Yuuki Yoda, one of the beloved members of the iconic Japanese idol group Nogizaka46, officially graduated during her much-anticipated concert held at the Mizuho PayPay Dome in Fukuoka on February 23, 2025. Having joined the group as part of the third generation back in September 2016, Yoda has built a remarkable career not only as an idol but also as an actress and variety show star.
The graduation ceremony spanned across two unforgettable days, with the first day serving as the "Graduation Eve Festival" dubbed "Everything Yuuki’s Way," drawing over 77,000 fans to witness a heartfelt farewell. Yoda’s concerts were marked by unique and personalized performances, as she showcased her favorite tracks and cherished memories, all set against the backdrop of her hometown, Fukuoka.
On February 22, the eve of her graduation, Yoda's concert radiated joy and nostalgia as she performed numerous heartfelt songs, enthralling her audience. Among the highlights was the special moment when fans joined her for "Happy Birthday to You," celebrating the coinciding 13th anniversary of Nogizaka46's debut.
When the main concert took place the following day, it opened with the suspenseful arrival of actor Yōji Tanaka, who, having co-starred with Yoda, added to the thrilling atmosphere. Tanaka launched the opening video, where Yoda impressively recounted the titles of all 24 singles she had participated in.
Following this, Yoda made her grand entrance by stepping onto the sub-stage with a travel bag, leading her to the main stage where warm applause greeted her. This triggered the opening of the concert with her first center song, "Nigemizu," engaging the audience with its dramatic tunes. The night progressed through an array of songs, ranging from emotionally charged favorites to upbeat tracks, including "Hito Natsu no Nagasa Yori…" and "Romance no Start."
The concert showcased several poignant moments, such as when Captain Minami Umezawa asked Yoda how she felt, to which she candidly expressed her nervousness and joy, calling her feelings "a treasure box of emotions". This authenticity endeared her even more to her fans.
Throughout the concert, Yoda engaged and connected with her fellow members, especially the fifth generation members. During her performance, Shizuku Sugawara expressed her admiration for Yoda, proclaiming her as a dependable big sister figure. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and nostalgia, leading to many emotional exchanges.
Reflecting on her time with Nogizaka46, Yoda took time to acknowledge the impact of her fellow third-generation members, expressing, "The twelve of you will always be my irreplaceable treasures." She performed the beloved "Haruujion ga Saku Koro" alongside her third-generation peers, stirring nostalgic feelings among her audience.
The concert also included Yoda performing "Watashi wa Hitori Janai" solo, where many members expressed their love and admiration for her talent and personality. For example, she received heartfelt praises and emotional farewells from her fellow idols, creating touching moments on stage.
Later in the program, the surprise appearance of former member Momoko Oozono electrified the crowd as both Yoda and Oozono performed "Nigemizu" together once again, evoking powerful emotions and joyous cheers from the fans.
Known for her humor and warm heart, Yoda ended her concert run with lighthearted interactions with the audience, enhancing the emotional farewell. She expressed her gratitude to everyone involved throughout her eight-and-a-half-year career with Nogizaka46. "I’m stepping forward with all the memories and love I've gathered over these years," she stated, reflecting on her growth and experiences.
After her farewell performances, Yoda performed her last song, "Natsukashisa no Saki," addressing her fans and thanking them for their immense support. She concluded her speech by expressing, "I have spent the last eight and half years with the most wonderful people, and I feel like the happiest person on Earth. Thank you so much!"
Yoda joined the ranks of former members as the concert marked not just her departure but also highlighted the advent of new talent as the sixth generation member set to join Nogizaka46. Enthusiasts can look forward to the group's future, especially with the upcoming release of their 38th single on March 26 and the planned "13th Year Birthday Live" shows scheduled for May 17 and 18 at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo.
Fans can also relish the setlist from both days of Yoda's graduation concerts, which perfectly blended her personal favorites and major hits from her career at Nogizaka46, illustrating her remarkable impact on the group's history.