On May 17, it was announced that Travis Japan‘s beloved Brain Tiger Noel Kawashima will officially be returning to work, following a period of rest due to health concerns.
The agency shared the news via their official site, stating: “After a period of hiatus due to health reasons, Noel Kawashima will gradually begin resuming his activities as of May 17. This decision was made following discussions between Kawashima himself and the members of Travis Japan.”
In the video message released on their FC, the full seven-member group reunited on camera to share the news directly with fans.
Noel greeted the camera with a smile, announcing his return to activities as a member of Travis Japan, expressing his gratitude.
The members, clearly thrilled to have him back, immediately shifted into their signature group introduction as seven members for the first time in about six months:
“We are—Travis Japan!”
Though they playfully teased each other throughout the video, the message was clear: Travis Japan is officially back as seven, and the timing couldn’t feel more right. “Rather than calling it a return,” one member noted, “Noel had been on a break to rest. But he gained a lot from that time off—and now, the seven of us are back to move forward together.”
Fans wondering when they’ll see the full group live again don’t have to wait long. Travis Japan confirmed that their first concert with all seven members will be on June 7 at LaLa Arena Tokyo Bay, as part of the Travis Japan Concert Tour 2025 “VIIsual”.
The official statement also noted that preparations are now underway for Noel to appear on June 8, too.
Noel first announced his hiatus on December 2, 2024, citing a desire to prioritize his physical and mental well-being after careful consultation with the group, his agency, family, and medical professionals.
“There was a moment we thought we might have to go on with six,” they shared. “But now that we can show our full visual as seven again, we’re really glad. It’s the best possible timing.”
For Travis Japan FC members, they can purchase a livestream ticket happening the same day as Noel’s return, and it’s available on the FAMILY CLUB online website (Japanese site only) for just 700 yen! It’s a must-see livestream, and there won’t be an archive, so it’s even more precious!
“It’s not just a regular livestream,” they emphasized. “We’re planning to stream the actual concert with all seven of us performing together.”
This thoughtful approach highlights Travis Japan’s unwavering commitment to their fans, always prioritizing their experience. Rather than limiting the event to a mere performance or a guest appearance by Noel, they’ve ensured fans can enjoy the entire concert from the comfort of their homes. With many unable to attend this year’s concert due to overwhelming demand, and others opting out because of Noel’s absence, this livestream serves as a nice solution, allowing all fans to engage and savor the moment despite the distance.
The livestream also allows fans from overseas to watch the concert, provided that they have an FC and an account on the Japanese FAMILY CLUB online site.
Due to ongoing rehearsals and pacing Noel’s full return, the Hokkaido leg of the tour will still be performed by six members—but they promised to give it their all. “Please wait for us,” they said. “We’ll bring everything we’ve got.”
But that’s not all, updated 7-member versions of previously released songs are on the way too!
“All the songs we’ve performed as six will be reborn with seven,” they revealed. “It’s like everything feels new again!”
Fans have long imagined what these seven-member renditions would sound like with every song release. It’s not that the songs weren’t excellent with six members; rather, there was always a sense that something was incomplete yet complete.
After all, Travis Japan is, at its core, a seven-member group. Even when performing as six, the essence of seven remains woven into their identity, and fans feel this deeply. The opportunity to experience these songs in their full seven-member glory only reinforces the undeniable truth that TravisJapan will always embody the spirit of seven, enhancing the emotional connection and nostalgia for loyal fans.
They joked about the idea of “Noel solo versions” too, cue their chaotic nature of teasing and bantering. It’s Travis Japan at their best and most natural, and seeing all seven of them makes your heart feel complete again.
The members also reflected on how many fans brought uchiwas and signs for Noel at past concert stops for the tour, asking if he was okay.
“People were crying, worried, hoping he was doing well,” they said. “So now, being able to show him healthy and energetic again—it means the world.”
As the video neared its end, the group took a moment to get serious. Noel spoke directly to fans, his voice soft but sincere:
“This kind of atmosphere—it’s been so long. I think when I see you all again in person, I’ll feel even more at ease. I want to enjoy everything. Thank you so much.”
He went on to share how much he learned and absorbed during his hiatus, and how he hopes to give it all back to Travis Japan and the fans, “I caused a lot of worry over the past six months, but your support truly meant everything. I believe I can return the favor now.”
“We’ve been through a lot, but that’s exactly why we’ve become stronger. Let’s take that strength and give it back to the fans—and grow even bigger as Travis Japan. From now on, we’ll charge ahead seriously, sincerely… and while goofing off too!” In true Travis Japan style, leader Chaka encapsulated the news, emphasizing their unity and resistance since Noel’s break, before bringing it all home with their cherished “賛成!” This heartfelt conclusion reflected their deep bond and made it an emotional moment to witness them back together as a seven-member family again.
Travis Japan returns not just with a full lineup, but with renewed energy and gratitude. For fans old and new, June 7 marks the start of a powerful new chapter—one that promises joy, emotion, and seven hearts beating as one.
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