STARTO Announces New Junior Group: Nao Oriyama, Takuya Nishimura, Koki Kuroda, Kosei Hiyama, and Wataru Vasayegh to Hold First Live as “Howzit”

by Shun, posted in News, Press, STARTO

On June 26, STARTO ENTERTAINMENT‘s official Junior website was updated following a maintenance period, announcing the formation of a new pre-debut group called “Howzit” (ハウジー / Haujii). An official group page was also launched alongside the revamped platform.

A group of five individuals dressed in stylish outfits, featuring a mix of formal and trendy designs, posed against a plain backdrop.

The unit consists of five performers: Nao Oriyama (22), Takuya Nishimura (23), Koki Kuroda (22), Kosei Hiyama (22), and Wataru Vasayegh (23). Nao, Koki, Kosei, and Wataru were originally part of Shonen Ninja, while Takuya belonged to Lil Kansai. The groups concluded their activities on November 30 and April 1, 2025, respectively, after which the members pursued individual activities.

Howzit is now the fourth Junior unit created since STARTO‘s major reorganization of its trainee division in February 2025 and the sixth active overall, joining ACEes, KEY TO LIT, B&ZAI, AmBitious, and Boys be.

A person wearing a black pinstriped suit and a black top, accessorized with pearl and jeweled necklaces, poses confidently against a light gray background.
Nao Oriyama
A young person wearing a stylish white jacket with black trim and gold buttons, standing against a plain background. The jacket has a decorative brooch, and the person is lightly touching their chest with one hand.
Takuya Nishimura
A young man with blonde hair wearing a light beige suit jacket over a patterned shirt, posing against a white background. He accessorizes with a necklace and a decorative pin on his jacket.
Koki Kuroda
A young person wearing a stylish white suit with sparkles, posing with hands clasped over their chest against a plain background.
Kosei Hiyama
A young person with dark, wavy hair wearing a stylish black jacket with gold buttons and a decorative brooch, posing against a neutral background.
Wataru Vasayegh
Graphic featuring the text 'Howzit 1st LIVE 2026' with a crown design and 'Nice to Me You' below, styled with decorative elements.

In addition, the title of their upcoming concert—previously announced as “Junior Tour 2026”—was also modified. “Howzit 1st LIVE 2026 NICE TO ME YOU” is set to run from August 8 through October 4, 2026, featuring 18 shows across three major cities in Japan. The schedule is as follows:

  • Tokyo – Kanadevia Hall
    • Aug. 8 (Sat): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 9 (Sun): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 10 (Mon): 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 11 (Tue): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 12 (Wed): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 14 (Fri): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 15 (Sat): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 16 (Sun): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
  • Osaka – COOL JAPAN PARK OSAKA WW Hall
    • Aug. 27 (Thu): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 28 (Fri): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 29 (Sat): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 30 (Sun): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Aug. 31 (Mon): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
  • Fukuoka – Canal City Center
    • Sept. 30 (Wed): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Oct. 1 (Thu): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Oct. 2 (Fri): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Oct. 3 (Sat): 1:00 PM / 5:30 PM
    • Oct. 4 (Sun): 12:00 PM / 4:30 PM
STARTO Juniors to Hold Major Concerts in 2026

While this announcement may surprise fans, these talented artists remain fully committed to their craft, reflecting their passion and dedication. As they begin this new chapter, they continue to value their supporters and aim to explore new creative directions, determined to deliver performances that inspire, uplift, and connect deeply with both fans and peers alike.

Check out the Juniors on their various social media platforms!

More Junior content on Dumpling Box

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