Based on the original live report written by Sabina posted on Genius.
STARTO concerts are undoubtedly one of the most wonderful things to attend and experience, and Naniwa Danshi has always been on my list of groups I wanted to see live one day.
This day came true sooner than I expected with their tour coinciding with the tour of 7 MEN Samurai and Ae! group, and the stars aligned and I found myself challenging the Japanese summer heat outside Yokohama Arena. The seven-member group with their fresh and sparkly image was soon going to blow my mind with their excellent show and stage presence.
Around me, the anticipation was almost palpable. Thousands of fans, Nanifams as Naniwa Danshi’s fans proudly call themselves, gathered outside the venue and held their uchiwas and finger dolls on display to immortalize through photographs.
Thereโs something special about being part of this crowd, united by our love for Naniwa Danshi. At every corner, fans take photos of their goods, themselves, or the venues to create everlasting memories.
This wasnโt just a concert; it was an event we had all been eagerly waiting for, an invitation to step into a universe where Naniwa Danshi shines brightest.
There’s something magical about the moments right before the concert starts. The air is thick with excitement and all the fans’ voices echo in the arena, a murmur that soon explodes into an explosion of cheers as the lights dimmed and the first notes of Vivaldiโs Spring began to play, woven seamlessly with modern pop beats.
We were being pulled into a black hole, and the journey had only just begun. The introductory VTR mixed classical elegance with the youthful, vibrant charm that defines Naniwa Danshi, and when the boys finally appeared on stage in their glittering constellation-inspired costumes, the arena erupted into cheers that could be felt deep in your chest.
The opening number, NEW CLASSIC, set the perfect tone for the night. The blend of classical and modern music was a brilliant metaphor for the group itselfโtimeless, yet sparkling with fresh energy. Their smiles lit up the arena, and it was impossible not to feel that surge of joy spreading through the crowd. Each movement, each note, felt like an invitation to join them on this intergalactic adventure.
From there, the energy continued to build with songs that perfectly encapsulated the pure joy of performing. The boys let loose, showing off their sharp choreography and infectious smiles. It was as if the only thing sparkling brighter than their costumes was their happiness. Watching them perform was like watching stars dance across the night skyโcaptivating, effortless, and utterly mesmerizing.
Naniwa Danshi was shining brighter than I had ever imagined.
The seamless transitions between the songs had the entire arena waving their multicolored penlights in unison according to the beat, creating a visual spectacle that felt like a constellation coming to life. Watching these multi-colored lights paint the venue is one of my favorite sights, and every time I see it, I can’t help but be in awe. Each light represents a fan who loves Naniwa Danshi, and together with everyone else, we create a sea of stars for the boys to watch as they stand on the stage.
As the boys hyped up the crowd with call-and-response moments, it felt like we were all in this together. The carts came out, carrying the members through the crowd, ensuring that everyoneโno matter how far from the main stageโgot to feel the magic of seeing Naniwa Danshi closer. It was a reminder of the bond they share with their fans, one that is built on mutual love and excitement.
The energy was contagious, and it only intensified with Super Drivers!!, where the boys ran down the pathways, engaging with the audience at every turn. If thereโs one thing Naniwa Danshi excels at, itโs keeping the momentum going, and their boundless energy seemed endless. There were moments when the arena felt less like a concert and more like a party, with the boys embodying the playful chaos and radiating joy.
Naniwa Danshi has always been a fresh and bright group in my eyes and embodied what an idol is supposed to be. No matter what comes their way, they always bring a smile to your face. Above all, the happiness of their fans is their own happiness, and that’s clear in the way they perform.
The member introductions brought a personal touch to the night. As the penlights switched colors to match each member, the arena was bathed in a rainbow of lights, and the boys took turns speaking to us directly. The cheers that followed each introduction echoed long after they finished, a testament to how beloved Naniwa Danshi is.
Member Kazuya “Hassun” Ohashi had been absent from the earlier concerts due to illness but got back to the last two days of the Yokohama dates. He was greeted by everyone in the venue as we screamed “Welcome back!” at the top of our lungs. The green sea of penlights illuminated the arena and by the soft expression on Kazuya’s face, all our feelings reached him.
When I Wish played, the atmosphere softened into something sweet and tender. Their voices blended beautifully, singing about love and happiness in a way that made it impossible not to smile. Naniwa Danshi has a unique ability to make you feel like youโre wrapped in a warm embrace, and this song was the perfect example of that. They are everything you imagine an idol group to beโbright, joyful, and radiating positivism.
But the concert wasnโt all soft moments. A few of the highlights of the concerts were the unit songs from the album!
ใฆใซใชใซใฉใชใฉใช (Ururirurarirari) transported us into a psychedelic outer space party with Kyohei Takahashi, Kazuya, and Kento Nagao. It was, quite frankly, a wild tripโa bizarre, colorful burst of energy that left us all laughing and wondering what exactly we had just witnessed.
The song had been one of my favorite tracks from the album before the concert but nothing could have prepared me for the actual performance. The guys started the performance by hanging upside-down from bars and kept surprising us with various acts during the performance. It pulled you in with enthusiasm and definitely one of my favorite performances from the tour. Try saying the song title five times in a row without stumbling… because I cannot.
It was nonsensical in the best way, a reminder that Naniwa Danshi knows how to entertain on every level, from touching our hearts to completely invading our minds with pure joy.
ๆใใใฉใ (Koiyakedome) brought us back to earth with Daigo Nishihata and Ryusei “Ryuche” Onishiโs adorable duet. It was a love song that filled the entire arena with sweetness, their playful chemistry melting our hearts. You could feel the affection they poured into their performance, and by the end of the song, the entire audience was swooning.
During the whole performance, my heart was filled with joy and admiration. I couldn’t help but feel so proud of the two of them as they ran down the pathways, sending love to every fan they could. They embodied love and joy so much that I thought I was going to get sugar high.
One of the things I took with me from the duo is that they have perfected the art of stealing hearts.
When Precious One came, performed by Joichiro “Jo” Fujiwara and Shunsuke “Michi” Michieda, it was clear that this was a moment to treasure. The beginning was light and humorous as the crowd had very distinctive reactions to the two of them playing their respective instruments.
The performance highlighted a new side of Jo that I had not seen much of before, one that pulled on my heartstrings to the point of tears. There was something that spoke to my soul, and as their voices echoed in the arena I succumbed to the inevitable fate that Jo was, indeed, my favorite in the group.
We got to see Jo on harmonica and Michi on guitar togetherโit was raw, emotional, and intimate. Watching them play live, without any backing tracks, felt personal, almost as if they were sharing a piece of themselves with us. Even with a few off notes, the authenticity of the moment made it all the more special.
Before the concert, I had expected to finally conclude who my favorite was, and while I initially went into my first show as a casual Jo supporter (just look at him, he deserves all the love in the world!), I didn’t expect to fall this hard. I know there might be some people in my friend circle who already saw this coming but there’s no fun in me accepting new favorites right away, is there?
The little finger doll is my trusted companion everywhere I go now, protecting my keys, and interrupting me as I eat my meals. In exchange, I listen to him chatter.
Another highlight of the concert was the way Naniwa Danshi engaged their fans to participate and play along with the group. All of a sudden, a stork came delivering their small, adorable character dolls. It added a whimsical touch as we were led into โHappy Happy Birthday!!โ.
During this song, the members engaged in a lively contest to catch huge member-colored balloons emblazoned with their faces to claim the delicious cake prize that was waiting on the main stage.
These balloons were released into the arena audience and they all played with the balloons, throwing them between each other as the group ran around and performed.
On the main stage, a 10-meter-high setup of their mascot dolls emerged, impressively wowing everyone with the huge balloon versions. Daigo emerged victorious from their on-stage games, but the audience gave him a run for his money; being well engaged in trying to help their own favorite member win. Some members might have tried to engage in underhanded ways to prevent others from winning… (Yes, I am looking at you Joichiro Fujiwara)
After a lively MC segment, which was simultaneously livestreamed on YouTube, Naniwa Danshi shared the dual surprises of their upcoming Asia tour and that a portion of their discography, including the special edition tour album, was finally going to be available worldwide on all major streaming platforms.
Everyone in the arena erupted in surprised cheers and applause. For many, this step outside Japan has been a long-awaited dream come true. Naniwa Danshi was finally going to spread their wings even more and enchant the world.
With streaming being such an integral part of the daily life of fandom, knowing that the group is to be available for anyone on the go was exhilarating. Now, it was going to be even easier to listen to Naniwa Danshi, anywhere, anytime.
Before the livestream ended, the concert transitioned into ใณใคในใซใใซใช (Koisuru Hikari), the theme song for Ryusei’s starring movie We Donโt Know Love Yet. This song perfectly encapsulated the groupโs growth, mixing youthful energy with a mature edge, symbolizing their journey up until now.
As the show progressed, TOKYO AM1:00 shifted the tone, offering a more introspective moment. Bathed in warm, orange light, the boys delivered a performance that tugged at the heartstrings, showing their more vulnerable side. It was a beautiful contrast to the high-energy songs earlier, reminding us that behind all the glitter and glamor, Naniwa Danshi also has depth and emotion.
One of the most mesmerizing moments came during the block of ใใใตใใๆใใใใใๆบใใใใชใ (Afureta Koi ja, mou mitaseranai), Diary, and The Answer. Time seemed to stand still as they performed their synchronized choreography on the raised platforms, and the sheer beauty of the performance made it feel as though we were floating in a magical realm. Every movement was captivating, every note a piece of art. It was as if Naniwa Danshi had the power to stop time and let us live in that moment of perfection a little longer.
This block also featured one of the tour’s stage setup highlights, with the members using the platforms and LCD shields that came down from the ceiling to create an otherworldly atmosphere. I expected them to only use them to change outfits or disappear from the stage, but no. I was totally wrong.
The shields were incorporated into the performance impeccably, adding to the theme of outer space. It was absolutely magical and one of the highlights of the performance as it looked magical. It also made me feel that “yes, this is STARTO,” as every concert has some incredible stage prop or function that is unique to the tour and group.
One of my favorite songs from the album is Live in the moment, and like a true anthem call, the opening sequence of the song gave you chills and you could feel the whole arena join in singing. With fireworks and fire heating even the stands near the main stage, Naniwa Danshi truly showed us what it means to live in the moment. Blink and you miss it.
The group truly brings out the best of entertainment and itโs such a joy watching them on stage.
The night drew to a close with Alpha, the leading song of the tour, but it didnโt feel like the end. It was more of a promiseโa promise that this journey with Naniwa Danshi is only just beginning.
As the paper Polaroids of the members rained down on us like souvenirs from another galaxy, we waved goodbye to the boys who had taken us on an unforgettable adventure.
For those who weren’t able to get their hands on a photo, we were given one on our way out of the arena by the staff. Truly a great souvenir and memory to bring with you from a magical show.
The encore was nothing short of magical. The fans chanted, the group returned, and with Special Kiss, they sealed the night with a love anthem dedicated to us, their Nanifams. As they traveled through the arena one last time, it was clear just how much they cherished us.
Each smile, each wave, was a promise that the bond between them and their fans will only grow stronger, no matter how high they rise. We’re small planets in the orbit of the constellation that is Naniwa Danshi.
This +Alpha tour is more than just a concertโitโs the start of something extraordinary. Naniwa Danshi is the North Star for so many, guiding us into a future filled with love, joy, and endless possibilities. And as they embark on their Asia tour and release their music worldwide, itโs clear that this journey is far from over. Weโll continue to follow them, shining just as brightly as they do.
Stay seated more Naniwa Danshi coming your way!
Concert photography ยฉ STARTO ENTERTAINMENT.
I’m a huge fan of Jo from Japan! ๐ Reading this article made me so happy to see how much Jo is loved by people overseas. I also learned about Dumpling Box from this article, and I think itโs such an amazing initiative! Canโt wait to see more updates in the future! ๐
Thank you so much for reading! ๐ฅฐ It was truly an experience to see Naniwa Danshi live and Jo was so good ๐ฅบ๐ I hope to spread even more love in the future!