Being an
idol in the Japanese industry requires a level of discipline that often borders
on the absurd. During the presentation of her latest book of photographs
entitled Sakura, singer Sakura Oda, member of the legendary group
Morning Musume. '26, surprised the press by revealing some of the most
unusual restrictions he had to comply with during his private life in his 15
years within the group.
During the
event held in Tokyo on the occasion of the launch of her book published by Wani
Books, the artist shared details about the strict rules that govern the daily
routine of the members. As she explained, the administration categorically
prohibits girls from visiting pools, beaches or thermal baths in their free
time. Although Oda wore swimsuits in several official photo shoots throughout
her career, she confessed that she has never been able to wear one in her daily
life since she joined the group, since the rules do not allow exposure in those
types of public places.
Passionate
about swimming since she was a child, the singer has already organized her
return to everyday life immediately after her farewell concert at the Yokohama
Arena on December 11. Oda said with a laugh that she has already bought her own
swimsuit and plans to go to a swimming pool with her childhood friends during
her first week of freedom. Similarly, he admitted that he will dedicate an
entire day to breaking his strict diet by eating instant soups, fried chicken,
chocolates, ice cream and cakes, something that he had totally restricted due
to the rigorous calorie and metabolism control that was demanded of him in his
career.
Looking to
the future, the artist expressed her desire to remain linked to the world of
entertainment through theater and acting, two facets that were practically
impossible for her to explore due to the demanding schedule of the musical
group. With her official departure, the singer hopes to have the time and
freedom necessary to interact more closely with the public in this new
professional stage.
Morning
Musume is one of
the most influential and historic female idol groups in Japanese pop culture,
originally formed in 1997 within the collective Hello! Project. For almost
three decades, the group has remained in force thanks to a rotating system of
graduations and incorporation of new generations of young talents.
Within this
iconic musical project, Sakura Oda established herself as one of the
main vocalists and undisputed references since her entry in 2012 as part of the
eleventh generation. His retirement on December 11 will mark the definitive
closure of a career of 15 years dedicated to the stage.
