On March 20, 2025, Maki Goto, a well-known talent and singer, marked a historic milestone in the publishing world with her photo book "flos" (Kodansha), which released in November 2024. This remarkable work has hit the top of the charts by becoming the highest-selling e-book photo book in Japan's history, as reported by multiple outlets, including ModelPress and Yahoo! News.
Since its launch, "flos" has captured significant attention, showcasing Goto's ageless beauty through a collection of stunning photographs. The book was particularly praised for its ability to resonate with a diverse audience, appealing to both men and women alike. Female fans have expressed their admiration for Goto's natural beauty, with comments such as "I admire Maki-chan’s transparency" and "Her body is just too beautiful!".
Featuring photographs taken in winter in Yamagata and summer in Jeju Island, South Korea, Goto embraces her authentic self in 144 pages that encapsulate various moods and settings. Throughout the book, Goto displays both vivacity and serenity, with playful shots in swimsuits under the Jeju sun, as well as intimate moments captured in a cozy indoor hot spring atmosphere in Yamagata.
The e-book version of "flos" is particularly noteworthy, achieving impressive sales that have eclipsed the previous records set by Goto's earlier works. As of March 7, 2025, the book had already gone through ten print runs and established itself as the number one e-book photo book in Japan, a significant accomplishment in the digital era. Goto expressed her surprise and joy upon hearing about this milestone, stating, "Number one in Japan? Really? Wow, I'm so happy!".
To show her gratitude to her fans, Goto has recently released new unpublished cuts from the photo book, allowing her supporters to engage with even more of her work. This release included images meant to capture her lively personality and charm, adding a new layer of depth to the already well-received collection. In her words, Goto elaborated, "I'm truly grateful, and I hope that the book reaches even more people. Thank you so much!".
The blend of Goto's self-directed vision and the natural narrative throughout the book has been key to its success. Published to commemorate Goto's 25th anniversary in the entertainment industry, "flos" presents a personal touch, which is reflected in Goto's honest expressions and physical presence. It focuses on the theme of relaxation and self-revelation, inviting readers to embrace moments of leisure and enjoyment.
Insiders in the publishing world have noted how the rise in digital readership, enhanced by the accessibility of e-books on smartphones and other digital devices, has played a significant role in the photo book's high sales. Many consumers opted for both the physical and digital copies for their convenience, leading to a unique scenario where dual purchases have become commonplace.
Furthermore, the ability to zoom in on various images in the digital version allows readers to appreciate the nuances and details of Goto’s poses and expressions, which has intensified interest in her work among new audiences outside her existing fan base. This innovative approach to photo books provides an engaging experience, making Goto's imagery more accessible and enjoyable.
As Goto continues to make her mark on the industry, her success with "flos" stands as a testament to her enduring appeal and marketing acumen. The reaction from her fanbase has only solidified her status as an iconic figure in Japanese pop culture, and the anticipation for future works from Goto remains high.
Ultimately, Maki Goto’s accomplishment comes as a refreshing reminder of how a combination of talent, clever marketing, and genuine connection with fans can lead to unprecedented success in today’s competitive environment. With "flos", Goto invites her audience not only to witness her journey through photography but also to reflect on their own moments of beauty and happiness.
