The magic of live performances lies not just in the music, lights, and choreography, but in the lives and stories of the performers who bring them to life. Behind every moment on stage are dreams that fuel their passion, memories that shaped their journey, and the rituals that prepare them to step into the spotlight.
Travis Japan is one of the groups Dumpling Box has followed closely for years, way before the site was born and active. One of the reasons why Travis Japan is so dear to the site is the bonds they have with each other and how they have been resilient in their pursuit of their dreams and passion.
The seven membersโKaito โChakaโ Miyachika, Kaito โUmiโ Nakamura, Ryuya โShimeโ Shimekake, Noel Kawashima, Shizuya โShizuโ Yoshizawa, Genta Matsuda, and Kaito “Machu” Matsukuraโ inspire and bring light to our lives, and show us that beyond their sparkling aura are seven humans. They’re seven individuals who have the same goal in mindโto share their entertainment with the world.
2024 has been a whirlwind of activities for Travis Japanโa nationwide tour starting in Yokohama, Tokyo, two singles (T.G.I. Friday Night & Sweetest Tune), RIDE ON TIME Documentary episodes, several drama and movie appearancesโincluding Genta Matsuda’s voice acting role as Taka in the Lion King: Mufasa movieโand not to mention, the WORLD TOUR that they successfully performed in Taipei, Hongkong, Bangkok, Seattle, Los Angeles and a final show in New York.
It’s just a handful of activities for the boys, and on top of that, while being on tour, they participated in various international interviews, allowing them to showcase and promote their hard work in English and their craft to the world like never before.
โAt the Tableโ is an article series for Dumpling Box that highlights and introduces various artists or group members through various insightsโartist-exclusive or fan-inclusive. This series allows for deep dives into the artistโs personality, work, and influence, creating an intimate and immersive experience for readers, as if they were at the table with you.
Dumpling Box had the chance to get some insight from a few members after their tour in America. We talked casually about their dream team, memories, routines, and insights.
Through the words of Genta, Shime, Machu, and Chaka, welcome them to the Dumpling Box table as we gain a deeper understanding of the connections, experiences, and philosophies that make each performance meaningful.
If you were given free rein to pick your favorite artists for the lineup, a lot would obviously choose the members of Travis Japan or their fellow agency mates to create their dream team.
These teams usually consist of members based on heavy bias (I would personally like to see a group performance with all my biases together, for example) rather than logic. Some might even think about skills and dynamics, but in the end, the fun lies in the endless possibilities when given the chance to create your ultimate lineup.
And logic doesn’t quite apply to Genta. Being the dreamer he is, and not letting any limitations or possibilities out, his vision of the dream lineup stretches beyond the boundaries of a typical concert. The topic of the ultimate lineup came up, and his response paints a vivid picture of celebration, creativity, and connection.
โIโd definitely keep the seven of us,โ he began, grounding his dream firmly in the bond he shares with his group. But from there, the vision expands into something extraordinary. โIโd also add in a lot of great people who have won awards and recognition. Also, we canโt forget our seniors and other artists active overseas, so in the end, it would be more like a big festival than a live show.โ
Gentaโs imaginary dream festival isnโt just about music; itโs a convergence of greatness across disciplines. He imagines a lineup featuring global superstars like Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars, icons of charisma and musical innovation.
But his dream also includes legends from the world of soccer, a sport he’s proficient himself inโLionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Pelรฉ. These names add a unique layer to the festival, suggesting performances and collaborations that blend the energy of sports with the artistry of music.
โEveryone can have a dance performance or a dance competition, like a student assembly or field day,โ he said, his playful tone revealing the joy he finds in imagining such a spectacular gathering and imagining the icons hanging around Genta is such a joy, and a dream come true if it ever were to happen.
What sets Gentaโs vision apart is its personal touch. He doesnโt just envision stars on a stage; he includes the people who shaped him along the way. โAlso, teachers from our school days who were important to us,โ he added thoughtfully, showing a deep appreciation for the mentors and figures who have influenced his journey.
Itโs this mix of global icons, artistic peers, and personal connections that make Gentaโs dream festival feel both grand and intimate, something that Travis Japan has always managed to convey through their own concerts.
This imagined event is more than just a performanceโitโs a reflection of Gentaโs philosophy about life: Keep your dreams high in the sky, and efforts at your feetโ (ๅคขใฏ็ฉบ้ซใ ๅชๅใฏ่ถณๅ ใซ). By bringing together people from different walks of life, heโs celebrating not only talent but also the relationships and shared experiences that enrich our lives.
The inclusion of his group mates, teachers, and overseas artists further underscores the importance of recognizing those who have paved the way, while the playful twist of turning it into a โstudent assembly or field dayโ reminds us that even the loftiest dreams can be rooted in joy and fun.
His vision, though playful in its execution, carries a profound message: the most meaningful performances are those that bring people together, creating moments that last forever. For Genta, the dream isnโt just about whoโs performing; itโs about the stories, relationships, and joy that each person brings to the stage.
Through his words, we see not just an artist with big ideas but a person who values the connections that make those ideas possible, which is exactly what he himself as an idol brings to the stage every time.
With the successful world tour of theirs with stops in Seattle, Los Angeles, and the finale in New York, Travis Japan has not only done their first live tour in America, but they have also been the first group some international fans have had the honor of seeing in person.
Being a Japanese group with roots and main activities in Japan, it has been hard for international fans to attend concerts in Japan. With Travis Japan branching out as a global group, this has changed immensely, even if it is just a handful of cities outside Japan.
This significant achievement marks a milestone in their career, showcasing their immense talent and the growing popularity of J-pop across the globe.
Fans flocked to each venue, creating an electrifying atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation, as they eagerly awaited to witness their favorite performances live.
The band’s ability to connect with audiences through their captivating presence and unique sound has left an indelible impression, solidifying their status as a prominent force in the international music scene.
Of course, the boys themselves have also once experienced their first concert, first magical moment, and even the reason why they wanted to be an idol in the first place. For Shime, the memory of his first live concert is a defining moment that remains etched in his mind.
When asked about the experience, his face lights up with a blend of nostalgia and gratitude. โThe first live concert I ever went to was KAT-TUNโs pre-debut show,โ he shared, his tone filled with admiration for the group that marked the beginning of his journey into the world of live performances.
Growing up in the countryside, Shime wasnโt accustomed to the hustle and bustle of the city. The journey to Yokohama for the concert was, in itself, a transformative experience.
โAt the time, I lived out in the countryside and had never left my hometown, so going to Yokohama felt like stepping into a different world,โ he recalled. That feeling of stepping into the unknown, of being transported into a completely new environment, only amplified the wonder of the experience.
The energy of the city, combined with the excitement of his first live concert, created a memory that would stick with him foreverโwhich is something that many fans can also relate to as they have experienced it themselves.
The concert wasnโt just about the music; it was also about the connections he would later realize were being formed. โI vividly remember it being a lot of fun, and I also remember seeing faces Iโd get to know really well as I began my own career,โ he said, referencing the members of Kis-My-Ft2, A.B.C-Z, and even Taiga Kyomoto of SixTONES, all of whom were on stage that night.
For Shime, this wasnโt just a concert; it was a moment of foreshadowing, a glimpse into the paths that would later cross his own as he stepped into the world of entertainment.
Reflecting on the music that left the biggest impression, Shime immediately pointed to KAT-TUNโs Harukana Yakusoku. โThat song stood out to me the most,โ he shared, his voice tinged with emotion.
โIt wasnโt just the performance; it was the feeling behind it, the sense of promise and hope that stayed with me even after the concert ended.โ That sense of hopeโof something greater waiting just beyond the horizonโwould become a driving force in his own career.
Looking back, Shime recognizes how significant that moment was for him, not just as a fan but as someone who would later take the stage himself. โAt the time, I couldnโt have imagined where life would take me, but seeing them perform and being surrounded by that energy sparked something in me,โ he says.
Itโs clear that this first concert wasnโt just a fleeting memory; it was the beginning of a journey, a moment that shaped his perspective on what it means to perform and inspire others.
Through Shimeโs story, we see the power of live music to transform, to inspire, and to connect. His journey from being an awe-struck member of the audience to standing on stage himself is a testament to the profound impact that a single experience can have.
Behind every performer is a moment, a song, or a memory that set them on their pathโa spark that turned into a flame. Shimeโs reflections not only highlight his personal connection to his roots but also serve as an encouragement for others to pursue their dreams, no matter how distant they may seem.
As we get to see in the documentaries, making-of videos, and behind-the-scenes videos that the talents upload on their respective social media channels, the boys go to great lengths to prepare for the concerts, the stage, and the setlist.
The documentary RIDE ON TIME often takes us behind the scenes for the production of the work the boys do to ensure the entertainment we experience is the best of the best.
Not everything is smooth sailing, but sometimes the lead-up to any performance is often as unique as the performers themselves, and Machuโs pre-show routine is a testament to the personal rituals that ground him. At the heart of his preparation is an unexpected element: lymph massages.
Whether soaking in a bath, applying lotion, or slipping in a quick massage during an MC segment, this seemingly endless ritual is Machuโs way of focusing his energy.
Machuโs pre-show routine is nothing short of legendary within the group, blending meticulous preparation with a touch of humor that reflects his unique personality.
When we talked about how he prepares for a performance, he dives into the details with enthusiasm, as if every step is as vital as the performance itself. โBefore every show, I have a crazy routine,โ he began, his tone both serious and self-aware. โFirst, I do a lymph massage. Then I take a bath and do a lymph massage while relaxing in the water.โ
For Machu, preparation isnโt just about getting into the right headspaceโitโs a full-body experience, repeated at almost every stage of getting ready. โAfter the bath, I start my makeup routine. Before I even touch my makeup, I apply lotion andโof courseโdo another lymph massage,โ he added, laughing as he acknowledged the sheer number of times he worked this step into his process. โThen I change clothes andโyou guessed itโdo another lymph massage.โ
But his ritual isnโt a solitary act; it also involves his teammates, particularly Shizu. โBefore we take the stage, I ask Shizu to slap my back three times and slap my chest three times for a final burst of energy,โ he shared.
โItโs like a jolt of electricityโit helps me feel grounded and ready to give everything Iโve got.โ For Machu, this moment of connection with Shizu is more than just a quirky habit; itโs a way to harness the collective energy of the group and carry it onto the stage.
Even during the show, Machu finds ways to sneak in his trademark lymph massage. โBefore the lights go down, I do one last massage, and if I can, I try to sneak in another one during the MC segment,โ he said with a grin. โItโs become a bit of a game for meโnext time you come to our show, see if you can spot me doing it!โ
The playful nature of this challenge reveals Machuโs ability to find joy and humor in even the most intense moments, making his preparation as entertaining as the performance itself. When in doubt: follow Machu’s lead and do lymph massages.
Machuโs routine may sound eccentric, but beneath the humor lies a deeper philosophy.
โItโs not just a physical thing; itโs a way for me to center myself,โ he explained. โThe repetition helps calm my nerves and gives me a sense of control, even when everything around me is moving so fast.โ His process highlights the importance of finding what works for you, no matter how unconventional it may seem to others.
The layers of preparationโfrom the physical act of massaging to the symbolic slaps from Shizuโpaint a picture of a performer deeply attuned to his needs and rhythms. โEvery step of my routine has a purpose, even if it sounds ridiculous,โ he said. โItโs about taking care of myself so that when I step on that stage, I can give the audience everything Iโve got.โ
Machuโs dedication to his routine is a reminder that every performer has their own way of finding balance before stepping into the spotlight. For him, the mix of discipline, self-care, and camaraderie ensures heโs not only physically ready but also mentally and emotionally prepared to connect with the audience.
With several tours under their belt, Travis Japan are no strangers to going to different cities to perform. Seasoned veterans in their field, yet newcomers as their debut was only two years ago. Various artist go about their tour in different ways, and no one is the same.
Chakaโs approach to touring is rooted in thoughtfulness and gratitude, reflecting his deep respect for the craft and the people who make it possible. When we asked if he had any advice for being on tour, he began with characteristic humility. โIt feels a bit strange giving advice when weโre still learning ourselves,โ he said with a modest laugh. โBut there are a few things that have really worked for us, and I think theyโre worth sharing.โ
At the core of Chakaโs philosophy is a dedication to the fans. โFrom the very beginning of planning to the moment we step on stage, we focus on what our fans want and hope to experience,โ he explained. โTheyโre the reason weโre here, and keeping their expectations in mind helps guide every decision we make.โ
Itโs not just about entertaining; itโs about creating an experience that resonates with those who have supported them, and it’s clear he speaks not just for himself but for the whole group, and fellow agency talents too about this.
โWhen you think about the fans, the answers to so many questions become clear,โ he added, emphasizing how this mindset shapes everything from setlists to performance details.
Equally important to him is the sense of teamwork and trust in those who work behind the scenes. โEven if youโre doing a solo project, thereโs always a team of people working tirelessly to make it happen,โ he says. โWeโre lucky to have such an amazing team that supports us, and trusting their expertise is crucial.โ
He highlighted how this collaboration extends beyond the immediate group, creating a network of support that helps them thrive. โItโs easy to get caught up in trying to do everything yourself, but learning to lean on others can make all the difference.โ
Chakaโs advice also includes a reminder to prioritize health and well-being. โWhen youโre on tour, itโs easy to get so busy that you forget to eat properly or cut down on sleep to keep up,โ he says. โBut if youโre not taking care of yourself, how can you give the fans your best performance?โ
Maintaining balance is essential, even when the demands of touring seem endless. โSometimes, just stepping back and asking yourself what you needโwhether itโs a proper meal, some rest, or even just a moment to breatheโcan make a huge difference,โ he shared.
Above all, Chaka stresses the importance of gratitude. โNothing in this industry is guaranteed,โ he reflected. โThereโs no formula for success, and every opportunity we have is thanks to so many people and circumstances coming together.โ
For him, this mindset of appreciation isnโt just about looking back but also about moving forward with intention.
โWhen you remember everything and everyone that has helped you get here, it gives you the strength to keep going,โ he says, his voice filled with sincerity.
Chakaโs insights reveal a thoughtful and grounded perspective on what it means to be an artist on tour. His emphasis on fan connection, teamwork, personal care, and gratitude offers a blueprint not just for surviving the challenges of touring but for thriving within them.
โAt the end of the day, itโs about more than just the performance,โ he says. โItโs about the peopleโthe fans, the team, and everyone who makes it all possible. Thatโs what keeps us going.โ Through his words, he reminds us that success isnโt measured by applause alone; itโs found in the relationships, lessons, and moments of connection that make the journey worthwhile.
Together, these reflections offer a glimpse into the heart of the live performances that we have come to love by the talented seven members of Travis Japan. Gentaโs expansive imagination, Shimeโs nostalgic beginnings, Machuโs eccentric routines, and Chakaโs thoughtful wisdom reveal the many facets of what it means to bring art to life on stage.
What entertainment means to them and what they want the world to take away from seeing them on stage.
It’s clear that what Travis Japan brought to the table is more than just sheer talent; they introduced a unique blend of dynamic creativity and infectious energy that captivated audiences. They’re paving a new path with their take on J-Pop with Neo-J-Pop with their innovative choreography and compelling stage presence.
The group has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance art, and their dedication to their craft is evident not only in their music but also in the way they engage with their fans, fostering a sense of community and connection that transcends mere entertainment.
Each performance becomes an immersive experience, showcasing their versatility and passion, proving that they are not just entertainers and artists, but at heart, they’re just like anyone else.
Their stories remind us that the magic of a live show isnโt confined to the moments we seeโit begins with dreams, continues through preparation, and lives on in the connections formed between performer and audience. Through their words, we see not just the performers but the humanity that fuels their art, making every performance a shared journey.
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Photo assets ยฉ STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.