Do you know who the most popular celebrities are in Japan? Do you want to learn more about them? If so, this article is for you! In this article, you’ll find a list of Japan’s 50 most popular celebrities. You can learn about their lives, achievements, and what they’re up to now. Some are actors, and some are singers, but all of them have greatly impacted Japanese culture.
1. Hayao Miyazaki
| Hayao Miyazaki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Japanese Name | 宮崎 駿 |
| Birthdate | January 5, 1941 |
| Birthplace | Tokyo City, Empire of Japan |
| Other Names | Akitsu Saburō, Teruki Tsutomu |
| Alma Mater | Gakushuin University |
| Occupations | Animator, Filmmaker, Manga Artist |
| Years Active | 1963–present |
Hayao Miyazaki is a Japanese animator, director, producer, screenwriter, author, and manga artist born on January 5, 1941, in the Bunkyō ward of Tokyo, Miyazaki. He is considered one of the most skilled directors in animation history and a co-founder of Studio Ghibli. He has won praise for his skill as a master storyteller and as the creator of Japanese animated feature films.
2. Naomi Osaka
| Naomi Osaka | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Naomi Osaka |
| Birthdate | October 16, 1997 |
| Birthplace | Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Residence | Beverly Hills, California, U.S. |
| Height | 180 cm (5 ft 11 in) |
| Turned Pro | September 2013 |
| Plays | Right-handed (two-handed backhand) |
| Coach | Wim Fissette (2020–2022) |
| Prize Money | $21,177,252 |
| Career Titles | 7 |
| Highest Singles Ranking | No. 1 (January 28, 2019) |
| Current Singles Ranking | No. 429 (June 19, 2023) |
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | Australian Open: 2019, 2021 |
| French Open Best Result | 3rd Round (2016, 2018, 2019) |
| Wimbledon Best Result | 3rd Round (2017, 2018) |
| Olympic Games Best Result | 3rd Round (2020) |
| Doubles Career Record | 2–14 (12.5%) |
| Doubles Career Titles | 0 |
| Highest Doubles Ranking | No. 324 (April 3, 2017) |
| Grand Slam Doubles Results | Australian Open: 1st Round (2017) |
| Fed Cup Best Result | World Group II Play-Off (2018) |
| Hopman Cup Best Result | Round Robin (2018) |
Naomi Osaka is a Japanese tennis player born on October 16, 1997. She is the first Asian player to hold the No. 1 singles ranking in the world, according to the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). Osaka has won two Australian Open championships and two US Open crowns, making her a four-time Grand Slam singles champion. Two of her seven WTA Tour victories were at the Premier Mandatory level. Osaka won her first two major championships at the 2018 US Open and the 2019 Australian Open, which were held back-to-back. Since Serena Williams in 2015, she was the first woman to win consecutive major singles championships, and Jennifer Capriati in 2001 was the last.
3. Shinzō Abe
| Shinz Abe | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shinzō Abe |
| Official Portrait | Official portrait, 2012 |
| Prime Minister of Japan | In office: 26 December 2012 – 16 September 2020 |
| Monarchs | Akihito, Naruhito |
| Deputy | Tarō Asō |
| Preceded by | Yoshihiko Noda |
| Succeeded by | Yoshihide Suga |
| President of the Liberal Democratic Party | In office: 26 September 2012 – 14 September 2020 |
| Chief Cabinet Secretary | In office: 31 October 2005 – 26 September 2006 |
| Member of the House of Representatives from Yamaguchi | In office: 20 October 1996 – 8 July 2022 |
| Born | 21 September 1954, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan |
| Died | 8 July 2022 (aged 67), Kashihara, Nara, Japan |
| Manner of Death | Assassination |
| Political Party | Liberal Democratic, Seiwakai |
| Spouse | Akie Matsuzaki (m. 1987) |
| Parents | Shintaro Abe (father), Yoko Kishi (mother) |
| Relatives | Hironobu Abe (brother), Nobuo Kishi (brother), Kan Abe (grandfather), Nobusuke Kishi (grandfather), Eisaku Satō (great-uncle) |
| Alma Mater | Seikei University (BA), University of Southern California (no degree) |
| Awards | Padma Vibhushan (2021), Junior First Rank (posthumous, 2022), Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (posthumous, 2022), Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (posthumous, 2022) |
| Japanese Name | Kanji: 安倍 晋三, Kana: あべ しんぞう |
| Shinzo Abe’s Voice | Addressing the United States Congress (in English), Recorded 29 April 2015 |
Shinzo Abe was a Japanese politician who held the positions of Prime Minister of Japan and President of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) from 2006 to 2007 and 2012 to 2020. He was born on September 21, 1954, and died on July 8, 2022. He served as prime minister of Japan for the longest period. In addition, Abe worked under Junichiro Koizumi as Chief Cabinet Secretary from 2005 to 2006, and in 2012, he briefly led the opposition.
4. Ichiro Suzuki
| Ichiro Suzuki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ichiro Suzuki |
| Position | Right fielder |
| Born | October 22, 1973 (age 49) |
| Place of Birth | Nishikasugai-gun, Aichi Prefecture, Japan |
| Batting/Throwing | Batted: Left / Threw: Right |
| Professional Debut | NPB: July 11, 1992, for the Orix BlueWave |
| Last Appearance | NPB: October 13, 2000, for the Orix BlueWave |
| NPB Batting Average | .353 |
| NPB Hits | 1,278 |
| NPB Home Runs | 118 |
| NPB Runs Batted In | 529 |
| NPB Stolen Bases | 199 |
| MLB Batting Average | .311 |
| MLB Hits | 3,089 |
| MLB Home Runs | 117 |
| MLB Runs Batted In | 780 |
| MLB Stolen Bases | 509 |
| Teams | Orix BlueWave (1992–2000) |
| Career Highlights | 7× All-Star (NPB, 1994–2000) |
| and Awards | Japan Series champion (NPB, 1996) |
| Medals | World Baseball Classic |
| Additional Info | – First Japanese-born position player to be posted and signed to an MLB club. |
Ichiro Suzuki, also known simply as Ichiro, is a retired Japanese professional baseball outfielder who played the game for 28 seasons. He was born on October 22, 1973. He began playing baseball for the NPB’s Orix BlueWave for nine years before spending 14 years with the Major League Baseball’s Seattle Mariners (MLB). Suzuki spent the first 12 years of his MLB career with the Mariners before spending three seasons with the Miami Marlins and another two and a half with the New York Yankees. He spent his final two seasons with the Mariners once more.
5. Yuzuru Hanyu
| Yuzuru Hanyu | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Yuzuru Hanyu |
| Date of Birth | December 7, 1994 |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Figure Skater, Ice Show Producer |
Yuzuru Hanyu is a former competitive figure skater from Japan born on December 7, 1994. He has won two Olympic titles (2014, 2018), two World titles (2014, 2017), four Grand Prix Final titles (2013–2016), the 2020 Four Continents title, the 2010 World Junior title, the 2009–10 Junior Grand Prix Final title, and six consecutive Japanese national titles.
6. Kanako Momota
| Kanako Momota | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kanako Momota |
| Japanese Name | 百田 夏菜子 (Momota Kanako) |
| Birthdate | July 12, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan |
| Occupation | Singer, Actress |
| Group | Momoiro Clover Z |
| Leadership Role | Leader of Momoiro Clover Z |
| Voice Acting | Provided Japanese dub for Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (starting from Black Panther, 2018) |
| Accomplishment | Ranked 12th most popular Japanese idol in 2013 |
| Training | Rhythmic gymnastics and jazz dance since a young age |
| Talent Agency | Stardust Promotion |
| Debut | Joined unnamed idol group formed by Stardust Promotion |
| Group Leader | Became leader of the idol group |
| Performances | Lead performer for all Momoiro Clover Z songs |
| Performance Style | Incorporates ballet, gymnastics, and acrobatics |
| Television Appearance | Subhost of the Nippon Television show Meringue no Kimochi |
| Magazine Feature | Appeared on the covers of QuickJapan magazine with an interview |
Japanese singer and actress Kanako Momota was born on July 12, 1994. Stardust Promotion is her agent. The girl group Momoiro Clover Z, of which she is the leader, is best known for her. As of Black Panther, she has also provided the Japanese dub for Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Momota was listed by Nihon Keizai Shimbun as the 12th most well-liked Japanese idol of 2013.
7. Sora Tokui
| Sora Tokui | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sora Tokui |
| Birthdate | December 26, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Minamibōsō, Chiba, Japan |
| Occupation | Voice actress, singer, manga artist |
| Notable Works | Tantei Opera Milky Holmes, Love Live! |
| Group Memberships | Milky Holmes, Love Live! (μ’s, BiBi) |
| Manga Artist | Serialized in Otapoke magazine |
| Cosplay | Asuka Langley Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion |
| YouTuber Debut | March 2020 |
| Virtual YouTuber | Official avatar uploaded in late 2020 |
Sora Tokui was born on December 26, 1989 in Minamibs. She is a Japanese voice actor, musician, and manga artist. She made her voice acting debut in 2009 as Himemiya in Weiß Survive R.
She is a member of the vocal quartet Milky Holmes, founded by the four leading voice actors from the Tantei Opera Milky Holmes franchise. She belongs to the singing collective created by the nine principal voice actors in Love Live! Franchise, just like Nico Yazawa does. And has made singles available under the fictitious name of “s.”
8. Daiki Arioka
| Daiki Arioka | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daiki Arioka |
| Birthdate | April 15, 1991 |
| Birthplace | Chiba Prefecture, Japan |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, Actor, Tarento, Model |
| Years Active | 2001 – Present |
| Labels | Johnny & Associates, J Storm |
| Group Membership | Hey! Say! JUMP |
| Joined Johnny & Associates | June 2, 2003 |
| Notable Drama | Engine (2005) |
| Notable Drama | Sensei wa Erai! (2008) |
| Notable Drama | Scrap Teacher: Kyoushi Saisei (2008) |
Daiki Arioka, a member of the Japanese band Hey! Say! JUMP, a singer, actress, talent, and model, was born on April 15, 1991. His management is handled by Johnny & Associates. Along with the other Hey! Say! JUMP members Ryosuke Yamada, Yuto Nakajima, and Yuri Chinen appeared as Rin Takekura in the drama Sensei wa Erai! in October 2008.
9. Kamakari Kenta
| Kamakari Kenta | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kamakari Kenta |
| Birthdate | February 17, 1984 |
| Birthplace | Osaka Prefecture, Japan |
| Occupations | Actor, Voice Actor, Singer |
| Famous Role | Ryo Shishido in the Prince of Tennis Musicals |
| Hospitalization | April 21, 2007 – Unable to perform in Musical Air Gear vs. Bacchus Super Range Remix and Dream Live 4 Extra |
| Recovery | Completely recovered as of February 2008 |
| Band Involvement | Leader and Lead Vocals for Cocoa Otoko (2010 debut, disbanded again) |
Kenta Kamakari is a Japanese actor, voice actor, and singer born in Osaka Prefecture on February 17, 1984. He is most known for playing Ryo Shishido in the Prince of Tennis Musicals. He could not play Minami Itsuki in Musical Air Gear vs. Bacchus Super Range Remix and make an appearance in Dream Live 4 “Extra” because he was admitted to the hospital on April 21, 2007. He noted in his blog that as of February 2008, he had fully recovered and would resume working. He is the band’s leader and lead vocalist for the rock group Cocoa Otoko, which made its debut in 2010 but later split up.
10. Tatsuya Fujiwara
| Tatsuya Fujiwara | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tatsuya Fujiwara |
| Birthdate | May 15, 1982 (age 41) |
| Birthplace | Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Known For | Battle Royale, Death Note, Kaiji, Rurouni Kenshin, The Incite Mill |
| Spouse | Married |
| Height | 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Agent | Horipro |
| Films | Battle Royale, Death Note, Kaiji, Rurouni Kenshin, The Incite Mill |
| Theatrical Works | Collaborated with Yukio Ninagawa in theatre productions |
| Voice Dubbing | Voice dubbed for IRIS, playing Kim Hyun-jun played by Lee Byung-hun |
| Recognizability | Widely recognized Japanese star |
Japanese actor Tatsuya Fujiwara was born on May 15, 1982. His leading performances as Shuya Nanahara in the Battle Royale films, Light Yagami in the Death Note films, Kaiji It in the Kaiji films, and Rikuhiko Yuki in Hideo Nakata’s The Incite Mill have made him well-known internationally. He played Shishio Makoto in the live-action Rurouni Kenshin movies in 2014.
11. Ai Takahashi
| Ai Takahashi | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ai Takahashi |
| Birthdate | September 14, 1986 |
| Occupation | Singer, actress |
| Associated with | Hello! Project |
| Famous as | Former leader of Morning Musume and Hello! Project |
| Debut | Joined Morning Musume in 2001 as part of the fifth generation |
| Musical Genres | J-pop |
| Instrument | Vocals |
| Notable Works | “Mr. Moonlight: Ai no Big Band,” “Shiawase Beam! Suki Suki Beam!,” “The Manpower!!!” |
| Leadership | Became sub-leader of Morning Musume in 2007 and later became the group’s leader in the same year |
| Acting Career | Starred in musicals such as “Ribon no Kishi The Musical” and “Dance of the Vampires” |
| Graduation | Graduated from Morning Musume and Hello! Project in 2011 |
| Marriage | Engaged to Koji Abe in 2013, married on February 14, 2014 |
Ai Takahashi is a Japanese singer and actress once a member of the Hello! Project. She was most known for leading Morning Musume and the Hello! Project until 2011. She was formerly a part of the group’s well-liked subgroup Mini Moni. She made her group debut on the single “Mr. Moonlight: Ai no Big Band,” and their fourth studio album, 4th Ikimasshoi!, was her first full-length release with Morning Musume. She made her debut as a member of the Happy 7 group on the 2002 single “Shiawase Beam! Suki Suki Beam!” before joining the Hello! Project shuffling unit.
12. Toma Ikuta
| Toma Ikuta | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Toma Ikuta |
| Born | October 7, 1984 (age 38) |
| Birthplace | Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan |
| Other Names | Toma-chan, Tomasu |
| Occupations | Actor, Singer, Dancer |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Agent | Johnny & Associates Inc. |
| Spouse | Nana Seino (m. 2020) |
| Children | 1 |
| Known For | Hanazakari no Kimitachi e, Honey & Clover, Sensei!, Maō, Ouroboros |
| Notable Films | Hanamizuki, Ningen Shikkaku, Brain Man |
| Stage Performances | The Two Gentlemen of Verona, Grease |
| Other Dramas | Hachimitsu to Kuroba, Maō, Voice, Majo Saiban: The Witch Trial |
| Silver Screen Debut | Ningen Shikkaku (2010) |
| Notable Works | Bokura Ga Ita (live-action film) |
| Mobile Diary | J-web: Tomagoto |
| Published Works | Ikuta Toma no Ikita Kotoba (Toma Ikuta’s Words to Live By) |
| Marriage and Family | Married actress Nana Seino in 2020; welcomed their first child in 2022 |
Toma Ikuta, a Japanese actor, was born on October 7, 1984. Ikuta is well-known for his work in the films Ouroboros, Honey & Clover, Sensei!, Ma, and Hanazakari no Kimitachi e. Additionally, he has starred in other movies, including Hanamizuki, Ningen Shikkaku, and Brain Man. Ikuta appeared in Tokio’s music video for the song NaNaNa on July 27, 2010. Ikuta had an appearance on the documentary TV show Jnetsu Tairiku in 2010.
13. Akihito
| Akihito | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Akihito明仁 |
| Title | Emperor Emeritus of Japan |
| Reign | 7 January 1989 – 30 April 2019 |
| Enthronement | 12 November 1990 |
| Predecessor | Shōwa |
| Successor | Naruhito |
| Born | 23 December 1933 in Tokyo Imperial Palace, Japan |
| Spouse | Michiko Shōda (m. 1959) |
| Issue | Naruhito, Fumihito, Sayako Kuroda |
| Era Name | Heisei: 8 January 1989 – 30 April 2019 |
| House | Imperial House of Japan |
| Father | Emperor Shōwa |
| Mother | Empress Kōjun |
| Religion | Shinto |
| Abdication | Abdicated in 2019 |
| Title after Abdication | Emperor Emeritus (上皇, Jōkō) |
| Education | Attended Peers’ School and completed university education |
| Marriage | Married Michiko Shōda in 1959 |
| Official Visits | Made official visits to 37 countries and all 47 prefectures |
| Interest | Keen interest in natural life, conservation, history |
| Longevity | Longest-lived verifiable Japanese emperor in history |
| Political Role | Ceremonial role with limited political statements |
| Remorse | Issued statements of remorse for Japanese occupation |
| World War II | Evacuated from Tokyo during American firebombing raids |
| Visits to Memorials | Visited war memorials promoting peace and remembrance |
| Boycott | Boycotted Yasukuni Shrine due to enshrinement of war criminals |
| Grandson’s Birth | Celebrated the birth of Prince Hisahito |
Akihito, a member of the Imperial House of Japan, was born on December 23, 1933. He served as the country’s 125th emperor from January 7, 1989, until his abdication on April 30, 2019. He presided over the Heisei era, which represented the achievement of world peace. Emperor Shwa and Empress Kjun’s first child is Akihito. He relocated from Tokyo during the Second World War with his classmates and stayed in Nikk till 1945. Following the holding of his Coming-of-Age ceremony and investiture as crown prince, he started acting in that capacity in 1952.
14. Matsudaira Ken
| Matsudaira Ken | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matsudaira Ken |
| Birthdate | November 28, 1953 |
| Birthplace | Toyohashi, Aichi, Japan |
| Other Names | Matsuken |
| Occupation | Actor, Musician |
| Years Active | 1974 – Present |
| Height | 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Spouse(s) | Mao Daichi (1990–2004), Yuri Matsumoto (2005–2010) |
| Noteworthy Roles | – Tokugawa Yoshimune in “The Unfettered Shogun” series |
| Musical Career | – Released popular song “Matsuken Samba II” (マツケンサンバII) in 2004 |
| Filmography | – Played a similar role in “Kamen Rider OOO Wonderful” |
Japanese actor and musician Ken Matsudaira was born in Toyohashi, Aichi, on November 28, 1953. Sueshichi Suzuki is his real name. He started working for Shintaro Katsu’s production firm in 1974 and made his on-screen debut as a guest on the show Zatoichi. He played the title role, Tokugawa Yoshimune, for a quarter of a century in the television series The Unfettered Shogun. In Kamen Rider OOO Wonderful, he, too, had a similar duty.
15. Hideo Kojima
| Hideo Kojima | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hideo Kojima |
| Birthdate | August 24, 1963 |
| Birthplace | Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupations | Video game designer, writer, director, producer, podcaster |
| Years Active | 1986–present |
| Notable Work | Metal Gear, Snatcher, Policenauts, Zone of the Enders, Death Stranding |
| Founder of Kojima Productions | Established Kojima Productions and later became an independent studio |
| Game Development Journey | Hired by Konami and designed/wrote Metal Gear, shaping the stealth game genre |
| Success with Death Stranding | Released Death Stranding in 2019, the first game developed independently of Konami |
| Innovative Game Design | Known for introducing innovative gameplay elements in his titles |
| Regarded as an Auteur of Video Games | Recognized as a visionary and influential figure in the gaming industry |
| Cinematic Style | Applied cinematic storytelling techniques, creating immersive and cinematic gaming experiences |
| Evolution of Game Design | Contributed to the evolution of stealth games and graphic adventure games |
| Continued Success and Influence | Achieved critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following |
Hideo Kojima, a Japanese video game designer, director, producer, and writer, was born on August 24, 1963. He is considered a video game auteur. [2] He became deeply passionate about action/adventure books and films throughout his childhood and teens. Konami employed him in 1986, and it was for them that he conceived and wrote Metal Gear (1987), a game for the MSX2 that served as the inspiration for later stealth games and the Metal Gear series, two of his best-known and most well-liked creations.
16. Shigeru Miyamoto
| Shigeru Miyamoto | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shigeru Miyamoto |
| Birthdate | November 16, 1952 (age 70) |
| Birthplace | Sonobe, Kyoto, Japan |
| Occupation | Video game designer, producer, game director |
| Employer | Nintendo (1977–present) |
| Notable Works | Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Star Fox, Pikmin |
| Education | Kanazawa Municipal College of Industrial Arts |
| Achievements | AIAS Hall of Fame Award, BAFTA Fellowship, Person of Cultural Merit |
| Contributions | Creator of acclaimed and best-selling game franchises |
| Role | Representative Director at Nintendo, former General Manager of Nintendo EAD |
| Spouse | Yasuko Miyamoto |
| Children | 2 |
Japanese video game inventor, producer, and director Shigeru Miyamoto was born on November 16, 1952. He currently works as one of Nintendo’s representative directors. Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Star Fox, and Pikmin are just a few of the most well-known and successful game brands ever created by one of the most prolific and influential creators in the history of video games.
17. Haruki Murakami
| Haruki Murakami | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Haruki Murakami |
| Born | January 12, 1949 (age 74) |
| Birthplace | Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan |
| Occupation | Novelist, short-story writer, essayist, translator |
| Language | Japanese |
| Alma Mater | Waseda University |
| Genres | Fiction, Bildungsroman, picaresque |
| Notable Works | Norwegian Wood, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Kafka on the Shore, 1Q84 |
| Awards | Gunzo Prize for New Writers, World Fantasy Award, Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award, Franz Kafka Prize, Jerusalem Prize |
| Inspirations | Raymond Chandler, Kurt Vonnegut, Richard Brautigan |
| Influenced by | Kazuo Ishiguro, Cormac McCarthy, Dag Solstad |
| Additional Works | Short story collections, non-fiction works |
| Criticism | Polarizing among literary critics and the reading public |
| International Recognition | Bestsellers in Japan and internationally, translated into 50 languages, millions of copies sold outside Japan |
| Personal Interests | Marathon running, triathlon |
| Residences | Oiso, Kanagawa, Japan |
| Education | Drama at Waseda University |
| Major Novels | Norwegian Wood, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Kafka on the Shore, 1Q84 |
| Major Literary Award | Yomiuri Prize for The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle |
| Unique Writing Style | Blends realism, fantasy, science fiction, and crime fiction, known for use of magical realist elements |
| Major Themes | Collective trauma, war crimes, personal introspection |
| Translation and Translations | Actively involved in English translations of his works, encouraged adaptations to fit American reality |
| International Impact | Highly regarded by literary experts, considered one of the world’s greatest living novelists |
| Influence on Japanese Literature | Sometimes criticized as un-Japanese by literary establishment |
| Childhood and Background | Raised in Kobe, influenced by Western culture, extensive reading of European and American writers |
| Relationship | Married to Yoko |
| Running Inspiration | Started running at 33 years old, wrote about his running experiences in What I Talk About When I Talk About Running |
| Early Writing Career | Published first novel Hear the Wind Sing after working as a jazz bar owner, won literary contest |
| Trilogy of the Rat | Hear the Wind Sing, Pinball, 1973, A Wild Sheep Chase, Dance, Dance, Dance |
| Major Works in English | Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World, Norwegian Wood, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Kafka on the Shore, After Dark, 1Q84 |
| International Recognition | Mobbed at airports, lived abroad due to fame, writing fellowships at Princeton, Tufts, and Harvard universities |
Japanese author Haruki Murakami was born on January 12, 1949. His books have sold millions of copies outside of Japan and have been bestsellers domestically and abroad. His novels, essays, and short stories have been translated into 50 languages. He has won numerous honors for his writing, including the Franz Kafka Prize, the Jerusalem Prize, the World Fantasy Award, the Gunzou Prize for New Writers, and the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award.
18. Shohei Ohtani
| Shohei Ohtani | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shohei Ohtani |
| Nicknames | Shotime, The Unicorn |
| Date of Birth | July 5, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Ōshū, Iwate, Japan |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Angels |
| Positions | Pitcher / Designated hitter / Outfielder |
| MLB Debut | March 29, 2018, for the Los Angeles Angels |
| NPB Career | Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (2013–2017) |
| MLB Career | Los Angeles Angels (2018–present) |
| Career Highlights | – Japan Series champion (2016) – 5× NPB All-Star (2013–2017) – Pacific League MVP (2016) – 2× Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015–2016) – Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016) – Pacific League ERA leader (2015) – Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015) – 2× Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018) – WBSC Player of the Year (2015) – 3× MLB All-Star (2021–2023) – AL MVP (2021) – 2× All-MLB First Team (2021, 2022) – 2× All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2022) – AL Rookie of the Year (2018) – Silver Slugger Award (2021) – 2× Edgar Martínez Award (2021, 2022) – AL triples leader (2021) – Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award (2021) – Hit for the cycle on June 13, 2019 – AP Athlete of the Year (2021) – World Baseball Classic MVP (2023) – All-World Baseball Classic Team (2023) |
Shohei Ohtani, also known by his stage moniker “Shotime,” is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher, designated hitter, and outfielder who plays for the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball (MLB). He was born on July 5, 1994. Before joining the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, he competed in the Pacific League of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). The 2012 draft saw the Fighters choose Ohtani first overall. From 2013 until 2017, he was an outfielder and pitcher for the Fighters in the NPB.
19. Hiroyuki Sanada
| Hiroyuki Sanada | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hiroyuki Sanada |
| Birthdate | October 12, 1960 (age 62) |
| Birthplace | Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1965–present |
| Spouse | Satomi Tezuka (m. 1990; div. 1997) |
| Children | 2 |
| Japanese Name | 真田 広之 |
| Known For | Ninja in the Dragon’s Den, Ring, The Last Samurai, Mortal Kombat |
| Martial Arts Skills | Shorinji Kempo, Kyokushin kaikan karate |
| Major Film Appearances | The Last Samurai, Sunshine, 47 Ronin, Avengers: Endgame |
| Television | Recurring role on HBO series Westworld |
| Awards and Honors | Honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) |
| Albums and Singing Career | Released albums and singles tied to films and stage productions |
Hiroyuki Sanada is a Japanese-American actor and martial artist born on October 12, 1960. The roles of Genbu in Ninja in the Dragon’s Den (1982), Ryuji Takayama in Ring (1998), Seibei Iguchi in The Twilight Samurai (2002), Ujio in The Last Samurai (2003), Kenji in Rush Hour 3 (2007), and Scorpion in Mortal Kombat are among of his most well-known performances to audiences abroad (2021). Additionally, he received significant theatrical attention in the UK for his performance as “The Fool” in the Shakespearean drama King Lear. Sanada is well-known in Japan for both the songs he performed for the general public and the songs he recorded for the films he appeared in.
20. Honoka Miki
| Honoka Miki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Honoka Miki (formerly known as Honoka Yahagi) |
| Birthdate | March 7, 1997 |
| Birthplace | Chiba Prefecture, Japan |
| Occupations | Actress, Fashion Model, Voice Actress |
| Known For | Role of Kotoko Aihara in Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo and its sequel |
| Special Skills | Classical Ballet |
| Favorite Musical Group | NEWS and TVXQ |
Honoka Yahagi, formerly Honoka Miki, is a Japanese actress, fashion model, and voice actor. She was born on March 7, 1997, in Chiba Prefecture. Yahagi is most remembered for her performances as Kotoko Aihara and Kotoko Irie in the films Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo and Mischievous Kiss 2: Love in Okinawa. According to Yahagi’s blog, she changed her name from Honoka Miki to Honoka Yahagi in 2016 since she didn’t like it.
21. Tasuku Honjo
| Tasuku Honjo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tasuku Honjo |
| Date of Birth | January 27, 1942 |
| Birthplace | Kyoto, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Education | Kyoto University (BS, MD, PhD) |
| Known for | Identification of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) |
| Awards | Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (2018) |
| Scientific Career | Field: Molecular Immunology |
| Doctoral Advisor | Yasutomi Nishizuka |
| Notable Student | Shizuo Akira |
| Membership and Positions | Foreign Associate of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States |
| False Claims | During the COVID-19 pandemic, false claims about Honjo’s views on the origin of the virus circulated online |
Tasuku Honjo is a Japanese physician-scientist and immunologist born on January 27, 1942. He is well known for discovering the programmed cell death protein 1, for which he received the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (PD-1). He is also credited with the molecular characterization of the cytokines IL-4 and IL-5, as well as the identification of the enzyme activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), which is crucial for somatic hypermutation and class switch recombination.
22. Sky Brown
| Sky Brown | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sky Brown |
| Nationality | British-Japanese |
| Date of Birth | July 7, 2008 |
| Age | 15 |
| Birthplace | Miyazaki, Japan |
| Siblings | Older sister: Ocean Brown |
| Parents | Mother: Mieko (Japanese)Father: Stuart (British) |
| Residence | Miyazaki, Japan (spends half the year in the US) |
| Sport | Skateboarding, Surfing |
| Achievements | Youngest professional skateboarder in the world |
| Sponsorships | Nike (youngest Nike-sponsored athlete in the world) |
| Training and Coaching | Learns tricks from YouTube |
| Notable Events | Competed in the Vans US Open at the age of 8, youngest participant ever |
| Awards and Recognition | BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year 2021 |
| Other Interests | Surfing |
Sky Brown, a British-Japanese professional skateboarder and surfer who competes for Great Britain was born on July 7, 2008. She has won the American television competition Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and is the youngest professional skateboarder in the world. She represented Great Britain at the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she competed in the park event and took the bronze medal, becoming the nation’s youngest-ever medalist.
23. Koyuki
| Koyuki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Koyuki Kato (加藤 小雪, Katō Koyuki) |
| Stage Name | Koyuki |
| Profession | Japanese model and actress |
| Rise to Fame | Starred in the drama “Kimi wa Petto” with Jun Matsumoto and gained huge popularity |
| Notable Film | “Pulse” (2001), directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa |
| International Debut | “The Last Samurai” (2003), portraying the character Taka |
| Commercial Success | Featured in commercials for Coca-Cola Japan’s Sokenbicha, P&G Max Factor SK-II, and more |
| Marital Status | Married to actor Kenichi Matsuyama since 2011 |
| Children | Three children – first child born in January 2012, second child in January 2013, and |
Koyuki Kato, better known by her stage name Koyuki, was born in Japan on December 18, 1976. She became quite well-known after starring with Jun Matsumoto in the drama Kimi wa Petto and the blockbuster The Last Samurai. Pulse, a 2001 movie directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, featured Koyuki. She achieved enormous popularity after costarring in the drama Kimi wa Petto (2003) with Jun Matsumoto. In the 2003 movie The Last Samurai, she played Taka, the wife of a Samurai who was killed by Tom Cruise’s character Nathan Algren.
24. Kane Tanaka
| Kane Tanaka | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kane Tanaka |
| Birthdate | January 2, 1903 |
| Birthplace | Wajiro Village, Fukuoka, Empire of Japan |
| Occupation | Store Owner |
| Known For | – Oldest known living person |
| Spouse | Hideo Tanaka |
| Children | 2 sons, 2 daughters, 1 adopted daughter |
| Grandchildren | 5 |
| Great-Grandchildren | 8 |
| Place of Residence | Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan |
| Longevity | 119 years, 107 days |
| Hobbies | Calligraphy, solving arithmetic problems, playing Othello |
| Major Illnesses | – Paratyphoid fever |
| Guinness World Records Titles | – World’s Oldest Living Person |
| Faith | Credited her longevity to faith in God |
The third daughter and seventh child of her parents, Kumayoshi and Kuma Ota, Tanaka was born on January 2, 1903, as Kane Ota in the town of Wajiro, Kyushu’s southernmost island (it is now a part of Higashi-Ku, Fukuoka). Until her passing on July 22, 2018, at the age of 119 years and 107 days, she was a Japanese supercentenarian who had surpassed Chiyo Miyako as the oldest person still alive. The second-oldest verified person ever after Jeanne Calment, she is the oldest verified Japanese person.
25. Naruhito
| Naruhito | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Naruhito |
| Title | Emperor of Japan |
| Reign | 1 May 2019 – present |
| Enthronement | 22 October 2019 |
| Predecessor | Akihito |
| Heir presumptive | Fumihito |
| Prime Ministers | Shinzo Abe, Yoshihide Suga, Fumio Kishida |
| Born | 23 February 1960 at Imperial Household Agency Hospital, Tokyo Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Japan |
| Spouse | Masako Owada (m. 1993) |
| Issue | Aiko, Princess Toshi |
| Education | Studied history at Gakushuin University and English at Merton College, Oxford |
| Interests | Water policy and conservation, playing the viola |
| Notable Facts | Boycotted the enshrinement of convicted war criminals, fascination with transportation history, official title as “His Majesty the Emperor” |
The reigning emperor of Japan is Naruhito, who was born there on February 23, 1960. Following the abdication of his father, Akihito, he ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, 2019, officially ushering in the Reiwa era. According to Japan’s customary succession rules, he is the 126th monarch. When his father succeeded Emperor Shwa on January 7, 1989, he immediately assumed the role of heir apparent. In 1991, he was formally invested in the position of the crown prince. He attended Gakushin schools in Tokyo and went on to study English and history at Merton College in Oxford and Gakushuin University, respectively.
26. Beni Arashiro
| Beni Arashiro | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Beni Arashiro |
| Born | March 30, 1986 (age 37) |
| Birthplace | Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Other Names | Beni |
| Occupations | Singer, Actress, Model, TV Personality |
| Years Active | 2004–present |
| Genres | Pop, R&B |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, Piano |
| Labels | Avex Trax, Nayutawave Records |
| Debut | 2004 under Avex Trax label |
| Stage Name | Beni (stylized as BENI) |
| Influences | Namie Amuro, Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson |
| Education | Majored in Sociology at Sophia University |
| Notable Singles | “Here Alone,” “Mō Ichi do…,” “Mō Nido to…,” |
| Notable Achievements | New Artist of the Year (19th Japan Gold Disc |
| Notable Album | “Bitter & Sweet” (Reached No. 1 on Oricon charts) |
Beni Arashiro is a Japanese R&B singer who made her debut in 2004 on the Avex Trax label. She was born on March 30, 1986, in Okinawa Prefecture. Arashiro departed Avex Trax in 2008 and moved to Universal Music Japan, where she began to perform under the name Beni (stylized as BENI). Her 2004 single “Here Alone” was initially her biggest hit, but subsequent releases following her switch to Universal have eclipsed it.
27. Chiaki Kuriyama
| Chiaki Kuriyama | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chiaki Kuriyama |
| Birthdate | October 10, 1984 |
| Birthplace | Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Actress, singer, model |
| Known For | Battle Royale, Kill Bill: Volume 1 |
| Popular Model | Child model boom in the mid-1990s |
| Film Appearances | Shikoku, Ju-on, Azumi 2: Death or Love, Yōkai Daisensō |
| Hollywood Debut | Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Volume 1 |
| Music Career | Released singles and album under the name “CHiAKi KURiYAMA” |
| CD Single | “Ryūsei no Namida” (ending theme for Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn) |
| Other Singles | “Kanōsei Girl,” “Cold Finger Girl,” “Oishii Kisetsu” / “Ketteiteki Sanpunkan” |
| Album | Circus (2011) |
Chiaki Kuriyama is a Japanese actress, singer, and model born on October 10, 1984, in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki. She is best known in the West for her performances as Takako Chigusa in the 2000 film Battle Royale and Gogo Yubari in the 2003 film Kill Bill: Volume 1 by Quentin Tarantino. Kuriyama was a well-known child model in Japan during the mid-1990s child model boom. She was featured in the Kishin Shinoyama photobooks Shinwa-Shjo (Girl of Myth) and Shjokan (Girl’s Residence) in 1997.
28. Emi Takei
| Emi Takei | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Emi Takei |
| Born | December 25, 1993 (age 29) |
| Birthplace | Nagoya, Aichi, Japan |
| Occupation | Actress, Model |
| Years Active | 2007 – Present |
| Agent | Oscar Promotion |
| Height | 1.63 m (5 ft 4 in) |
| Spouse | Takahiro (married in 2017) |
| Children | 2 |
| Aspiring Model | Declared ambition to become a model in junior high |
| Bishōjo Contest | Won Model Division and Multi-Media Awards |
| Acting Career | Made debut in Fuji TV drama “Taisetsu na Koto wa Subete Kimi ga Oshiete Kureta” |
| Starring Role | Starred in TV Asahi drama “Asuko March!” |
| Singing Debut | Released single “Koisuru Kimochi” under Universal Japan |
| Awards | Won “Best Dresser” and “Best Smile of the Year” |
| Fashion Endorsement | Contracted with Italian luxury brand Gucci |
Emi Takei is a Japanese actress and model born on December 25, 1993. Nagoya is where Takei was born. When she started junior high school, she told her parents that she would become a model in three years because she wanted to be one. She competed in the 11th Japan Bishjo Contest in 2006 and took first place in not just one but two categories: the Multi-Media Award and the Model Division Award.
She then made her modeling debut in Seventeen magazine’s November 2006 issue, landing her first position in the entertainment industry. She signed on as a model exclusively for the magazine in February 2007 and earned her first solo cover in the issue published on February 15.
29. Akira Toriyama
| Akira Toriyama | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Akira Toriyama |
| Birthdate | April 5, 1955 |
| Birthplace | Nagoya, Aichi, Japan |
| Occupation(s) | Manga artist, character designer, model designer |
| Years Active | 1978–present |
| Notable Work | Dragon Ball, Dr. Slump, Dragon Quest (character designer), Chrono Trigger (character designer), Blue Dragon (character designer) |
| Awards | Shogakukan Manga Award (1981) |
| Spouse | Yoshimi Katō |
| Children | 2 |
| Achievements | Highly influential manga artist, creator of Dragon Ball, changed the history of manga |
| Dragon Ball | Sold over 300 million copies worldwide, one of the best-selling manga series of all time |
| Cultural Recognition | Decorated as a Chevalier of the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres |
| Video Games | Character designer for Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, and Tobal No. 1 and 2 |
Akira Toriyama is a Japanese manga artist and character designer born on April 5, 1955. Before creating Dragon Ball, his best-known work, and serving as a character designer for several well-known video games like the Dragon Quest series, Chrono Trigger, and Blue Dragon, he initially came into the public eye with his hugely popular manga series Dr. Slump. Due to the popularity and influence of his works, particularly Dragon Ball, which many manga artists acknowledge as an inspiration, Toriyama is considered one of the authors who helped shape the course of manga history.
30. Mariya Nishiuchi
| Mariya Nishiuchi | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mariya Nishiuchi |
| Birthdate | December 24, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Fukuoka, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupations | Model, Actress, Singer-Songwriter |
| Years Active | 2008-present |
| Agency | Rising Production |
| Relatives | Hiromi Nishiuchi (sister) |
Mariya Nishiuchi, a Japanese model, actor, and singer-songwriter associated with Rising Production was born on December 24, 1993, in Fukuoka Prefecture. She is the younger sister of Hiromi Nishiuchi, a model, actor, and BeForU participant.
31. Shinsuke Nakamura
| Shinsuke Nakamura | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shinsuke Nakamura |
| Birthdate | February 24, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Mineyama, Kyoto, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Spouse | Harumi Maekawa |
| Promotions | WWE, New Japan Pro-Wrestling |
| WWE Brand | Raw |
| NJPW Accomplishments | Three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion |
| WWE Accomplishments | Two-time NXT Champion |
| Notable Style | Expressive and unpredictable wrestling style |
| Key Records | Youngest IWGP Heavyweight Champion in history |
| Early Life | Favorite wrestler as a child was Jushin Liger |
| NJPW Career | Became known as one of the “new Three Musketeers” |
| Return to NJPW | Joined Black New Japan faction under Masahiro Chono |
| Notable Finisher | Utilized the Bomaye/Kinshasa as his finisher |
Shinsuke Nakamura, a Japanese professional wrestler, presently affiliated with WWE and competing on the SmackDown brand, was born on February 24, 1980. As the youngest IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Nakamura is well-known for his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), where he was a three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion. His first reign began when he was just 23 years and nine months old. Among his other achievements within the organization are his victories in the 2011 G1 Climax and the 2014 New Japan Cup, as well as his titles as the last IWGP Third Belt Champion, the last NWF Heavyweight Champion, and the IWGP Intercontinental Champion with the longest reign during his first reign (he formerly held the record for most reigns at five).
32. Maria Ozawa
| Maria Ozawa | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maria Ozawa |
| Birthdate | January 8, 1986 |
| Birthplace | Hokkaido, Japan |
| Other Names | Miyabi |
| Years Active | 2002–2014 |
| Height | 1.62 m (5 ft 4 in) |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Former Adult Film Actress, Model, and Media Personality |
Maria Ozawa, a Japanese model and former porn star of Canadian and Japanese descent, was born on January 8, 1986. She also went under the name Miyabi when she first started modeling. As Ozawa watched sex films she had taken from a friend’s brother, she came upon adult videos (AV). Ozawa was not scouted like the majority of AV actresses. She first learned about the field through a buddy who had acted in AVs. She started by doing some modeling in June 2005 for the pornographic website Shirouto-Teien.com under the name Miyabi. This led to many images and a brief hardcore gonzo distributed as a video in CD-R and DVD-R formats.
33. Marie Kondo
| Marie Kondo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marie Kondo |
| Birthdate | October 9, 1984 |
| Birthplace | Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Alma Mater | Tokyo Woman’s Christian University |
| Occupations | Organizing consultant, author, TV presenter |
| Known For | KonMari method and organizational books |
| Notable Works | The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Spark Joy |
| Achievements | Named to the TIME 100 list of influential people (2015) |
| Netflix Series | Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, Sparking Joy with Marie Kondo |
| Method | KonMari method – organizing by category and keeping items that “spark joy” |
| Online Store | KonMari |
| Family | Married to Kawahara Takumi, two daughters, and a son |
| Residence | Tokyo, Japan |
Marie Kondo, commonly known as Konmari, is a Japanese organizing expert, author, and TV host born on October 9, 1984. Kondo has authored four organizing books, all of which have sold millions of copies worldwide. Her novels have been published in more than 30 countries after being translated from Japanese into several languages. Her most recent book is The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up (2011). It was released in the US in 2014 and was a bestseller in Europe.
34. Meisa Kuroki
| Meisa Kuroki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Meisa Kuroki |
| Birthdate | May 28, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Nago, Okinawa, Japan |
| Occupations | Actress, Model, Singer |
| Years Active | 2004–present |
| Height | 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in) |
| Agency | Sweet Power |
| Record Label | Sony Music Japan |
| Notable Works | Atami Satsujin Jiken: Pyonyang Kara Kita Onna Keiji, |
| Discography | Studio Album: Magazine |
| Spouse | Jin Akanishi |
| Children | Theia Akanishi (daughter), Son |
Satsuki Shimabukuro is a Japanese actress, model, and singer better known by her stage name Meisa Kuroki. She was born on May 28, 1988, in Okinawa Prefecture. She is signed to Sony Music Japan and is represented by the firm Sweet Power. In 2004, she made her acting debut. She has worked as a model for numerous publications, including the well-known Japanese fashion magazine JJ, and she currently represents Epson and Giorgio Armani in Japan. She has made several appearances in television dramas, advertisements, movies, and theatrical performances.
35. Fujiwara Norika
| Fujiwara Norika | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fujiwara Norika |
| Birthdate | June 28, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupations | Beauty Queen, Model, Actress |
| Notable Titles | Miss Nippon, Exclusive CanCam Model |
| Career Highlights | – Appeared in commercials, TV series, and films |
| Achievements | – Won Nikkei Social Initiative Award |
| Languages | Fluent in Japanese, studying English |
| Marriages | Tomonori Jinnai (2007-2009) |
Norika Fujiwara was born in Nishinomiya, Hygo Prefecture, on June 28, 1971. She is a model, actress, and Japanese beauty queen. In 1992, she crowned Miss Nippon and only modeled for CanCam magazine. She has appeared in various Japanese films, TV shows, and advertisements. After working as a model for a while, she transitioned into journalism. She worked as a spokesperson, serving as an ambassador of friendship between Japan and Korea during the 2002 FIFA World Cup, reporting from the 2004 Summer Olympics in Greece, and visiting Afghanistan to hold a photo exhibition.
36. Junji Ito
| Junji Ito | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Junji Ito |
| Birthdate | July 31, 1963 |
| Birthplace | Nakatsugawa, Gifu, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation(s) | Writer, manga artist |
| Notable Work | Tomie, Uzumaki, Gyo |
| Spouse | Ayako Ishiguro |
| Children | 2 |
| Influences | Kazuo Umezu, Hideshi Hino, Shinichi Koga, Yasutaka Tsutsui, Edogawa Ranpo, H. P. Lovecraft, H. R. Giger, Salvador Dalí, Guillermo del Toro |
| Honors/Awards | Eisner Award for “Best Adaptation from Another Medium” (2019), Eisner Awards for “Best U.S. Edition of International Material – Asia” and “Best Writer/Artist” (2021) |
| Notable Adaptations | Film, television, and video game adaptations of his works |
Junji Ito is a Japanese horror manga creator born on July 31, 1963. His most well-known works include Tomie, a series about an immortal girl who drives her bewildered admirers insane; Uzumaki, a three-volume series about a town obsessed with spirals; and Gyo, a two-volume tale about fish that are under the control of a sentient bacterial strain known as “the death stench.” His other works include Junji Ito’s Cat Diary: Yon & Mu, a self-parody about him and his wife living in a home with two cats, and The Junji Ito Horror Comic Collection, a collection of his numerous short stories.
37. Masashi Kishimoto
| Masashi Kishimoto | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Masashi Kishimoto |
| Birthdate | November 8, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Nagi, Japan |
| Occupation | Manga artist |
| Notable Work | Naruto |
| Years Active | 1997–present |
| Notable Collaborations | Supervised anime films: The Last: Naruto the Movie and Boruto: Naruto the Movie |
| Education | Kyushu Sangyo University |
| Children | 1 |
| Relatives | Seishi Kishimoto (twin brother) |
| Awards | Quill Award (2006) |
| Manga Series | Naruto |
| Sales | Over 250 million copies sold worldwide in 46 countries |
| Impact on Industry | Naruto became one of Viz Media’s top properties |
| Themes in Naruto | Explored the theme of war with a hopeful perspective |
| Other Works | Character designs for Tekken 6 and Naruto video games |
Masashi Kishimoto is a Japanese manga artist born on November 8, 1974. As of May 2019, his manga series Naruto, serialized from 1999 to 2014, had sold more than 250 million copies across 46 nations. Two anime, numerous movies, video games, and other related media have all been made from the series. In addition to writing the Naruto manga, Kishimoto oversaw the two canonical anime movies, The Last: Naruto the Movie and Boruto: Naruto the Movie, and has written several one-shot stories. Samurai 8: The Tale of Hachimaru, written by Kishimoto in 2019, concluded in March 2020. He oversaw the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations manga, written by Uky Kodachi and illustrated by Mikio Ikemoto, from May 2016 to October 2020.
38. Shinji Kagawa
| Shinji Kagawa | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shinji Kagawa |
| Date of Birth | March 17, 1989 |
| Place of Birth | Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Current Team | Cerezo Osaka |
| Youth Career | Marino Football Club, Kobe NK Football Club, FC Miyagi Barcelona, Cerezo Osaka |
| Professional Career | Cerezo Osaka, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United, Beşiktaş, Real Zaragoza, PAOK, Sint-Truiden |
| International Career | Japan U19, Japan U20, Japan U23, Japan |
| Achievements | Asian Football Confederation International Player of the Year (2012), AFC Asian Cup Winner (2011 Qatar) |
| Notable Records | Most appearances by a Japanese player in UEFA club competitions, Most goals by a Japanese player in UEFA club competitions |
Shinji Kagawa, a professional footballer from Japan born on March 17, 1989, competes for the Japan national team and the Belgian First Division A club Sint-Truiden as a midfielder. He is one of the greatest Japanese players of all time and is highly recognized. Kagawa started his professional career with Cerezo Osaka in his native country before transferring to Borussia Dortmund in 2010. Kagawa signed a four-year deal with Manchester United after spending two years at Dortmund. Two years later, he visited Dortmund once more. Kagawa is the Japanese footballer with the most appearances and goals in UEFA club competitions.
39. Takeru Satoh
| Takeru Satoh | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Takeru Satoh |
| Birthdate | March 21, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Iwatsuki-ku, Saitama, Japan |
| Alma Mater | Koshigaya Kita High School (Science and Mathematics) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 2006–present |
| Agent(s) | Amuse, Inc. (2006–2021), Co-LaVo (2021–present) |
| Known For | Kamen Rider Den-O, Rurouni Kenshin film series |
| Height | 170 cm (5 ft 7 in) |
| Featured Films | Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno, The Legend Ends |
| Notable TV Series | Kamen Rider Den-O, Rookies, The Emperor’s Cook |
| Awards/Nominations | Japan Academy Prize nomination for Best Actor |
| Martial Arts | Black belt in Shorinji Kempo |
Actor Takeru Satoh was born in Iwatsuki-ku Saitama, on March 21, 1989. Most notably, he played the title character Ryotaro Nogami in the Kamen Rider Den-O series and Himura Kenshin in the live-action Rurouni Kenshin movie and its follow-ups.
Satoh temporarily worked as a child actor for three or four years for commercials and magazine picture shoots. He decided to stop acting like a youngster after moving up to primary school because of his “shy personality.”
40. Mao Inoue
| Mao Inoue | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mao Inoue |
| Birthdate | January 9, 1987 |
| Birthplace | Yokohama, Japan |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Agent | UN et NEUF |
| Debut | Started acting at the age of five |
| Notable Roles | Akane Imai in “Kids War” |
| Filmography | “I Give My First Love to You” |
| Awards | Best Actress in Television Drama Academy Awards |
| Education | Graduated from Meiji University in 2009 |
| Other Endeavors | Voice actress in “Anpanman” films |
| Stage Performances | Appeared in several stage plays |
| Personal Background | Encouraged by her mother to pursue performing arts |
Mao Inoue is a Japanese actress born on January 9, 1987. When she was five years old, she made her acting debut. Her roles as Akane Imai in Kids War, Makino Tsukushi in the well-liked Hana Yori Dango series, and Sugi Fumi in the 54th taiga drama Hana Moyu are best known to viewers of Japanese television dramas. Her work in movies like I Give My First Love to You, Rebirth, and The Snow White Murder Case are also well known.
41. Sonoya Mizuno
| Sonoya Mizuno | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sonoya Mizuno |
| Birthdate | July 1, 1986 |
| Birthplace | Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | Royal Ballet School |
| Occupations | Actress, Model, Ballet Dancer |
| Known For | Roles in Netflix’s “Maniac” and HBO’s “House of the Dragon” |
| Collaborations | Worked with Alex Garland on films like “Ex Machina” and “Devs” |
| Notable Films | “La La Land,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Crazy Rich Asians” |
| Modelling Career | Worked with top fashion brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton |
| Ballet Experience | Trained and performed with prestigious ballet companies |
| Dance Performances | Featured in various dance productions and music videos |
| Multicultural Roots | Mixed heritage: English, Argentine, and Japanese |
Sonoya Mizuno, a Japanese-British actress, model, and ballet dancer, was born on July 1, 1986. She was a notable star in the miniseries Maniac and the Game of Thrones prequel series House of the Dragon. She also appeared in all of Alex Garland’s films and miniseries, including Ex Machina, Annihilation, and Men. Minor roles can also be found in Crazy Rich Asians, Beauty and the Beast, and La La Land.
42. Satomi Ishihara
| Satomi Ishihara | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Satomi Ishihara |
| Birthdate | December 24, 1986 |
| Birthplace | Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years active | 2003–present |
| Agent | Horipro |
| Height | 157 cm (5 ft 2 in) |
| Children | 1 |
| Notable Awards | – Best Actress at the Blue Ribbon Awards |
| Popular Role | Saeko Takahashi in “Shitsuren Chocolatier” |
| Olympic Role | 2020 Tokyo Olympics torch relay ambassador |
| Marriage | Announced on October 1, 2020 |
| Pregnancy | Announced pregnancy in January 2022, gave birth |
Japanese actress Kuniko Ishigami, better known by her stage name Satomi Ishihara, was born in Tokyo on December 24, 1986. At 17, Satomi made her acting debut in the drama Kimi wa Petto, which also starred Jun Matsumoto and Koyuki. She has spent the same amount of time watching movies and television serials. Satomi was nominated for several awards, including Best Supporting Actress at the 45th Japan Academy Film Prize for her work in the film. So the baton is passed, and she Best Actress at the 46th Blue Ribbon Awards for her role in the movie My Grandpa.
43. Suzuka Nakamoto
| Suzuka Nakamoto | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Suzuka Nakamoto |
| Birthdate | December 20, 1997 (age 25) |
| Birthplace | Hiroshima, Japan |
| Other Names | Suzuka (in Karen Girl’s), Su-metal (in Babymetal) |
| Genres | Kawaii metal, heavy metal, J-pop, power metal, alternative metal |
| Occupations | Musician, singer, songwriter, model |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Labels | Amuse, Inc. |
| Member of | Babymetal |
| Formerly of | Karen Girl’s, Sakura Gakuin |
| Talent Agency | Represented by Amuse, Inc. |
| Education | Attended Actor’s School Hiroshima (ASH) |
| Musical Groups | Member of Karen Girl’s, Sakura Gakuin, and Babymetal |
| Debut Album | Babymetal’s self-titled debut album released in February 2014 |
| Songwriting Credit | Credited as a lyricist on the Babymetal song “Divine Attack – Shingeki -“ |
| Family | Youngest of three sisters. Second sister is a former member of Nogizaka46 |
| Mother’s Profession | Mother works with gemstones and occasionally gives gemstone accessories as gifts to Babymetal members |
| Father’s Band | Father played in a rock band called Hooligans |
Suzuka Nakamoto is a Japanese musician, singer, songwriter, and model. She was born on December 20, 1997, and goes by the stage names Suzuka and Su-metal (both stylized in all caps). She is best known for being a part of the adorable metal group Babymetal. She is a member of the musical groups Karen Girls, Sakura Gakuin, and Babymetal and is represented by the talent agency Amuse, Inc.
44. Airi Suzuki
| Airi Suzuki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Airi Suzuki |
| Birthdate | April 12, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Gifu, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Alma Mater | Keio University |
| Occupations | Singer, actress, model, radio personality |
| Agents | Up-Front Works |
| Height | 161 cm (5 ft 3 in) |
| Parents | Toru Suzuki (father), Kyoko Maruya (mother) |
| Genres | J-pop |
| Years Active | 2002-present |
| Labels | Zetima |
| Formerly of | Cute, Buono!, Hello! Project Kids, Aa!, Dia Lady |
Japanese singer, actor, model, and radio host Airi Suzuki was born on April 12, 1994. She is a member of the Up-Front Works collective. She first joined Hello! Project in 2002 as a member of Hello! Project Kids before making her vocal debut in 2005 as one of the lead singers of the Japanese girl group Cute. Suzuki joined the girl group Buono as a vocalist throughout her singing career. She started working exclusively as a model for the fashion publication Ray in June 2015. Suzuki left. Hello! Project when Cute and Buono! Split up in 2017 and made his solo debut with the album Do Me a Favor, which featured “Distance” as its lead single.
45. Rinko Kikuchi
| Rinko Kikuchi | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rinko Kikuchi |
| Birthdate | January 6, 1981 |
| Birthplace | Hadano, Kanagawa, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years active | 1999–present |
| Height | 1.69 m (5 ft 6+1⁄2 in) |
| Spouse | Shōta Sometani (married in 2014) |
| Children | 2 |
| Notable Works | – Academy Award-nominated role in “Babel” (2006) |
Japanese actress Rinko Kikuchi was born Yuriko Kikuchi on January 6, 1981. For her role in Babel, she became the first Japanese actress to be nominated for an Academy Award in 50 years (2006). Other significant movies by Kikuchi include Pacific Rim, a science fiction action movie directed by Guillermo del Toro, and Norwegian Wood (2010), which screened in competition at the 67th Venice Film Festival (2013). The drama movie Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter (2014) earned Kikuchi a nomination for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead. She starred in the 2022 HBO Max crime drama Tokyo Vice season.
46. Tomoe Shinohara
| Tomoe Shinohara | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tomoe Shinohara |
| Birthdate | March 29, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Higashimurayama, Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Singer, Actress, Fashion Designer, Producer, Artist |
| Known For | Flamboyant fashion sense, bubbly personality, distinctive speaking voice |
| Notable Achievements | Regular hostess on music variety show “LOVE LOVE Aishiteru” |
| Musical Contributions | Contributed the single “Ultra Relax” for the anime series “Kodomo no Omocha” |
| Film and TV Appearances | Films, Dorama, Commercials, TV Programs |
| Voice Acting Experience | Voiced Hotaru-chan in Ghiblies Episode 2 |
| Music and Performance | Formed the group PANIKARAQS, released solo CD single “asoFever 2005” |
| Dream Collaboration | Expressed a dream to perform with Daft Punk |
| Fashion Influence | Known for Shinora fashion style, impact on Decora fashion |
Japanese singer, actress, fashion designer, producer, and artist Tomoe Shinohara was born on March 29, 1979, in Higashimurayama, Tokyo. Her extravagant sense of style, cheerful (and even goofy) demeanor and distinctive screaming speaking voice make her stand out. Eiko Matsumoto, a singer, is another close friend of hers. On the FujiTV music variety program “LOVE LOVE Aishiteru,” Shinohara debuted as a regular hostess in October 1996.
47. Yu Darvish
| Yu Darvish | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yu Darvish |
| Other Names | Farid Yu Darvishsefat, ダルビッシュ 有 |
| Birthdate | August 16, 1986 |
| Birthplace | Habikino, Osaka, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Ethnicity | Japanese, Iranian |
| Team | San Diego Padres |
| Position | Pitcher |
| MLB Debut | April 9, 2012, for the Texas Rangers |
| NPB Debut | June 15, 2005, for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters |
| Height | 6’5″ (196 cm) |
| Weight | 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Bats | Right |
| Throws | Right |
| MLB Teams | Texas Rangers (2012–2014, 2016–2017) Los Angeles Dodgers (2017) Chicago Cubs (2018–2020) San Diego Padres (2021–present) |
| NPB Team | Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (2005–2011) |
| International Achievements | 2008 Beijing Olympics 2009 World Baseball Classic |
| Awards | 5× MLB All-Star AL Cy Young Award Runner-Up Japan Series champion 2× Pacific League MVP Eiji Sawamura Award 3× Pacific League strikeout title 2× Pacific League ERA title 2× Pacific League Best Nine Award 2× Pacific League Mitsui Golden Glove Award |
| MLB Career Stats | Win–loss record: 100–81 Earned run average: 3.58 Strikeouts: 1,877 |
| NPB Career Stats | Win–loss record: 93–38 Earned run average: 1.99 Strikeouts: 1,250 |
Yu Darvish is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. He was born Farid Yu Darvishsefat on August 16, 1986. (MLB). Darvish has also played for the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball. As a member of the Japanese national team competing internationally, Darvish pitched in the 2009 World Baseball Classic and the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
48. Sayumi Michishige
| Sayumi Michishige | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sayumi Michishige |
| Birthdate | July 13, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Ube, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan |
| Occupation | Singer, Actress, Model, Radio Host |
| Years Active | 2003-2014, 2017-present |
| Genres | J-pop |
| Labels | Zetima |
| Mentor to | Koharu Kusumi (2005-2009) |
| Former Group | Morning Musume |
| Longest Tenure | Member in Morning Musume’s history |
| Family | Youngest child with an elder brother and elder sister |
| Radio Show | Hypernight – Michishige Sayumi Konya mo Usa-chan Peace |
| Graduation | Morning Musume, Hello! Project (November 26, 2014) |
| Post-Graduation | Resting and possible future comeback |
| Recent Performance | SAYUMINGLANDOLL at the Cotton Club |
Sayumi Michishige, a Japanese singer, actress, and model, was born on July 13, 1989. She was the former leader and sixth-generation member of the J-pop group Morning Musume. Since fifth-generation member Risa Niigaki left the group on October 12, 2013, Michishige has been a part of the group the longest. Eri Kamei, Miki Fujimoto, and Reina Tanaka all made their debuts with Morning Musume on the group’s nineteenth song, “Shabondama,” when she joined the group in 2003.
49. Satoshi Ohno
| Satoshi Ohno | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Satoshi Ohno |
| Birthdate | November 26, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan |
| Other Names | Ōno Satoshi, Ohno Satoshi |
| Genres | J-pop |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, actor, radio host, artist, dancer, choreographer |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Years active | 1994–2020 (on hiatus) |
| Labels | Pony Canyon, J Storm |
| Nickname | Leader |
| Talent Agency | Johnny & Associates |
| Solo Exhibition | “Freestyle” (2008) |
| Awards | Best Actor Awards for “Maō” |
| Stage Plays | “Kyo to Kyo,” “True West,” “West Side Story” |
| TV Dramas | “Maō,” “Uta no Oniisan,” “Kaibutsu-kun,” “Kagi no Kakatta Heya,” “Sekai Ichi Muzukashii Koi” |
| Movies | “Pikanchi Life Is Hard” series, “Kiiroi Namida,” “Kaibutsu-kun the Movie,” “Mumon: The Land of Stealth” |
| Radio Show | “Arashi Discovery” |
Satoshi Ohno, a Japanese idol, dancer, actor, radio host, artist, and choreographer, was born on November 26, 1980. He goes by the moniker Leader because he is the lead singer and the band’s leader of the boy band Arashi.
When Ohno joined the Japanese talent agency Johnny & Associates in 1994 at 13, he started his career in the entertainment industry. In 1997, he began his acting career after being chosen to participate in the stage production Kyo to Kyo. Ohno received his first leading role in a Japanese television drama, Ma, for which he won several Best Actor awards. He also became the first and only artist from Johnny’s to host his art exhibition, titled “Freestyle.”
50. Eiichiro Oda
| Eiichiro Oda | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eiichiro Oda |
| Birthdate | January 1, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan |
| Pen Name | Tsukihimizu Kikondo |
| Occupation | Manga artist |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Notable Works | Creator of One Piece |
| Notable Awards | Grand Prize at Japan Cartoonists Association Award |
| Influences | Akira Toriyama (Dragon Ball) |
| Major Achievement | One Piece: Best-selling manga series with over 516.6 million copies |
| Sleep Schedule | Sleeps only three hours per day during a typical work week |
| Philanthropy | Donated ¥800 million to Kumamoto Prefecture after 2016 earthquake |
One Piece was created by Japanese manga artist Eiichiro Oda, born on January 1, 1975. One Piece is the best-selling manga in history and the best-selling comic book series printed in volume, with more than 516.5 million tanks of copies in circulation worldwide. This makes Oda one of the best-selling fiction authors. Because of the series’ success, Oda was recognized as one of the manga artists who altered the course of manga history.