Popular Japanese idol group Arashi announced on May 6, 2025, that they will conclude their activities with a concert tour scheduled for spring 2026. This announcement came through a video message shared on their fan club site, FAMILY CLUB, where all five members, including leader Satoshi Ohno (44), Sho Sakurai (43), Masaki Aiba (42), Kazunari Ninomiya (41), and Jun Matsumoto (41), addressed their dedicated fans.
Having been on hiatus since December 31, 2020, the group has taken time to reflect and discuss their future. In the video, Masaki Aiba remarked, "In order to convey our direct feelings of gratitude, we will gather again as 5 members and start working towards holding a concert tour scheduled for the spring of next year, 2026 as Arashi." This heartfelt statement emphasized their desire to reconnect with fans who have supported them over the years.
Sho Sakurai added, "We will finish our activities as Arashi after this tour," marking a definitive end to their long-standing career as a group. Since their debut in 1999, Arashi has captivated audiences and garnered immense popularity, becoming a national treasure in Japan. Their hiatus, which lasted for about four and a half years, was a challenging period for both the members and their fans.
The decision to resume activities was not made lightly. The members had been meeting intermittently for about a year and a half to discuss the possibility of returning as Arashi. They faced significant changes in their personal lives and the broader entertainment landscape, making it difficult to find a clear path forward. However, after extensive discussions, they concluded that holding a final concert tour was the best way to express their gratitude to their fans.
"The environment surrounding us has changed, and each of our circumstances has transformed in ways that made it difficult to arrive at a clear answer," they explained in their announcement. They recognized the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had prevented them from performing live for their fans, intensifying their desire to create a memorable farewell.
In light of the upcoming tour, the group has temporarily suspended new membership applications for their fan club, ensuring that current members have priority access to concert tickets. This decision underscores their commitment to their loyal fanbase, who have been waiting patiently for their return.
The fan club, which has played a vital role in maintaining the connection between Arashi and their fans, is set to conclude its activities in May 2026. However, the group has promised to deliver as much content as possible to fan club members during the remaining year, enhancing the experience as they prepare for their final tour.
Looking ahead, the next content distribution for the fan club is scheduled for mid-June 2025, providing fans with more opportunities to engage with the group before their activities officially end. The members expressed their excitement about delivering enjoyable content and performances, saying, "We hope to bring joy to our fans with the content we create together."
Arashi's journey has been one of remarkable success and influence in the Japanese entertainment industry. Their decision to disband marks the end of an era, but their legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate with fans for years to come. As they prepare for their final concert tour, the group aims to make it a celebration of their shared history and a heartfelt thank you to their supporters.
As the announcement reverberates through the fan community, many fans are reflecting on their own memories and experiences with the group. The anticipation for the farewell tour is palpable, as fans eagerly await the chance to see Arashi perform together one last time. This tour is not just an end; it is a celebration of the bond between the group and their fans, a moment to cherish as they close this chapter.
The members of Arashi have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, and their final tour promises to be a fitting tribute to their enduring legacy. With heartfelt performances and a chance to express gratitude directly to their fans, Arashi's farewell will surely be a memorable event that encapsulates their journey together.
As the date approaches, fans can expect a whirlwind of emotions, from nostalgia to excitement, as they prepare to say goodbye to one of Japan's most beloved idol groups. The final concert tour will not only celebrate Arashi's contributions to the music industry but also honor the unwavering support of their fans, who have stood by them through thick and thin.
