RIDE ON TIME Season 7: Meet the Newest Idol Groups on Netflix

The acclaimed documentary series “RIDE ON TIME”, known for its intimate portraits of idols behind the spotlight, returns for a highly anticipated Season 7. This new season will stream exclusively on Netflix worldwide¹ starting November 6, 2025, following last year’s Season 6, which marked the program’s move to the platform.

Since its debut on Fuji TV, RIDE ON TIME has chronicled the unseen struggles and triumphs of Japan’s leading idol groups. Season 7 turns its lens toward the three newest groups born within STARTO ENTERTAINMENT this year: ACEes, KEY TO LIT, and B&ZAI. Each brings their own challenges, identities, and visions to the stage, offering a fresh look at what it means to debut in today’s idol landscape.

ACEes – Running headfirst into the spotlight

Formed only two months before their first major challenge, ACEes (Hidaka Ukisho, Yuto Nasu, Ryuto Sakuma, Ryusei Fukada, Ryuga Sato) were tasked with nothing less than a nationwide arena tour across five cities and 250,000 fans. While their image leans toward the “orthodox idol” style, what was demanded of them was raw determination — gamushara energy.
From intense rehearsals to the final day of the tour, the cameras follow how each member searched for what they could contribute to the group within a limited timeframe, transforming nerves into conviction.

Five male idols posing together with raised arms and peace signs, showcasing their camaraderie and excitement for their upcoming performances.

KEY TO LIT – Searching for new expression through hardship

Just one month after their formation, KEY TO LIT (Read: Kiteretsu) (Taisho Iwasaki, Mizuki Inoue, Reia Nakamura, Soya Igari, Taiko Sasaki) faced an unexpected trial: an injury sustained by a member during a stage play. Even with smooth recovery, the earliest chance to stand on stage as five would be half a year later — placing them at the slowest start among the three groups.
Yet their vision remained clear: to create something never seen before. Each member, distinct in character and artistry, pushes to discover what happens when their five unique styles collide. The season dives into their creative battles and determination to craft a stage that exists only for them.

A group of five young male musicians posing closely together in a dramatic lighting setting, each displaying unique expressions and styles.

B&ZAI – Eight voices, one band

B&ZAI (Read: BandZAI) (Ryo Hashimoto, Rei Yabana, Taiki Konno, Rinne Sugeta, Katsuki Motodaka, Yujin Suzuki, Hoshiki Kawasaki, Michiharu Inaba) are an eight-member unit ranging in age from 19 to 27, with their strongest weapon being live band performance. Their appeal lies in their versatility: shifting from powerful rock to reimagined classics of their seniors.
With such varied backgrounds, discussion and collaboration are constant. While experienced members take the lead, every voice contributes ideas as they explore what defines their individuality as a group. The result is a stage only B&ZAI can deliver — one that blends musicality, personality, and band power.

A group of young male idols posing playfully together, dressed in matching light-colored t-shirts, in front of a decorated wall with musical notes and the text 'First Beat'.

Streaming schedule (Netflix Exclusive)

ACEes
- November 6, 2025 — Episodes 1 & 2
- November 13, 2025 — Episodes 3 & 4
B&ZAI
- November 20, 2025 — Episodes 1 & 2
- November 27, 2025 — Episodes 3, 4 & 5
KEY TO LIT
- December 4, 2025 — Episodes 1 & 2
- December 11, 2025 — Episodes 3 & 4

With RIDE ON TIME’s reputation for peeling back the curtain, Season 7 promises not only the glossy visuals of debuting groups but also the raw vulnerability, setbacks, and determination that define the first steps of an idol’s journey. For fans, it’s an invitation to witness history in the making — the birth of three new stories that may shape the next era of STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.