ab: Speaking of grabbing girls' hearts, your cool demeanour in "Tōken Ranbu" did just that!


Imari: In "Tōken Ranbu," there are many characters who, being Japanese swords, are brought to life as cute and handsome men. It's no doubt that more girls know about swords, the more they would be addicted to it. Being that they are famous swords, they have strong individuality, and the history surrounding the swords gives the characters depth, and so even men think, "That's cool." The heartrending fate of not being able to escape a troubled world, that doesn't exist in the present era, and so maybe there's that attraction, too.

ab: "Tōken Ranbu" is also popular abroad, isn't it!

Imari: When we were doing events in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and so on in China, I was surprised by the passion of the fans. They expressed their emotions more straightforwardly than Japanese people do. Frankly, I was delighted.

ab: Recently, you've been listening to a lot of Asian artists' songs, right?

Imari: Yes. I freely listen to music, without restrictions. Other than Hip Hop and R&B, which I've liked from the start, I got into K-POP a little while ago, and C-POP recently. I think they are doing some stylish compositions, and it give me inspiration.

ab: Mr Imari, you have extended antennas out to various places and grown from many angles. From here on out, we look forward to even more growth from you! Finally, please send a message to our asianbeat's domestic and international readers!


Imari: What I hope everyone pay more attention to is the details of the "made in Japan" contents. I think that the people involved in creating anime and games are amazing, indeed. On the breeding ground for the creation of these products, there is the politeness of the Japanese people. Actually, were you come to Japan and take a walk along its streets, I think you would definitely be surprised at the rubbish-less, clean streets, and the warm hospitality. Definitely, once, come and experience Japan!