There’s something deeply comforting about watching people you admire simply exist—away from bright lights, busy schedules, and the pressure to perform. That’s the quiet magic of 旅する Snow Man (Traveling with Snow Man), the group’s latest docuseries now streaming exclusively on Disney+.
Released to mark the fifth anniversary since their debut, Traveling with Snow Man offers a softer, slower look at the nine-member J-pop group that’s captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Rather than stages and spotlights, this time we follow them through ten breathtaking locations across their home country, Japan.
It’s not about being idols—it’s about being human.
Episode one begins with group leader Hikaru Iwamoto (岩本照) arriving first to discover the adorable TABI—a snowman-shaped AI travel companion created just for this series waiting to greet him. As he plays with the device, an interview shot for the series begins to play, talking about the group, his feelings, and different things he wants to do. Soon, the other members arrive, and Hikaru reveals the theme for the journey ahead:
“One for Snow Man, Snow Man for One.”
The adventure begins in Okinawa, with sunlight filtering through palm fronds and ocean air curling around every frame.
Their first destination is Hoshinoya Okinawa, a quiet resort tucked along the Yomitan coastline. Soft waves, winding paths, and wide skies. Daisuke Sakuma (佐久間 大介) comments that it feels like stepping into the world of Totoro (from the Studio Ghibli masterpiece)—and honestly, he couldn’t have said it better.
Nothing much “happens,” in the episode, but that’s the point. They wander along the beach, and following TABI’s recommendations go shopping for the perfect beachfront BBQ. They talk about snacks and the sea and just simply enjoy one another’s company. My favorite moment of the episode is when the cameras caught Shota Watanabe (渡辺翔太), crouched on a rock, completely entranced by the water, as the others gently laugh at his daze.
There’s no urgency. No big reveal. Just a quiet kind of presence. It’s incredibly sweet.
During the interview, Hikaru mentions that no matter where they are in Japan, he always makes time to visit a local shrine. Watching him quietly offer his respects—hands pressed together, eyes closed—moved me more than I expected. Shrines are everywhere in Japan, tucked into neighborhoods and nestled in forests, but there’s something undeniably magical about them. Seeing that small ritual, so personal and sincere, just made him feel all the more human to me.
While Hikaru loves the shrines, Tatsuya Fukazawa (深澤辰哉) has his own tradition of visiting a good hotpot restaurant – and he wants to try one on every stop of this journey. As a foodie myself, I can’t wait to see the different places he tries, and will hopefully be able to visit one or two myself when I’m in Japan next.
Again, the simple sincerity of Traveling with Snow Man is what I think makes the series so enjoyable. We’re not watching idols light up the stage, we’re watching nine best friends light up one another’s world. It’s an invitation. To slow down. To appreciate those moments in-between the chaos of work, and to remember that joy doesn’t always need to be loud. Sometimes, it’s enough just to be together.
As a bonus surprise, Snow Man’s “Ready Go Round”—originally featured on their 2023 album i DO ME—has been released digitally for the first time, taking on new life as the official theme for the series.
It is a vibrant anthem that pulses with the spirit of friendship, resilience, and forward momentum, capturing the hearts of fans with its infectious energy and heartfelt message. With the streaming release, it’s sparking renewed excitement and appreciation among listeners. Fans describe it as a track that feels like a warm embrace from old friends, evoking memories of carefree days while inspiring hope for the future. A perfect fit for the refreshing summer vibe with its upbeat rhythm and positive undertones, and it aligns seamlessly with the group’s adventurous journey across Japan’s landscapes.
“Ready Go Round” captures Snow Man’s signature blend of polish and relatability, with its stylish yet accessible melody. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Snow Man’s world, “Ready Go Round” invites you to run toward tomorrow, hand in hand with those who matter most.
Each of the ten episodes highlights a different member and a different destination, offering a quiet glimpse into both their travels and their bond.
I hope you find as much joy in Traveling with Snow Man as I did.
More Snow Man on SNS!
Instagram | TikTok | Genius Community Profile | Weibo (Chinese) | X (Japanese only)
More Snow Man on Dumpling Box
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.