After 26 years of captivating audiences worldwide, the renowned Japanese boy band Arashi has announced their official disbandment, culminating in a final tour set for spring 2026. The bittersweet news was shared on May 6, 2025, via a heartfelt statement on their official social media channels, marking the end of an era for the beloved group.
Arashi, which consists of members Aiba Masaki, Jun Matsumoto, Kazunari Ninomiya, Satoshi Ohno, and Sho Sakurai, has been on an indefinite hiatus since December 31, 2020. Following a year and a half of discussions about the possibility of reuniting, the group decided it was time to express their gratitude to their fans through one last concert tour.
In their statement, the members reflected on their journey, stating, "For about a year and a half now, the five of us have regularly gotten together to discuss the idea of working as Arashi again. However, it was not easy to find an answer to how to do this, as the environment surrounding us has changed, in addition to each of our individually changed circumstances compared to before." This acknowledgment of their evolving circumstances highlights the challenges they faced as they considered returning to the stage.
They continued, "Such being the case, after much time and repeated conversations, we came to the conclusion that we should all come together as Arashi, hold a concert that would allow us to express our thanks directly with the kind of in-person performance our Corona concert did not allow for, and then end our activities as a group. We could not imagine resuming our activities only to go on a hiatus yet again." This sentiment resonates deeply with fans who have longed for their return.
The upcoming tour, which is anticipated to be a grand farewell, will be the group's first since their last concert in 2020, just before they went on hiatus. The details regarding ticketing, venues, and specific dates are still under wraps, but fans are eagerly awaiting updates. To prioritize current fan club members, Arashi has temporarily suspended new applications for membership.
In addition to the tour, the group has announced that their family club will close in May 2026. However, they have committed to providing as much content as possible for fans throughout the year leading up to their disbandment. "With the end of Arashi's activities, our family club will also close in May 2026, but we will continue to deliver as much content as possible throughout this next year for your fun and enjoyment," they stated.
Formed in 1999, Arashi quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the most successful idol groups in Japan's history. Their catchy hits, including "Love So Sweet," "Happiness," and "Sakura Sake," have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their 17th studio album, This Is Arashi, was released on November 3, 2020, serving as their final full-length record before their hiatus.
As the news of their disbandment spreads, fans have taken to social media to express their emotions, with many sharing memories of the group's impact on their lives. The announcement has sparked an outpouring of love and support, with fans reminiscing about the joy Arashi brought to their lives through music and performances.
Arashi's legacy extends beyond music; they have also starred in various television dramas and films, further solidifying their status as cultural icons in Japan. Their work in entertainment has garnered them a dedicated fan base that spans generations.
The decision to disband has not come lightly, as the members have been open about the challenges of reuniting after their hiatus. Ohno, in particular, had expressed a desire to take a break from the entertainment industry, leading to the group's indefinite hiatus in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated their plans, as they were forced to cancel a tour that was initially scheduled for that year.
As they prepare for their final tour, Arashi aims to create an unforgettable experience for their fans, one that allows them to connect and express their gratitude in person. The members have emphasized the importance of this farewell, stating, "We hope to deliver content that will bring joy. Please look forward to it!"
As the countdown to their last performance begins, fans are reminded of the group's incredible journey and the memories they have created together. Arashi's music has served as a soundtrack to many lives, and their legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate long after their final bow.
The announcement of their disbandment is a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Yet, it also serves as an opportunity for fans to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Arashi over the past two decades. As they prepare for their final tour, the group leaves behind a rich legacy that will be cherished by fans around the world.
With the promise of a heartfelt farewell tour, Arashi is set to conclude their journey as one of Japan's most beloved musical acts. Fans eagerly await the chance to say goodbye to a group that has brought so much joy and inspiration into their lives.
