News of my favorite J-POP artists
  11/03/2004
Back number news

Sorry that I don't have time to update news.  You can join my mailing list in the YahooGroups and then just look for jpopnews or dramaj for J-Drama, which I update the most current J-POP news now.

GREAT NEWS LINK LIVE!  Here's a great link for those of you who understands Japanese. They broadcast live conference events and interviews for "geinoujin" (idols/actors/actresses) "entertainers". You can also download those news as well. I say this is a great site because it's offered by Yahoo, so you can download these interviews carefree:  http://headlines.yahoo.co.jp/video_gallery/showbizzy_interview/

Kawamura Ryuichi live three nights a row, announced for New Year (10/23/2004)
Singer/songwriter Kawamura Ryuichi (34) announced at Shinjuku's Kouseinenkin-kaikan that he will be conducting his first solo concert for three nights in a row at the end of the year at Tokyo International Forum. At the live, Ryuichi was wearing a black shirt with jeans and he sang 20 songs, including songs from his new album, "Vanilla" and his old song "I love you." Picture of Ryuichi at live:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004102305.html

Kimutaku shows up for TIFF event  (10/23/2004)
At the "17th Annual Tokyo International Film Festival" held on Roppongi Hills in Tokyo, a surprising guest, SMAP's Kimura Takuya (31) showed up in smoke surrounded by beautiful women in Chinese chi-pao dresses. The women were supposed to represent the Chinese actresses in the movie such as Gong Li and Tsui-e Chan. About 460 guests were shocked at Kimura's surprising appearance. Kimura was there for the opening of his new movie "2046" directed by Chinese director Wong Ka-Wai. The movie took 5 years to complete with many breaks in between. The story is about took place in 1960, starting from a novelist starring Tony Leong, who reflected back on the love of his life and Takuya (TAK) will be a futuristic character while Tony is writing his novel.
The 17th annual TIFF will start showing from Roppongi Hills and then propagate to Shibuya's Bunkamura's two locations until 10-31. Among the movies competing for the grand-pre include Ueto Aya's "install", Okuda Eiji directed "runin", "niwatori wa hadashi da" lead by Harada Yoshio. The presence of this year's guests are a lot more compared to last year's. Guests attended include Tom Hanks, Kevin Klein, Gwenth Paltrow, Jude Law, and some other Hollywood stars; Che Jiu, Ye Bin-Hyon and other Korean stars; Nagase Masatoshi, Matsu Takako, Ito Misaki, Hasegawa Kyoko and other Japanese stars appeared on the red carpet. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004102304.html

Odagiri Joe's first time as gay  (10/20/2004)
Actor Odagiri Joe (28) and actress Shibasaki Kou (23) will be leading in a new movie (opens 2005) "Maison do Himiko". Odagiri will pick up the role of a gay for the first time, and he revealed that he was interested in the topic of gay when he was studying abroad in the U.S. He found out one day that his roommate was gay, and that he was the "female". He found out that he was able to live with female roommate with no problem. The story of the movie will take place in a senior home, and there are real gays during the audition. Shibasaki said that Odagiri's way of talking is somewhat feminine. Odagiri Joe is currently acting in NHK's "Shinsengumi!" Picture of Odagiri (middle) and Shibasaki (right):
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004102002.html
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-041019-0022.html

Kobukuro's designated wedding song (10/20/2004)
Pop duo Kobukuro released their new song "towa ni tomo ni" (with you forever) already sold over 1 million copies since its release on 10-14. It is presently branded "the new designated song for wedding ceremony." The same song is also the theme song for the new NHK drama "minna no uta" (everyone's song) in October/November, in which the same drama features lovers loving and looking over each other for the rest of their lives. Many wanted to send this song to their friends as a present. This has been an amazing hit since Hirai Ken's "ooki na furutokei" (Grandfather's clock). Picture of Kobukuro: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004102009.html

175R jumps at Budokan  (10/18/2004)
Ex-Speed member Imai Eriko's (21) husband SHOGO (24) and his band 175R (Inago Rider) performed their first Tokyo live at Budokan "Live the Melody 2004" on 10-17. About 8000 fans attended including his family, however, without the presence of Eriko. They sang their major debut song "Happy Life", "sora ni utaeba" (which they sang at last year's NHK Kohaku), and 19 other songs. During the encore, they sang together their new song "Orange" (on sale 11-17) with Kick The Can Crew's MCU. Picture of SHOGO with big screen TV in the back at Budoukan:
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-041018-0003.html

Imai Eriko gave birth to baby boy! (10/18/2004)
Ex-Speed member Imai Eriko (21) gave birth to her and Shogo (24, from 175R) first son on 10-18, according to her management company. Imai commented that she wants to protect the baby and he is an additional happiness for them. http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-041018-0020.html

Fujiwara Norika appears in digital camera photo contest (10/18/2004)
Actress Fujiwara Norika (33) appeared at the Modern Politica's "Digital Camera Photo Contest" as one of the judges sponsored by Source Next. Approximately 2544 photos were submitted for the grandpre. Norika claimed that she likes to take pictures as well, showing her pictures that she took at Kenya the other day. Picture of Fujiwara Norika at the contest: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-041018-0015.html

Kimutaku vows to jump to the world with "2046"  (10/18/2004)
An interview with various media was conducted with SMAP's Kimura Takuya (31) regarding his new movie "2046" (opens 10-23) directed by Wong Ka-Wai. The movie took 5 years to complete with some pauses in the schedule due to some problems. But, finally, the movie is complete, and Kimura expressed that he wanted this movie to participate in the world as one of the international films. Initially, Kimura thought he wasn't able to complete the film, but with main actors Tony Leong and staff around him, he was able to complete the movie. Tony Leong is scheduled to arrive in Japan to meet Kimura on 10-19. He mentioned that he wanted to enter the world just like Matsui Hideki and Suzuki Ichiro in baseball and Nakata Hidetoshi in soccer. He attended Cannes Film Festival in France while Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (30) attended the Moscow Film Festival with his movie "Hotel Venus". Inagaki Goro (30) attended Kamayama Film Festival for his movie "wara no daigaku".
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004101803.html

Minamino Yoko's sexy DVD  (10/18/2004)
To celebrate the coming of 20th year anniversary, actress Minamino Yoko (37) is releasing a DVD-attached photo album "Flowers" (Shuesha, 3200 yen). There will be pictures of time since her debut, including pictures of her in one-piece dress, bikini, high-leg, and a scene of her in bath. There will also be a picture with her nude back. There will also be pictures of her in her hometown, Hawaii, Kobe, and others. There will be long interviews, private pictures of herself over the 20 years. The DVD (30 minutes) will include some private natural scenes and makings of video with herself as the narrator. Picture of Minamino Yoko in bath scene: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200410/gt2004101802.html

Ayaya and Hilary Duff meets  (10/16/2004)
Singer (18) Matsuura Aya as the radio's hostess invited American singer, Hilary Duff (17) to her show "Matsuura Aya Let's Do It!" (Sunday @ 11:30 pm). Hilary debuted last year in August and received #1 on the ranking chart for her first album "Metamorphosis". Last month, her second album also broke her record of selling over the 1.5 million copies. The two of them met for the first time and Hilary called Aya by her nickname "Ayaya". Aya mentioned that their voices are simiiar to one another. The talk will be on air 10-24. Hilary will perform her concert on 10-18 at Zepp Osaka, and in Zepp Tokyo on 10-20 and 21. Picture: Aya (left) and Hilary (right). http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-041016-0007.html

Katsunori married to Nakanishi Hanna  (10/16/2004)
Actor Takahashi Katsunori (39) held his wedding ceremony at the auditorium of his former college, "Aogakudai" with model Nakanishi Hanna (24). Takanori is well known in TV drama "Salaryman Kintaro" while Hanna is famous in women fashion magazine. They knew each other for three years and have been going ever since. Picture: Katsunori (left) and his wife, Hanna (right).http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-041016-0012.html

Kubota Toshinobu is married, become "Papa" in December  (10/15/2004)
Singer Kubota Noshinobu (42) announced on his homepage that he is married to a Japanese woman (31) who is working at an export company called "Norway". They will have their first child in December. The two met each other in New York. He reported his marriage late because he is currently working on his promotional video for his new album in the U.S. and he is expecting their first child. Kubota promoted himself more in the U.S. since 1989 and debuted in the U.S. in 1995. He has released 3 albums in the U.S. and he will be performing in an American music show "Soul Train" in November '04. http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-041015-0004.html

Utada debut album reaches #160 in ranking (10/14/2004)
Utada Hikaru (21) debuted with her album "EXODUS" and reached #160 in ranking according to the U.S. Billboard album ranking chart, according to Universal Music company. However, Utada has ranked #5 in being the "Top New Artist Album" as a new artist. Her new album "Utada" is the debuted on 10-5-2004. http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-041014-0015.html

Watanabe Ken at "Juon" premier (10/14/2004)
Actor Watanabe Ken (44) attended Hollywood's remake of the Japanese horror movie "Juon" (The JUON" (Hollywood version) in L.A. The movie will show in Japan in Spring 2005. While Ken was staying in Hollywood for Hollywood's third Japanese horror movie "Sayuri" since August, he received many offers for acting in Hollywood's movies. Ken commented that he can only take one thing at a time and he hopes that he can work for a long time and not just for this one time boom. Picture of Ken Watanabe at "he Juon" world premier in L.A.
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-041014-0007.html

Ayu flying in CM (10/14/2004)
Singer Hamasaki Ayumi (26) appeared in Panasonic's portable MD Player "SJ-MJ59" new CM "spacewalk". The keyword is "virgin sound" where Ayu falls in deep sleep while listening to the sound. The "spacewalk" CM was shown in early September, and she was positioned on a giant turning chair inside the studio. The new CM will be playing starting 10-15 along with her new song "walking proud."
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-041014-0003.html. See Ayu's new CM for Panasonic and to download her new wallpaper.
The CM plays her new song "Walking Proud".
CM: http://mail.panasonic.jp/cgi-bin/clnt/click.pl?p=uBP2Fl4UvBF2uVtYFB80
Download original wallpaper: http://mail.panasonic.jp/cgi-bin/clnt/click.pl?p=uBP2Fl4UvBt2uVtYFB80

BUSY DURING 8/24~10/13/2004 (might make it up later)

Himuro Kyosuke one night live sings "Boowy" songs  (8/23/2004)
Rock singer Himuro Kyosuke (43) performed a one night only live at Tokyo Dome titled "21st Century Boowys VS HIMURO" where he sang songs from the time when he was still in BOOWY and when he went solo. The concert started with major hit "B. BLUE" and 55,000 fans attended. Tickets were sold out within the first 5 minutes. During the concert, he sang 17 songs including "MEMORY", "DREAMIN'". The same live would be broadcasted on WOWOW from 8 pm on 10-11-04.  Picture of Himuro Kyosuke during concert:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200408/gt2004082306.html

BUSY DURING 2/8~8/22/04 (might make it up later)

Matsushima Nanako will give birth, official now (2/7/2004)
Actress Matsushima Nanako (30), who is married to actor Sorimachi Takashi (30) announced that her due date for labor is in June of this year. The
two are known as the "century's big couple", and rumors were going around about Nanako's pregnancy. Since last year's Fuji drama "bijou ka yajuu"
(Beauty or Beast) ended, Nanako took a break from the continous dramas that she's been taking. Her images were only seen in CM. Picture of Matsushima Nanako: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020701.html

Kiroro under millions of stars (2/7/2004)
Female duo Kiroro performed a live for 200 people at Aoyamaengata Theatre in Tokyo on 2-6. The theatre has a projector that projects 1.7 million
stars, 100 times more than what it can usually project. Within the meteor showers of stars, Kiroro sang "mousukoshi", "mirai he", and 6 other songs
within the romance. Pianist Kaneshiro Ayano (26) said that it reminded her the night sky in her native town in Okinawa. Their new album "Diary" will
be on sale 3-3 and they will start their 18 cities tour starting in Saitama on 5-21. Picture of Kiroro: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020704.html

BoA's new song with m-flo  (2/6/2004)
Singer BoA (17) will collaborate with a popular club dance music group "m-flo" in the song "the Love Bug", on sale 3-17. They have actually collaborated before, such as the song included in BoA's new album "Some Day One Day" with m-flo's VERBAL in this rap song. Picture of BoA (top) with m-flo (Taku on left, VERBAL on right):  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020605.html

Higashiyama Noriyuki wants to only be with...?  (2/6/2004)
Shonentai's Higashiyama Noriyuki (37) will be voice acting for Disney's animation "Brother Bear", which will open on 3-13. Noriyuki will act as
the young man Kinai, who turned into a bear. The shaman for the village will be voice acted by Mori Mitsuko. Noriyuki commented that his relationship in the movie is similar to their relationship in real life. He even joked that they should try to go to the premier together. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020613.html

Sorimachi will become father  (2/4/2004)
Actor Sorimachi Takashi (30) and Hong Kong actor Andy Lau (42) will double lead in the movie "Fulltime killer" (directed by Johnny To, opens 2-21). This movie is produced and co-lead by Andy Lau, and the movie will involve many killing actions. They have been making this movie since March 2001 in Hong Kong and Singapore. When the media asked Sorimachi about his wife, Matsushima Nanako (30) regarding the rumor that she's pregnant, he smiled and tried to avoid. But, he did not deny it either. Picture of Sorimachi (left) and Andy Lau (right):
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020403.html

Hikki will release first best album  (2/4/2004)
Singer Utada Hikaru (21) started her 5-day tour "Hikaru no 5" at Kitanomaru's Nippon Budoukan. During the tour since 3.5 years ago, Hikki made lots of mistakes such as forgetting the lyrics and songs. As the band started playing the third song, Hikki forgot the lyrics as the guitar faded at the intro.  Hikki didn't remember how to start the song. After some quietness, the 10,000 fans started giving her a "do your best" call. She was about to cry as she said, "I can't believe myself, it's only the first day, and I can't make my voice out." Hikki announced that she will release her first best
album "Single Collection Vol. 1" with the first 12 singles all included on 3-31. Picture of Utada: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020402.html

Okina Megumi in pure white dress with tears  (2/2/2004)
Actress Okina Megumi (24) held a wedding ceremony Shirokanedai's wedding ceremony hall with IT Network Cyber Ageny's President Fujita Susumu (30) on 1-26. During the wedding reception, the two created their own at home party, and Okina appeared for the first time in a white wedding dress. About 80 guests attended the wedding ceremony and reception. Even though the two makes a salary at the high end of the scale, their wedding ceremony was just a pure and simple one where all friends and family came to give their blessings. Guests from the entertainment business include Kikuike Momoko (35), Kubozuka Yousuke and his wife, Hinagata Akiko, Yokoyama Megumi, Katase Rino, Picture of Okina (right) where she threw her bouquet from the balcony; (middle) guests such as Pro-golfer Nishikawa Satoshi (left) and Sumo wrestler Sakigakeou (right); (bottom) a 4 meters tall wall to secure the wedding ceremony: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200402/gt2004020201.html 

DAI starts tour at Budoukan  (2/1/2004)
Currently on a nation tour, Do As Infinity performed their first concert at Kitanomaru's Nippon Budoukan in Tokyo. Their debuted 5 years ago along the road of Shibuya, but now their stage is set at a bigger place. Guitarist Ooto Ryo (32) and vocalist Ban Tomiko (25) both claimed that their are the most fortunate people, and it's all thanks to everyone that they're able to stand there. About 10,000 fans were there, and they sang their latest hit song "hiiragi". Their live will be shown on WOWOW after 10 pm on 4-18. Picture of Tomiko:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004020103.html

Doumoto Koichi on new stage for "SHOCK"  (2/1/2004)
Kinki Kids' Doumoto Koichi (25) had one big wish this spring, which is to have his first solo tour after 3-30. This is the first time for him to be a solo after 12 years of debut as Kinki Kids. But, before that, he will be leading in a stage show "SHOCK" at Tokyo Teikoku Theatre on 2-6. This show has always been popular for the 5th time in past five years.  Having been so busy with stage and TV shows, he revealed that he has no time for love nor does he want to get married at this point. He doesn't want to neglect work. If he were to choose between love and work, he'd choose work. Before, he thought about getting married at 27, but now, he's not going to be able to make that come true.  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004020104.html

Takky as "Dream Boy" at Osaka in April  (2/1/2004)
Johnny's pop idol Takizawa Hideaki (21, aka "Takky") will be leading in a musical "Dream Boy" at Tokyo Teikoku Theatre starting 4-30 through 5-23 in Osaka's Umeda Koma Theatre for 36 shows. Each musical will last about 2.5 hours long. In addition to the musical, the group that he and Imai Tsubasa are in "Takky & Tsubasa" will start their tour on 4-29 in Yokohama Arena. For more information about the musical, contact (tel) 06-6377-3800 or http://www.koma-sta.co.jp , http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004020105.html

55 meters Goto Maki in Shibuya (1/31/2004)
Singer Goto Maki (18) will be in a new deordorant CM starting 2-2. She will continue to be the same character in the same deordorant CM from last year. However, to promote the new product, she will appear to be a 55 meters tall giant Goto Maki in Shibuya of Tokyo (in the CM). She will be swaggering through Dougenzaka and flying over the overhead structure of Ginza's subway station. The CM song will be sung by Goto Maki, but the song is composed and written by Taise. Pictures of Goto Maki in new CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004013106.html
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-040130-0017.html

SMAP's Goro debuts solo, theme song for Tsuyoshi  (1/30/2004)
SMAP's members Inagaki Goro (30) will be singing the theme song "Wonderful Life" for SMAP's member Kusanagi Tsuyoshi's leading drama "boku to kanojou to kanojou no ikiru michi". His official debut as a soloist will be 3-10 from Victor Records. Goro will debut as the artist name "&G" where the "&" stands for a knot and "G" for "Goro". http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004013008.html

Matsu Takako & Karasawa Toshiaki's first stage play (1/30/2004)
Actor Karasawa Toshiaki (40) and actress Matsu Takako (27) announced their first collaborating stage play "ronin-gai" at Shirokanedai Hannya Yard in Tokyo on 1-29. The story takes place during the end of the Edo period in a lower town of Edo. It is a series of murderous cases where Aizu's fiefdom "ronin" Aramaki Gennai (Karasawa) was involved in risking his life for love. Sakamoto Ryuichi wrote the theme song for the play. Karasawa also reported that she is doing well with his wife, Yamaguchi Tomoko. They will perform the play from 5-16 through 6-23 at Aoyama Theatre. Picture of Karasawa (right) and Matsu Takako: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004013009.html

New album, new tour for Mr. Children  (1/29/2004)
Popular band, Mr. Children will release their new album "shifukuno oto" in 1.5 years and they will start their nation tour in three years starting 6-12 in 10 locations with 20 performances, announced 1-28. Their last released album "It's a Wonderful World" broke the 1.6 million copies and just in last year of November, they released their new single "tenohira/kurumi" that sold 800,000 copies. In the new album, they will release a "mysterious" song "tagatame" that was only played on the radio. Their concert was supposed to be scheduled last year in July, but because the vocalist, Sakurai Kazutoshi (33) had some blockage to the brain, the concert was cancelled. Their rescheduled concert will be the first in 13.7 years. Picture of Mr. Children's new album cover: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012901.html

Want Sakaguchi Kenji's hand for Valentine? (1/29/2004)
Actor Sakaguchi Kenji (28) has made a giant chocolate with an imprint of his hand at Shinjuku's Isetan Department store on 1-28. During the world's biggest chocolate festival "Salon do Chocolate", about 70 chocolate brands from 8 countries around the world were present at this festival. Representing Japan, Lotte showed their chocolates with Sakaguchi Kenji doing the opening for them. Sakaguchi commented, "It's interesting to have a chocolate of your hand. I think it's most memorable to make a chocolate cake yourself for Valentine's Day". The exhibition will end on 2-2. Picture of Sakaguchi with imprint of hand: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012912.html

Ayaya draws for women soccer team  (1/28/2004)
Morning Musume's Yoshizawa Hitomi (18), Tsuji Kimi (16), Matsuura Aya (17), and Melon Kinenbi's Shibata Ayumi (19) attended a drawing session for the Japan Soccer Association in the 2004 Olympic game. Recently, all four members participated in an idol group "Hello! Project" Futsol event. That's why they were selected to draw the number for the Japanese women soccer game. When Peter Verapamil, the President of the Asian Soccer Association asked them, "Do you like soccer?", Tsuji responded "I love you!" Picture of the drawers for the women soccer team, (starting left) Shibata Ayumi, Matsuura Aya, Peter Verapamil, Japan Soccer Association's Kawabuchi Saburo Captain, Tsuji Kimi, Yoshizawa Hitomi (bottom) Matsuura:  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012807.html

Tsuji falls and Nacchi cries during Yokohama Arena (1/26/2004)
Morning Musume's Abe Natsumi (Nacchi, 22) graduated from Morning Musume and will go solo on 1-25, announced during the Yokohama Arena, the same place where she originally debuted. During the concert, the name of "Nacchi" were heard all over. Nacchi replied that she is very very happy and cried. Her pseudo-sister Tsuji Kimi (16) was so emotional that she fell to the floor. Afterward, Nacchi sang her solo debut song "22-sai no watashi" while snowflakes fell from the top with spotlight just on her. Abe Natsumi thought of her first time debut at 15 and coming alone to Tokyo to join Morning Musume, and 6 years have passed by. Her first solo musical "okaeri" will start on 2-4 at Osaka's Welfare/Pension Assembly Hall. The performances will take place in 3 different cities and with 23 performances. Her solo album "hitoribocchi" will be released on 2-4 as well. Picture of (right) Abe Natsumi and Tsuji Kimi (left) crying and parting Abe Natsumi: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012601.html

Hong Kong's "Twins" will act with Takky  (1/26/2004)
Hong Kong's popular female idol unit "Twins" will lead in a movie "Twins Effect", which will be showing in Japan for the first time on 2-28. They announced that they want to debut in Japan, and they wanted to act with Takky (Takizawa Hideaki). They also look up to big artists such as Utada Hikaru and Shiina Ringo. Jacky Chan (49) will also appear as a guest actor in the movie. Picture of Twins (23, left) Jilian Cheung and Shirley Choi (21, right): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012605.html

See Zard for the first time!  (1/23/2004)
Known from the hit songs "makenaide", "yureruomoi" and others, singer/songwriter/composer Zard (Sakai Izumi) will finally perform her first public concert since debut for 14 years. This mysterious artist, who always just show her side view will finally show her face live for the first time in 14 years. In the past years until now, she has only appeared on TV and music programs for a total of 3 times. A free live concert on the crusier was the other time Zard appeared live for those who bought her album 5 years ago. Such a mysterious vocalist to appear in person and perform live is a rare event that can't be missed. It is estimated that her ticket will be 1700 time more competitive than when she had the live on the cruiser, which limited only to 600 fans. Sakai commented, "I want some challenge this year. It would be idealistic if the fans can come to watch the simple and spirited me on the stage." Her first concert will start on 3-2 at Osaka Festival Hall (only 3000 tickets) and two days in Tokyo International Forum on 3-8 and 3-9 (only 5000 tickets each day). Some songs have been requested will be included in the concert such as "tomatteita.." from the new album and other hit songs. The website "www.wezard.net" and Ginza's Yamano Instrument store will start taking requests for songs to be sing at the live. The password and ID requested at the official website is included in the new album released. The "requested songs to be sing at the live" will last from 1-28 through 2-15. Picture of Zard: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012301.html

Nakayama Miho had her first child in Paris (1/22/2004)
Singer/actress Nakayama Miho (33) gave birth to her first child, Juuto in a hospital in Paris, France on 1-21.  Both the mother and the child are healthy and safe, and Nakayama has already been discharged from the hospital.  She will be coming back to work within the year.  In addition, her first DVD "mama wa Idol!" (My mom is an idol) will be released in memory of the birth of Juuto.  This DVD will be lead by Miho and will be on sale starting 2-4.  The story will focus on how she became an idol with other casts such as Goto Kumiko, and Nagase Masatoshi.  The whole 6 DVD set will be 23,940 yen (about $200).  Picture of Nakayama Miho:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012204.html

Tokiwa Takako dressed in 3 patterns in "Akai tsuki" (1/20/2004)
During the Completion Reporting Conference for the new leading movie with Tokiwa Takako in it, "akai tsuki", Tokiwa appeared in three different sexy dresses that she used in the movie (opens 2-7) at Yurakucho's Tokyo International Forum. In the movie, Tokiwa plays the heroine with strong will to live in Manchuria during World World II. Other casts were also present such as Kagawa Teruyuki (38), Isetani Yousuke (27) and Hotei Torayasu (41). Picture of Tokiwa in 3 dresses:  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012002.html

BoA act as "Japan-Korea" representative in MTV Award (1/20/2004)
Korea-born pop singer BoA (17) will represent "Japan" at the "MTV Asia Award (MAA) 2004" held in Singapore on 2-14. In addition, BoA was also selected as the representative for Korea to receive awads, which makes this case the first for an artist to represent two countries to receive awards. MAA is considered the largest music festival in Asia, and each of the nine countries in Asia, starting with Korea, China, Taiwan will select nominees in the rock, pop, and promotional video categories. In addition to the support of fans in both countries, her 3rd album (on sale 1-15) "Love & Honesty" also reached #1 on the Oricon Album Chart. On 2-27, a typing practice software "BoA Lingual" will be on sale, where they will be using BoA in the software. The game will include BoA's song and typing her lyrics at the same time. There are three patterns to the game and it comes in Japanese, English, and Korean. So far, two volumes of the game will be released for 1980 yen each. Picture of BoA: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012001.html

Hollywood's version of Japanese horror movie chosen! (1/20/2004)
The Hollywood version of the Japanese horror movie "honogurai mizu no soko kara" (from the obscure well below) has chosen Academy Award winning actress Jennifer Connelly (33) to lead as the mother. The Hollywood version of the horror movie is titled "Dark Water". Connelly will be playing Kuroki Hitomi's (43) role as the mother, who tries to save the spirit of a little girl. The movie will be open in the U.S. this fall while the Hollywood version will be open in Japan next year (2005). The movie started to crank-in on 1-19 in Toronto, Canada. After all the hype of "The Ring", the Japanese horror movie seems to be on the hook to the Americans. The story is about a divorced mother who moved out to an apartment with her daughter. After living in the apartment, she started to notice strange things such as the constant leaking from the ceiling and hair appearing from faucets. Then, they found out that there's actually a room above them, but the daughter was missing for over a year. Other casts in "Dark Water" will include Tim Roth (42), John C. Reilly (38), and Pete Postlethwaite (57).
Other Hollywood Remake Japanese movies include:
1. The Seven Samurai (1954)
2. Yojimbo (1961)
3. Last Man Standing (1996)
4. Godzilla (1954)
5. The Ring (2002)
6. Shall We Dance? (2004)
7. Dark Water (2005, planning in Japan)
8. Grudge (undecided)
9. "ikiru" (still under negotiation)
10. "kofuku no kiiiroi handkerchief" (1977 in Japan, title undecided in America)
Picture of a scene from the Japanese horror (left) and Jennifer Connelly (right) who will play the mother: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012003.html

Kinki Kids new song sets new record AGAIN!  (1/20/2004)
Pop duo Kinki Kids' new song "ne, ganbaruyo" appeared as #1 on the Oricon Single Chart again, which sets the Guiness Book of Records with its new record again. Since debut, their single have always held #1 once the single is released, and this is their 19th single to do so. The single is written by Dreams Come True's vocalist Yoshida Miwa and composed by Yoshida and Nakamura Masahito together. On the other hand, "Jyoushi 12 gakubo" debut album "jyoushi 12 gakubo~Beautiful Energy~" has been on the hit chart for 26 weeks and has reached the 1.5 million copies in sale. For the DVD Chart, "The Drifters", a comedian group released a DVD "8-ji dayo! zenin shugo" (3 DVD set) and has reached #1 on the chart.
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004012009.html

Misia sings at Tokyo Dome (1/19/2004)
Singer Misia (25) performed her first five dome tour starting at Tokyo Dome on 1-18. Everything seen at the concert is designed by a famous American designer who helped Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey and other major artists to design their stages. Just the stage itself costed 21 million yen. About 50,000 fans attended the concert. She sang 27 songs including her debut song "tsutsumi komu youni". Her new original album "Mars & Roses" will be on sale 2-11. Picture of Misia at Dome: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011907.html

Tears of joy in wedding for Hirosue (1/18/2004)
Engaged at the end of last year, actress Hirosue Ryoko (23) is married to a model/designer Okazawa Takahiro (28) at Tokyo Chuou District's Agnes Garden in Ginza on 1-17, where they performed the wedding ceremony at 4:30 pm. Both families were present along with friends such as Issei Sae (26), Ikeuchi Hiroshi (27) and 40 others to bless the newly-weds. Hirosue was flooded with tears of joy. At 4:30 pm, Hirosue was dressed in all white wedding dress and held by her father on her side, walking on the virgin road. Although already 6 months pregnant, the couple is in full happiness. When the swears were sworn and the rings were exchanged, the couple kissed. At 5 pm, the ceremony was shifted. The climax of the ceremony was reached when Hirosue read a letter explaining her journey to Tokyo from Kouchi, and she thanked her parents for giving birth to her.
Pictures (top) Hirosue, (lower) Okazawa, and (bottom) guards trying to cover up the couple: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011802.html

Shibasaki Kou and Fukiishi Hitoe PR horror (1/18/2004)
Actresses Shibasaki Kou (22), Fukiishi Hitoe (21) and actor Tsutsumi Shinichi (39) promoted the 5th series of the winter horror movie produced by Kadokawa Movie Production (also produced "Ring" and "Shikoku") at Yurakucho's Japanese Theatre 2 for the movie "chakushin Ari", directed by Miike Takashi. This suspense horror drama is to unlock the mystery of a message left on a cell phone. The same movie will open in Taiwan, Korea, and Hong Kong, and it will be shown at the 54th annual Berlin International Film Festival "Foreign Films" in February. Picture of Shibasaki Kou (left) and Fuiike Hitoe (right): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011804.html

Watanabe Ken being nominated for best combination (1/17/2004)
According to the Academy Award, actor Watanabe Ken (44) has been nominated for the "10th annual Screen Actor Guild Award" (SAG award) for outstanding performances in the Hollywood movie "Last Samurai". He was nominated in the "Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role". Last year, Watanabe Ken was also nominated in a movie for the Golden Globe award for supporting male actor. This year, he is nominated in four categories. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011711.html SAG official website:
http://www.sagawards.com/nom_details.asp?cat_ID=fms

Hajime Chitose will continue to sing after birth (1/17/2004)
A recent shot-gun marriage on 1-16 and found to be pregnant for 6 months already, singer/songwriter Hajime Chitose (25) made clear that she will continue to sing after her maternal leave from her singing career. Her husband is a 27 year old man who owns a resturant by the ocean and they've known each other since last year. He is not someone in the music industry. Her baby will be due sometimes in early spring, so before that, Hajime will retire temporarily from singing in order to focus on being a mother. But, she will continue her career after her maternal leave. There is no time set as to when she will return. Picture of Hajime Chitose: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011706.html

Utada, Mr. Children, and Makihara sings Ozaki Yutaka  (1/17/2004)
Major artists Utada Hikaru (20), Mr. Children, and Makihara Noriyuki (34) will release a tribute album "Blue~A Tribute to Yutaka Ozaki" together in memory of a famous singer/songwriter who died suddenly at a young age of 26, Ozaki Yutaka, which will be released on 3-24. This is the 13th year since Ozaki passed away. Utada will be singing "I Love You", Mr. Children singing "boku ga boku dearutame ni", and Makihara will team up with 175R. Another album "Green~" will also be released. For Ozaki's 13th annual mourning ceremony, a memorial event "The Night~A Tribute to Ozaki" will be held on 4-22 in Tokyo Shibuya-AX with all artists on the 2 albums attending. Tickets are on sale until 2-21 by calling Flip Side (in Japan) at 03-3470-9999. Picture of Ozaki's oldest son, Hiro Ozaki (14) in his back (right) with Tomi Yo (left): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011702.html

Nanako's facial expression seen in new CM (1/16/2004)
Actress Matsushima Nanako (30) will for the 3rd time be the image character for Sumitomo Life's "LIVE ONE" new CM, which will start showing on 1-17. Last year, the CM added the medical series in the CM. This time, the theme is based on "a trip to the hospital" where Nanako comforts a young girl who broke her wrist bone. Artist Makihara Noriyuki will write and compose the CM song, collborating with a song "The Gift" written by a popular British vocal group "Blue". Picture of Nanako in CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011604.html

Karasawa Toshiaki in "eternal love" (1/16/2004)
To campaign for the movie "Warau Iemon~Eternal Love" (opens 2-7, Toei), leading actor Karasawa Toshiaki (40) and actress Koyuki (27) went to Osaka to promote. The story is based on a famous novel written by Kyougoku Natsuyuki in the novel "Yotsuya kaidan". It is a love story about a ronin (lordless samurai) Iemon who meets Iwa (Koyuki) who suffers a critical illness. The promotional preview can been seen on a tour bus called "Eternal Love Tour Bus" (until 2-14). Picture of Koyuki (right) and Karasawa (left): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011609.html

Fans are dying in kiss scene between Higashiyama and Sedo (1/16/2004)
Actor Higashiyama Noriyuki (37) and actress Sedo Asaka (27) will be performing in a stage play "Romeo & Juliet" at Ookubo's Tokyo Globe-za in Tokyo. Big name artists such as Mori Mitsuko and Kuroyanagi Tetsuko also came to greet at the stage. During the first show, fans screamed and moaned when there was a deep kissing scene for 8 times between the two. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011612.html

SMAP still No.1 on Oricon  (1/13/2004)
39 weeks have passed and SMAP's single song "sekai ni hitotsudake no hana" (the only flower in the world) continues to thrive on the No.1 seat of Oricon Ranking Chart. Singer Kuraki Mai's album "Wish You The Best" has been on the No.1 chart in albums category for the past three weeks. 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011313.html  

BoA's first secret live in Shibuya  (1/13/2004)
Singer BoA (17) performed a secret live for the first time in front of a stage set at Shibuya 109 to celebrate the release of her third album "Love 
& Honesty" (on sale 1-15) and to film her promotional video. When BoA suddenly appeared on stage in Shibuya, young people crowded on the streets were excited.  There were people calling friends on their cell phones, people rushing out of resturant, and people along the streets gathered. About 20,000 people gathered to see "BoA". BoA sang "Valenti" and "Rock with You". Picture of BoA at secret live in Shibuya: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011308.html

Shinohara Tomoe and Matsumoto Eiko makes "ZuTTO"  (1/13/2004)
Singer Shinohara Tomoe (24) and her good friend singer, Matsumoto Eiko (25) formed a new unit called "ZuTTO", and they will debut their first single "ashita ni tsuzuku sora" at the record low price of 300 yen (usually singles are sold at 1000 yen). The two of them wrote and composed the song together. The price is low because they made the song in the cheapest way possible, and with the help of friends around them, they were able to make this "cheap" single possible. As a result, the song is not focused on its price, but rather it is a product of friendship. The two of them will also appear together in a Marusan milk product CM. Their CM song will also play their debut song. The coupling song "omoi no yakusoku" is an acapella in their single. Before, Arashi and Zone have released a single at 500 yen, but they didn't have a coupling song. Now, they have a coupling song and at an even cheaper price. The song is more for younger children to listen, and it might even be used during the graduation in March for pre-schoolers 
and kindergarteners. Matsumoto is known as both actress and singer. She sang Fukuyama Masaharu's song "Squall" and the song has reached the top 6 in ranking. Picture of Tomoe (right) and Eiko (left): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004011302.html 

Hasekyo "takes off"!  (1/6/2004)
Actress Hasegawa Kyoko (25) is showing more skin again in a new TV CM "New Diet Coca Cola lemon version" which will be playing starting 1-7. The CM sets in a laundrymat, and while she is drinking the lemon flavor diet Coca Cola, she took off her tank top. But, under her tank top, there's another set of new clothes, which symbolizes that the product is renewing itself. Using Hasegawa's body, the product symbolizes good health and clean body. Such is the impact Coca Cola wants to make to the public. Picture of Hasegawa Kyoko in CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200401/gt2004010607.html 

Which is the real Ayaya? "Tessera" new CM  (12/28/2003)
Idol singer Matsuura Aya (17) will be in Effiti Shiseido's new shampoo & conditioner "Tessera" CM, which will be broadcasted starting 1-5-2004. This will be the third year in a row for her to be the spokesperson for the shampoo. The strawberry flavor "Strawberry berry" and cherry flavor "Chiyahoya Cherry" will be the main two products on sale. Aya will be dressed both in Japanese style and western style clothing, distinguishing the two personalities. Aya said that she likes both styles, but which one is the real Aya is up to the audience to decide. Her new song "kiseki no kaori Dance" will be used for the CM, which will be on sale 1-28, and her third album "x3 (triple)" will be on sale 1-1-2004. Finally, she will be leading in a musical "yumekake monogatari real audition" starting 2-6 at Shiba Park's Melpark Hall in Tokyo until 2-12-2004. Picture of Aya in CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003122805.html 

Moritaka Chisato will return  (12/27/2003)
Singer Moritaka Chisato (34) who was married to actor Eguichi Yousuke will be coming back to the entertainment business, according to the 1-7-2004 issue of "Lee" (Shueisha publisher). Chisato mentioned that she plans to do at least something, even if little while raising her two kids, in which the second child was born last year in May. "Lee" will be publishing series of interviews with Chisato until April 2004. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003122706.html 

Ishida Issei back to work after 2.5 years  (12/26/2003)
Arrested in August 2001 for possessing marijuana, actor Ishida Issei (29) is returning back to work, and he announced that he married a former talent Miyake Emi (25). His first job back to work will be his leading movie "Indian Summer". With the help and encouragement from Emi, the two married each other on 12-7 and their first son was born on 12-19 named Nanato, according to a phone call from Ishida's father, Ishida Junichi (48). Issei promised that such thing will not be happen again, and he will throw in all his spirit into the new movie, which will be playing next year. Picture of Ishida Issei: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003122604.html 

SMAP's Tsuyoshi talks about "Cafe Venus"  (12/24/2003)
SMAP's member Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (29) performed a one day limited talk show at Harajuku's Quest Hall for his leading movie "Hotel Venus" (directed by Takahata Hideta, opens 3-06-2004). For the movie, Tsuyoshi commented that he saw many beautiful women there like Mizuki Arisa in Russia, the main location of his movie. This heart-warming story is all in Korean (with Japanese subtitle) is a movie of tears.  This year, SMAP's concert tour will be included in "Live MIJ" (video & DVD), which are on sale 12-24. This special talk will be included in the video/DVD, and Nakai Masahiro seems to be the editor of it. In addition, Tsuyoshi denied the rumor that was spreading around him regarding his relatiionship with actress (popular in Korea) Fueki Yuuko (24). http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003122510.html  

Tokiwa Takako in new "whitening CM"  (12/4/2003)
Actress Tokiwa Takako (31) will be promoting the Kanebo's new whitening cosmetics CM "Facial White C", which will be on sale 2-1-2004. This is the first time for Takako to be in a cosmetic whitening CM. The two roadshows will be playing next year in February. Picture of Takako at the press: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003120406.html 

I WiSH's first live and on TV  (12/4/2003)
The new breaking unit "I WiSH" who sang Fuji's drama "ainori" theme song "ashita he no tobira" peformed their first live at Oumi's Zepp Tokyo, Tokyo on 12-3. Vocalist, ai (17) was so nervous that she started her greeting as "Hello, this is Kawashima Ai, no...it's I WiSH". They sang 8 songs from their first album "tsutaetai kotoba~namida ochiru basho" such as "futatsu hoshi" and their unreleased song "anata ga tabitatta ano haru no ni oi". Only 1000 fans were selected out of the 160,000 fans applied. Their encore song "ashita he no tobira" will be shown live during the "FNS kayou-sai" (FNS song festival). Picture of I WiSH at live, showing Ai, vocalist of the group: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200312/gt2003120409.html 

Koyuki in new CM "asage"  (11/20/2003)
Actress Koyuki (25) will be acting in Nagatanien's new CM "asage", a miso soup product. Having been active on the international screen in cinema, "Last Samurai" (opens 12-6), Koyuki would like to take this chance to introduce to others about the Japanese culture. Picture of Koyuki in new CM: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031119-0021.html 

I WiSH" first live, invites 1000 people for free  (11/19/2003)
Pop unit "I WiSH", known as the group that sang "ashita he no tobira" in Fuji TV's drama "ai nori" performed their first live at Zepp Tokyo in Etou-ku, Tokyo on 12-3. "I WiSH" is made up of a current high school student, "Kawashima Ai" (vocalist) and a college student who plays the piano, "nao". According to their official website, they will randomly draw 1000 guests to their first live for free. Since the release of their debut song "ashita no tobira" (door to tomorrow), they kept their place within in the 100 on Oricon Single Chart for 40 weeks. In addition, their single broke the sale of 900,000 copies. About 400,000 downloaded their song onto cell phones, and their first album broke the 500,000 copies record. Picture of "I WiSH": http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200311/gt2003111303.html 

Tsumabuki Satoshi plays negative role for first time  (10/29/2003)
Always known to play the "good teenager", actor Tsumabuki Satoshi will be the reverse for a special drama "iwanaki mono" on Asahi TV next year in spring. Tsumabuki said that he enjoys the role of a bad person and was really happy to act with actor Yakusho Koji (47), who plays a role of 
a famous newscaster. Actress Suzuki Kyoka (35) will also be in this special drama. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102911.html 

Seiko & Sayaka's two-shot in kimono  (10/28/2003)
Singer Matsuda Seiko (43) and her daughter Sayaka (17) appeared together at Roppongi's Grand Hyatt Tokyo to display their self-designed and produced kimono brand "Seiko Matsuda Kimono" for the 2004 new product show. The theme is based on love and peace. Most of the patterns on the kimono are of flower and ice. Besides the show, Seiko reported that she is in the process of preparing for the countdown concert at Osaka-jo Hall and a dinner show. Picture of Sayaka (left) and Seiko in kimono: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102802.html, 
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031027-0021.html Sayaka and Seiko's Yahoo streaming video on the kimono show:
http://headlines.yahoo.co.jp/video_gallery/showbizzy_interview/ 

Kusanagi Tsuyoshi continues part 2 of "boku no ikiru michi"  (10/28/2003)
SMAP's Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (29) will be leading in Fuji's TV drama series "boku to kanojo no ikiru michi" (Mine and hers way of living) which will 
start showing on 1-6-2004. The story is based on the relationships of parent-child and married couple. This human story was broadcasted last year as "boku no ikiru michi" (My way of life), and he will continue to lead in the second series. In the first series shown in January 2002, Tsuyoshi plays 
a high school teacher who announced that he only has one year left to live. This time, the story will be the same and written by Hashibe Atsuko, but 
the theme will be the bond between one man and two women. The story is about Kusanagi as salaryman working in a bank. One day, his wife ran away from him and he was left to live with his 7 year-old daughter. He doesn't know how to face his daughter who is confused and he doesn't even know where his heart directs him. He doesn't want to heart his daughter's feeling because hurting her is like hurting himself. Later, he hired a home tutor for his daughter (played by Koyuki). According to the producer, this drama will stir up something very emotional, and even more than the last episode. The average TV rating for "boku no ikiru michi" was rated 15.5% with the final episode rating to the highest of 21.6%. In addition, SMAP sang "sekai ni hitotsu dake no hana" also became a big hit. The official HP also recorded over 2.38 million pages of comments while mail through the BBS reached over 16,246 mails. As a result, a book with the colleciton of just the mail titled "mou hitotsu no boku no ikiru michi~BBS ni yoserareta kandou no Mail collection kara~" (One more "My way of life"~from the emotional mail collection sent through BBS~) was published. In addition to the new drama, Kusanagi will also lead in a movie "Hotel Venus" (opens Spring 2004) with the entire movie in Korean (and Japanese subtitle). Kusanagi is very popular among the Koreans, and his big hit movie "yomigaeri" (opened in January in Japan) will be playing at over 100 theatres in Korea starting 10-31. Then, he will be leading in his first historical drama for Fuji TV's special drama "Taikou-gi~saru to yobareta otoko~" (Father of the Imperial Advisor~the man who everyone called monkey~" will be broadcasted on 12-27 @ 9 pm where he will be playing Toyotomi Hideyoshi.  .http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102814.html   

Kikukawa Rei tries to host in special program for election  (10/28/2003)
Actress Kikukawa Rei (25) will for the first time to host a special program for the election "NNN Lower House Diet election "ultra election"~bankisha! special" to be broadcasted on 11-9. As a way to study this role as the host, Kikukawa went to Japan's press center and participated as a "reporter" by joining in the political parties discussion. Regarding the continuous difficult questions, Kikukawa said that she must study and read stuff specifically for the election. In fact, she thought that this is more difficult than her years at Toky University. Picture of Kikukawa at press center: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102804.html, http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031027-0020.html 

Karasawa Toshiaki's Nescafe new CM (10/25/2003)
Actor Karasawa Toshiaki (40) will be in Nescafe's Gold Blend TV CM "Karasawa Toshiaki "Autumn's sunset" version" will be on-air starting 10-25. Karasawa will act together with scriptwriter Mitani Kouki (42). They were on their way to a mansion when Karasawa started to act like a kid and started kicking little rocks. The two of them watched the sun set towards the ocean. Picture of the CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102505.html 

Kick the Can Crew popular in Taiwan  (10/25/2003)
Pop trio hip-hop group, Kick the Can Crew arrived in Taipei, Taiwan's International Convention Center to perform their live to help promote tourism in Taiwan. In order to revive tourism again from the previous downtime due to SARS, "Kick" was there. "Kick" said that they were unable to communicate, but they still had fun with 3000 fans there in Taipei. They sang their hit song "marushe" and "punk sunmae no Funk" and their new song "nabi", which is scheduled to release on 11-12. They sang 18 songs in total. Their live in Taiwan will be introduced on the single "nounai Vacation" that's scheduled for sale in December. Picture of "Kick": http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102607.html 

Oda Kazumasa spends last day in Taiwan  (10/24/2003)
Singer Oda Kazumasa (56) made his last stop in Taiwan for his Asia Tour after travelling to Hong Kong and Singapore since 10-16. He sang his most well-known song "Love Story wa totsuzen ni" and other 22 songs. He planned to come to Taiwan in May, but the tour was delayed due to SARS. http://www.sanspocom/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102410.html  

Kudo Shizuka holds dinner show in 2 years  (10/22/2003)
Singer Kudo Shizuka (33), the wife of SMAP's Kimura Takuya (30) will hold a dinner show on 12-5 in two years starting in Yamagata. On 12-27, she will have the dinner show at New Yokohama Prince Hotel, with a total of 9 performances around the country. Kudo intended to have this dinner show earlier, but because of the birth of her second daughter Miki (8 months now), she had to halt the shows. On the other hand, Kudo Shizuka's 2004 calendar is on sale. Picture of Kudo Shizuka's calendar:  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102208.html 

Okamoto Mayo's ballad best CD on sale  (10/22/2003)
Singer/songwriter Okamoto Mayo (29) released her first ballad best album "mou ichido ano koro no sora wo" on 10-22. She will also have an in-store event at Yamano Instrument Shop in Ginza District of Tokyo on 10-31 @ 6:30 p.m. The first 300 people who buys her album will be invited to a live guitar and piano performance along with her live singing. In the album, there will be an acoustic version of "Tomorrow" and she will name the album as "Once In A Lifetime". The ballad best album include the following songs:
1. Alone
2. omoi de ni dekinakute
3. aitakute
4. kiniro no shumatsu 
5. Twilight
6. With you
7. Anniversary~from Crystal Scenery~
8. anata ga iru kara
9. One Room
10. Blue Star
11. mahou no Ring ni kiss wo shite
12. itoshii hito yo~remember me~
13. Tomorrow~Acoustic Version~
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102209.html 

Kikukawa Rei and bishoujo Club first time together on Nippon Housou  (10/20/2003)
Actress Kikukawa Rei (25) and members of "bishoujo Club 21" were on Nippon Housou's "Beautiful Radio bishoujo club 21" for the first time together. Being the "elder" (senpai) of the same company, members Shibuya Asuka (15), Sakada Mizuho (17), and Morita Ayaka (14) worked with Kikukawa for the first time. With a difference of 15.3 to 10 years in age, Kikukawa commented that she is happy to breath in the fresh air. In addition, they hope to be the world's #1 with regards to the Yankees loss in Game 1 of the World Series. Pictures of Kikukawa Rei (back), and (front left) Shibuya Asuka, Morita Ayaka, Sakada Mizuho: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003102004.html, 
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031019-0014.html 

Nori-P mama plays the role of 50 people in anime  (10/18/2003)
Actress/Singer Sakai Noriko (32) will release a video & DVD anime "Sakai Noriko no yoiko no ohanashihiroba" (5 set series, King Record) on 11-6 where she will voice act for 50 characters in the animation. The animation is composed of various Japanese folk lores such as "Momotaro", "hanasaka jiisan" and others. She will also be the voices for old grandmas and grandpas as well as dog and bird. Nearly 5 years ago, Noriko married a pro-surfer Takasou Yuichi (35) and their first son Yuki (4) is born. After she gave birth, Noriko continues her career in the entertainment business. She recently lead in the horror movie sequel "Juon 2" ("The Grudge 2" directed by Shimizu Takashi). Noriko promoted all mothers to watch it as she knows that all kids love stories and drawing books. Nearly 2 years ago, Noriko voice acted for the animation movie "soreike! Anpan-man Gomira no hoshi". She vowed to voice act again from the animated movie. Currently, she is at a resting from the busy schedule she had before, and will continue to be a housewife. Picture of Sakai Noriko: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101801.html 

Bon-Bon Blanco sings "One Piece" (10/18/2003)
The 5-female group Bon-Bon Blanco will be singing the opening song for the famous animation "One Piece" on Fuji TV. The plan to release the theme song "Bon Voyage!" used in this animation early next year. They will perform a concert at Club Chitta Kawasaki on 12-27. Picture of all members (left) Izumi, Mako, Santos Anna (vocal), Tomoyo, Ruri: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101804.html 

Umemiya Anna is "not in love" (10/18/2003)
Talent Umemiya Anna (31) attended a talk show for the opening celebration of the movie "Tears of Sun" at Ginza's Yamaha Hall. The story takes place in Nigeria, a civil war where a man must rescue all the refugees under command.  Anna commented she cannot trust and rely on anything after the fact that she divorced and is now raising her 1 year old daughter herself. When she was asked whether she is in love with anyone else, she commented that she is not and probably not at this time. In fact, she would rather put her focus in work such as in acting or be involved in a drama than to be in love. Picture of Umemiya in white cotton knit:
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031017-0019.html 

Exile sings Zoo's famous debut song  (10/15/2003)
An R&B six men group, Exile will release their first "4 consecutive weeks single release" single in November with the cover song from a dance group that was dibanded 7 years ago, Zoo's famous song "Choo Choo Train". Exile's leader, Hiro (34) is the one who came up with the idea of re-releasing their famous song since he used to be a member of Zoo. They sang that song during an outdoor live event "a-nation" this summer and received a very positive feedback. As a result from the fans, they decided to re-release this song again. The promotional video will include both Exile members and Zoo members.  Only 5 of 9 Zoo members were able to show up in the protmional video. In the video, there is a scene where they were all having a party and they even performed a lion dance. Usually, past songs that are revived are usually re-arranged from the original. But, this time, they will keep the original song of "Choo Choo Train" to as close to original as possible. According to Hiro, "it's the best when members of Zoo and Exile dance together. The kids in the PV were dancing, and this dancing continues to thrive, we should re-recognize such awesome culture." Picture of Exile's Hiro (3rd from left) with members of Exile and Zoo in PV:  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101508.html 

Kanda Uno in talk event  (10/13/2003)
Talent Kanda Uno (28) attended a talk event for the new movie "shinumade ni shitai 10 no koto" (10 things I want to do before I die) held at Tokyo's Virgin Cinema Roppongi Buildings. Questions were raised about her recent breakup with the Yamano Beauty mate President, Yamano Mikio (35). Uno emphasized that they are just normal friends, but not denying that they might possibly get back together. In the movie, the main character is announced with only 2 months to live, and within the time left, what 10 things does he want to do the most. Uno's response, of course, is to have fun with love. Uno hinted that she's having fun with love now. Picture of Uno: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101306.html 

BoA's new song "Double" same day sale in Japan and Korea  (10/11/2003)
Korea-born pop singer BoA (16) will release her new single "Double" on 10-22 both in Japan and in Korea. This is the first time for a Japanese original song to be released both in Japan and Korea the same time, according to the overwhelming requests of the Korean fans wanting to listen to the music in Japanese. It is a mark of the first step for Japanese music CD to enter the Japanese-Korean music industry, and a mark in history by BoA. For BoA, this will be her 10th single after her debut single "Listen To My Heart".  All of her songs are handled by the composer Hara Kazuhiro. The Korean verses will be translated by BoA and released in Korea. Picture of BoA on single cover:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101101.html 

Mizuki Arisa becomes a single mother  (10/10/2003)
Actress Mizuki Arisa (26) will play the role of a single mother on Nippon TV's drama series "ashita tenki ni naare" (starts 10-11 @ 9 pm). Mizuki 
plays a single mother who is also working as a weather forecaster. Mizuki said, "I've never had a child before, so I'm studying hard everyday to become a mother (for this role)." The daughter is played by Morihasama Yui (6) vowed that she wants to become a big actress in the future. Other casts include Inohara Yoshihiko, Yunsona, Yoshioka Miho, Nakamura Tooru, Toda Keiko. 
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031009-0015.html
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003101006.html

Shimatani Hitomi and Doraemon (10/9/2003)
Singer Shiatani Hitomi (23) appeared at the promotion event in Tokyo for the TV Asahi anime "Doraemon." Her new song "YUME nichiwa" will be used as the ending theme song. Shimatani said, "I watched Doraemon when I was a child, so I'm very happy my song was chosen for the ending theme song." When asked what Doraemon item she'd like, Shimatani said, "I want the pocket!" Pics of Shimatani Hitomi at the Doraemon promotion event: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-0310080018.html, http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100907.html  

What happened to Miyazawa Rie? Beautiful long hair "long gone"  (10/7/2003)
Actress Miyazawa Rie (30) will be leading in a new movie opening next year called "Toni Takitani" (directed by Ichikawa Hayato). For the movie, the media was shocked that she cut her beautiful long hair. Rie explained, "most people thnk that cutting one's hair means you broke up with someone, but that's not the case for me." She cut her hair as short as the main actor in the movie, Isse Ogata (51). Rie jokingly said that she likes to see the shocking faces of the everyone. Currently, she is dating an accessory designer. Picture of Rie in her short hair: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100702.html 

Diamond shines on Kimura Yoshino, all black dress open in back (10/7/2003)
Actress Kimura Yoshino (27) participated as guest for press preview for the new exhibit that started on 10-7 at Ueno Park's National Museum in Tokyo.  Kimura was dressed in all black opened in the back with diamonds and other accessories. From head to toe, Kimura was dressed in accessories made in the 19th century Europe. Picture of Kimura Yoshino: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100705.html 

Makise Rie as Gion's geisha  (10/7/2003)
Actress Makise Rie (31) will be dressed up as a Gion's geisha for the first time in Fuji's Friday Entertainment "Yamamura Misa suspense. New Kyoto Gion Geisha series (1) Miyako odori satsujinjiken" (show in November). This 2 hours drama will show Makise and Takaki Sae as geisha. Picture of Makise as geisha: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100709.html 

Nakama Yukie competes in golf tournament  (10/7/2003)
Actress Nakama Yukie (23) will work as a mascot girl for a golf tournament "The 10th annual Cancer Prevention Foundation Takamatsunomiya Emperor's Consort Trophy Golf Competition East vs. West Tournament " on 11-9 in a Ryuukyuu Golf Club in Okinawa. Two teams of celebrities will be divided among 48 people, including Okinawa-born Issa of Da Pump. Picture of Nakama Yukie as mascot girl: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100711.html 

Fanatic Crisis sings their new song  (10/6/2003)
Popular rock band, Fanatic Crisis performed a live at the Hibiya Outerfield Music Stadium of Tokyo where 3000 fans listened to their new song "tsuki no mahou" (on sale 11-6-2003). Vocalist Ishizuki Tsutomu sang 21 songs in this summer's tour extra performance. Previously, about 150 fans were invited through random drawing to listen to their new song "tsuki no mahou", but this time, a majority of the people will have listen to their new song. Picture of Tsutomu: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100606.html 

Misia as the first female in 5 dome tour  (10/2/2003)
Popular R&B singer Misia (25) will be the first female singer to participate in a 5 dome tour, announced on 9-30. As a soloist after Southern All Star's Kuwata Keisuke (47), she is the second soloist to hold a 5 dome tour. The tour will begin next year on January 3rd starting from Fukuoka Dome, Nagoya, Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo, a total of 7 performances. Misia after her debut in 6 years, the 5 dome tour is a big challenge for her, but she is also ahead of other female artists such as Hamasaki Ayumi and Utada Hikaru, who both have never held a 5 dome tour before. Although the tour won't be until next year, her first live album "hoshizora Live~The Best of Acoustic Ballade~", on sale 10-22. http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-031001-0003.html 

Best Jeanists goes to Kusanagi again!  (10/2/2003)
SMAP member Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (29) was announced today as a five-time winner of the "Best Jeanist" award. This puts him alongside fellow SMAP-er Kimura Takuya (31) in terms of wins and he will no longer be eligible for the award. Taking home the award in the women's section, for the third year in a row, was pop diva Hamasaki Ayumi (24). Picture of Hamasaki Ayumi as "Best Jeanist": http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200310/gt2003100204.html, http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-031001-0022.html, http://three.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/japanzine 

Hasekyo tries flyfishing in CM  (10/1/2003)
Actress Hasegawa Kyoko (25) will challenge flyfishing for the first time in Canon's Inkjet Printer CM "Pixus" series. The CM illustrates a story 
of two friends fly fishing near a stream, and they take pictures in a digital camera of each other and print these pictures on "Pixus". The CM song will 
be a remake of H2O's big hit song "omoide ga ippai" that they sang in Showa year 58. They will call it "omoide ga ippai~The 21st century~". The CM will be on-air starting 10-4. Picture of Hasegawa Kyoko in flyfishing: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003100108.html 

BoA's new sneaker  (9/29/2003)
Korea-born popular singer BoA (16) will be the image character for a footwear brand "Skechers" new sneaker named "BoA Limited Model" on sale 10-1. This sneaker is females only, and it comes in 4 patterns. It is popularly used in concerts and privately. Skechers is also the second best selling sneaker next to Nike. Picture of BoA as image character for Sketcher: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030929-0023.html 

Yuuka PR her 3D photo album "the smaller one of me in reality"  (9/28/2003)
Talent Yuuka (23) released her first 3D photo album "chou rittai Private View Yuuka Pure & Lure" (Shinchosha) and trading cards on 9-27. She also held a PR event in a city's bookstore. This 3D book when seen with a 3D glass, one can see Yuuka very close and real. Yuuka said that you can see so close to the point that hair on the skin can be revealed. She also said that buying the album is like seeing the smaller version of Yuuka. About 300 fans attended the book event and shook hands with Yuuka. Yuuka PRs the book: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030927-0010.html 

Da Pump, Lion King cover  (9/26/2003)
Popular dance group Da Pump will be singing the theme song for Disney's animation "Lion King" called "Circle of Life", which will be on sale 11-27. 
The CM with Da Pump singing their theme song for the animated DVD and video "Lion Kings Special Edition" will start on 10-4 while the movie itself will be on sale 10-10. In fact, Hollywood music producer, Gustavo Boner specified Da Pump to sing Elton John's famous song. Issa felt great gratitude towards such honor given to them. Picture of Da Pump: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030925-0020.html 

Ayaya in 4 roles as "Ayaya Family" in Calario  (9/26/2003)
Idol singer Matsuura Aya (17) will be a CM character for Epson's "new Calario Printer". The CM will start be on-air starting 10-11 where Aya acts her own role, the role of a mother, a father, and a grandmother--making it the "Ayaya Family". Aya commented that putting on make-up for all different roles was fun. As the "Hello! Project Sports Festival 2003" on 11-22 at Tokyo Dome (and 11-16 in Osaka Dome) draws closer, Aya promoted people to print the pictures of her practicing on the new "Calario". The Festival (sponsored by Sankei Shinbun and Epson) will divide up into two teams. The "Blue Hello" team will be lead by Nakazawa Yuuko (30) and "Orange Project" will be lead by leader Kubota Kei (22). The Festival includes different relays, battle on horses, and closes with a live including all members. For tickets, click here for the offiical Hello! Project website: http://www.helloproject.com/s-fest/, Her new song "The Last Night" will be on sale 9-26. Picture of Aya (right) with Epson's new Calario; (bottom right) Ayaya's Family (clockwise) include Ayaya, Payaya, Bayaya, and Mayaya: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003092602.html  

Yuming and Andy Lau meets again after 2 years  (9/26/2003)
Singer/Songwriter Matsudoya Yumi (49) as a special guest attended a Hong Kong film premier "Infernal Affair" (opens on 10-11) along with Andy Lau (41), Tony Leung (41), Kelly Chan (30), and Edison Chan (22) who came to Japan to promote their film. For Yumi, this is her second time meeting Andy since her trip last year to Hong Kong to perform her concerts. Picture (from left) of Edison Chan, Andy Lau, Matsudoya Yumi, Toni Leung, Kelly Chan: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003092610.html, Official website for movie "Infernal Affair" (in Japanese):
http://www.infernal.jp/ 

Tokiwa Takako in China making "akai tsuki"  (9/25/2003)
Due to the spread of SARS couple months ago, the movie "akai tsuki" was not able to use China to make the film according to schedule. Now that 
it is "SARS-safe", film shooting have resumed. All the staff and the leading heroine Tokiwa Takako (31) attended the making near the Russian boundary of Heiho. During the making of the film, all the casts except the main one (Tokiwa) are Chinese. Only about 50 of the Japanese film crew were there out of 300 people. There was a dancing scene of Tokiwa with actor Kagawa Teruyuki (37) for the success opening of a winery in Manchuria. There will also be a love bed scene with Isetani Yuusuke (27) for Tokiwa in the film.  Although the filming resumed, staying in China is not the most pleasant thing to do. There were very little toilets around and the sanitation is really bad. There was water restrictions in hotels such as one cannot use more than 30 liters of water in one day. Picture of Tokiwa with Isetani: http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/p-et-tp0-030925-0003.html, http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003092501.html 

Adachi Yumi enters officially enters Asia with "ienakiko"  (9/23/2003)
Actress Adachi Yumi (22) will make her major entrance into the Asian market. Having received a historically high viewers rating for her leading drama "ie naki ko" of 56% when it was broadcasted in Taiwan, she attended a media conference for the DVD "rakuen no sakana" (released 2 years ago in Japan) release in Taiwan. About 65 mass media companies attended with 200 in attendance.  Feeling surprised, Adachi commented, "I'm really happy that so many people know about me." According to her managing office, she will make her official debut in Asia by the end of the year. Picture of Adachi Yumi: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003092304.html 

Zeebra sponsors movie theme song  (9/22/2003)
Japan's hip-hop charisma Zeebra (32) will be making the theme song for the movie "g@me" which is a love suspense starring Fujiki Naohito (31) and Nakama Yukie (23), opens in theatres on 11-8-2003. On 9-18, he released his solo album "Tokyo's Finest" in three years. In two days, his record sale broke 100,000 copies as a solo hip hop artist. Zeebra promoted, "for those who bought the album, they can get to listen to the theme song first at the same time getting the present for the campaign going on right now." The campaign, which is a present included in the album "Tokyo's Finest" selects 500 guests, and more information is on http://www.ponycanyon.co.jp/ and http://www.zeebra.jp/ homepages, which will be updated on 9-26. Picture of Zeebra: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003092202.html 

Kick the Can Crew live in Taiwan  (9/18/2003)
The 3 men hip hop unit "Kick the Can Crew" announced that they will perform a live at the Taipei City's International Convention Center on 10-25-2003.  Since they are really popular in Taiwan, they have assumed the roles of friendship representatives for Taiwan's tourism association. "Kick" performed oversea in New York in last year of August, but this upcoming event in Taiwan will be their solo live. On 10-25, there will be a free invitations for 2000 Taiwanese fans and about 1000 fans will be gathered from Japan as well.  Picture of "Cha-san" (Mr. Tea) as a representative symbol of Taiwan in front while the back consists of members (start left) MCU, Little, Kreva: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003091806.html , http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030917-0018.html 

Hikawa Kiyoshi's popular tote bag  (9/16/2003)
Enka-singer Hikawa Kiyoshi will be selling concert limited goods at his concert. Of other original goods, he will be selling the popular original 
tote bag. In addition, his self designed original can badge are on sale for 3000 yen. They will appear at the 10-2 concert at Shinjuku Koma Gekijou 
Shozachou. Picture of Kiyoshi with tote bag: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003091616.html 

"HalCali" live on FM  (9/16/2003)
The "quick to rise" female duo hip hop unit "HALCALI" performed live talk at Tokyo FM Spain-zaka Studio during the program "Tokyo Seven Colors" on 9-15 in Shibuya, Tokyo. Picture of HalCali: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003091615.html  

Faces of the parent-child in "Juon 2" revealed!  (9/12/2003)
In celebration of the big hit horror film "Juon 2", casts and staff made a greeting during the appeciation event at Tokyo's Teatoru Shinjuku on 9-13. 
To the audience, this is the first time the faces of the ghostly mother and son are revealed. The mother Fuji Takako (31) and the son Ozeki Toshiya 
(7) from the movie surprised the auidence. In the movie, Toshiya's whole body was painted white. Toshiya commented, "It's fun making a movie and 
the white make-up is fun, too" while waving his hands. The crowd responded, "He's so cute!" According to director Shimizu Takashi (31), "Juon 2" started showing in Korea on 9-5 and is currently very popular. The heroine of the movie, Sakai Noriko (32) is also very popular. The Hollywood remake version will start crank in early next year. Picture of director Shimizu, Ozeki Toshiya, and Fuji Takako (start from left):
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003091402.html 

"Kotoba no chikara", Yuuka's favorite word is "smile"  (9/9/2003)
According to the Zenkokumeihou Radio 101 kyoku's campaign "Chikara no kotoba" (the power of words), talent Yuuka (23) was chosen as the symbol character starting 10-6-2003. For Yuuka, her favorite word is "smile" because if everyone around you is happy, you will be happy, too. Picture of Yuuka and announcer Tokumitsu Kazuo: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090911.html 

Yuuka as a bad character in Santory's new CM  (9/9/2003)
Talent Yuuka (23) will act a bad girl who backkicks a guy in a scene for Santory's new CM "Santory Chew-Hi Calorie", which will be on sale 9-17. 
Yuuka commented that she is very physically active, so she'll take on anything. During the scene where she kicked a guy, she claimed that she "felt good."  When she was asked whether she actually backkicked a guy, and she said she didn't, but she would want to. Picture of Yuuka in CM: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003091008.html 

Kikukawa Rei, Kawahara, and Toyota present their jewelry designs  (9/9/2003)
On 9/9/03, Platinum Jewelry held a public presentation of their charity program "Platinum Aqua Fantasy." Actresses Kawahara Ayako (32), Kikukawa Rei (25), and Toyota Mayumi (36) wore their self-designed jewelry. All 3 based their design of the theme "water." Kawahara, who made a bracelet, commented, "My motif was a heart that is based on the image of a wave and lines that have kindness." Kikukawa, how designed a pendant, commented, "My image conveys water splashing and stirring. Toyota designed a pierce. The 3 pieces of jewelry are available as a charity auction at http://www.bidders.co.jp/.  

Ando Masanobu wears gym uniform at 28  (9/7/2003)
An autobiography novel by Murakami Ryu (51) will be made into a movie called "69 sixty nine" (Toei, opens 2004 Spring) take place in Nagasaki's Sasebo starring Tsumabuki Satoshi (22), Ando Masanobu (28) and others. The story features some high school students back in 1969 in Mr. Murakami's hometown, Sasebo. There are many scenes where the main character has to wear school uniform and gym uniform. Tsumabuki embarrassingly said that it's not a good idea for him to wear that because his hair is getting thicker. Similarly, Ando was embarrassed about the fact that he has to wear gym uniform at his age. Picture of (left) Ando Masanobu, Tsumabuki Satoshi, and Hoshino Gen: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090712.html 

Sayaka sings new song "garden" and other 4 songs  (9/7/2003)
Singer and actress Sayaka (16) held her first solo event "garden's party" and sang 4 songs including the newest "garden" at Tokyo Shibuya District's 
Shibuya Nepsis. In front of 300 people, Sayaka claimed that she is very nervous because it is her first private event. At the event, Sayaka revealed 
that she is worried about her voice since her voice is like her mother's (Matsuda Seiko). She wonders if her voice is any good. Towards the middle 
of her last song, Sayaka burst out crying because she was so touched. Picture of Sayaka: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090805.html 

Ex-Lucifer's Makoto's first solo live  (9/7/2003)
The visual rock band that just disbanded this year in January, Lucifer, ex-Lucifer vocalist Makoto (23) performed his first solo live at Zepp Tokyo 
on 9-6. His first solo album "Vibration" (Dream Robot) will be on sale 10-22. At the live, he performed 6 songs from the album, including "mado". 
About 2000 fans attended. His first solo live tour will start 12-17-2003. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090717.html 

Shimatani's birthday on during first tour  (9/5/2003)
Singer Shimatani Hitomi (23) held her first live national tour (15 locations with 17 performances) after her 4th year of debut at Saitama-Prefecture's 
Sanshiti Koshigaya City Hall. On her birthday, the staff presented 23 roses on a birthday cake after the rehearsal for her 23rd birthday. Hitomi requested that they wouldn't do this during the actual concert. At the concert, about 1700 fans attended and heard her hit song "amairo no kami no otome" and songs from her newest album "Gate~scena III~" which broke past the 250,000 copies in sale. Fans also sang a birthday song for her. Pictures of Hitomi: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090510.html, http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030904-0020.html

Open-back Hasekyo, 8 changes in CM  (9/5/2003)
Hasekyo will be in 8 different changes. As a heroine in Fuji's TV drama "boku dake no Madonna", actress Hasegawa Kyoko (25) will change into 8 different jobs for Nippon Seimei's TV CM "New ikiru chikara Frau skyplan". The theme of the CM is based on "insurance to support those hard-working women".  In the 30 seconds CM, Hasegawa takes upon 8 roles such as receptionist, stewadess, bartender, Japanese dance instructor, garden constructionist, and others. In addition to the new CM, Hasegawa will release a photo album "Key of Life" in which she will first expose her back for the first time. A hand-shake event for the 9-5 released book will be held on 9-6 at Ginza's Fukuke Bookstore. Pictures of Hasegawa Kyoko in CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090501.html 

The most popular hair style goes to Hasegawa Kyoko  (9/5/2003)
According to a survey based on a hair styling gel "Lux" conducted in Tokyo, the No.1 celebrity with best liked hair style goes to actress Hasegawa Kyoko (25). Second place goes to Matsushima Nanako (29) and then followed by Shibasaki Kou among the women. Among the men, Matsushima Nanako is ranked No.1 followed by Hasegawa Kyoko and then Nakama Yukie. The survey was conducted on the internet through 600 men and women of ages 18-29. For both men and women, the agree that the No.1 best hair style for international celebrity goes to Cameron Diaz, and then Meg Ryan.  http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030904-0016.html 

Nakatani Miki longs for someone who is only 9 years old?  (9/5/2003)
Scheduled for opening next summer, the movie "Amemasu no kawa" held its production conference at Shibuya-ku's Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel where the leading casts Tamaki Hiro (23), Ayase Haruka (18) and Nakatani Miki (27) attended. The movie is based on the theme "first love" starring a child star Suga Kentai (9). Nakatani said that when she see him, she likes him. Other staff commented that Nakatani is like a real mother even though this is her first time to act as a mother. Other casts include Abe Hiroshi (39), Garamoto Akira (54), and others. Picture of casts from "Amemasu no kawa" (start left) Nakatani Miki, Tamaki Hiro, Ayase Haruka, Abe Hiroshi: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090511.html, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel: http://www.ceruleantower-hotel.com/  

Tomosaka Rie lead in "I'm back~Ms. Hanako"  (9/2/2003)
Actress Tomosaka Rie (23) is back to lead the drama continued from last summer "kaettekita local no Hanako-san" (starting 10-6 on NHK, Monday~Friday @ 11 p.m., 20 episodes total). Other casts in the drama include Fukiishi Hitoe (20), Hirayama Aya (19) and Tamaru Maki (24) as OLs. Picture of (left) Tamaru Maki, Fukiishi Hitoe, Tomosaka Rie, Hirayama Aya: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200309/gt2003090212.html 

Puffy's Ami back on stage after gave birth  (8/28/2003)
The duo Puffy will return back on sage for the "John Lennon Super Live" at Saitama Arena on 10-2-2003 along with other artists such as Da Pump's Issa (24) and Do As Infinity (DAI). A special one-night only unit made up of Shinna Ringo's producer, Issa, DAI, Charcoal Filter's Oozuka Saburo, and Konagawa Takahiro. The show will start with Yoko (Lennon's wife, 70), Uchida Yuuya, Okuda Tamio, Zone, Motoki Masahiro, Moriyama Ryoko, and other artists. For Oonuki Ami (29), who is married to Glay's vocalist, Teru, gave birth to their daughter 3 months ago, she will return to the stage for the first time after she gave birth. It will be 1 year and 3 months for the two to be together since their North America tour. Tickets go on sale 8-30 for 8,500 yen. Picture of Ami:  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003082802.html 

Uehara Sakura announces her marriage, pregnant for 2 months  (8/27/2003)
Talent Uehara Sakura (26) announced that she is currently 2 months pregnant and is married to the president of an apparal maker Mr. Ito (31). The two were introduced by friends three years ago and have been going as lovers for 4 months. Mr. Ito owns 10 brand name clothing stores including Palm Store which sells Devilock. He is also an event producer and a band vocalist. Unfortunately, he was not present during the media announcement, but a model figure similar to him was displayed. Uehara is due next year on 3-31 and is planning to continue her work in the entertainment business. Picture of Uehara and holding her husband wearing "Devilock" clothes and displaying her Tiffany wedding ring: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003082603.html, http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030825-0013.html 

Murakami's original work becomes a movie, heroine is 16 year old Oota Rina  (8/27/2003)
Author Murakami Ryu's original novel "69" will be made into a movie and the heroine, Oota Rina (16), a charistimatic high school freshman who was selected to play the sub-leading role. The leading role will be played by Tsumabuki Satoshi who fell in love with Oota Rina. In real life, Oota's father is Japanese and her mother is Russian. She has been in fashion magazines such as "Ginza" and others, and she will be the model for the album cover for Shiseido's CM song collection (on sale 8-27) by Sony and Toshiba EMI. Picture of Oota Rina: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003082605.html 

The Misaki effect, Shiseido campaign song emergency release on 8-27  (8/27/2003)
The most expecting Jazz male vocalist among the youngesters, Kobayashi Katsura (24) will be singing for Shiseido's "Pienu" campaign song "nagareme Play". This single CD will be release on 8-27 immediately. The CM model for Shiseido's campaign is Ito Misaki for her big eyes impacting towards young women. After the CM was shown, many of these women asked who the singer was for the CM song. As a result of the high demand and request, the full recording will be released on 8-27. Kobayashi on the other hand was very shocked at the overall response, and he was very honored to have his song to be used in such a beautiful image of Shiseido's product. Picture of Misaki (left) and Katsura on right: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003082607.html, Shiseido's official homepage: http://www.shiseido.co.jp/PN/html/ 

SAS's Kuwata in "female dressing" second round in JAL  (8/22/2003)
Kuwata Keisuke (47) of Southern All Stars will be doing a cosplay in 7 forms for Japan Airline (JAL) International Route Campaign "Fly! JAL! umi no mukou he!" the second round, which will start showing on 8-23. Kuwata will be dressed as a stewardess and in many other costumes dancing in the Hawaiian beach dance. This comical CM shows Kuwata wanting to find a girlfriend, and then a girl appeared and danced her way down in mid-air. That woman has the same face as Kuwata. Picture of Kuwata dressed in CM: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003082210.html 

kazami sings for Fuji's "Taioku" theme song  (8/14/2003)
Although receiving a lot of criticisms for singing western song within a Fuji historical time-period drama "Taioku", high school female singer "kazami"
(17) received a lot of popularity among the female fans for the song that she sang "I Say A Little Prayer". This same song was sung by Alisa Franklin 
in 1968, and ever since kazami sang it, this hit song received the top three rank in Sony Music's cell phone melody requests last month. Most of the 
time, the song is played during the climax scene and at the end of the program.  Upon arrival of the final episode, the average viewers' rating so far 
is 14%. It is likely that her first album will be released in October.  Picture of a scene in "Taioku" (from left) Kannou Miho, Asano Yuuko in a 
historical time-period drama flowing with mismatching hit music: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003081404.html 

Yuuka's "super 3-D photo album" on-sale  (8/8/2003)
A special 3-D made photo album of Yuuka called "chou rittai Private View Yuuka Pure & Lure" and some trading cards "Visual 3D Photo Card Collection Yuuka" will be on sale. The photo album is on sale 9-26 while trading cards will be on sale 9-27. Yuuka Yuuka explained that the pictures are sort of like peeking at her, so she's kind of embarrassed about it. Starting at 3:30 p.m., Yuuka will be having a handshake event on 9-27 in front of Ginza's Fukuke Bookstore in Tokyo. Picture of Yuuka: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003080808.html 

Mizuno Miki and Odagiri Joe are together  (8/7/2003)
Actress Mizuno Miki (29) and actor Odagiri Joe (27) are dating each other since they first met each other last year's January's in Fuji's TV drama 
"shotaiken" together. According to reporters, they have just recently gone out with each other, and they have admitted their relationship. According 
to the 8-7 issue of "Josei Seven", Mizuno was spotted going in and out of Odagiri's apartment as well as parking her motorcycle there. When the two 
were in the drama "Shotaiken", they have to enter a love hotel and there was a bed scene. The two acted so real that they would be considered "couple". However, it was only recent that they revealed their relationship. Picture of "Shotaiken" at the production announcement event with Mizuno Miki (front left) and Odagiri Joe (right): http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003080703.html 

True horror, "Juon" breaks 1 million people even in Korea  (8/7/2003)
This year's Japan big smash hit "Juon" (directed by Shimizu Takashi) have not only been selected to develop as a Hollywood remake version, but the 
film also broke over 1 million viewers in Korea since 8-6-2003. The sequel will also open in Korea again close to the same time when Japan plans to 
show it. "Juon 2" will open on 8-23 in Japan while Korea will show it in early September. In terms of Japanese films, "Love Letter" directed by Iwai 
Junji broke over 1.2 million viewers, so "Juon" would be the second one to break the millions. "Juon" is not only a smash hit in Korea but in Hong 
Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan as well. The Hollywood remake version "The Juon" will be opening next summer. According to the director of "Spider Man", he also commented that "Juon 2" is scarier than part 1. Picture (top) of "Juon" with Okina Megumi, (bottom) is "Juon 2" which is scarier than part 1, lead by Sakai Noriko: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003080701.html 

Kannou Miho and Okada Yoshinori love love pic  (8/4/2003)
According to 8-4's issue of "Shukan Post", actress Kannou Miho (25) and actor Okada Yoshinori (26), who will be leading in the movie "aoi inazuma" (opens spring '04) were spotted together at a hot spring. A picture was taken of the two and Kannou's hair was wet. There were rumors about the two before, but they seem to be in "love-love" mode. However, Kannou denied because she claim to still going with SMAP's member Inagaki Goro. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003080404.html 

Nakama Yukie promotes for Department of Energy  (8/2/2003)
Actress Nakama Yukie (23) will be the spokesperson for the this "Summer's Department of Energy Campaign", and she visited several places within Tokyo Chiyoda District's Department of Business. Nakama appeared in a one-piece white dress signifying the cleaniness. Nakama pointed out that she doesn't use air conditioner. She would rather open the windows and let the air in. Picture of Yukie promoting energy saving campaign for DOE: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200308/gt2003080207.html 

Director Miyazaki Hayao tries CD cover for the first time  (7/30/2003)
Well-known as the director of the big hit animated movie "Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi" (Spirited Away), Miyazaki Hayao will try to work on a CD cover for singer/actor Kamijyou Tsunehiko's (63) new album "Okasan no shashin" (on sale 7-30, Toshiba EMI) and contribute some original paintings to "House shokuhin" TV CM. On 7-29 in Tokyo Akasaka's Toshiba EMI album commemoration event, producer of Studio Ghibli said that he wish to win over Hamasaki Ayumi (in terms of album cover). http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003073012.html 

Kane shows up at movie "Pirates of Carribean" premier  (7/30/2003)
Actor Kane Kosugi (28) performed a wire-action during the premier film review for the movie "Pirates of the Carribean" at Nippon Budoukan, Tokyo on 8-29. Kane dressed up as a pirate holding a large sword swung down from a 20 meters 2nd floor down to the stage. About 7500 audience was there. Kane was insured with 100 million yen for the 40 seconds action scene. Kane satisfactorily said, "being a pirate is cool. Japan should become popular in this, too." Actress Makise Rie, a big fan of Jhonny Depp presented flowers to the producer and the director for the movie. However, she was disappointed that Depp did not come to Japan. Picture of Kane jumping down as pirate: 
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030729-0025.html 

X Japan's "illusional live" out in world  (7/28/2003)
The disbanded rock group "X-Japan" will release a DVD "Art of Life-1993. 12. 31 Tokyo Dome" (Columbia Records) as their "illusional live" on 9-24. This is the first time in the past 10 years they will release their live on a DVD. Throughout the DVDs, one can see the process of changes. For 
example, they have changed their bass player from Taiji to Heath; their band name from "X" to "X Japan"; Yoshiki's (37) hyper drum and the late hide's exciting guitar solo. The first press edition will be priced at 10,000 yen while the regular version will be 3800 yen. 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003072802.html 

Karasawa Toshiaki sings for PS2 game  (7/25/2003)
Actor Karasawa Toshiaki (40) will be singing a song for a PS2 gamesoft "Drag-On Dragoon" (on sale 9-11-2003). He will also voice act in the game. Game's official website: http://www.square-enix.co.jp/games/ps2/dod/, http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003072525.html 

Shimatani Hitomi sings national anthem at All Stars Game  (7/17/2003)
Singer Shimatani Hitomi (22) sang a solo of the national anthem before the second game in Pro-Baseball All Stars Game at Chiba's Marine Stadium on 7-16. Shimatani was dressed in a kimono, the second time since she wore it during the Coming of Adulthood Ceremony. Hitomi said, "I was so nervous that I didn't know what I was singing. In fact, I wasn't abel to sleep last night because today is such an important day." Hitomi also released her new song "Perseus" on the same day. She will start her first live tour in September. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071707.html 

Matsu Takako's new song came from Oda  (7/16/2003)
Actress/Singer Matsu Takako (26) will release her 8 months long new song "honto no kimochi" which is produced by singer/songwriter Oda Kazumasa (55). The coupling song will be "home~sweet home". Matsu will personally get trained by Oda, and she will perform this song this fall during her first live tour since debut 7 years ago. The live tour will start on 7-17 in Sapporo, and the second round will start in October. Starting 10-10 in Tokyo, she will be performing 19 lives in 18 locations throughout Japan. Although Matsu is taking a little break from acting now, she has not stopped for her activities until the year end as a singer. Her number 1 activity is to collaborate with Oda. The song is said to have Oda's "sound" in it. Oda said, "I don't know much about Matsu, but she sings really well."  Picture of Matsu Takako on single cover:
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071702.html 

Yuuka challenges voice acting, "I want everyone to come and see it." (7/14/2003)
Talent Yuuka (22) greeted at the Cine Libre Theatre in Ikebukuro District in celebrating the opening of the animated movie "boku on Songoku" (by Tezuka Osamu) where Yuuka will voice act for Songoku. Ex-Speed member Imai Eriko (19), Horikoshi Nori (21), and director Yoshimura Bunhiro also rushed to the event. Imai Eriko will sing the movie's theme song "Butterfly" and voice act for "Airin" in the movie. Imai said that she respects Yuuka very much. Picture of (start from left) Imai Eriko, Yuuka, Horikoshi Nori: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071405.html 

Yae sings "Final Fantasy" theme song  (7/12/2003)
Singer Kato Tokiko's (59) second daughter Yae (27), will be singing her new song "kazenone" (on sale 7-30) which will be used in the "Final Fantasy" popular game series "Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicle" (on sale 8-8-2003). Yae will also do the voice narration in the game. Picture of Yae's new single cover: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071204.html 

Begin's first movie location for "hoshisuna no shima watashi no shima"  (7/12/2003)
Okinawa Precture Ishitani Island born, the three men folk song group "Begin" participated in their first movie "hoshisuna no shima watashi no shima" 
on Taketomi Island. The movie will be showing next year in Spring. The three will act as the Island's Spirits who was rescued by a female teacher 
(Oota Tsukino) who went from Tokyo to the Island. The three members will be dressed in their Hawaiian clothes. They have also completed their new song for the movie "Yugafu-shima" (no date for release yet) in which they incorporated lyrics that blesses the island. According to Director Kita, 
his focus was to see the beauty of the island more than the war itself. The 6th series of new members from Morning Musume will also participate in 
the movie. These girls include Kamei Eri (14), Michitane Sayumi (13), and Tanaka Reina (13) as the main character's younger sister. Picture of (left) 
Morning Musume's members Michitane Sayumi, Kamei Eri, Tsuda Hiroshi, Oota Tsukino, BEGIN's Uechi Hitoshi, Hika Eishou, Shimabukuro Yuu: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071203.html 

A 5.6 meters Gundam appears at "Bandai Museum"  (7/11/2003)
With a length of 5.6 meters, "Gundam" appeared in "Bandai Museum" where many of the popular characters in generations, models, and toys made by Bandai are collected (Chiba Prefecture, Matsudo City). This large toy maker, Bandai Group have a total of 800 displays at the Museum. Displays include a statue of the first generation Gundam, which was a big boom back in Showa Year 50. The 2 meters long face is able to move and on is able to take picture standing on the hand. Some attractions include goods corner in which about 4,000 related goods are sold and "Cutie Honey" related character show. Within one year, about 700,000 would visit the museum. Picture of Gundam at the Museum: 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071114.html 

Able to chat with Aya on Yahoo! Chat  (7/10/2003)
Idol/Actress Ueto Aya (18) will be conducting a chat event for guests on the members limited chat program "Yahoo! Premium". Ueto encouraged people to ask any questions they want her to answer. Right now, Ueto is leading in her first TBS drama "hito natsu no Papa he" (Wed. @ 10 p.m.). Picture of Aya: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071010.html 

Kikukawa Rei and Kato Haruhiko's relationship denied  (7/10/2003)
According to the 7-10 issue of "Jousei Seven", actress Kikukawa Rei (25) and Kato Haruhiko (28) were going out with each other. Proven by an associate in the entertainment business, the two have been talking to each other over the phone about taking up a trip out of the country. Kikukawa's management group claimed that the rumors are false. The two just got to know each other as friends through a drama they did together. They ask the public to not listen to gossips. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003071009.html 

Kato Haruhiko voice acts for first time, "will beat Schwarz!"  (7/8/2003)
Actor Kato Haruhiko (28) for his first time will be voice acting in the Disney animated movie "Treasure Planet" (opens 7-12, produced by Buena Vista). Kato will be voice act for Jim, the main character in the story. Kato said, "me and Jim are very alike where we cause our mothers a lot of troubles while chasing after our dreams..." "Treasure Planet" will be playing on the same day as Arnold Schwarzenegger's "Terminator 3", Kato responded, "I may not have the physical power as him, but we'll find out who wins in the movie." Picture of Kato voice acting for "Jim":
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003070813.html 

Chage & Aska countdown live in Sapporo for New Year's Eve (7/8/2003)
At the end of this year, popular duo Chage & Aska will perform their countdown live on New Year's Eve at Sapporo Dome. This live is performed to celebrate their unity for the 25th year. They celebrated their 20th anniversary at Fukuoka during the New Year live, so this is the 2nd time for them to celebrate New Year's Live. Chage & Aska was born in Fukuoka, but they went to middle and high school in Hokkaido. As a result, they chose Sapporo Dome because Hokkaido is like their second hometown. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200307/gt2003070807.html 

Southern blows after 2.5 years  (6/29/2003)
After two and a half years, Southern All Stars began their activities again beginning with Fuji TV's "FNS 27 hours TV minna no uta"'s one corner "Kuwata Keisuke's Music Tora-san~Music Tiger~". Other than one member of the group Nozawa Hideyuki (48) who has problem with his waist, all members of Southern All Stars performed on a huge stage in front of a national treasure spot "Iza Kamakura" temple in Kamakura City, Shinagawa. Next to the temple is Kuwata's old high school, Kamakura Gakuen Kou. Kuwata commented that it was his dream to be able to have a live there. He also promoted their new single "namida no umi de dakaretai~Sea of Love~" which will be used in Takizawa Hideaki's leading Fuji drama "Boku dake no Madonna." They sang 13 songs including "Hotel Pacific". Kuwata on stage: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003062902.html 

Mizuki Arisa very nervous as she debuts for Paris Collection  (6/18/2003)
Actress Mizuki Arisa (26) will be participating in the "2003/4 Fall & Winter Paris Haute Couture Collection" (on 7-8 in Paris City), announced at meeting in "Katsura Yumi Bridal House" on 6-17. On this day, Arisa was wearing a black dress designed by Katsura Yumi. Arisa was really happy because Katsura made the dress just fit for her. The dress she was wearing costs 1.8 million yen, but she also tried on a 2 million yen dress as well. As a model-born Arisa, she has experience working in shows in the country but never outside Japan. Arisa expressed that she is very nervous, afterall, Paris has the biggest collection worldwide. Picture of Arisa in a black dress designed by Katsura Yumi: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003061806.html, http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030617-0030.html 

Pictures taken with cell phone digi-cam of popular "Kuu-chan"  (6/16/2003)
The guest for a consumer marketing CM, "Kuu-chan" a Chihuahua appeared at Shibuya's newly opened "Harajuku primode Jinjya" for their opening celebration event. At the location, there are six "primode" (short for "Print Mode") stations where consumers can develop "sticker pictures" right away from their cellular phone's digital camera, a really popular fad nowadays in Japan. Picture of consumers taking digital pictures of "Kuu-chan":
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003061612.html *Services are only available to certain cell phone models such as J-Phone, DoCoMo, au, etc. A sample of the process can be seen here: http://www.primode.info/info_zone/what_prm/

Southern All Stars become image character for JAL international line  (6/13/2003)
Popular band "Southern All Stars" will be Japan Airline Group's image character starting this summer as part of their International Campaign. Due to the low number of travelers internationally impacted by SARS virus, JAL hopes to use popular image characters to promote more travelling. "SAS" will also sing their new song "ame agari ni mouichidou kiss wo shite" for the TV CM starting on 6-14. For passengers traveling the international line, 
SAS will randomly select to give away SAS modeled characters and T-shirts.  If lucky, one might also get invited to their concert. 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003061318.html 

Hajime Chitose live at "place of memory" felt embarrassed  (6/13/2003)
Singer Hajime Chitose (24) held a mini live in front a Ginza CD shop called "HMV Kazuyoriya bashi". After Hajime came to Tokyo in hopes of being a singer, she has worked at the store for about a year and a half here. She remembered, "I became interested in many different kinds of music after working and listening to the CDs at this store." So for this Amami-born princess, this place is her "starting point." At the live, she performed 
her newly released single "sen no yoru to sen no hiru". At the live, Hajime commented, "I'm really happy to perform the live at this store, but it's 
embarrasing for me to see the people I know." She also remembered, "When Utada Hikaru was releasing her CD, there were endless customers coming in, and I was at the register the whole day. I worked the most at that time."  Picture of the princess who came from punching the register, back to "original starting point" and performing a live: http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003061311.html 

"Astroboy Tetsuude Atom" will show all over U.S. on TV  (6/11/2003)
According to Sony Pictures Entertainment and Tezuka Production, the new animation "Astroboy Tetsuude Atom" that started this Spring in Japan on TV will also be showing early next year in the U.S. on TV. All associated products such as characters, stationeries, production, making, and others known as America's "Atom Business" will also make its way to the U.S, starting with Sony in New York on 6-10. About 50 stores have signed the contracts for related products. After Sony's "Spiderman", "Atom" will surely hit American's market. TV wise, under America's entertainment biggest media AOL Time Warner's "umbrella cooperation" Kids WB, all 26 episodes will be shown. This is the third time "Atom" has approached America's TV. The first time was in 1963's black and white version made by the Japanese animation.  The color version started showing in the 80's.  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003061118.html 

SMAP's Tsuyoshi debates in Korean with South Korea's president  (6/5/2003)
SMAP's Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (28) conducted a live talk in Korean with South Korea's President Roh Mu-Hyon, which was broadcasted on TBS's "houdou tokushuu Special hyakunin hyakun-netsu 'Kankoku No Mu-Hyon daitouryou to honne de chokusetsu taiwa". Kusanagi, well-known in the entertainment world to speak Korean was able to conduct a debate with President Roh about the future between Japan and Korea. The theme is based on politics, culture, sports, and the unfortunate history between the two countries. 100 citizens of Japan will be selected to ask President Roh questions while Kusanagi will translate on behalf of them. Kusanagi's potential to speak Korean were evident in his performances for Fuji TV's "Chonan Kan"'s program "Chonmaru book" where he teaches Korean in a lesson book format as well as making a CD debut in music and variety shows, and drama. Kusanagi was chosen because he is a good representative for the young generations of Japanese. According to the Korean government, Kusanagi was "greatly welcomed". Kusanagi also revealed that he started to learn Korean three years ago when he was shooting the 
big-hit-in-Japan Korean movie "Shuri". He said that the lead character played by actor Han Sokkyu (38) was very similar to him, so he studied hard 
to be like him. As a result, he started studying Korean. In "Chonan Kan", he used all Korean to speak in the program. He visited Korea many times 
and even performed live on the streets. Kusanagi wishe to see Han in Seoul again.  In addition to Kusanagi's special program, Korean singer BoA was also invited to a dinner event invited by Japan's Prime Minister, Koizumi Junichiro.  BoA was scheduled to sing her hit song at the dinner, which she recalled, "I was so happy to be called to such a meaning event". The theme song singer for Japan's world-hit animated movie "Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi" (Spirited Away), Kimura Yumi also attended the dinner event.  http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003060502.html , 
http://www.nikkansports.com/ns/entertainment/f-et-tp0-030605-0012.html 

Popular game "Devil May Cry" will play in theatre  (6/4/2003)
According to Capcom, the gamesoft companying hosting popular games such as "Devil May Cry" and "Onimusha" has gained approval and rights to cooperate with Hollywood and Gyager Communications (Tokyo) to produce a movie based on "Devil May Cry". It's not an animated movie, but with actual actors in it. "DMC" is based on the main character, who is a product of a devil father and a human mother. He is out to control and tame the evil devils. This popular game has already sold 4.27 million copies worldwide. Gyager will start the production in 2005 with 5 billion yen in mind for planning and production for this movie. The same company is also planning to release "Onimusha" as a movie. 
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200306/gt2003060323.html

Kimutaku V4, Ayu first time #1 in CM popularity  (5/23/2003)
According to the general research facility on CMs, they conducted a research between April 2002 through March 2003 with 1500 people. Their personal surveys showed the following result for Year 2002 the CM popularity. In "Talents Popularity in CM" category (in general), SMAP ranked #1 for the 6th year in a row. For the "Male Talents Popularity in CM" category, SMAP's Kimura Takuya ranked #1 again for the 4th time in a row. For the "Female Talents Popularity in CM" category, Hamasaki Ayumi ranked #1 for the first time, mostly based on the Santory Canned Coffee "Boss". Survey results said that it's because Ayu has a comical facial expression, so overall the CM remained #1 for 4 months out of 12.
In the "Male.." category, Kimura Takuya's representative CM was Fujitsu's Personal Computer "FMV Series". The new CM series will be on-air starting 5-24.
Year 2002 Talent CM Popularity Rank (General)
Rank Talent/Representative CM
1 SMAP/NTT
2 Kimura Takuya/Fujitsu FMV
3 Hamasaki Ayumi/Santory Boss
4 Nakai Masahiro/Lotto 6
5 Kigi Kirin/Fuji Color Print
6 Katori Shingo/Kirin Ichiban asari
7 Kusanagi Tsuyoshi/Yamasa konbu ponzu
8 NOVA/Usagi NOVA
9 Honda Ayako/Eiffel
10 Shimizu Shogo/Eiffel
http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200305/gt2003052301.html