Japan's popular 9-member group Snow Man's Ryota Miyadai is set to appear on Fuji TV's special program "National Magic Festival: World's No. 1 Japanese Magician Decision Battle SP," which will air at 9 PM on March 23, 2025. In a groundbreaking event for the Japanese magic community, 10 of Japan's most skilled magicians will compete against each other, pushing the boundaries of magic as they aim to claim the title of the best. This unprecedented competition features a stellar lineup of judges, including renowned figures such as Princess Tenko, Dr. Leon, KiLa, Shuji Fujikawa, and Shimpei Katsuragawa.
MC duties will be handled by Akira Kawashima from Kirin, with the comedy duo Chocolate Planet (Shohei Nagada and Takashi Matsuo) adding their unique flair to the show. Additionally, the program will feature guests such as Wakako Shimazaki, Mika Fujimoto, and Ryota Miyadai, who will bear witness to this fierce battle of talent.
Traditionally, ranking magicians across different genres has been considered taboo within the magic community, but for this program, acclaimed Japanese magicians who have performed worldwide will engage in an unprecedented face-off. Participants include SORA and Atsushi Onoue, who thrilled audiences with their appearances on "America's Got Talent;" Takashi Takeda, who made history by securing third place at the Olympics of Magic; and MASA MAGIC and Cherry, both recognized by the Hollywood Magic Hall of Fame. The lineup also boasts LUNA, a member of the team led by global star magician, Cero, as well as RYUHEI, whose street magic has captivated audiences worldwide. Others competing include izuma, who has an impressive record of awards across the US and France; Kuniichi Sasagi, who claimed an international title at just 16; and JONIO, who has been invited from 17 countries worldwide.
The stage is set for what promises to be the largest magic competition in history, showcasing the extraordinary talents of Japan's top magicians. Ryota Miyadai expressed his excitement about witnessing such awe-inspiring performances, stating, “I was so surprised during my first magic viewing experience that I couldn't stop talking.”
As the competition unfolds, the judges and guests have shared their sentiments about the anticipation surrounding the extraordinary event. Akira Kawashima shared his thoughts: “It was a luxurious time being able to see 10 of Japan's top magicians at once. At times, I was so amazed I even forgot I was an MC and simply enjoyed the show!”
Chocolate Planet's Shohei Nagada, reflecting on his experience, revealed, “I used to see magicians on TV exaggerating their reactions and thought, 'No way!' But honestly, I felt like I was genuinely amazed!” Whereas Takashi Matsuo remarked that he learned about the diversity within the world of magic through this experience.
Ryota was taken aback by the elegance in the movements and techniques of the magicians. He noted, “This was my first time seeing magic live, and every gesture was so beautiful that it inspired me to want to try magic myself one day!”
Judges have also shared their perspectives on noteworthy magicians from the program. Akira stated that izuma left a lasting impression on him. He remarked, “I experienced a level of magic I had never seen before and was almost brought to tears given the satisfaction the performance provided.”
Shohei Nagada singled out Kuniichi Sasagi's trick involving a smartphone that seemingly teleported, saying, “I couldn't believe it, especially since he is only 25 years old. I can’t wait to see where he goes from here!”
Lastly, Takashi Matsuo had the opportunity to assist LUNA in her magic act and shared, “I felt like I was a magician myself! Even standing close by, I had no clue how she did it!”
As the program heads towards its airing, the excitement is palpable, with each participant and judge gearing up for an unforgettable showcase of talent. The audience can look forward to a unique spectacle of magic that not only entertains but also honors the profound skill of these top Japanese magicians. Ryota Miyadai urges viewers to join in on the unbelievable experience, expressing, “You're in for a treat! This competition showcases the hard work and dedication of each magician, and it will amaze you to see the different backgrounds each performance reflects.”
Those who tune in will experience the thrill of world-class magic, making it an event not to be missed!
