With their 5th Anniversary since their indies debut already passed, as well as my love for them continuously soaring, I thought it wise to (finally) create a post introducing the lovely ladies who make up Houkago Princess, and giving all of you lovely readers some insight into the group, what it's all about, and who the girls themselves are! And, if you're interested, I do hope you further your research, and learn more about the greatness that is Houkago Princess, the Idols who become Royalty once the clock strikes 4pm!
Formed back in late 2010 and debuting on the indies scene on August 3rd 2011, Houkago Princess (also known as HouPri) have had their fair share of ups and downs in the great Japanese Entertainment Industry. From departures to scandals, returns and more, this group has lost and found some great girls until, finally, they stand as they are today, a major-label group with a steady lineup, as well as an ever-growing fanbase who love what these girls do.
With 7 indies singles, four commemorative singles, two digital releases, a collaboration, one mini-album and three major singles under their belt, HouPri have been pretty consistent in their releases since their indie days, and have slowly built up a strong foundation from the ground up. Working their way from the bottom, the group started out performing at Ikebukuro WHITEBASE, a small venue that could barely hold all of the girls on the small platform they would sing and dance on in front of a handful of fans. It was not until 2013 that HouPri moved on to bigger venues, namely Ruido K2, Shibuya DUO and Coconuts STAGE, which were more accommodating to the increasing size of the group, who at that point held more than 14 members and feeling more AKB than HouPri at the time in terms of how many members there were.
2013 was also the year that saw HouPri's biggest turnover in its members, with 10 members leaving between the months of March and October. This included the leave of former front girl, Chiba Sakino, who graduated, as well as the dismissal of Noda Hitomi, both popular members of the group. Though the year proved to be rocky for the remaining members, Houkago Princess continued performing and gaining fans with each new release, and each new performance.
In 2015, Houkago Princess made their major debut with Universal Music Japan. This was also the groups 4th anniversary.
In 2016, Teams Twinkle and Miracle were introduced as a means to showcase the various talents of the members. Where Team Twinkle focused on the more skilled members and giving them performances that matched their skill level, Team Miracle would work as a means to further enhance the members abilities and allow the idols to improve. In late 2018, Team Miralce would eventually turn into Team SWEET. It would eventually become defunct with the graduations of multiple Youth and Regular members.
In September 2017, Houkago Princesses contract with Universal Music Japan came to an end, resulting in the group entering their 'second chapter' and a new indies phase. Now under FORZA Records, the group has continued to create music fitting of their Princess status, and are continuing to play around with the idea of what a Princess is.
As of 2019, the group is currently moving towards this idea of being your own kind of Princess, instead of focusing on fictional or historical royalty. Both Shin Jidai Princess / Princess no Teigi and My Princess II are examples of this.
Now under FORZA Records, the group continues to flourish as an indies group that is not attached to a major label. With their 'Princess' theme intact, the group has begun to shift their focus from fairy tales to becoming their own type of Princess who is both strong and beautiful.
And now they are waiting to enchant you, so if you feel intrigued by these Idols who become Princesses once the clock strikes four in the evening, will you take a look at who is who, and find a Princess to take to the ball before the clock rings 12?
Nickname: MaiMai
D.O.B: July 12th, 1993
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Kanagawa, Japan
Height: 158cm
Generation: 6th
Position: Big Sister Chairman, Vice-President
Image Colour: Purple
Hobbies / Skills: TV, dancing, listening to music, watching movies, singing, piano
Favourite Thing: Movies
Princess she aims to be: The Little Mermaid (She wishes to captivate people with her singing voice as Ariel did, and to meet others through the music she creates)
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active, Soloist
Crowned: Active, Soloist
Reign: May 2014 - PresentStatus: Active, Soloist
Crowned: Active, Soloist
Twitter | Instagram | Website | FORZA Records Profile | YouTube
Info:
Beginning her career in 2005, Maika became a performer and Idol at the age of 12 as a member of the group Power Age under Stardust Promotion. The group mainly held live performances, and released only one single until its disbandment in 2009. Maika pursued a short solo career after that until 2011, when she left the label and the industry to pursue a normal life. She later returned in 2014 as a member of Houkago Princess, where she was quickly promoted to Regular status and made a lead vocalist in songs alongside Odagiri Nana and Miyashita Mayuka.
In September 2014, Maika made it to the final round of FujiTV's Idol Karaoke Contest held on September 2014. She won 3rd place and gained recognition for her vocal skill.
Known for her Diva vocals, Maika is the first member of Houkago Princess to pursue a solo career alongside her activities. She made her mini-album debut in late 2018, and has since performed live several times, as well as sung for a movie.
In August 2018, Maika revealed that she would continue acting as the groups vice-president / sub-leader upon the graduation of Odagiri Nana, and that Sekine Sasara would act as the groups leader. Maika noted that this was due to her feeling she could not focus on both the group and solo activities, and that it would be unfair for her to neglect one over the other.
Name: Sekine Sasara (関根ささら)
D.O.B: January 14th, 1993
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Saitama Prefecture
Height: 162cm
Generation: 7th, Leader
Position: Happiness Chairman
Image Colour: Red
Skills: Basketball, Disney guide
Skills: Basketball, Disney guide
Hobbies: Disney, Shopping, Singing
Favourite Things: Disneyland, movies, overseas travel
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active
Status: September 22nd, 2016
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active
Status: September 22nd, 2016
Info:
Originally a Race Queen for Team JLOC, Sasara made her debut in the entertainment world back in 2011 and did a variety of modelling, including Gravure and cosplay.
Sasara joined HouPri Youth in April 2015 with hopes to debut as a Princess, but decided that she would graduate in early 2016. After some thought however, she decided to continue working towards becoming a Regular member. She was eventually promoted and officially joined Houkago Princess on September 22nd, 2016, alongside Nagasawa Marina and Kojima Mayumi.
In August 2018, Sasara was revealed to be the new leader following Odagiri Nana's graduation. The decision was made when Maika revealed that she would have a hard time juggling both her solo activities and the group.
Sasara can speak English and loves all things Disney.
Nickname: Sahochi
D.O.B: May 13th, 1991
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Yamaguchi, Japan
Height: 163cm
Generation: 6th
Position: Japanese Chairman
Image Colour: Light Blue
Hobbies / Skills: Visiting castles, temples and shrines, sleeping, Japanese History, Electone, volleyball
Likes: Hello! Project, puns, Japanese History
Princess she aims to be: Kaguya-hime (She would like to wear a twelve-layered kimono, and to transform from an Idol to kimono-wearing princess)
Team: Miracle (2016 - 2018), SWEET
Status: Active
Crowned: August 20th, 2015 (First Coronation) / July 12th, 2018 (Second Coronation)
Demoted: September 17th, 2017Status: Active
Crowned: August 20th, 2015 (First Coronation) / July 12th, 2018 (Second Coronation)
Reign: October 2013 - Present
Twitter | Instagram | Showroom
Info:
The first 6th generation member to be selected, Michishige Saho was also the last to be promoted. Before her arrival to the HouPri Kingdom however, Saho was a model for online publications and highly active on social media.
Currently one of the longer running members of the current lineup, Saho juggled both her idol activities and university successfully before graduating from her studies in 2015. She took a brief break from performances in late 2014 to focus on her dissertation.
Saho was promoted in August 2015 and debuted as a Regular member with the groups major debut mini-album release, Seifuku Cinderella.
In June 2017, Saho underwent a brief study period in order to maximise her abilities as an idol. After watching her progress - and ultimately deciding that she lacking - she was given the ultimatum to either graduate or return to trainee status. Saho took the opportunity to become a trainee again, and helped the newest generation of Youth members who had been formed from the auditions. A year later, Saho was promoted a second time and re-debuted with the Regular lineup alongside Yukino Yuria.
Her original introduction line was Atchi, Kotchi, Dotchi? *se no* Sahochi! She is also a second cousin to former Morning Musume member, Michishige Sayumi.
Name: Kohinata Nanase (小日向ななせ)
Nickname: Kohina
D.O.B: January 28th, 1996
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Aichi Prefecture
Height: 154cm
Generation: 9th
Image Colour: Yellow
Skills: Doing various things whilst hula hooping
Favourite Things: Window shopping
Team: Miracle (2016 - 2018), SWEET
Status: Active
Status: October 8th, 2018Status: Active
Reign: August 2017 - Present
Twitter | Instagram
Info:
Kohinata Nanase joined HouPri Youth in 2017 as one of 12 members, aiming towards becoming a Regular member. During her time in HouPri Youth, Nanase began working as a gravure model.
In October 2018, both Nanase and Yamamoto Natsumi were promoted to Regular member status. Their coronation was held with Tani Nobara, who had won the Regular Member audition.
Nanase is still active as both an idol and gravure model, and is often doing swimwear or underwear photoshoots.
Name: Sawada Momoka (澤田 桃佳)
Nickname: Momo-chan
D.O.B: February 6th, 2001
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Osaka Prefecture
Height: 162cm
Generation: 10th
Image Colour: Hot pink
Skills: Karate, dancing, singing
Favourite Things: Detective Conan manga, anime
Team: Miracle (2016 - 2018), SWEET (2019), Twinkle (2020)
Status: Active
Crowned: April 15th, 2019Status: Active
Reign: August 2017 - Present
Twitter | Instagram
Info:
Though Sawada Momoka was introduced as one of the 12 members to renew HouPri Youth, she did not join fellow members Yuria, Nanase, Natsumi and Hiyori until she had trained for a year and 8 months. Despite this however, Momoka has proven that she is a popular and skilled member.
Since the group implemented the Team systems, Momoka is currently the only member to have been moved from one team to the other.
I initially included members who had been active from 2010 to 2015 here, but upon renewing this outdated post I have since decided to only focus on the graduated Regular members within this post.
You can find the HouPri Youth post HERE.
Name: Hagi Yurika (萩ユリカ)
Nickname: O-Hagi
Status: Inactive
Crowned: Original Princess
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - May 2011 (Withdrew)
Name: Yamaguchi Mai (山口舞)
Nickname: Maaui, Maawi
D.O.B: February 28th
Generation: 1st
Position: Sports Chairman
Status: Inactive
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - December 2011 (Graduated)
Name: Kishitani Yuki (岸谷優希)
Nickname: Yukki
D.O.B: October 3rd, 1994
Generation: 1st
Position: Devil Chairman
Status: Active, Gravure Idol
Affiliated Groups: Dream Factory
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - May 2012 (Graduated)
Info:
After her graduation, Yuki went on to form her own Idol group, Dream Factory, under the agency Office COLOURS where Houkago Princess had originally been founded. She also debuted in Gravure on May 28th 2013, however both she and her group became inactive from December 2013 after Yuki announced her hiatus from the industry.
In 2018, Yuki returned to the industry and is active as a gravure idol.
Name: Yumeka (夢夏)
Nickname: Yumerin
D.O.B: August 8th, 1996
Generation: 1st
Position: Cool Chairman
Status: Inactive
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - May 2012 (Graduated)
Info:
A former child model. At the time of the groups debut, Yumeka was the youngest member at age 14, though she turned 15 shortly after. Since her graduation, Yumeka has been in and out of the industry as a tarento. She previously attended an acting school.
Name: Kobayashi Rena (小林玲奈)
Nickname: Yumerin
D.O.B: September 3rd, 1992
Height: 162cm
Generation: 2nd
Position: Smile Chairman
Status: Inactive
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS
Crowned: December 2011
Reign: November 2011 - March 2013 (Dismissed)
Info:
Dismissed for breaking the rules of contract, including not taking her duties as an Idol seriously. Rena returned to the industry in October of the same year as a member of READY TO KISS, however she withdrew from the group in February 2014.
Name: Nagafuji Aoi (永藤葵)
Nickname: Aotaso, Naachan
D.O.B: July 3rd, 1992
Generation: 2nd
Position: Fuwafuwa Chairman
Status: Inactive
Crowned: December 2011
Reign: November 2011 - June 2013 (Withdrew)
Info:
After withdrawing from Houkago Princess to focus on her studies and gain a teaching qualification, Aoi came back to the industry in October of the same year as a member of the unit READY TO KISS, however she withdrew from the group in February 2014.
Name: Chiba Sakino (千葉さきの)
Nickname: Sakipyon
D.O.B: July 9th, 1990
Generation: 1st
Position: Fashion Chairman
Status: Retired
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS (October 2013 - December 2019), SakiHito
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - July 2013 (Graduated)
Info:
Sakino left Houkago Princess in order to focus on fashion, her desired career, however in October 2013, she returned to Entertainment as the leader of READY TO KISS, as well as a temporary duo unit, SakiHito, made up of her and Noda Hitomi. Prior to her graduation, Sakino had planned to graduate in September 2012, however postponed her graduation for the sake of her fans.
In December of 2019, Sakino graduated from READY TO KISS and the entertainment industry. She had worked as an idol for almost 10 years.
She is the former center of Houkago Princess, and was a lead vocalist and a very popular member. She continued to be popular during her time as a member of READY TO KISS.
Nickname: Hitomin
D.O.B: August 10th, 1995
Blood Type: O
Height: 162cm
Generation: 1st
Position: Lunch Chairman
Status: Active
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS, SakiHito, COVER GIRLS, Advance Arc Harmony, TOYZ
Crowned: Original Princess
Reign: December 2010 - September 2013 (Dismissed)
Info:
An original Houkago Princess member who was dismissed for contacting fans and meeting up with them. It was also revealed that she was dating one of her male fans. A month after her dismissal, however, Hitomi returned alongside Chiba Sakino, announcing their new group, READY TO KISS, which was made up of former members of HouPri, excluding Ichinose Anju. She also created a duo with Sakino, named SakiHito.
During her time in READY TO KISS, Hitomi took part in several gravure photoshoots and commercials, as well as participated in Weekly Young Jump's SAKIDOL ACE SURVIVAL SEASON 5.
In June 2017, Hitomi graduated from READY TO KISS and took a break from the industry, citing mental health issues as her reason. She would eventually come back in June 2018, where she joined the group TOYZ, which eventually merged with another group into Advance Arc Harmony, where she was an original senbatsu member. She graduated from the group in October 2018. She continued to work as a model during her time with TOYZ and Advance Arc Harmony.
In December 2018, Hitomi was revealed as one of the new members for the group CoverGirls, which was restarting with a new lineup. She is set to graduate in April 2020.
Personal Comments:
She is my original HouPri Oshi (lol).
Name: Shiraishi Rika (白石りか)
Nickname: Ri-ri
D.O.B: June 13th, 1995
Generation: 3rd
Position: Dimple Chairman
Status: Inactive
Affiliated Groups: SAY-LA
Crowned: March 15th, 2013
Reign: June 2012 - October 2013 (Graduated)
Info:
Rika graduated from Houkago Princess in order to focus on her studies and getting into University. In March of 2014 however, she made her return when auditioning for Arc Jewel's third Doll group, which later became Ange☆Reve. Though she did not make it into the group, Rika returned to Get-Crazy and formed the unit SAY-LA in December 2014 where she acted as the groups original leader until her graduation on July 31st, 2017. The reason for her graduation is cited that she felt her ideals towards the group were different to the reality of the group.
Since her graduation, Rika acted as a model until mid-2018. She has been inactive since.
Name: Yamakawa Risa (山川莉砂)
Nickname: Risarina
D.O.B: February 24th, 1994
Generation: 4th
Position: Ballet Chairman
Status: Inactive
Crowned: October 13th, 2013
Reign: January 2013 - January 2014 (Fired)
Info:
Prior to joining Houkago Princess, Risa was a licensed ballet instructor and had also performed in Berlin, Germany beforehand.
She was dismissed from Houkago Princess due to breaking the rules of her contract. She had sprained her ankle during a performance in December of 2013, however was found meeting up with fans the following day. After being discovered, Risa e-mailed the company to withdraw herself from the group, however this was done without the agreement of TIARA Records. As the company could not contact her after this, she was fired in January 2014.
Since her withdrawal, Risa became inactive in order to treat a long-standing foot injury.
Name: Hayamizu Rin (早水凛)
Nickname: RIN, Rin Rin
D.O.B: December 24th, 1991
Blood Type: A
Height: 162cm
Generation: 4th
Position: Graceful Chairman
Status: Active, Actress
Affiliated Groups: Yellow☆Candle, KiraLyraHEART
Crowned: October 13th, 2013
Reign: January 2013 - May 2014 (Withdrew)
Info:
A former sub-vocalist for Houkago Princess. In 2014, Rin took part in a stage play Hana yo... Chou yo... and, through that, she realised her desire to act so chose to withdraw from Houkago Princess. Since then, she has performed in the play Flying Pirantes - Neverland Hyoryuki -, been a part of the fashion unit Yellow☆Candle, of which she left in December of 2014, and eventually became a member of the anime-based all girl unit, KiraLyraHEART, which she joined in 2015.
Rin currently uses the stage name RIN for her voice acting work, and has lent her voice to an iPhone game.
At present, Rin is currently active as an actress.
Name: Sakuragi Nene (桜木寧々)
Stage Name: Watanabe Ren
Nickname: Nenetasu, Nene-chama, Renkoro
D.O.B: October 5th, 1995
Blood Type: O
Height: 158cm
Generation: 3rd
Position: Sweet-Tooth Chairman
Status: Inactive
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS
Crowned: July 2012
Reign: June 2012 - January 2015 (Withdrew / Graduation)
Info:
Nene was the first of her generation to be promoted to Cadet status, and the first to be given a center role in a single. Originally a popular member, Nene was known for her good vocals, and was a heavily featured member throughout 2012-2013. In 2013, Nene made the announcement that she would suspend her activities as an Idol in order to focus on her University studies, and did not give a definite return date.
In early 2014, Nene made a slow return to Houkago Princess, with limited and sporadic appearances. From September that year, her appearances became more frequent, and she re-opened her twitter account to the public.
In February of 2015, an announcement was made that Sakuragi Nene would graduate from Houkago Princess, due to inactivity and a lack of dedication to her role as an Idol. Disagreement had been met on both sides (Nene and the staff) as to how she should act, and the little commitment she had given to the group for over a year. Originally, she had been offered a demotion to a Cadet, where she would have to improve herself and show her dedication, however Nene declined, with a withdrawal being her final option. She graduated on February 11th, 2015.
In October 2015, Nene returned as a member of READY TO KISS, however she would work under the stage name Watanabe Ren. however was later dismissed in February 2016 for "continuing to take actions detrimental to the group, despite repeated warning."
Personal Comments:
I actually found her declining that offer a tad rude, considering o3o
UPDATE: Okay wait, she was just as annoying in READY TO KISS, W O W.
Current Name: Sasaki Miho (佐々木美帆)
Former Name: Ayase Miho (綾瀬 美穂)
Nickname: Mihotan, Mihodas
D.O.B: January 30th, 1991
Generation: 3rd
Position: My Pace Chairman
Image Colour: Blue
Status: Active
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS (June 2018 - Present)
Crowned: July 31st, 2013
Reign: June 2012 - March 2016 (Graduated)
Abdication: March 27th, 2016
Info:
The last of her generation to be promoted to the Regular lineup, Mihotan also happened to be one of the oldest members of the group, aged 25 years old when she graduated in March 2016. Though a back member for a good deal of her career, Miho was well liked by staff, the members and fans of the group. For her final single, the song Sakura saku is lead by her, making it her first and final lead song.
Her image colour was Red, which is also Yamaguchi Miran, her generation mate's colour.
For her final performance, she wore the first costume she had ever performed in as a member of Houkago Princess; the original Juliet ~Kimi wo Suki na 100 Riyuu~ dress.
In 2017, Miho returned to the entertainment industry and worked briefly as a maid in a maid cafe. She then became a member of I-GET's trainee unit, BABY TO KISS, where she performed regularly before being promoted to the group READY TO KISS, where she was reunited with former Houkago Princess member Sakino Chiba.
Personal Comments:
SHE RETURNED, I'M FINE NOW!
Nickname: Mayu-kyan, Mayukyandi
D.O.B: November 14th, 1992
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 163cm
Generation: 1st (2011-2012), 2.5th (2013-Present)
Position: 2.5th Dimension Chairman
Image Colour: Pink
Hobbies / Interests: Anime, gaming, singing, clothes, voice acting
Princess she aims to be: Marie Antoinette (for her femininity)
Status: Inactive
Status: Original Princess / October 12th, 2013
Reign: December 2010 - May 2012 / March 2013 - August 2016 (Graduated)
Abdicated: August 15th, 2016
Info:
A former first generation member, Mayuka was known for her cute looks and impressive voice. She was the first member to have a solo song debut on a CD, and is currently the only member with two solo songs under her belt as a member of the group. In 2012, Mayuka graduated the group to pursue a career in fashion modelling, however returned under a year later in 2013 as a Cadet, until she was promoted in October that same year, and placed in the 2.5th generation to imitate her position. Since the beginning of her career, Mayuka has made it abundantly clear that she plans to pursue voice acting, and has had a chance to voice act for the game Koe☆Kara, and plays the character Amemiya Mayuka, who is based off of her. Early on in 2016, Mayuka began taking classes in voice acting, and it is the reason for her upcoming Graduation in August.
Her fan-cry is 'Mayu-kyandi!'.
Personal Comments:
Mayuka is a really cute member, and a highly talented one, at that. Of all the members (past and present), she has proven to be one of their best singers thanks to her flexibility. Her two solo songs, Auau→Kyururun and 2.5 jigen no Genjitsu are two of my favourite solo pieces from any HouPri member. She's gifted, and whilst I am sad that HouPri will lose a great talent, Mayuka pursuing her dream career is actually for the best. Hopefully, I will hear more from her in future, and I hope she pursues singing in her new career, too, because it would be a bit of a waste if she didn't!
She's a great girl, and she will be missed... I know that she was a truly beloved member.
Name: Nagasawa Marina (長澤茉里奈)
Nickname: Marichu
D.O.B: October 8th, 1995
D.O.B: October 8th, 1995
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Saitama, Japan
Height: 154cm
Generation: 5th
Position: Crybaby Chairman
Image Colour: Yellow
Hobbies: Napping, cooking, eating, watching movies (Star Wars especially)
Team: Miracle
Status: Active, gravure model
Crowned: September 22nd, 2016
Status: Active, gravure model
Crowned: September 22nd, 2016
Reign: October 2013 - August 2014 / February 2015 - December 2016 (Withdrew)
Abdicated: December 31st, 2016
Info:
An original 5th generation member, Nagasawa Marina debuted as an Apprentice within Houkago Princess in late 2013, however, she took her leave in May of 2014 due to illness. In August 2014, however, when Marina still had not returned to her duties, it was announced that she had been dismissed because of her neglect in letting staff know that she was well and able to return to her activities. Despite her dismissal, however, Marina revealed in her apology post that she would work hard to earn back the trust of the Houkago Princess staff, and aimed to re-audition and begin a clean slate. In October of the same year, Marina began working at COCONUTS LOUNGE TOKYO as a waitress, and also a Gravure Idol.
On February 18th, 2015 Marina returned to Houkago Princess as an Apprentice, as well as the first member to join the new little sister unit, HouPri Youth. In March that same year she announced her first solo Gravure DVD, and has since been active in activities within HouPri Youth, and as a Gravure Idol. Through the contest Miss iD 2016 , of which she was a finalist.
In February 2016, it was announced that Marina, Sekine Sasara and Kamiya Airi would graduate from HouPri Youth and create their own group together. Before the graduation happened however, Marina and Sasara changed their minds and continued working as members of HouPri Youth. They would eventually be promoted to the Regular lineup with Kojima Mayumi that same year.
In December 2016 Marina made the sudden announcement that she would leave Houkago Princess. Despite wanting to debut with the group and working hard as a Candidate, Marina had not realised how difficult it was to keep up with Houkago Princess compared to their indies days. After experiencing extreme anxiety with performing, and thoroughly enjoying her solo projects, Marina made the decision to withdraw from Houkago Princess permanently to focus on modelling and other things.
Marina is a highly successful gravure model, and is active within the industry. She is currently affiliated with Trustar.
Name: Kojima Mayumi (小島まゆみ)
Nickname: Mayumin, KojiMayu
Nickname: Mayumin, KojiMayu
D.O.B: September 26th, 1995
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Kanagawa, Japan
Height: 152cm
Generation: 7th, Cadet
Position: UHealing Chairman
Image Colour: Pink
Hobbies / Skills: History, Candy making, Reading, museums, watching Ghibli films, Piano, Dance, Calligraphy
Team: Miracle
Status: Active, Tarento, Model
Crowned: September 22nd, 2016
Reign: September 2015 - August 2018 (Graduated)
Abdicated: August 5th, 2018
Twitter | Instagram
Team: Miracle
Status: Active, Tarento, Model
Crowned: September 22nd, 2016
Reign: September 2015 - August 2018 (Graduated)
Abdicated: August 5th, 2018
Twitter | Instagram
Info:
Active within the Entertainment Industry since 2011, Mayumi made her debut through TV appearances, as well as in Gravure. From 2012 until 2015, she released five solo gravure DVD's. Before joining HouPri Youth, she was an active worker at COCONUTS STAGE, Shibuya from July 2015, and then joined the Idol group in September that same year.
On March 20th 2016, Mayumi was the first Apprentice to be promoted to Cadet status, which gives her seniority over both Sasara and Marina, despite all three being Cadets.
Mayumi can speak English, and claims it is her favourite subject. She has also practiced Piano for 10 years, and prefers novels over manga books.
Upon graduating, Mayumi went on hiatus for a year before returning to the entertainment industry as a model and tarento. She is also a qualified Brazilian Wax Instructor.
Nickname: Himarin
D.O.B: June 22nd, 1996
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Osaka, Japan
Height: 160cm
Generation: 6th
Position: Usamimi Chairman
Image Colour: Sunflower Yellow
Hobbies / Skills: Dancing, cosplay, fashion, lolita, Idol appreciation, singing, Drawing via a PC/Tablet
Princess she aims to be: Odagiri Nana (When she saw the group perform for the first time, she saw how Nana sparkled and wished to emulate her senpai)
Team: Miracle
Status: Status, Idol, Cosplayer
Affiliated Groups: Blue Asterism
Crowned: February 18th, 2015
Reign: June 2014 - August 2018
Abdicated: August 12th, 2018
Twitter | Instagram | Wikipedia
Info:
Prior to joining Houkago Princess, Shirosaki Himari had attended the groups live for the first time in a handmade cosplay of the groups uniform that her mother had made. When fans saw her in the crowd, there was confusion over whether she was a member or not, and she was noticed by the members and praised for her cosplay.
After this incident, Himari went on to audition for Houkago Princess and became a 6th generation member. Throughout her tenure, Himari was the youngest of the Regular lineup.
Himari is skilled in art and was known for creating her own designs for birthday event exclusive merchandise. Prior to the addition of the 5th and 7th generation members, Himari acted as a sub-vocalist.
After graduating from Houkago Princess, Himari cosplayed professionally.
As of March 9th, 2020, Himari is the leader of the idol group Blue Asterism, which restarted with a new member lineup. She is regarded highly for her hard work, ambition, as well as her high quality singing and dance skills.
Name: Odagiri Nana (小田桐奈々)
Nickname: Nana-nyan
D.O.B: February 18th, 1990
D.O.B: February 18th, 1990
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 157cm
Generation: 1st
Position: Student Council President
Image Colour: White
Hobbies: Playing with cats, RPG's
Princess she aims to be: Snow White (She wishes to be loved like she is, and the beauty aspect is desirable, too)
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active
Crowned: Original Princess
Status: Active
Crowned: Original Princess
Info:
The longest running member, Odagiri Nana is an original 1st gen Princess and one of the most popular members within the group. She is known for her love of cats, and for her dedication to the group. Though she originally planned to graduate Houkago Princess in 2012, Nana changed her mind and has since gone on to becoming one of the most well known and beloved members within the group and its fanbase.
She has her own solo song, titled Nanairo Photograph, which plays on her name, Nana, and at the end of performances, fans call out for a 'Nyancore'.
Upon graduating from Houkago Princess, Nana cited her frustrations at leaving the group without having gone to Budokan, which was the groups original goal when they debuted in 2011. Despite this, Nana is pleased with the groups progress and all they have done, and did not regret her 7 years as its leader.
She is still active behind the scenes and is often hanging out with the current members, as well as past members. It can be assumed that she works within the same office as HouPri.
Upon graduating from Houkago Princess, Nana cited her frustrations at leaving the group without having gone to Budokan, which was the groups original goal when they debuted in 2011. Despite this, Nana is pleased with the groups progress and all they have done, and did not regret her 7 years as its leader.
She is still active behind the scenes and is often hanging out with the current members, as well as past members. It can be assumed that she works within the same office as HouPri.
Nickname: AC Miran, Assistant Miran
D.O.B: March 22nd, 1995 (21)
Blood Type: Unknown
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 157cm
Generation: 3rd
Position: Soccer Chairman
Image Colour: Red
Hobbies: Watching soccer, playing basketball
Princess she aims to be:: Rapunzel (She likes her tomboyish feel in the Disney movie, which she sees in herself. She also likes her overall look)
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active
Crowned: March 15th, 2013
Reign: June 2012 - October 2018Status: Active
Crowned: March 15th, 2013
Abdicated: October 14th, 2018
Twitter | Instagram
Info:
Prior to joining Houkago Princess, Yamaguchi Miran was a part of the temporary unit 8teenz in 2011 until 2012 for a collaboration single, Memories of you, as well as a former 1st generation member of Akihabara Backstage Pass from 2011 until 2012.
Known for her love of soccer, Miran became one of the more revered and popular members thanks to her passionate cries during performances, as well as her sharp dance skills that contrasted with the elegance of Kizuki Saori. Miran would often promote the groups single on the radio, and would also model for fashion brands with Saori.
Miran has a teaching licence, however upon obtaining it she continued her activities within Houkago Princess. In August 2018, Miran revealed that her decision to graduate from Houkago Princess was to do with her desire to not waste her qualification, and to find a job in her field of expertise.
Similar to Odagiri Nana, Miran is active on social media and continues to stay in contact with her former group mates.
Miran is named after the Italian football team, A.C. Milan.
Nickname: Saorin
D.O.B: October 12th, 1991
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Saitama, Japan
Height: 151cm
Generation: 4th
Position: Sagging Brow Chairman
Image Colour: Orange
Hobbies / Skills: Watching Anime, Calligraphy, Abacus
Princess she aims to be: Thumbelina (possibly due to her height)
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active
Crowned: March 13th, 2013
Reign: December 2012 - October 2018Status: Active
Crowned: March 13th, 2013
Abdicated: October 14th, 2018
Twitter | Instagram
Info:
Known for her sharp but fluid dance moves, Kizuki Saorin is currently the lead dancer in Houkago Princess single releases, and one of the groups more prominent members. Saori was also one of the most fashionable members of the group, and would often model for fashion sites and magazines, usually alongside Miran and sometimes alone.
She is one of the shortest members in the groups history, however was noted for her high quality dance skill and elegance. She was often featured in dance breaks, and would usually showcase her ballet skills.
Upon announcing her decision to graduate, Saori revealed that she didn't have much experience outside of the group, and wanted to break out of her comfort zone in order to gain experience and learn new things.
Though she is not as active on Twitter or Instagram, Saori continues to stay in contact with the current and past members of the group. She is usually hanging out with Nana and Miran.
Name: Mizuki Aoi (みずきあおい)
D.O.B: December 26th, 1996
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Image Colour: Navy blue
Special Skills: Baton, Jazz dancing
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active, Producer
Affiliated Groups: AOP (August 2015 - March 2019), alma (2020, Producer)Status: Active, Producer
Crowned: April 15th, 2019
Reign: April 2019 - December 2019 (Withdrew)
Abdicated: November 30th, 2019
Info:
Prior to joining Houkago Princess, Mizuki Aoi was a member of AOP from August 2015 until her eventual departure in March 2019. She had, however, been on hiatus from the group from April 2018.
In a rare case, Aoi was immediately added to Houkago Princesses Regular lineup without having to audition or go through the HouPri Youth programme. She is currently the only member within the groups history to have joined effective immediately. Staff stated that this was due to her background as a previously established idol.
In November 2019, Mizuki Aoi announced her withdrawal from Houkago Princess. She then returned in 2020, revealing that she would act as the producer for a new alternative idol unit called alma.
Name: Yukino Yuria (雪乃ゆりあ)
D.O.B: October 20th, 1996
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Image Colour: White
Skills: Hula Hoop
Hobby: Looking at food
Team: SWEET
Status: Active, Model
Crowned: July 12th, 2018
Reign: August 2017 - January 2020 (Graduated)Status: Active, Model
Crowned: July 12th, 2018
Abdicated: January 29th, 2020
Twitter | Instagram | FORZA Records Profile
Info:
Originally debuting within HouPri Youth, Yukino Yuria was the first member from the July-August 2017 auditions to officially debut as a Regular member. She was promoted alongside Michishige Saho, who had acted as a mentor towards her during her time in the Youth programme.
Noted for her long limbs and elegance, Yuria took Saori's place in leading the dance breaks.
Upon announcing her graduation, Yuria revealed that she had accomplished her dream of becoming an idol and standing on the same stage as her beloved seniors.
She is currently active as a model under FORZA Records.
Name: Yamamoto Natsumi (山本夏望)
Nickname: Natchi
D.O.B: August 20th, 1998
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Kagoshima, Japan
Image Colour: Orange
Hobby: Watching movies and dramas
Team: SWEET
Status: Inactive
Status: October 8th, 2018
Reign: August 2017 - January 2020 (Graduated)Status: Inactive
Status: October 8th, 2018
Abdicated: January 29th, 2020
Info:
Active since August 2017, Yamamoto Natsumi was one of a handful of HouPri Youth trainees from her generation to officially debut with the group as a member of the Regular lineup.
During her time in Houkago Princess Natsumi was also studying, so it can be assumed that her decision to graduate could have leaned towards wanting to pursue her studies, or to focus on a job in her field of expertise.
Name: Takano Hiyori (高野日和)
D.O.B: January 19th, 2000
Blood Type: AB
Hometown: Ehime Prefecture
Image Colour: Black
Hobby: Flowers and sewing
Skill: Having a serious face
Team: SWEET
Status: Inactive
Crowned: November 2018
Reign: August 2017 - January 2020 (Graduated)Team: SWEET
Status: Inactive
Crowned: November 2018
Abdicated: January 29th, 2020
Info:
Takano Hiyori joined HouPri Youth in 2017 after applying for the auditions, however did not anticipate passing any of the rounds. She would eventually be promoted to the Regular lineup of Houkago Princess in November 2018.
After announcing her graduation, Hiyori mentioned that she was undecided on whether she would return to performing or not in the future.
Name: Tani Nobara (谷 のばら)
Nickname: Noba-chan
D.O.B: June 1st, 2001
Blood Type: A
Height: 154cm
Hometown: Yamanashi Prefecture
Image Colour: Pink
Favourite things: Gyoza, white rice, games, clothes, Sailor Moon, Cinnamonroll, Detective Conan
Abdicated: March 25th, 2020
Twitter | Instagram | FORZA Records Profile | YouTube
Info:
Nickname: Noba-chan
D.O.B: June 1st, 2001
Blood Type: A
Height: 154cm
Hometown: Yamanashi Prefecture
Image Colour: Pink
Favourite things: Gyoza, white rice, games, clothes, Sailor Moon, Cinnamonroll, Detective Conan
Hobby: Gaming
Team: Twinkle
Status: Active, singer-songwriter
Crowned: October 8th, 2018
Reign: October 2018 - January 2020 (Graduated)Team: Twinkle
Status: Active, singer-songwriter
Crowned: October 8th, 2018
Abdicated: March 25th, 2020
Twitter | Instagram | FORZA Records Profile | YouTube
Info:
Prior to joining Houkago Princess, Tani Nobara auditioned for Miss iD2018 with the hope to debut as an idol. For her audition, Nobara began to teach herself how to play the guitar. After Miss iD2018 ended, Nobara released a solo song and took part in a film that would later be released in 2019.
In August 2018, Houkago Princess began an audition to search for a new Regular Member. Nobara participated in and passed the audition, becoming the sole winner of the audition. She would not have to train as a member of HouPri Youth, and became a regular member alongside Yamamoto Natsumi and Kohinata Nanase on October 8th, 2018.
On March 25th, 2020, it was revealed that Nobara had left Houkago Princess in order to pursue solo activities as a singer-songwriter. She has since ditched the idol title, and will focus on becoming an artist within the industry. She is signed to FORZA Records.
She is the first Houkago Princess member to be born after the year 2000.
She is the first Houkago Princess member to be born after the year 2000.
To Conclude
There is far more information regarding the group, its members and its history out there on the inter-webs, and honestly, I'm finding more each and every day, and trying my best to update it as best I can, fixing my mistakes as I go along. With the group growing constantly as well, in popularity and its members, there is more to learn about them, so the group never gets tiring... at least, not for me!
Given that I've been following them since they debuted, I'm happy I've managed to keep up with these girls, even when I had my downtime in 2012 where I briefly ignored them. This information here is very brief though, and only touches upon the important bits, I suppose; I don't want to overwhelm you with a bunch of overloaded information, after all! Plus, I kind of post about them enough for you to already know something about them, if you read any of that stuff, that is.
There is a lot to offer from this group, in song and vision and more, and whilst I wish I could compile everything about them here, I can't, which is why I will be creating even more posts on Houkago Princess after this, to introduce you not only to the girls themselves and the group they belong to, but also their music, videos and a little bit more, because five years worth of HouPri cannot be condensed into one post.
To celebrate 5 years of Houkago Princess, please sit back and enjoy the on-coming posts. It should be pretty fun, and maybe a little bit stressful on my part, but I do it because I love them, and because I want to.
Until next time, everyone. Take care, and Love your IDOLS!!!!
Much Love and Smiles,
Chiima♡
External Links and Sources:
Houkago Princess (Official website)
Staff Blog
Twitter (Official)
Cute Black
Universal Music Japan (Group Page)
Seesaa wiki
Generasia
Wikipedia (Japanese)
J-Pop Idols (Profile)
Natalie (Houkago Princess Interview)
Houkago Princess LOVE (fansite, version 3)
External Links and Sources:
Houkago Princess (Official website)
Staff Blog
Twitter (Official)
Cute Black
Universal Music Japan (Group Page)
Seesaa wiki
Generasia
Wikipedia (Japanese)
J-Pop Idols (Profile)
Natalie (Houkago Princess Interview)
Houkago Princess LOVE (fansite, version 3)
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