On May 6, 2025, the popular Japanese idol group Arashi announced their disbandment, marking the end of an era for fans who have supported them since their debut in 1999. The group, which has been on hiatus since December 31, 2020, revealed that they will hold a nationwide concert tour in spring 2026, after which they will officially conclude their activities as a five-member group.
In a heartfelt video posted on their paid fan club site, Arashi's leader, Satoshi Ohno, made a rare appearance after 1,587 days, emphasizing the importance of directly expressing gratitude to fans who have stood by them during their hiatus. He stated, "The conclusion we reached was to gather once more and hold a concert as Arashi, to convey our gratitude directly and allow fans to see our performances directly, which we couldn't do due to the COVID-19 pandemic." This sentiment resonated deeply with fans who have long awaited their return.
The announcement came as a bittersweet surprise to many, as the group had been discussing their future for about a year and a half. Ohno explained, "We had many discussions and took our time to reach this conclusion. However, the environment surrounding us has changed, and it has not been easy to find an answer." The decision to disband was not made lightly, and the group is committed to making their final tour a memorable experience for their supporters.
Arashi's last concert, which is set to take place during the nationwide tour, will be particularly significant as it allows them to reconnect with fans after years of separation. The group also announced that they will temporarily halt new fan club memberships to prioritize current members for concert ticket applications. The fan club itself will cease operations in May 2026, coinciding with the end of the group's activities.
Since their debut, Arashi has become a cultural phenomenon in Japan, known for their catchy songs, dynamic performances, and strong connection with their fans. The group had previously announced their hiatus in 2020, which left many fans heartbroken. However, they have continued to support each member's solo endeavors during this time.
While Ohno has been on hiatus from entertainment activities, the other members have remained active in various fields. Sho Sakurai, for instance, continues to serve as a news anchor on Nippon Television's "news zero" and has taken on roles in several dramas and films. Masaki Aiba has been involved in multiple television shows, and Kazunari Ninomiya has made headlines with his film projects and a popular YouTube channel.
Jun Matsumoto has also been busy with acting roles and has even ventured into directing live performances for other groups. These individual pursuits have kept the spirit of Arashi alive, even as they prepare to say goodbye as a group.
As the announcement of their disbandment sinks in, fans are left reflecting on the impact Arashi has had on their lives. The group has not only entertained millions but has also been a source of comfort and joy during challenging times. Their music has become a soundtrack to many people's lives, and the upcoming tour is expected to be a celebration of their legacy.
In the video, Ohno reassured fans that despite the group's disbandment, they plan to deliver as much content as possible to fan club members in the remaining year. He expressed hope that they can create joyful experiences for their supporters to cherish.
As Arashi prepares for their final tour, the anticipation among fans is palpable. Many are eager to witness the group's last performances together and to celebrate the memories created over the years. The emotional weight of this farewell is not lost on the members, who have shared their journey with fans every step of the way.
In conclusion, Arashi's disbandment is a significant moment in the history of Japanese pop culture. The group has left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to inspire future generations of artists. As they embark on their final tour, fans are encouraged to cherish the moments they have shared with Arashi and to celebrate the legacy of a group that has brought joy to millions.
