On May 6, 2025, the popular Japanese boy band Arashi made a heartfelt announcement that they will officially disband in May of next year. This news came during a video shared on their paid fan club site, marking a significant moment for fans who have supported the group since its debut in 1999.
Arashi, which has been on hiatus since the end of 2020, featured all five members in the video: leader Satoshi Ohno (44), Sho Sakurai (43), Masaki Aiba (42), Kazunari Ninomiya (41), and Jun Matsumoto (41). The members expressed their gratitude towards fans during this emotional reveal.
Masaki Aiba emphasized the importance of this announcement, stating, "In order to convey our gratitude, we will start working towards holding a concert tour scheduled for the spring of next year as Arashi." This tour is particularly significant as it will serve as their last opportunity to perform together as a group.
Sho Sakurai added, "This tour will mark the end of our activities as Arashi." The announcement signifies a bittersweet farewell as the group prepares to meet fans who have patiently awaited their return since the hiatus.
Having been together for 26 years, Arashi's journey has been filled with numerous highs and lows. Their hiatus lasted approximately four and a half years, during which fans continued to support them unwaveringly. The upcoming tour will be a chance for the band to thank their loyal followers in person.
As part of their farewell, Arashi also revealed that the fan club will cease operations in May 2026. The members reassured fans that they will continue to provide content until that time, with new material scheduled for release in mid-June 2025. Jun Matsumoto noted, "We want to deliver content that will make the fans happy while expressing our gratitude to everyone who has continued to support us."
Interestingly, Satoshi Ohno, who had stepped back from the spotlight since the group’s hiatus, made a notable appearance in the video. His return was met with excitement from fans, many of whom expressed their joy and relief at seeing him looking healthy and vibrant. Ohno shared, "After spending time and discussing it many times, the conclusion we all came to was that we would like to get together one more time and hold a concert as Arashi."
Fans took to social media to express their mixed emotions, with many posting comments like, "Arashi! Ohno looks so good!" and "I'm so excited but also heartbroken." The emotional response from fans highlights the deep connection the group has fostered over the years.
As they prepare for their final tour, the members of Arashi are committed to making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. They aim to showcase their gratitude and celebrate the moments shared with their fans throughout their career.
In the video, the members reflected on their journey together and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented them from performing live for their fans during their last year before the hiatus. Aiba stated, "We could not perform in front of you due to the pandemic, and this tour will allow us to convey our thanks directly to you, our fans."
This farewell tour is expected to be a grand finale, allowing fans to relive the magic of Arashi’s performances one last time. The group has always been known for their energetic shows and strong connection with the audience, and this tour promises to be no different.
As the news of their disbandment spreads, fans are already expressing their anticipation for the upcoming tour while grappling with the sadness of saying goodbye. The members of Arashi have reassured fans that their love and appreciation will be evident in every performance.
In addition to the concert tour, the group is also exploring new avenues for content creation, having established a new company, Arashi Inc., to manage their future endeavors. This move indicates that while their time as a group is coming to an end, the members are looking forward to new opportunities and projects.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and the hiatus, Arashi has remained a beloved figure in the Japanese entertainment industry. Their music and performances have touched the hearts of many, making their farewell all the more poignant.
As they gear up for their last tour, the members of Arashi are dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience for their fans. They are thankful for the support they've received over the years and look forward to making their final performances a celebration of their journey together.
In closing, Arashi's announcement marks a significant moment in the world of Japanese pop culture. The group has left an indelible mark on the industry, and their legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of their fans.
