

Thank you so much!”

Noel Hayase

“The past year has been the most packed year of my life. There was something to do every single day–it was so hectic and so fun! I could only think about how thankful I was to be part of FRUITS ZIPPER. I’m sure that we’ve all become stronger over the past year, and I want to keep working hard and expanding our activities more in the coming years!”

 

Amane Tsukiashi

“Every day seemed to fly by. I met and talked with so many people, and I was finally able to do the job I had always dreamed of doing.”

ーYou performed in Thailand this year, highlighting your slogan of ‘From Harajuku to the World.’ Can you tell us any fun stories from that time?

 

Yui Sakurai

“I was so happy to see how many people knew about FRUITS ZIPPER–it was more than I could have ever imagined! So many fans told me how happy they were to meet me and it made me so thrilled!

There were some fans who came from Japan too, and they joined the Thai fans to become Team Yui! I really felt like we had shared Harajuku with the world at that moment. ♡

I hope that we’ll keep expanding this way and visiting fans around the world. 

It was such a warm and special day.”

Luna Nakagawa

“This was my first time performing overseas and I was nervous about how the audience would react. We weren’t well-known in Thailand, after all–but when we started singing Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, everyone sang along!

The concert was so warm and the fans were so sweet, I immediately forgot that it was my first big overseas performance. I was full of adrenaline and it just turned out to be so much fun.

That concert is still my best memory. I can’t wait to go back to Thailand to perform again.

Since our motto is ‘From Harajuku to the World,’ I hope that we can keep expanding to other countries soon!”

ーDo you have any goals for the next year in terms of overseas activities?

 

Suzuka Chinzei

“I want to do a European tour!

I’m still studying German, but I’d love to try out my communication skills! 🥺 (I guess I could do that here too, but…)”

Karen Matsumoto

“I want to be friends with more overseas fans! 💖

Honestly, I’d love to become like Kyary, an idol who is now recognized all over the world!”

ーGive a message to your fans both in Japan and abroad!

 

Manaka Mana

“In 2023, I hope that I can spend more time with fans from around the world in person! I want to become stronger and care for those important to me while growing my natural gifts!

I hope you’re all looking forwards to a powered-up FRUITS ZIPPER!

Let’s make 2023 a great one!” 🤍

Noel Hayase

“Even though we’ve only just debuted, we’ve already been so blessed, invited to perform in Thailand and to spend New Year’s Eve in Taiwan. How have we been abroad so many times already? I want to keep the momentum going, spread my wings and aim for an even bigger stage! To all the international fans, just wait! We’ll keep bringing Harajuku to the rest of the world!”

Many visiting Tokyo in the future will want to find the most kawaii spots imaginable, and we know just the girl to serve as a guide! In today’s special interview, we chatted with MIOCHIN to share her recommendations. If you haven’t seen her colorful pop pics on TikTok and Instagram, you’ll want to jump into the MIONOSEKAI!

 

Q. MIOCHIN, what store is a must-visit in Harajuku?

“That would be SUGAR HIGH at Harajuku Alta! You can find colorful sweets and cute goods from all over the world. I always stop by when I have time because they have popular snacks I’ve seen on TikTok, tons of jewelry, and things I can use every day♪

It’s also a really good spot for buying small souvenirs and gifts for people!★”

 

Q. What store in Tokyo really embodies your personal worldview?

“The minacute CONCEPT STORE at Ikebukuro Sunshine City. I’m actually the store’s producer!★

Not only did I design this shop, but I’m also selling cute accessories in collaboration with minacute!!”

“The store feels like a big toy box and it’s filled with so many items that kids would love. Not only that–you can find popular brands from around the world and tons of sparkle too★

We also hold workshops and events on weekends, so please come visit!♪★”

 

Q. What’s your go-to Kawaii Spot?

(The HARAJUKU Room)

“If you’re looking to surround yourself with everything cute, it’s all about MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS! Each room is perfect for snapping photos–I’ve visited so many times for parties and photo shoots★

There are four rooms: DOSKOI, HARAJUKU, ORIGAMI, and SAKURA, and each has a uniquely cute interior♪ If you’re planning on staying the night in Harajuku, be sure to check it out!”

 

Q. Where can the readers find cute clothes like the ones found in your wardrobe?

(Skirt, Jacket: grapefruitmoon)

“Check out grapefruitmoon, a vintage clothing store. They have so many neat items from the 60s to the 80s, and the designs and shapes are so unique. I’d recommend browsing their retro dresses and funky bottoms★Whether you’re into more monotone fashion or something more flashy and bright, you’ll find it!♪”

 

Q. Where do you buy your makeup?

“ANNA SUI. I just can’t get enough of the brand’s vision, and the cosmetics are really one-of-a-kind. Honestly, I buy most of them–I especially love the perfumes. I love the scents and the designs are just too damn cute! It’s my favorite collection.”

 

Q. To wrap things up, do you have a message to readers coming to Japan in the future?

“I’m so glad that so many people are interested in Japan. I post so many colorful things on social media and always want to share Japanese culture with the world!♪

There are so many interesting places that you can only find here, and fascinating activities that you have to visit to enjoy!

I hope you’ll come enjoy our food, fashion, and sightseeing spots. And don’t forget to shop for some kawaii goods!★

And I hope that once you do, you’ll love Japan even more!”

 

PROFILE: MIOCHIN

Active as an illustrator, TikToker, and streamer, MIOCHIN is known for her colorful pop world MIONOSEKAI. She has fans young and old from around the world and often broadcasts on YouTube and TikTok, recently attracting attention for her duet videos on the latter. Her original videos focus on everything from makeup and art to impressions. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dtdq2828/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mionosekai

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnyOak5Hd4WG0oLECz6L0Og

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dtdq2828

The Real Escape Game Attack on Titan The Final Season: Escape from the Five Titans, a collaboration between Real Escape Game and Attack on Titan, will be held for a limited time starting January 13, 2023.

 

Both this escape game and Escape from the Titan’s Forest have attracted over 250,000 visitors. The events are being held one more time to commemorate the conclusion of the series in 2023.

 

Visitors will be able to transform themselves into characters from the now-legendary series. Players can enjoy an incredible sense of realism, with new voiceovers recorded by Attack on Titan’s voice actors.

 

Will you be coming out to try your hand at this tricky game? It may be your last chance!

FRUITS ZIPPER, a new idol group from ASOBISYSTEM, has a simple concept: “From Harajuku to the World.” Ready to transmit what they call ‘NEW KAWAII’ from Harajuku, an area known for fashion and individuality, to their soon-to-be global fanbase, the group consists of seven members: Amane Tsukiashi, Suzuka Chinzei, Yui Sakurai, Luna Nakagawa, Mana Manaka, Karen Matsumoto, and Noel Hayase.

 

A while back in Report #12, we chatted with Karen Matsumoto, Yui Sakurai, and Luna Nakagawa about their makeup routine and tips. This time, we’re asking Noel Hayase, Suzuka Chinzei, Mana Manaka, and Amane Tsukiashi to share their thoughts on makeup!

 

Tell us about your favorite lipsticks and what makes them special!

－Noel Hayase

When I do my own makeup, I use b idol’s Glossy Lip No. 08 and then layer PERIPERA’s G Tint No. 06 on the inside. I’ve tried so many b idol lipsticks and I finally found one that matches my skin color perfectly. The tinted one was a gift but I love applying it on the inside of my lips–it gives this neat blood-colored look. It also doesn’t fade which is awesome.

 

－Suzuka Chinzei

I like THREE Lyrical Lipstick Bloom 11 RUN FREE. 

The texture is soft, the color doesn’t fade, and the color is really cute. When I found it, I was so thrilled–it was the exact color I was looking for. Seriously, it’s the best lipstick! It’s honestly all I use in fall and winter♡

 

－Mana Manaka

Jill Stuart’s lip oil!

We call the people who support us Soragumi, and some of them gave us these gifts along with letters and flowers after our first solo concert. We were so happy☁️

I love the colors and the cloth wrapping, but I feel like it would be such a waste if I ran out so I only carry them as good luck charms. (Laugh)

 

－Amane Tsukiashi

DIOR ADDICT 524 DIORETTE

DIOR ADDICT Maximizer 103 Pure Gold (This one was a gift🙇‍♂️) 

04 rom&nd Dewiful Water Tint

I have so many favorite lipsticks, but lately I’ve been into layering this shimmery gold maximizer with brown, orange, red, and darker lip shades. It’s really cute!🤍

 

What do you use for your foundation?

－Noel Hayase

I don’t put a lot on my skin, but I do apply a makeup primer called UV Idea XL Protection Tone-Up by La Roche-Posay first. After that, I use Dior Skin Forever Skin Correct Concealer to hide dark circles and redness. That’s all!

 

－Suzuka Chinzei

I moisturize with VT’s CICA cream. Depending on the weather, I’ll apply Chant a Charm sunscreen followed by The Skin Minimalist by Decorte. I put on powder last. I use CANMAKE’s Secret Beauty Powder or Elegance’s La Poudre Haute Nuance. No foundation for me!

 

－Mana Manaka

These were also gifts, but I use Lunasol sunscreen, Dior primer, and foundation!

The bottle is really beautiful, with the engraving…❤️

I ran out of powder when I was in Thailand recently, so I’m just using what I bought locally!

I don’t know if it’s because it’s makeup from a really hot country, but it goes on so smoothly that it doesn’t feel sticky at all, even with a mask on. I’ve been using it even after I got back to Japan!

 

－Amane Tsukiashi

CHANEL Base Hydra Luminere

(I might upgrade.)

CHANEL Fluid Foundation de CHANEL B10

Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer 0N

SUQQU Oil Rich Glow Loose Powder

clé de peau BEAUTÉ LE REHAUSSEUR D’ÉCLAT 105 (This was a gift! 🙇‍♂️)

 

What do you typically do when it comes to skincare?

－Noel Hayase

First, I use &honey cleansing balm to remove my makeup. When I heard that you could cleanse and wash your face at the same time, I gave it a try and it was amazing, so I’m never going back. After my bath and before putting on my makeup, I use a complete skin care set like La Roche-Posay’s skincare set, which includes mist lotion, toner, and skin cream. It’s not cheap, but since I started using it my skin feels so incredible. Remember to always buy products depending on what kind of skin you have!

 

－Suzuka Chinzei

Before makeup in the morning, I always cleanse with Bioderma. If I don’t feel moisturized enough, I apply a lotion emulsion. After cleansing at night, I use Bioderma again and then a toner emulsion. Sometimes I like doing face masks, and when I do, I use Mediplorer’s CO2 Sheet Mask. It was recommended to me by someone with really beautiful skin and it’s amazing. I also use a Cell Cure. It’s crazy after how much dirt it removes. (Laugh)

 

－Mana Manaka

I use lotion, then a face mask, then a serum!

When I used the MediHeal mask that Luna recommended, I was so surprised at how good it was that I started buying and trying tons of different masks.

I’m trying different things to see what fits and what doesn’t, and lately I’ve been buying a lot of Korean masks.

 

－Amane Tsukiashi

I haven’t been doing much skincare, but I have been moisturizing a lot lately since my skin gets super dry. On some days I’ll do a face mask and use steam. On the day before an important photo shoot, I use my favorite CellCure 4t Plus.

 

Oh no! You’re running late! You only have time to apply one product! What part of your face will you focus on and why?

－Noel Hayase

I’d only do eye makeup. In this day and age, everyone wears masks, so when you meet someone, you always make eye contact, right? Besides, if it’s just eye makeup, I can get by without base makeup, and I can do the rest of my makeup whenever. (Laugh)

 

－Suzuka Chinzei

I just need sunscreen!

Sunscreen is life. It’s so important!

Starting when I was in junior high, my parents told me to wear sunscreen, so I can’t imagine not doing it now. No matter how busy I am, I put on sunscreen, even while walking to the station.

I was on the track team in junior high and I’d put some on every 30 minutes. 

At the time I thought it was so annoying, but now I’m so glad my mom told me to do it. 

(Strangely enough, my mom doesn’t wear sunscreen at all.)

 

－Mana Manaka

On days when I actually have a whole day off or if I’m just at rehearsal, I don’t wear makeup. I hide behind a mask and a hat! (Laugh)

If I use anything at all, it’s sunscreen or foundation with sunscreen in it.

It covers my eyebrows and eyes so much that I can’t see at all, but I do want to prevent spots!!! (Laugh)

 

－Amane Tsukiashi

Eyes!

I always think that wearing eye makeup makes a huge difference. 

I’d want to do my eyebrows too, but at least I can hide them with my bangs. Eyes it is!