Dear JAM, QWV or anyone else who comes across this page: Welcome! The aim of this blog is to archive most of my magazine or online article translations, as well as other kinds of translations. You will find here the same ones as on my abandoned twitter account: @pompom_lotus. Some new translations might be added when I feel like it. If you have any questions, remarks or request, feel free to comment or message me. Disclaimer: The translations may contain inaccuracies and/or mistakes
Showing posts with label Kimata Syoya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kimata Syoya. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
[JO1] smart WEB 230222
https://smartmag.jp/archives/24258/
[LUMINE EST Shinjuku] JO1 and Go to the FASHIONISTA! 2 HOT SHOPs which handsome men want to visit (Part 1)
The 11 member global boy group JO1 is riding high as they had their first appearance on NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 2022 and now they collaborate with LUMINE EAST Shinjuku in Tokyo, a department with a wide range of fashionable shops. In line with JO1’S greeting “Go to the TOP”, the concept of this collaboration is “Go to the FASHIONISTA” to enjoy this year’s spring fashion to the fullest.5 noteworthy shops from LUMINE EAST Shinjuku will be featured here.
For the first part, we have HARE, which expresses their cool world view with a monotone base and STUDIOUS, which offers a collection of carefully selected Japanese items. You can find all the current trends at LUMINE EST Shinjuku!
Updating your daily clothes with individuality under the theme of “light”
Kawanishi Takumi, Mamehara Issei, Kawashiri Ren wearing HARE
[…]
Takumi’s comment: I was impressed by the design of this knit, Roth every single of its details. The sides are cut, so it looks better layered than if you wore it alone. Today I wore a shirt under it, but you can enjoy different looks depending on what you choose!
Issei’s comment: I think it is the first time I’m wearing a vest-like jacket. I have the impression of jackets being something formal, and I don’t have one because I only wear casual clothes, but today I matched it with clothes that have a relaxed vibe and it was an eye-opener to see that there are other ways to incorporate jackets in your outfits.
Ren’s comment: I usually wear a lot of monoton clothes, so these purple pants felt new. The color is not bright, rather it is a little dull, which gives it a mature impression. There is also a calm feeling and I think the pants go well with monotone styles, so they are easy to incorporate into my personal wardrobe.
Who is JO1’s fashionista according to Kawanishi Takumi, Mamehara Issei and Kawashiri Ren?
Takumi: Ren-kun’s style is something I am aiming for. He is especially good at choosing accessories and today (the shooting day), he was wearing a fluffy head with his own personal coordinate. I always think he is stylish for how easily he incorporates seemingly difficult accessories into his own style. What I am interested in this spring is denim. It seems like that LUMINE EST Shinjuku got everything I am interested in, so I want to go there as soon as I can!
Issei: You might know it already, but sure enough Keigo-kun is stylish. Also among the JO1 members, he is always a step ahead of us and he is fast to take up the latest trends. My standard style is a casual long T-Shirt that I like so much that I end up buying new ones. In contrast, Keigo-kun freely wears all kind of items. But in regard to long T-Shirts, I have lots of different ones (laughs)
Ren: For me the fashionista in JO1 is Takumi. On the contrary to me who always wears monotone colors, Takumi has the image of looking good in various colors. He is also knowledgeable about sneakers and I feel he likes fashion. Spring is coming soon and I feel that my mood would be boosted if I enjoyed using colors in my clothes, like the coloured pants I wore today! I think coloured pants are also cute when worn by girls.
[…]
Made in Japan Quality giving birth to a unique worldview
Ohira Shosei, Sato Keigo, Kimata Syoya wearing STUDIOUS
[…]
Shosei’s comment: The smoky gray that I rarely wear feels fresh. I was supposed to wear a coat, too, but we chose this style because I felt that showing the shirt and the pants looked cuter. The pants in particular have a beautiful silhouette and will work in a wide range of combinations.
Keigo’s comment: I rarely wear leather pants, but putting them on gives me a cool style. They give off a loose silhouette, so I think they look cute when for example girls wear those with a tight top, such as cropped knitwear or a tight-fitting turtleneck.
Syoya’s comment: I usually wear casual and cute clothes, so this coordination is quite elegant and beautiful, and it gives a different kind of “smart” vibe from the usual. The jacket has parts with gold and a delicate feeling, so I think it can be enjoyed by all.
Who is JO1’s fashionista according to Ohira Shosei, Sato Keigo and Kimata Syoya?
Shosei: Because Keigo is tall and is style is good, everything he wears looks good on him, I have the image of him of always wearing the latest trend items, but sometime ago he wore a vintage jacket and it was a new discovery for me that he also enjoys fashion this way. I personally became interest in denim styles lately!
Keigo: There are several members who pay attention to fashion, but I probably like fashion the most. But some time ago, Ren-kun was wearing the clothes I wanted to buy, and I was like “For real?”. (Laughs) What I am looking for right now are Heisei*-style retro items. I’m weak for star motifs.
TN: Heisei era: 8th January 1989 - 30th April 2019
Syoya: I feel there is no other answer than Keigo-kun being “the fashionista”! I don’t care much about trends and I’m just a genius who happens to wear something trendy from time to time, but Keigo-kun checks everything properly and knows the brands well, so there is never a miss in what he wears. Keigo-kun even wore a green quilted coat before it became popular.
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
[JO1] JUNON TV 230118
https://www.junon-tv.jp/articles/1529
Kimata Syoya’s interesting Valentine’s story ♡
Beautiful blue hair and red glitter - this dazzling contrast makes you feel dizzy♡
We wish we could give Valentine’s chocolate to a guy like this…!
He was enthusiastic about his first appearance in a serial drama and told us with a sparkle in his eyes “I like to create art”.
We have nothing but high hopes for him playing a high schooler in “Shou mo nai bokura no renairon” (English title of the manga: Our little love story )
*This is an excerpt of the interview
I didn’t receive much chocolate for Valentine’s Day. I’m sure Rukkun must have gotten a lot (laughs). I didn’t really count it, but I guess the maximum were 7 ones.. And this includes obligation chocolate. But rather than sweet things like chocolate, I like savory things. I’m happier to receive soused fish or miso with crab innards (laughs). Or dried squid. Among the JO1 members Ren-kun likes chocolate. When there is chocolate among the snacks at some workplace, I see him taking it home. Hence, if I gave some Valentine's chocolate to a JO1 member, I would give it to Ren-kun while saying “Yes, you like it, don’t you?”. Ren-kun does everything properly, so he would nicely give me something back (on White Day). Considering this, too, yes it would be Ren-kun (laughs). On the other hand, I think Junki-kun and Shion would be more likely to give something back. But this is just my image of them (laughs).
TN: obligation chocolate or 義理チョコ is chocolate given to men by women out of appreciation or politeness. 本命チョコ (true feelings chocolate) is the one given to your crush/partner. Still, even when receiving this obligation chocolate it is expected from you to give something back on White Day.
I will appear in the drama “Shou mo nai bokura no renairon” (Literal translation of the title: Our hopeless love theory) that starts in January. When I heard about this, I thought “Yeees!”, but I wasn’t sure whether I could actually do this (laughs). I will play the role of the high archiving high school student Ogura Yu. He is the classmate of Tanimura Kurumi, the daughter of the woman whom Tsutsumi Takuro, played by Mashima Hidekazu, loved 20 years ago. Since there is “love theory” in the title, I thought it would be a romantic story, but it is actually a story from various viewpoints. I read the whole original story and I was really moved by the story that is so human. There were many scenes where I thought “It comes like this?”, so I am wondering now how much I could express myself in this drama… Anyway, in order not to catch a cold, I try to drink orange juice and take vitamins. I have to boost my immune system! Right now my excitement is bigger, but when I go to the set, I might end up being super nervous.
PROFILE
Kimata Syoya. Born on 5th April 2000 in the prefecture Aichi. Blood type A. He is a member of the 11 member global boy group “JO1”. At the end of last year, they had their first appearance the the “73rd NHK Kouhaku Utagassen” and performed their debut song “Mugendai”. Kimata will make his first appearance in a serial drama with “Shou mo nai bokura no renairon”. The title track for the drama, “We Good” by JO1, will be released digitally on midnight of the 19th January.
Sunday, November 6, 2022
Saturday, October 29, 2022
[JO1] Sports Hochi 221026
https://hochi.news/articles/20221026-OHT1T51152.html
“JOCHUM”, created in the JO1 x Sanrio new character development project has been unveiled
The 11 member boy group JO1 released the new characters, created in the “JO1 x Sanrio new character development project” on the 26th.
Under the theme of “creating JO1 alter ego characters” JO1 teamed up with Sanrio, who have created more than 450 characters including “Hello Kitty”, for this project and the group name of the character has been decided as “JOCHUM”. Kawashiri Ren explained “JOCHUM has the meaning of roommate or friend. They are Soulmates who are each fulfilling their dreams.”
In the past Sanrio has collaborated with YOSHIKI for “yoshikitty”, EXILE’s Sekiguchi Mandy for “Hello Mandy” and the singer Niihama Leon for “Leosuke”.
The leader Yonashiro Sho said with a smile “It was a really precious experience. I’m glad that these characters were realized, down to the smallest detail.” The member Ohira Shosei said: “First of all, I am filled with gratitude to the staff who supported us in this regard. They made truly amazing characters happen for which I am thankful.”
Regarding the outcome of the design, Kono Junki said “My character is the cutest after being finished. I can’t thank them enough for making my character look so different from my poorly drawn draft. It is so cute. I love it.” Mamehara Issei expressed his satisfaction (with the designs), saying: “I am hopeless when it comes to drawing, but Sanrio altered it and made something very cute come out. Having a scarf, cape and belt included makes me really happy.” Also Tsurubo Shion expressed his gratitude, saying “I am proud of it. Thanks to Sanrio, they made the character look quite cute.”
Kinjo Sukai, who is good at drawing, expressed “In my character there are both my own ideals and the feelings of it as a Sanrio character. Rather than it being a character, I see it as another version of myself. I enjoyed thinking over it every night.”
Kimata Syoya described the hard work that went into the creation of the draft: “I thought about the character by looking back at my own life. I faced myself for this.”
The group’s motto “Go To The TOP” has the meaning of standing at the top of the world. And, they hope to make a leap forward to this as their characters. Kawanishi Takumi said: “People overseas also know the Sanrio characters. I want our characters to go global, too.” Sato Keigo said “I hope these characters will be as active in the future as (the popular character) Cinnamoroll.” To this, Shiroiwa Ruki added his wish: “I hope a lot of people will love them. Hopefully they will be not just adored by us, but also by the fans.”
◆ Characters that the members have designed
Kinjo Sukai (22) - PiHAi - A fox with a pokerface. Its habit is sticking its tongue out.
Kawashiri Ren (25) - RAIN - A magician fox. Brings everyone surprises and excitement.
Ohira Shosei (22) - moco - A quietly beautiful angel. Can read people’s minds.
Mamehara Issei (20) - MAMEchi - A heroic Shiba Inu. His personality is too straightforward.
Kono Junki (24) - micoon - A microphone whose charm point is the round face. It likes to sleep.
Kimata Syoya (22) - CHIMATA - A lively bunny. It loves sushi.
Yonashiro Sho (27) - YA-NU-KA-MI - A Shisa, the guardian deity of the house. It rarely leaves the house.
Shiroiwa Ruki (24) - RURU - An actual princely? poodle. Doesn’t let go of its pacifier while sleeping.
Tsurubo Shion (21) - CHULALA - A chihuahua that can communicate with the cosmos. Its body is bear-like.
Sato Keigo (24) - Bira - A forgetful and bizarre flower. Its hobby is fortune-telling.
Kawanishi Takumi (23) - POP-POH - A penguin with a chubby body. It loves ice cream.
[JO1] ELLE 221024
https://www.elle.com/jp/culture/music-art-book/g41638146/jo1-kcon-2022-japan-interview-22-1024/
A special interview with JO1 at “KCON JAPAN 2022”! Only in ELLE they tell about secret stories behind the new songs and the highlight of the performance of a new song.
We caught JO1 at the huge event taking place at Ariake Arena 14th ~16th October.
What is KCON?
The Korean culture event KCON started in 2012 and celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. It has been held in the USA and all over the world to promote K-Pop and other forms of Korean culture.
Due to the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic the offline events were canceled and KCON took place online for 2 years, but this year it finally returned to shows with a live audience. As the third installment this year, after LA and Saudi Arabia, it took place over three days, from 14th to 16th October, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, being a great success. The three-day event attracted an audience of around 41,000 visitors and 8.7 million digital viewers, proving in figures that the content is popular worldwide.
JO1, who appeared on the 15th October, have participated every year since their debut in 2020. The ban on large-scale offline performances was lifted this year, and they were finally able to stand on stage alongside spectacular other artists in front of a packed audience.
ELLE held an exclusive interview with JO1 right before their performance, covering everything from the stories behind KCON to their 6th single “MIDNIGHT SUN”.
Performing SuperCali Korean Ver. and a new song
There will be many highlights at this year's KCON 2022 JAPAN, but what are the most important points of interest for you personally?
Keigo: Sure enough, it is the first performance of the B-side “Rose” of our new single here. It will surely be a performance that will drive the audience crazy so much to the point that they will turn into roses!
Who is the member that drives you especially crazy?
Keigo: No one but Kawanishi Takumi-kun! His facial expressions are amazing.
Takumi: Eh? Me? I just do a cool expression that was advised, that’s all (laughs). Like this.
The rest: (laughs)
Junki: You just recreated what the teacher did! (Laughs)
Furthermore, since you will perform the Korean version of “SuperCali”, isn’t it hard to sing such a speedy song in Korean?
Takumi: The words in the rap before the last chorus are even more than in the Japanese version and there is a lot in the verse and very face paced. Also, the pronunciation is difficult, so I struggled a lot. I practiced hard.
Keigo: There are two parts where I can shine, but when we recorded it in Korea, it was pointed out that my original pitch was off more than my Korean pronunciation. Because after all, the number of words is different, so it was difficult to get the pitch right… It struck me that they said this seemed worse than my Korean pronunciation.
A secret story of the MV filming of their big hit “SuperCali”
It became a hot topic that both the PV and MV of “SuperCali” got your biggest view count in history, but please tell us an episode from the filming of the MV.
Issei: Except for the dance scenes where everyone was present, I was only at the same location as Takumi-kun, so I didn’t see what the other members were filming, making me able to see their sets for the first time in the MV itself, something that felt really new to me. I thought “So they filmed it like that!”. It was fun to watch the MV as it has a storyline and made me think about various things.
Takumi: I felt that was amazing. There is a shot where the members rotate in a circle and get further away from each other in a photo-like still image. I wondered how that was filmed.
Keigo: I just stood there. The cameraman was going round and around on something like a crane.
“MIDNIGHT SUN” that you have just released the other day has 4 songs all together, but please tell us the key point of the part you are in charge of in your recommended song.
Ren: For “Phobia”, I studied the emotional atmosphere of the song in order to bring out the song’s very own world. I tried to create an atmosphere in my own way, making it sound like it was going to disappear, like with the amount of breath I was using, so I hope lots of people will be impressed when they hear that part.
Junki: The start of the song “16(Sixteen). From the very first note, I sang the song with the intention of conveying the song's atmosphere 100%.
Of the four songs in this album, which one made you think intuitively "I might like it!" when you first heard it?
Junki: I think it was "Phobia". It is fully balanced, still there are a lot of surprises in the song, and the sound represents an atmosphere that hasn't really existed in JO1 songs up until now. I like it a lot, it's fragile and powerful at the same time.
Ren: For me it is also “Phobia” and the leadtrack “SuperCali”. I tend to like songs that have an easy to understand concept, so especially in “SuperCali”’s case the concept is easy to understand and it well expresses the strange world.
Yonashiro-san, what is your favorite song and to which one of your parts do you have a special attachment to?
Junki: He kinda looks as if he is going to say something interesting! (laughs)
Ruki: Didn’t he get an unusual part this time?
Keigo: A SHO with a threatening aura, right?
Ruki: You know, that bridge part.
Sho: Ah… It’s actually “16(Sixteen)”.
Ruki: What? You are not gonna talk about “Phobia”?
Sho: Ah, right. I guess it’s “Phobia” (laughs).
Ren: I guess, you say! (laughs)
Sho: The bridge “I am here, I only see you~”. When I heard the demo before the recording, I thought “I want to sing this part”, so I remember being really happy (when my parts were decided). So I decided to give my all for this! But I went a bit over the top and got scolded (laughs).
Ren: Yes, you were (laughs).
Sho: I tried to make it sound a lot like the way the Korean person sang the demo, but I was too enthusiastic and overdid it, and I heard how Ren was laughing a lot about it in the back (laughs).
Ruki: I received a lot of memorable parts this time and a lot of people praised my rap in the second verse of “SuperCali”, but I chose the first verse of “Phobia”.
Junki: The part “Vanished feelings~”? It’s so good.
Ruki: Because I haven’t sung like that before, and it was the first time I used this new singing style. “Phobia” is something I have never done before and it felt new to me, too.
“Phobia” seems widely popular with the members.
Ruki: It's a good song, and indeed quite popular with the members. Also,I especially like my part in it. I like the way it's well structured from the very beginning, and I like its fragile atmosphere.
Speaking of KCON, their recent favorite Korean culture thing is?
Since KCON is an event that spreads Korean culture, we would like to know about your recommendations for places in Seoul or Korean food that you have recently discovered.
Syoya: I have a dish. Because I love Korean food! Lately I love the dish Sundae. I've always liked appetizers, and as you probably know (from the Elle Gourmet series)… It's quite a unique dish, and I hear that even many Koreans don't like it, but I'm addicted to it!
TN: Sundae is a Korean sausage.
Junki: You ordered it so often from the delivery.
Syoya: There was barely anyone who ate those with me, so if we ate at a restaurant, we would go to a place where there were various menus, and I would order the sundae and the other members would order something else. I asked Shion, "Do you want some sundae?" But he refused, saying, "I don't want it" (laughs). I think it’s very tasty good for your health!
Shosei: I chose Lotte World. I went with Sukai and Syoya and it was so much fun. There is also a shopping mall close by and the food we ate there was delicious. We had a great time.
Syoya: Back then we didn’t eat Korean cuisine but Italian one.
Did you ride the thrilling attractions there?
Shosei: No, we rather enjoyed the park itself.
Sukai: There was an insane one. That free fall one.
Syoya: Yes, that was the scariest!
You spent a long time in South Korea this summer for production, what are some of your favorite new Korean words you learnt there? Or any words that became popular within the group?
Sukai: Photos are called “사진 (sajinh)”, and I really liked the term “life photo” that came up as part of the “HELL?O TOUR” programme on YouTube in Korea, where we were instructed to “take photos like this”. In Korean, it's called ”인생 사진 (Insensa-jin)”, and every time we took a photo, I kept on saying “Insensa-jin! Insensa-jin!”.
Syoya: Ah yes, you did that ~
Sukai: But it seemed to have become absorbed by the members, and it's probably not an exaggeration to say that I popularized it after that.
Syoya: It is one. It's not popular (among us)!
Shion: During the "HELL?O TOUR", Ren-kun, me and Keigo-kun helped with the preparation of moon shells, and I really liked the word "골뱅이 (golpenyi)" which we used a lot at that time. I kept wanting to say it.
Shosei: There is a word I learnt from the dance instructor! I first heard there of the word “chinma” which is the short form of “진짜 마지막' (chinchmajima = really last one). I realized that, "Korean language also has abbreviations", which I would never have understood unless I had a local person teach me.
TN: As I don’t understand Korean, I went with the katakana transcription from the original article, unless I found by chance a better one.
What do they want to do in 2022?
Only 2 months are left for 2022, but please tell us something you want to do this year!
Takumi: I would like to eat lots of food/rice.
Ren: Ah, this is important! Because fall has come.
Junki: I also want to eat (lots of) food/rice.
Keigo: I will be “Japan’s number 1 Sato” !
Everyone: (laughs)
Thursday, October 6, 2022
[JO1] ELLE 221006
https://www.elle.com/jp/gourmet/gourmet-restaurants/g41186406/kimata-sushi-with-ren-22-1006/
[Part 1] JO1‘s Kimata Syoya tastes New Wave Edo Style sushi together with Kawashiri Ren! | The true tone on Kimata Sushi Vol. 5
A popular series that brings you the latest sushi trends!
The series “The true tone on Kimata Sushi” is by the JO1’s Kimata Syoya who just loves sushi too much. In this popular series one other member is chosen each time and the two will talk honestly over delicious sushi at a restaurant with seasonal sushi.
This time, dressed up a bit he went with the group’s stoic performance leader, Kawashiri Ren, to the New Wave Edo Style sushi restaurant in Azubu Juban (Tokyo). We caught up with the pair who spent quality time at the counter (of the restaurant).
To a mature restaurant with Kawashiri Ren, whose appearance was long awaited.
This time his partner is Kawashiri Ren, the first older member in this series. He is the second oldest one of the members and furthermore he is in charge of bringing the team together as the performance leader… so we assumed there could be some tension in their honest talk, but then they quickly made their standard move right in the front of the shop. The start of an enjoyable time.
Visiting “Sushi Yoshikawa” in Azubu!
The two visited “Sushi Yoshikawa” which opened in Azabu in March 2021. The founder and owner of the “Yoshikawa” brand, Yoshikawa Takamasa, first apprenticed with his father, when he was just 13 years old, and then learnt French cuisine before returning to the world of sushi. This experimental sushi restaurant has become a hot topic as it offers sushi based on the orthodox Edo style combined with western elements and a touch of craftsmanship together with seasonal ingredients, that will please both the eye and the tongue.
Syoya: Today is the time for the long awaited appearance of Ren-kun who loves sushi nearly as much as I do (adds emphasis).
Ren: Yes yes, nearly as much as you. I looked forward to this for so long! You know, earlier I talked with Syoya. “Is it okay to do this as a job?” (laughs)
Syoya: Right? (laughs) When was the last time you ate sushi, Ren-kun?
Ren: I think about a month ago. It happens quite often that during the lunch break of our dance practices I eat sushi with Syoya.
Syoya: That’s right. Oh, I ate it the day before yesterday.
Ren: ahaha! You really love it.
Syoya: I looked up this “Sushi Yoshikawa” on the internet before and I felt “The atmosphere of this restaurant suits to Ren-kun ~”
Ren: No really, I feel honoured to be invited by the famous “The true tone on Kimata Sushi” (laughs). I usually go to casual sushi restaurants, so I always wanted to visit such a mature sushi restaurant. Thank you, Syoya.
Syoya: What would you like to try, Ren-kun?
Ren: This looks amazing from here… I like sea urchins, so earlier I thought I would like to try them. Anyway, I have been looking forward to this since this morning!
Syoya: We received counter seats today, so there are only tempting things right in front of us already. There are shrimps and this one looks like french toast? I wonder what it is. Today we are at a New Wave Edo Style restaurant, so I’m really looking forward to the various ways of how they prepare it.
Syoya: Since Ren-kun is the second oldest member in the group, I felt such a mature restaurant would suit him.
Ren: Mature… Sure enough, when I see the members go crazy, I think they are cute and like children, so I guess I think of myself as an adult (laughs). Everyone is still so lively~
Syoya: That’s how you become an adult…
Ren: But sometimes I joke around with you.
Syoya: When I’m going crazy, I see Ren-kun watching me and think he is mature! This makes me feel as if I am an adult, too.
Ren: hahaha!
First, toasting with Moringa tea!
Syoya: We have an intense full member dance practice later today, so let’s have a healthy tea now (laughs). And Ren-kun cannot drink alcohol.
Ren: I’m curious about this “Moringa tea”.
Chef: This tea is made from the leaves of Moringa, which is considered to be a superfood, and it is a strong and greenish juice like tea. It is very good for the body.
Both: One Moringa tea please!
Syoya: Shall we make a toast?
Ren: Cheers! It’s delicious and kinda calming (laughs).
Syoya: Today we will eat the “owner’s recommended course”, a very comprehensive one, as it includes sashimi, grilled things, nigiri, as well as rolls and the daily speciality. As Yoshikawa Takemasa also studied french cuisine and these French skills are used everywhere here.
Ren: This is so interesting! You can see the ingredients being prepared from the counter, so I am excited to see how everything will turn out.
Syoya: It is also exciting to see how the chefs work with their knives. I always buy fish at the fish market and at home I try to imitate sushi chefs by quickly moving my knife forward to make sashimi, but I cannot cut it as coolly as them. I want to go and buy a good knife. But it takes some skill to cut it coolly.
Ren: Ahaha! You also do such things?
3 exquisite sashimi dishes
Syoya: The first three dishes are the sashimi!
Chef: This is fatty tuna sashimi with raw wasabi, fried bonito and marinated scallops in sweet sauce.
Ren: Wow!
Syoya: The fatty tuna, so delicious! The wasabi on top isn’t strong at all and the flavour comes out. It is something that even Shosei who doesn’t like wasabi can eat. I want Shosei to discover the good sides of wasabi here.
Ren: You are not talking about the sashimi at all, just about the wasabi… (laughs). Why are there cuts in the tuna?
Syoya: So that the soy sauce can be absorbed. It is a common technique in sushi restaurants.
Ren: It is common in the sushi world (laughs)!
Chef: Our tuna is the Pacific bluefin tuna, but we only use a part of the belly that is close to the head, which has the most fat.
Ren: True, as soon as I put it into my mouth I can feel it melting. That’s why even if you used more wasabi, it would still lose to the fat.
Chef: The bonito was slightly fried on the surface. It is fried on the outside and marinated on the inside.
Syoya: Eh! It is fried?
Chef: And it is topped with tomato sauce.
Ren: A touch of French influence! It is a piquant tomato sauce.
Syoya: That it is fried feels so new… And bonito and tomato sauce fit very well, Isn’t the colour amazing, too? Both at the fried and non fried areas.
Ren: Ah, I like the smell… It feels a little nostalgic, but also a little warm when you put it into your mouth.
Syoya: It’s so amazing!
Ren: Next one is the scallops one.
Chef: The scallops are lightly marinated.
Syoya: Marinated ♡♡
Owner: A little sweet sauce on top of the marinated scallops and enjoy the aroma of yuzu.
Ren: Thank you!
Syoya: It is very meaty. You need to chew more than usual. The texture is great!
Ren: The scallops are chewy. I can feel they enjoy being in one’s mouth. Like they are dancing? The sweet sauce adds an accent.
Syoya: They are dancing! They are!
Syoya: Nigiri are also good, but I love this kind of sashimi and appetisers… (impressed)
Chef: Do you like all kinds of fish?
Syoya: There is no fish I dislike. I like all of them. Oh, there is more, right? There was no nigiri sushi yet, which is the main part of “The true tone on Kimata Sushi”. This is only the beginning! We have just started. I heard this is a new wave restaurant and it is some kind of a new genre.
Chef: We are selling things that incorporate something new.
Syoya: Did you come up with this yourself?
Chef: Yoshikawa Takemasa also made experiences in France and I am following his footsteps and learn from him, so I am trying to come up with original dishes like this. It is Edo style sushi, but I am aiming for something a little unconventional, something new and less orthodox.
Syoya: That’s what the sashimi at the beginning was! I wonder what is going to come next (laughs).
Ren: ahahaha!
Chef: Thank you very much. These were the three appetisers and next will be the grilled ones.
Deep fried tilefish with miso soup
Syoya: The grilled dishes are here! Deep fried tilefish. With Japanese mixed rice under it! What is this dashi-like soup on the side?
Chef: This is our special thick ara sauce, which you should eat by mixing the tilefish with the rice first. Then, please mix it with the thick ara sauce in your mouth and enjoy it.
Syoya: Wow~ It’s crispy. ASMR!!!
Ren: hahahaha!
Syoya: There are also a lot of vegetables. I kinda want to say a lot. The white fish is deeply fried but not falling apart, so it is tender. It matches the dashi soup.
Ren: Crispy and tender… It is hard to describe. It is satisfying, but the gentle taste makes you feel at ease. The ease of your home.
Ren: This ara sauce? Soup? is super delicious. You could eat it all alone.
Syoya: I want to drink it in the morning instead of hot water! How do you make this?
Chef: This is… (omission) Then you slowly and steadily boil it for two hours. Afterwards you filter the boiled product and add a little bit of soy sauce to the finished product…
Syoya: … I think I will make it. To drink it in the morning.
Ren: Nah, you just want to drink it (laughs). You can’t make it easily! It takes about 2 hours, doesn’t it? You start making it the night before?
Syoya: I’ll totally do that!
Ren: It was said before, but we are not even at the main part (the nigiri) yet. And yet, I already feel satisfied.
Syoya: I’m warmed up!
Finally the start of the nigiri!
Syoya: Here they are finally, from now on we eat nigiri.
Chef: Now then, let’s start with the sushi.
Both: Please!
Syoya: Red sushi rice! That’s indeed Edo style.
Chef: Flounder is the first course, followed by botan shrimp. You like shrimps, right?
Syoya: I reeeeeally love shrimps. Wow! Wow! I thought about ordering those from the Hometown tax donation program. I clicked the like button for all of them and saved them. All I need to do is to put them into the cart and order them.
TN: The hometown tax donation program is a program to support underdeveloped rural areas in Japan. People donate a part of their residential tax to a specified municipality and in turn they get a tax reduction and receive certain local products and specialities worth 30% or less of their donation from that municipality. Unlike the name suggests that area doesn't need to be your hometown.
Ren: But when your order comes, you have to do all the preparations, right?
Syoya: I will do all of it! Where do these come from?
Chef: These come from Alaska. They are bigger in this season and taste better than the ones from Hokkaido.
Syoya: Wow, they seem so delicious. I heard they fry everything except the body and serve it as tempura. Thank you in advance.
Chef: Botan shrimps with caviar on top, please enjoy.
Ren: Syoya, the shrimps are here!
Syoya: The moment I was nervous about has come. It’s always great to see. Beautiful. It is shaped like this to be put on top of the sushi rice?
Ren: Hahahaha! I guess this botan shrimp is going to be your favourite.
Syoya: No, it is really delicious! It has a nice crunchy texture. It’s so good, so good. Sauna like. It’s a harmonious shrimp.
Ren: Syoya values the texture a lot, doesn't he?
The French fusion technique comes out one after another
Chef: This is super fatty tuna with shallots on top.
Syoya: These shallots are the french influence again, right?
Chef: This is made from young, small, fresh pickled scallions, which are sliced and boiled into scallion oil.
Ren: So you are taking a french vegetable and arranging it in a Japanese way?
Syoya: Let’s take a moment to reset and focus. It would be easy to go for a quick bite, but this is where the pickled ginger comes into the game.
Ren: This is important!
Syoya: The moment adults say, you shouldn’t devour it, taste it properly… you are already a child.
Ren: Hahaha!
Syoya: The shallots are delicious! They are a whole revolution~ They are going to be a trend this year, the shallots. They will be a trendy food.
Next time on “The true tone on __ __ Sushi ”…?
Ren: What comes next? White meat fish?
Chef: How about you guess while eating it?
Syoya: I like this kind of thing! But as the sushi prince, I’m pressured to guess correctly…
Ren: If I am the only one to guess right, the series might become “The true tone on Kawashiri sushi” next time (laughs)!
Syoya: Hopefully not!
Syoya: It looks like white shrimp or the rare cut of a flounder… Which could it be?
Chef: You might know directly after eating it. Because some of the texture remains in your mouth.
Ren: (He will know it) Because Syoya is the texture master! Now, let me try it. It’s surely something I have eaten before. I know what it is.
Syoya: I got it! Yes, I know this. 1…2… ah, if I am wrong, it will become Kawashiri sushi, right?
Everyone: hahahaha!
Ren: It was very melty.
Syoya: Chopping it into small pieces and adjusting the taste… hm… I’m scared to say the wrong thing, so tell me Ren-kun’s answer… (whispers) Eh, I see! This will end up in Kawashiri sushi! The correct answer is… 1…2…
Both: Squid!
Chef: Correct!
Syoya: Wow~ So this is how squid becomes (here). I’m impressed. The texture is different from the squid served in regular sushi restaurants.
What the sea urchin loving Ren-kun has been waiting for
Syoya: Next up is crab! Everyone loves them. I mean, crabs are a delicacy, aren't they?
Chef: Today’s special is not part of the course, but we are offering this for you. It is crab flakes with sea urchin on top.
Ren: Ah! There is the sea urchin! It is a sea urchin pillow. Wow, I want to sleep on it (laughs).
Syoya: Eh maybe… It’s crab with sea urchin on top! I haven’t eaten crumb together with sea urchin before.
Ren: Hahaha! The crab meat is flavoured with crab paste so it’s two rich flavours together. Both are the stars of the dish. I think it’s been a while since I last ate crab.
Syoya: It melted away in my mouth. Moreover, the sea urchin is just sweet. There is zero bitterness! I want to have another one.
Ren: I love sea urchin but… it happened so fast, I can’t help but be impressed (laughs).
Ren: When you go in private, you can’t talk to the sushi chef like this. You don’t receive such explanations.
Syoya: Indeed.
Ren: Normally, the conversation is nothing more than “This is delicious!”. But eating it while hearing about all the different hidden flavours, like today, made it even more delicious.
Syoya: Because that’s where your nerves go, right?
Ren: I actually said something very nice now (laughs)!
Syoya: The number of seats at the counter is just the right number to fit all JO1 members and Choi CEO. Already during the first three appetisers I made up my mind, “Ah, I have to come here again with everyone” (laughs).
Syoya: Oh no, the next one is being prepared so we have to reset (our taste buds) with pickled ginger! Time to focus!
Ren: There is still (the taste of) sea urchin in the mouth. Time to reset!
Chef: This is red flesh (of tuna) marinated in red wine, topped with yuzu koshou cream cheese.
TN: yuzu koshou is a fermented paste made of yuzu, salt and chili peppers.
Ren: Finally cream cheese!
Syoya: The cream cheese women love.
Chef: We marinated the tuna in a sauce made half of red wine and half of soy sauce. This is combined with cream cheese and finely chopped pickled ginger.
Syoya: Awesome! To combine these things! Furthermore, until the yuzu koshou. This makes it a little spicier. This is like an appetiser.
Ren: It caught my eyes already before, but the photographer makes really beautiful pictures of sushi. The deliciousness is conveyed!
Photographer: Thank you very much (laughs).
Chef: You two really love sushi.
Syoya: (while eating) I love it.
Ren: Syoya eats it 5 times a week.
Syoya: It's nice to see the chef being in the spirit of surprise or rather being caught up in his intention.
Ren: It is not so much his intention but the fact that we were caught up (laughs).
Syoya: But actually you don’t like that, right Ren-kun?
Ren: That’s right. I’m in the type who doesn’t want to be tricked.
Syoya: But today you lost.
Ren: I did. It was a complete defeat.
Syoya: It’s delicious! For real, I am yielding to this.
[Bonus] Their feelings regarding their first arena tour?
JO1’s first arena tour that started in September included Aichi, Osaka, Kanagawa and Fukuoka and now only the extra shows in Tokyo on 22nd and 23rd October are left. What are the feelings for the tour right after the announcement?
Syoya: When this article is released, we finished all shows up to the ones in Fukuoka. Ren-kun cried when the tour was announced.
Ren: That made me cry. I recalled a past shock.
Syoya: A shock?
Ren: I am the second oldest one of 4 brothers and when I was young I had a really heavy fight with my oldest brother. I can’t forget the shock from back then despite I was quite young back then. For a long time there was nothing that shocked me more than that, but I grew up and when I went to see a BIGBANG concert, it started with an amazing amount of cheers and this moment felt like ot physically hit me and this shock surpassed the one of the fight with my older brother (laughs). It is a whole different type of shock, but it made shocks into something enjoyable. From then on I started to think “I want to make music. I want to dance.”.
Syoya: The cheers at a show of BIGBANG seem amazing.
Ren: Since we became JO1 we were unable to hear such cheers and I forgot about this shock. But when the arena tour was announced at the event in May, JAM ended up cheering loudly for a moment, right? When I heard those, I remembered the cheers I heard in the past and I was completely shocked.
Syoya: Right. Since you experienced these cheers also in your time as a dancer, you know that feeling. Compared to me you have a lot of experience on the big stages and I think it that sense you have these strong feelings regarding cheers. I also remember those from the predebut fan meetings and the audition. Once you experience them, you can’t stop (craving them), right?
Ren: You can’t.
Syoya: Sure enough real concerts are great. Even when the audience is wearing a mask, you can see their facial expressions by their eyebrows and eyes, whether they are happy or crying. I really like the feeling of seeing their reactions directly.
Ren: It’s like playing catching balls with the audience, right? I always knew that performing live is the reason why I wanted to take up this work.
Syoya: I’m reallyyyyyy happy that we are finally able to have such a tour. I want to do this more and more in the future!
Sunday, October 2, 2022
[JO1] JA Kyosai campaign interview 220921
Note: The same interview was published by various news pages
Please tell us your thoughts on being appointed as the ambassadors of the “JA Kyosai Fall Traffic Safety campaign”.
Sho: JA Kyosai-san values the bonds between people, or in other words their “Kizuna” (bonds) and the concept of the tour that we as JO1 are currently holding is also “KIZUNA”, so we feel a strong bond with them.
Takumi: Traffic safety is not just important for us but for everyone going on with their daily lives, so I hope that through this campaign as many people as possible will think about road safety.
Please tell us an old memory or an incident related to road safety.
Ruki: I love driving a car so I often go for a drive but I drive extra carefully and with lots of caution on narrow roads or at night when it is hard to see others such as pedestrians.
Issei: I was once nearly run over by a car coming in my direction, and it made me think I should have been more careful.
Shosei: Me and Mame-chan go for night walks, but sure enough we are hard to see from the perspective of drivers and I thought we need to be creative by wearing reflective and bright (noticeable) materials, so that we can be seen.
As “JO1” what is a traffic safety message you want everyone to keep in mind?
Junki: I think everyone understands the necessity of traffic safety rules, but I also think that it is quite difficult to constantly stay conscious of traffic safety. Hence, I hope you will take this opportunity to strongly increase your traffic safety awareness.
Sukai: I think it is important to be mindful for everyone, people driving a car, people riding a bike and people walking.
Keigo: Traffic safety is something that is created by everyone together, so I hope that this campaign will be a good opportunity for all of us to pay more attention to the traffic rules.
Please give a message to everyone who watched the videos.
Sho: Everyone, 1-2…
Everyone: Go to the TOP, we are JO1!
Ren: We, as JO1, were appointed as ambassadors for the “JA Kyosai Fall Traffic Safety campaign”. JA Kyosai encourages road safety everywhere through traffic safety classes and traffic safety poster contests for elementary and junior high school students.
Shion: Through this campaign which starts on 21st September, we want everyone to think once again about traffic rules and safety.
Syoya: Starting today, we, as JO1, will learn more about traffic safety in a fun way in web limited videos, so please make sure to check them out!
Sho: This is all from the ambassadors for the “JA Kyosai Fall Traffic Safety campaign”…
Everyone: JO1!
The reason why the JA Kyosai federation appointed JO1 as campaign ambassadors:
The JA Kyosai federation values the bonds between people. All JO1 members have a strong bond with each other because they struggled through a hard audition together. Furthermore, we felt an affinity with them as they value their bond with their fans and hence we asked them to become the ambassadors.
JO1 has a wide following, especially among teenagers and it is said that they have the No.1 spreading power on SNS. We think that if we convey our message by using the power of JO1’s words people of all ages, and not just young people, will think of traffic safety in a familiar and friendly way.
Sunday, July 10, 2022
[JO1] PR Times 220616
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000027.000023089.html
TN: The same interview was published by various newsoutlets
Please tell us your thoughts after finishing the filming.
Sho: It was a new challenge or rather it was very fun for us to be able to have such a wonderful experience. Everyone, how do you feel about what you did?
Ren: There are points I really really want you to pay attention to… We filmed on the grass inside of the race course, everyone is standing in one single line as if the race is about to start and in the background footage of the anime ‘Gunjou no Fanfare’ is playing, so I want you to check this all out. Please watch it!
Everyone: Please watch it!
What do you think about filming at a horse racing course?
Shosei: As it was our first time shooting at a racing course and we came here for the first time, moreover we were allowed to stand on the grass this time, it was a highly valuable experience and we had fun.
Sho: It is so neat!
Junki: Normally you cannot go there. Really.
Ren: Only the selected few horses can run here, right?
Sho: That’s why, we are… the selected few horses (laughs).
Ruki: We were able to film inside the racing course, as well as at a lot of other places such as on the lawn or inside the buildings with the anime playing in the background, which was a fun filming while we did some amazing new things, so everyone please watch it!
Did your image of horse racing change because of the filming?
Syoya: I always had some interest in horse racing, but I never took a step towards it as I thought it was an adult’s domain, but after hearing various stories and experiencing horse racing first hand today, I would like to go and watch it in private once!
Everyone: ohh— nice!!
Takumi: There were moving stories and the bond between jockey and horse moved me, so I think next time I will also buy a horse racing betting ticket and cheer for them.
Syoya: Let’s go everyone together! Everyone together!
Please tell us about your favourite lyrics or choreography of ‘Move The Soul’.
Junki: My favourite lyrics are ‘I can make my history’ from the chorus. Also we as JO1 hope to become a group that makes history by impressing someone or remain in their hearts through our various activities. I love this song!
Ren: My favourite point of the choreography is that there is often an ‘arm turning movement’ in the chorus and other parts of the song, but personally… I thought it looked like holding the reins and when I actually saw real reins and how they look running today… I am absolutely convinced that it looked like the reins (laughs).
Sukai: Maybe there will be a jockey doing this choreography (laughs).
Who do you believe would be ‘the biggest risk taker’ of the members? Please answer by pointing at the person when given the sign.
Result:
Issei: 6 votes
Sukai: 1 vote
Keigo: 2 votes
Shosei: 1 vote
Ren: 1 vote
The reasons why they choose Mamehara:
Junki: I don’t see him as nervous outside of shootings, but I have the image of him that carries it out in one shot with all his might once the filming starts.
Sho: He takes the chance when he can!
Ren: He is a determined guy!
Issei: Thank you very much!
In the program the ‘racing uniforms’ that the jockeys use are introduced, but please tell us about your ‘racing uniforms’!
Keigo: Aren’t our costumes our racing uniforms after all? When we wear our costumes, we become cooler than normally and… but well, we are always cool (laughs).
Please give a message to the fans.
Issei: Today’s filming has been a lot of fun. I hope JAM will watch the collaboration commercial with JRA-san a lot.
Junki: The collaboration between us, JO1, and JRA-san and ‘Gunjou no Fanfare’ is also a very awesome anime… Right now, JO1 is on a roll, so please enjoy everything (laughs).
Ruki: Today I learnt that just as there is a bond between us and JAM, there is also a bond between a jockey and his horse. We will continue to entertain you, so please continue to support us.
Syoya: Please continue to support JRA-san, JO1 and ‘Gunjou no Fanfare’.
Ren: Today has been a lot of fun. JO1 will continue to run as fast as we can, so please stick to JO1.
Shion: You realised the virtues of JO1 and horse racing! Let’s work harder and harder.
Takumi: If you spot me at the horse racing course, please do not talk to me (laughs)! I am concentrating.
Shosei: Today was so much fun. I was so happy about visiting a racing course for the first time. Please make sure to watch ‘Gunjou no fanfare’ and the CM of us and JRA-san.
Keigo: panpakapanpanpanpanpanpanpaan (imitates the sound of a fanfare) … Move The Soul! Thank you very much. It was a lot of fun.
Sho: Seeing real racing horses has also made us curious. We will continue to work hard, so please continue to support us.
Sukai: This collaboration is between JRA-san and us, JO1, so let’s use it as an opportunity for JAM, us and JRA-san to rush to the world together. Let’s go—!
[JO1] Sports Hochi 220604
https://hochi.news/articles/20220603-OHT1T51251.html?page=1
The 11 member boy group JO1 are on the zenith of their power and in the middle of their rapid growth. They widened their range of activities by providing the opening song of the anime ‘Gunjou no fanfare’ and working as voice actors and they are awaiting their first nationwide tour. We talked about their past and future with the leader Yonashiro Sho (26) and Kono Junki (24) who both participated in the ending song of “Gunjou” as guest vocalists, and Kimata Syoya (22) and Ohira Shosei (22), who are both voice actors in the anime.
During the photo shooting, the 4 members were tense and made their poses and expressions with serious gazes. Once they got the OK, they checked each other’s dancing and imitated anime characters which created an atmosphere like in a school club.
Ohira: We are surely deeping our bonds, but in the beginning we did not get along. I was anxious whether I really could make it in this group.
Yonashiro: We were together in the audition, but in the beginning there were also members who had not talked with each other.
JO1 was born from “PRODUCE 101 JAPAN”, the Japanese version of a large-scale Korean audition project in December 2019. They achieved their victory after they received a total of about 65 millions votes and were selected from about 6000 applicants. Unlike previous boy groups they continue to increase their fans with uptempo songs and a controlled and intense dancing that originates from K-POP.
Kono: The moment my name was called my mind went blank. But I felt that a path had opened for me and the winking pose came naturally.
Kimata: I was so happy to the point I mistakenly believed that the audition would continue for longer.
They were supposed to have a splendid debut, but in the next year, 2020, the Coronavirus began to spread widely. The release event for the first single “PROTOSTAR” that was supposed to take place on 4th March was canceled. A trial came out of nowhere.
Kono: I also thought ‘No way!’ sometimes, but I replaced this thought with ‘Let’s train more until we can meet JAM!’
Kimata: I remember that I was unable to leave the house even though it was sunny outside and I silently practiced the second single in my room.
Yonashiro: There is a video of the moment the release event was canceled and when I watch it again from time to time, I brace myself (for future challenges).
They are united in their hearts under the group’s motto “Go To The TOP”, meaning to stand at the top of the world. They dared to travel to a training camp in South Korea while assessing the pandemic situation. They polished their dancing and singing for the third single “CHALLENGER” released in April 2021.
Ohira: I want to become better, I want to aim higher and show a cool self to JAM. We shared this feeling and became one.
Yonashiro: That we became truly unified as a group was at the time of the third single.
Overcoming the Corona pandemic, they held their first lives with an audience at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba in November last year which was visited by 45.000 people through the 5 shows in three days. Being able to be face to face with the fans who had been eagerly awaiting them since their debut, is still the driving force of the members now.
Yonashiro: Just before the curtain went up on the first day the staff seemed about to cry when they called us.
Kimata: (When I saw) the delighted faces of JAM, I really felt that everything that happened so far has paid off.
Kono: The venue was shining with penlights until the very back and it felt good to perform.
Ohira: I was worried whether we could fill the venue, but this worry was unnecessary. It was also something that built up over two years and it was truly beautiful.
Even though the first concerts with an audience had been a success, there is also regret. As the member Kinjo Sukai (22) was taking a hiatus due to Adjustment disorder since October last year, they were unable to stand on stage as 11 members.
Ohira: I was moved by the JAM coming to the live show with Sukai’s nameplate. That is exactly why I want to have a live with 11 members.
In February there had been the announcement that Kinjo returned. At the release event of their second album “KIZUNA” taking place with 11 members in May, they announced that they will have their first nationwide arena tour in September in front of the fans.
Kono: As there is Sukai’s voice and dancing, I thought we finally came together. I felt that we were finally complete. I want to show this to JAM once again. That this is JO1!
The long awaited tour is just a stepping stone. Their goal is to become a group that can compete with the world and be a pride like BTS from South Korea, the first Asians to be nominated for the Grammy awards, which are the highest honor of the American music industry.
Kimata: I admire BTS. But, we are neither well known nor skilled enough to follow their footsteps. First, I want JO1 to be more and more known in Japan.
Ohira: I want to give back even more to JAM. After all, following the arenas I want to stand on the Dome stages. Also, I want us to be called for the Kouhaku.
Kono: I was working part time at the Kyocera Dome during my student days. Back then, I was a ticket collector and guided fans to their places, but next time I want to stand myself on the stage of the Kyocera Dome.
Yonashiro: Our future aim has been the world since the audition. We want to build the foundation for global boy groups which does not exist in Japan yet.
The activities of their juniors has also become a driving force. Born from the second installment of “PRODUCE 101”, the 11 member group INI who just made their debut in November last year, is also engaging in a friendly rivalry with them in the same agency.
Ohira: I check them each time they release new songs. All of them are good and their dancing is also great!
Kimata: Rather than being our juniors, INI are comrades with the same mindset. We even went fishing together in private.
Kono: We are not rivals, we want to make our agency bigger together.
Yonashiro: In the beginning, the agency was so empty as it lacked too many people, but right now they also increased and it became filled to the bursting. With JO1 and INI, we want to grow the office even further.
The moment of the young JO1, formed 2 and a half years ago. rewriting history might be not so far away anymore.
[JO1] 1OC 220615
Shion Tsurubo x Ren Kawashiri x Syoya Kimata
“I thought, what happened to the ‘eternal rebellious phase’? (laughs)”
Your first impression of each other?
Ren: My very very first impression was that Shion was a yankee and Syoya shy of people!
Syoya: I thought Shion was a yankee and Ren-kun was smiley!
Shion: Eh~... Ren-kun was scary and Syoya was an introvert.
Ren: (breaks out laughing)
Syoya: So we were scary and introvert~ (laughs)
And your impression now?
Ren: Shion is a courteous guy and Syoya a weird kid.
Syoya: Shion is a gentle bear and Ren-kun is a smiling face.
Shion: Hm…. wait a second…. (thinks) Sure enough Syoya is an introvert!
All: (break out laughing)
Shion: And Ren-kun is… He is a scary person who has experienced a lot (laughs)! A scary person with a high amount of experience.
Ren: A while ago, I happened to be a bit surprised by Shion’s behavior. We are riding taxis more often than before, but nowadays you can reserve a taxi via an app, right? When the taxi comes that I always enter it, cheerfully saying “Hello, I am Kawashiri”. But Shion politely greets the driver “My name is Tsurubo” when the door opens.
Shion: (laughs)
Ren: I introduce myself to the driver to make sure it is the taxi I reserved before entering it. But when I saw him I thought “What happened to the ‘eternal rebellious phase’?” (laughs). “He is such a polite kid. I am impressed”.
Shion: (while being embarrassed) I guess that might have happened.
Ren: It did~
Syoya: Ren hates eggs and milk. I was surprised that he has so many likes and dislikes regarding food.
Shion: That’s surprising? (laughs)
Syoya: I do not have any food I hate, which, I guess, is rare. Everyone got some food they hate, right? It is not just Ren-kun. I was surprised that there are even people who dislike sushi in this world!
Shion: Syoya is someone who does not change his opinion. That’s why Syoya is an introvert who has confidence in himself.
Ren: What is an introvert who has confidence in himself? (laughs)
What was the opportunity for the three of you to become friends?
Syoya: (stares into the distance) It was during a hot summer…
Shion: (ignores him) It just naturally happened!
Syoya: That’s right.
Shion: The three of us play games together, right.
Syoya: We also watch anime.
Ren: We are three people who love games and anime.
Shion: We are three people with an otaku mentality.
Ren: We tell each other about the anime we watched or recommend some.
“Maybe if I was behind you two I would not to follow you.”
If you expressed the nature of your relationship in a few words?
Ren: For me these two are my ‘observation objects’. They are funny so I always want to watch them!
Syoya: I think ‘team’ or ‘party’.
Shion: Sure, ‘party’ could fit.
Syoya: It is ‘party’ in the sense of a game party. We will walk in one vertical line. Who would be in the lead?
Ren: Wouldn’t that be you, Syoya?
Shion: Certainly, it would be Syoya.
Syoya: But I am an introvert who has confidence in himself! (laughs) But it could be that if I was behind you two I would not follow you.
Shion: hahahahaha
Ren: That’s right, you would surely not follow us (laughs).
"I understood what was ‘that thing’ that was floating through Syoya’s mind!"
An episode about the bond between you three?
Shion: Well, I will tell you about an episode about my bond with Ren-kun. Even when I ask Ren-kun ‘Can you teach me this movement’ after a dance practice when everyone is exhausted and we think ‘I guess it is about time to go home’, he never made an annoyed face and reliably teaches me. He is really kind.
Ren: Because that you come to me like this, is making me happy after all.
Shion: I am truly impressed by you. Sure enough, you are really good at dancing. When you are too good at something, I believe it makes people a little bit of a show-off. But Ren being always humble is something amazing after all.
Ren: Some time ago, Syoya and Junki talked with each other. When I was passing by, Syoya was trying to remember something, saying ‘Ah, Junki-kun, what was it again? That thing”. For some reason, I understood what was floating around in Syoya’s head. When I said “Do you mean autophagy?”, he said “Ah yes! It’s this!”.
Syoya: It is amazing what is going on in Ren-kun’s head!
Ren: I also do not know why but I just knew it. I felt “That’s our bond~”. I did not listen to what you said before and after, but it just popped into my mind.
Shion & Syoya: That’s amazing~!
Syoya: Well, then I will share an episode of the bond with Shion.
Shion: Please do so!
Syoya: Our actions are similar from time to time, and we often go out to have fun together! Like we often go out to eat together.
Shion: Well, me and Syoya always think of something funny (laughs). Like “This was a good joke”. We think of the same things as funny, so we end up doing exactly the same thing (laughs).
Syoya: That’s our bond.
Ren: Surely, your actions are always similar.
Syoya: It has been like this since the debut. Both our interests and what we think off as funny are the same.
“Because Shion is too kind, I end up wanting to care for him.”
Something you admire about each other?
Syoya: Even though Shion seems like this, he is unexpectedly calm and sees his surroundings. Well, Ren-kun is the same, however. Ren-kun is simply a super good dancer and he has a lot of ‘tactile sense’!
Ren: You always say that (laughs)
Syoya: You have your antennae up for all sorts of things, so I feel you can catch a lot of things.
Shion: We all know that Ren-kun sees his surroundings and he is also very polite. There are people who you will never meet again in your life, right? Store clerks in a combini for example are people you will most likely never meet again. He treats even these people properly. I think he is an amazing person.
Ren: Shion is even more amazing in this regard!
Shion: I try to keep this in mind, too. Syoya is very energetic! He always is. And he is really noisy (laughs). But when I do not want him to talk to me, he does understand it (laughs).
Syoya: I know this by whether you are take out your earphones or not!
Shion: When I want to talk to Syoya I take them off, when I do not want to talk to him they stay (laughs). That is how I send the message.
Ren: Shion is too kind. He is really willing to make self-sacrifices, so I ended up wanting to care for him.
Shion: This makes me happy.
Ren: Syoya has an amazing spirit of inquiry. I am also the type of person who looks up or asks if there is something I got curious about, but Syoya has the vigor to look up everything! If there is a word in a conversation he does not know, he will say “Please wait a minute” and start to look it up on his smartphone. He has a lot of knowledge and I admire his attitude of being curious about everything.
Syoya: If I stay clueless about something, I will feel hazy.
“Let’s do Syoya’s Animate tour!”
Something you want to do together in the future?
Shion: Since Ren-kun is also good at rapping, how about doing a rap song with the three of us together? Ren-kun and Syoya will rap in a high-pitched tone while I do it in a low-pitched one. Cause Ren-kun is also rapping in ‘YOLO-konde’!
Syoya: I want to rap to classical music. Singing would be okay, too!
Shion: But I also want to try a song with a sexiness. If we talk about something I want to do in private together, it would be visiting Animate! (laughs)
Ren: I haven’t been there yet~
Shion: Me too.
Syoya: You haven’t!? I did.
Ren: Let’s do Syoya’s Animate tour! I want to go to Akihabara.
Syoya: Since I am the one who takes the lead. you two are gonna follow me! But Akihabara is huge, so I fear we all end up being lost (laughs).
Takumi solo interview
I want to do everything, singing, dancing, rapping and everything with all my power.
Kawanishi Takumi
Birthday: 1999.6.23
Blood type: B type
Origin: Hyogo
Height: 170cm
Q1 About your recent solo schedules
‘THE FIRST TAKE’ had been a filming that created a lot of tension. How should I say it, it gave off a certain kind of nervous atmosphere. But I feel I was able to enjoy it. I was happy that fans said things like “This is because Takumi got sense”. But I was the one who started saying this in the first place and it ended up being like this (laughs). It’s not like “I am really working extremely hard though”… No, I guess there is nothing like that. Even so, is it not good (to say)? I am not sure in which direction (the results of hard work or sense) I want to take this conversation (laughs). Of course I train. At home after the lessons ended, I review everything, watch the videos we took, and while I do not exercise physically, I do these things in order for everything to remain in my head. I would feel gloomy if I stood on stage or performed in an ambiguous state. Hence, to prevent that from happening I want to sufficiently do the bare minimum for work and enhance it. I only do this, so I don’t think I can say I am working hard. Well, in fact, it might be just my sense (laughs). I want to do everything, singing, dancing and rapping. I do not have everything I think of as “I am really good at this”. For example in Junki-kun’s case it’s singing, in Ren-kun’s case it’s dancing and so on. I don’t have such a personal strong point, I really don’t have it. Hence, that’s why I want to do everything with my all. I can also play the guitar. It is fun! I still have a long way to go, but gradually I can play more and more. I think the first song I practised was ‘Marigold’ from Aimyon-san. If I saw the chords, I could play it right now. Recently, I don’t have a song I am practising but if there is a song I want to play I will look up the chords and practise it.
Q2 What do you think is your role in JO1 whose charm is ‘diversity’?
I am the type of person who rather calms down when he is alone, so I guess it is often that I stay alone. But this is not easy (laughs). I am right in the middle of the ages (in the group), so I really have both the feelings of an elder and a younger brother. But sure enough I think of the younger members as cute. It is really adorable that they are often attention seeking. Shosei, for example, approaches me so often to the point that it is a bit annoying already. But this is cute. In shows close to us, for example on our YouTube channel, I am close to my true self or rather I just enjoy the things as they are without thinking too much about them. Like I am a little hyper there. But in JO1 there aren’t many who do tsukkomi (make the smart comebacks), right? Hence, I try my best to be the one to do so when the time comes.
Q3 If you gave a catchphrase to yourself in summer 2022?
“Health first,
Safety first”
I really suck at this. I got no sense for it… (laughs). I get sick easily. It has always been like this, but in summer I become skinnier as I cannot eat. Yet this year I try my best to eat and stay healthy. Because after all, health is the most important thing. However, I well… I don't cook myself (laughs).
Ruki solo interview
I imagine what kind of people I would like if I were in the position of the fans
Shiroiwa Ruki
Birthday: 1997.11.19
Blood type: O type
Origin: Tokyo
Height: 175cm
Q1 About your recent solo schedules
I am the main personality of the radio “All Night Nippon X”, but when I am normally with JO1, my role is not so much the one who directs and fools around, so this change is difficult. Also, even though it is a radio show, I am able to watch the video (of the radio booth) during the commercials, something different from normal radios, so I feel more nervous. Each week different members come, but the hardest thing is the airtime between midnight and 1am. Previously, we all worked starting at 6 am, finished at about 10 pm and from there I moved over to the studio and had the live broadcast. This kind of schedule was something I had not experienced before, so I am reassured to do it while we members supported each other. In the past I heard something like “being able to be a radio personality is a sign of popularity”, so when “All Night Nippon X” was decided, I was very happy remembering these words. Moreover, it is “All Night Nippon”, a program with a history, for which a lot of famous people have been in charge of. Initially, I felt pressure about being involved like this, but now I enjoy doing it and one hour feels really short. I think there are also people listening, who do not know JO1, so it is a great opportunity for JO1.
Q2 What do you think is your role in JO1 whose charm is ‘diversity’?
This is still difficult for me~ To be honest, I believe right now is a time during which the roles inside the group change compared to the beginning. Since it is also JO1’s third year, I feel that my position is also changing bit by bit as the environment and work are changing, and I am still in the middle of trying to find my role. Our top priority is obviously wanting to make JAM and the audience happy with our performances because our main jobs are singing and dancing, but if I can expand the platform where I can give back to JO1 by, for example, doing other jobs such as radio or acting, I feel that my role will gradually become clearer. Also, it might be a bit off from the topic of roles, but from time to time people say “He has a strong pro mindset”, yet I think this is because I imagine what kind of people I would like if I were in the position of the fans, so I can naturally look at it from a ‘JAM First’ point of view. I try to think of my ideal image from the fans‘ point of view. I feel that especially because I am particular about this, I sometimes happen to push myself too far.
Q3 If you gave a catchphrase to yourself in summer 2022?
“I want to make it the most fun summer ever”
It is hot, I end up getting sunburned and I dislike places that are crowded and loud, so summer was never my forte. But this summer I want to change that. I want to proactively go outside, be active and experience a summer like never before. I guess I will try to change myself for this.
Shosei solo interview
I like to see people shining because they have confidence in their makeup!
Ohira Shosei
Birthday: 2000.4.13
Blood type: A type
Origin: Kyoto
Height: 177cm
Q1 About your recent solo schedules
I was in charge of the make-up of “YOLO-konde” and make-up is something I am confident about. We are singing and dancing, but I think makeup is another way to express ourselves and another form of art. And, more than anything I like to see people shining because they have confidence in their makeup. For “YOLO-konde”, as it were the members I am always close with, I knew what kind of makeup will look good on them and what will make them look cool and so on, so I had a lot of fun doing their makeup. I did it while looking at the balance of having everyone’s individuality be prominent and not letting one stand out too much. I was able to come up with various images for everyone and was satisfied with the outcome, but I think Takumi-kun's makeup looked the best. Of course, there are his own talents, but my image of him is him being an artist while actually being shut-in (laughs), so I thought he is like a pierrot. I used make-up to put scars on his face, and the concept of a pierrot, who used to work hard but broke down and was thrown aside before returning on stage once again, matched him so well. I guess what I want to challenge in the future is a makeup that completely changes someone. Also, I haven’t done crossdressing yet, so I guess that would be nice to try, too.
Q2 What do you think is your role in JO1 whose charm is ‘diversity’?
I think I got a lot of roles (laughs). First there is beauty, then being teased, the one who takes pictures of the members because he likes cameras. And… ah, I am also called an angel (embarrassed laughing). I don’t know what makes an angel, so I always say “That’s how I am called’. When I am with the members together, I sometimes joke around a bit to make everyone laugh and be cheerful, so that the mood does not turn heavy. I am not really the type of person who speaks up in discussions or meetings, so I listen to everyone’s opinions before saying my own one. I feel it is easier to talk like this and it balances out the 11 of us.
Q3 If you gave a catchphrase to yourself in summer 2022?
An angel who hates tan
Now I ended up calling myself like this (laughs). Because I don’t want to get tanned, a parasol is essential and I try to do my skin care properly and take Vitamin C. By the way, my recent skin care routine is to regularly add new items to it. If you keep on using the same things over a long time, your skin will get used to it, so I try to frequently change them. Just seperating what you use in the morning and in the evening already makes a huge difference.
[JO1] Nikkei Entertainment 200304
JO1 member profile The 11 members who passed the audition and gasped their debut, when these 11 individuals, who all have different strengths and experiences, become one, an unique JO1 energy is born. Q&A ① What do you always buy in a conbini? ② How do people call you? How do you want to be called? ③ Is there someone you want to appear together in some program? ④ Which JO1 member would you like to date?
01 Mamehara Issei The youngest member and center of the debut song A high schooler who won the center spot of the debut song. He grabbed the hearts of the viewers with his simple appearance of riding a bike to school through the fields and his serious attitude to tackle his tasks. His true face is quite active. He is like a younger brother who comfortably and freely behaves among his elder brothers. Profile | born 2002.5.30 (17 years old) from Okayama / 173 cm / O type ① Recently, I like eclairs and often buy those. I often eat them in the morning. ② It’s ‘Mame’. I want to be called ‘Mame-chan’ by everyone. ③ Hm… ④ Junki-kun (direct answer). He is funny but actually thinks of a lot of things and while he respects my opinion he tells me when I am wrong. 02 Kawashiri Ren The dancer leader who is like a father His highly skilled and eye-catching dancing is a huge weapon of JO1. On the one hand as someone serious and dependable he is called ‘JO1’s father’, but he loves to have fun. Also there is the side of him loving ‘HARIBO’. Profile | born 1997.3.2 (23 years old) from Fukuoka / 173 cm / O type ① I buy the mango salad drink from Kagome’s ‘Yasai Seikatsu’ everyday. I started to drink it for my health, but I also love the taste. ② ‘Ren-kun’. Back in high school I was also called ‘Ren-chan’ and it is nostalgic and makes me happy. ③ The people with whom I worked during my time as dancer, I would like to appear along them as JO1 once more. ④ Takumi! (direct answer) Because all his actions are cute! 03 Kawanishi Takumi A Cinderella boy with unparalleled visuals Regardless of him being inexperienced in both singing and dancing, he always had a spot in the upper ranking thanks to his natural sense and ‘unparalleled visuals’. He seems cool but is actually mischievous. According to the members he got the ‘Chopper position’ if you compared them to ‘ONE PIECE’. He loves junk food. Profile | born 1999.6.23 (20 years old) from Hyogo / 170 cm / B type ① I buy sweet bread with chocolate in it every day. ② It is ‘Takumi’ or ‘Takumi-kun’. There is not anything in particular I want to be called. ③ Some comedians because I like comedy. I am a huge fan of Kamaitachi-san and I went to watch one of their shows. ④ Kono Junki-kun. It is fun when we are together and I think I would laugh the whole time. That’s great (laughs). 04 Ohira Shosei The No.1 member who cannot be left alone His tears, earnest hard work and soft smile that have been aired in the audition let him soar towards the 4th place in the final ranking. The members also see him as ‘cute’, ‘like a younger brother’, ‘a worrier’ and someone who ‘tells me it’s okay’ and they cannot leave him alone. His speciality is dancing. Profile | born 2000.4.14 (19 years old) from Kyoto / 176 cm / A type ① As I am in the middle of a diet, I just buy salad late at night. I lost 3 kilos in one month. ② ‘Shosei’ or ‘Shose’. Also, ‘Sean’. ③ I want to meet Pompom Purin. Even though I am on a diet I ended up buying Pompom Purin bread. ④ It would be Takumi-kun. He is kind but funny. Because he is just too cool, I want to look at his side profile while being next to him. 05 Tsurubo Shion A purehearted ‘alien’ displaying diverse charms He was criticised for his bad attitude at the very start of the audition making him the main character all of sudden. In reality he gets along well with everyone and is someone with a pure heart who is unexpectedly serious and even a little shy. However, his true self is wrapped up in a mystery even among the members as they call him ‘mysterious’ and ‘an alien’. Profile | born 2000.12.11 (19 years old) from Shiga / 178 cm / A type ① ‘Lifeguard’ from CHEERIO. I like it so much that I drank 3 cans a day in high school. ② Shion. ③ It is often said that I am resembling a certain celebrity, so I would like to meet this person once. ④ Kono Junki-kun. I like that he has no hidden side and that he tells you what he thinks. I am sure everyone will answer Junki-kun! 06 Shiroiwa Ruki The ‘comedy prince’ with orthodox visuals While everyone recognises his looks as ‘cool’, his reputation among the members is out-and-out ‘he is really funny’. This gap and the chivalry that glimpses through every word he says are his charm. Since he got experience as an idol, he received high appreciation for his fanservice. Profile | 1997.11.19 (22 years old) from Tokyo / 175 cm / O type ① 500ml of Coca Cola. ② ‘Ruki-kun’ or ‘Ruki’. ③ Right now, I want to appear along Kamaitachi-san the most. ④ Keigo and Mame-chan. Because Keigo would drag me, who prefers to stay indoors, out and he is influential (laughs). Mame is simply funny and seems not to know much about love yet, so I hope to be able to experience an pure feeling (laughs). 07 Sato Keigo The fashion leader who is ahead of the trends He has an outstanding style and often wears luxury brands. He even says ‘One day I want to handle JO1’s costumes’. However, in the group he is a teasing character. He is an airhead and some might even say ‘his words are the ones of a problem child’. If he gets the chance, he will try to touch the butts of the members. Profile | 1998.7.29 (21 years old) from Aichi | 181 cm / A type ① Fruits jelly or cut fruits. I like pineapples and tangerines. ② ‘Keigo’. I am told I look like a giraffe, so I want to be called ‘Gira’ because of the English word for it. ③ With Downtown-san! I want to be teased by them. ④ It’s that guy (Tsurubo Shion). His teasing is fun and his teasing side is girlish. 08 Kimata Syoya Once you notice his ‘appeal’ there is no way out of his swamp anymore Attended a famous dance school and went to a fashion vocational school because of his love for clothes. His true face is loving to be mischievous, but the members know him as someone ‘who stood talking once the camera is on him’. He humbly calls himself ‘the type of person who does not stand out’ but once you notice his charms, he got the deepest swamp to fall into. Profile | 2000.4.5 (19 years old) from Aichi | 171 cm | A type ① ‘Kireeto Lemon’ and salad chicken. I also buy a lot of snacks such as seasoned octopus with wasabi, soused fish or raw ham. ② ‘Syoya’ ④ It is Junki-kun. He is older than me, but he is easy to talk to from the same standpoint. When I say something cheeky he makes sure to pick it and make it funny. In short, he spoils me and is patient. 09 Kono Junki An absolutely positive mood maker He is a mood maker who is recognised as the pivot of JO1’s vocals by both others and himself. During the shooting, he clapped his hands and bursted in a sports kind of mood saying ‘Let’s get hyped up!’. He got 1st place in ‘Which member do you want to have as your boyfriend?’ chosen by the members and he was also not displeased by this. Profile | 1998.1.20 (22 years old) from Nara | 174 cm | O type ① ‘Meiji probiotic yogurt R-1’ and ‘C1000 vitamin lemon’. ② As I want to feel close others, I hope to be called just by my first name. ③ I would like to appear on programs like ‘Shabekuri 007’ and be teased. I want to learn more about comedy. ④ Shion. His face is really my type. He is cute as well as kind without being flirtatious with his surroundings. 10 Kinjo Sukai The highest growth rate in singing and dancing On the first glance he looks fierce and cool. Yet the members see him as ‘a moody person and cute’. He was inexperienced in singing and dancing but he showcased a huge growth during the audition and the trainers also often mentioned that he ‘is very obedient and passionate’. His further growth is infinite. Profile | 2000.5.6 (19 years old) from Osaka | 178 cm | A type ① I end up buying Coca Cola. Also, dried mangoes. I like the time when I am chewing those (laughs). ② ‘Sukai’ ③ Someone like (Akashiya) Sanma-san who I watched on TV since I was a child. ④ Junki-kun. But there are times when he is kind and indecisive… I prefer to be talked to more sternly. I guess my answer is ‘myself’ (laughs). 11 Yonashiro Sho ‘The mother’ who wraps up the members The oldest member and leader and another pivot of the vocals. He is a mother-like existence who brings the many free spirits in the group together with his natural patience and caring side. He was inexperienced in dancing during the audition, but his pride is his muscles. He tends to wear costumes that show his biceps. Profile | 1995.10.25 (24 years old) from Okinawa | 180 cm | O type ① I always buy coffee. I prefer black coffee. ② Since I am the oldest one, it is ‘Sho-kun’. I would like to be called by my first name because in Okinawa you rarely call people by their last names. ④ Ah, it’s Ruki! (Direct answer) He is cool and honest and his professional consciousness and seriousness in regard to performances are strong. I think if I was a woman, I would be drawn to him. TN: Both Syoya and Sho did not answer the third question. Kawashiri Ren Even if I am normally a small existence I want to be ‘a king’ on stage. Kawashiri Ren’s career as a back dancer is brilliant. Thanks to his high level pro awareness of “I am aware that I am constantly seen by other people” he had since then and his outstanding dancing skills that are both powerful and elegant, as well as his charisma, he became the center of 101 people for the theme song of ‘PRODUCE 101 JAPAN’, ‘Tsukame ~ It’s Coming~’. That day (11th December, the day the final ranking had been announced) had been the turning point in making me a pro or rather I prepared myself to enter a world where ‘I can’t do it’ is not accepted. Since I was in 5th or 6th year of elementary school I dreamed of becoming a dancer in the future and I moved from Fukuoka to Tokyo before turning 20 years old. But when I finally worked as a dancer, I saw that the artists in front of me seemed to have more fun and the feeling of wanting to stand in their place gradually grew bigger. During the audition it was hard when the eliminated trainees left. Especially when Sano Fumiya-kun, with whom I was in a friendly rivalry, left… It was the hardest. In other words, there were people whose path to debut was erased this time. But, believing that outside of the 11 of us a lot of more lives changed by participating, might be what kept me going. There was some cruelty in the amounts of votes being announced, but it also made me actually feel that I am supported. When you think that JO1 was born from the support of so many people, there is a sense of responsibility, but I see it as a further expectation of us. I believe it is more fun to think like this. I hope all 11 members will not forget this as we keep on being active. Nonetheless, that I was in second place in the final voting had been really frustrating. After all, being first is something cool. I feel that all chosen members were aiming for the first place. But from now on the battleground changes and 11 members become one team and aim for the world. In order to achieve this, we work hard on becoming the top of Japan first. I put my state of mind into my signature. Outside of the stage I am a really small existence, I still need a lot of training and I have to be always humble. Yet, once I step on stage I am a king, have absolute confidence and want to give happiness to the people watching me. I hope to value the transition between the stage and other places. The dot on the bottom right symbolises the small me offstage and the crown on the upper left is the king I am on stage.
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