Rihokora #51 - September 29, 2022 - Home is where the heart is

The daily routine becomes something fresh

September was a bit hectic for me.

However, as I mentioned in last month's column, I am still in the process of making music, and that has a positive effect on my brain.  So I have been more active than usual when it comes to talking with friends and other people.

The other day, my close friend (note: "shin yuu" in Japanese) came to visit me at my house, and we spent the day together.  My house is furnished with the expectation that people will visit, but I don't have that many visitors.  But my visitor is a dear friend, and it was a lot of fun.  We watched dramas, and youtube videos together, we went to the supermarket and bought food, cooked, and had some drinks too.

This is the eggplant and green pepper stew that we made.

We have been together since we were young (10dai, 10-19 years old), but we are older now.

Our homes serve a purpose, and we usually develop a daily routine.  But watching a different drama on tv, or having a conversation can be refreshing.

I felt that both my brain and heart became richer.  

I look forward to having more visitors.

Make a habit of ... for yourself

While this happened, my work has been progressing, and I have had a lot to think about, which made this month seem to go by faster than usual.

This is what I am aware of this time of the year: don't lose sight of where your heart is.

When I work, I try to integrate into the team I work with, so when I work on multiple projects, and there's a homelike atmosphere at each one, I feel blessed.

The time and space where we work is of course comfortable, but sometimes when you put all your energy into it, you can get lost in your own feelings.  It's a bit like when you have been staying at a friend's house, and haven't been home for a while.  It may be fun being there, but you begin to miss your home.  Something like that.  Can you relate to that feeling?  I guess it's about having a base. 

At such times, no matter how busy I am, I try to soak in the bathtub, or take a walk in the neighborhood at night, it depends on the time of the year, but I try to feel that I'm back home.  This isn't something I do, but I think it would be fun to make a habit of playing a game when I return home, and doing my best!

Funnily enough, when I talked to my manager about this, she said that while she is also very busy, having dinner with her child at a certain time every day, is the most important time of the day for her.

I am really looking forward to the start of the tour, because what really makes me feel like myself when it comes to my work, is performing live.  The tour is approaching, and I will have to do my best.  

By the way, the songs that are now being completed are really cool.  Please look forward to them.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3586

Rihokora #50 - August 31, 2022 - No, it's the opposite

Finally, a big purchase!!

Dear readers,

It has been a long time.  This is the August issue of Rihokora(mu).

Peaches have been delicious this season, haven't they?  They have always been my favorite fruit.  I bought a lot myself this year, but I also received many at work, so I really enjoyed them.

Peaches also have a pretty color.

How was everyone's summer?  The corona pandemic isn't over yet, but I hope you had some fun experiences.

I would like to share 2 things that happened this month.

First, I now have a simple home recording studio, as I got some equipment to record songs at home.  I bought a condenser microphone, which was a good decision.  I wish I had done it sooner.

I'm in the middle of writing songs for my winter tour, and I thought it would be good if I record demos on my own, even when I'm not able to go to the studio.

However, I had been reluctant to buy a microphone for several months, wondering if it was a bit of an overreaction.  I had thought about it again for a different reason in the past, so I had been undecided for about a year.

But when it arrived home, I began singing nonstop.  But don't worry, I don't sing loudly in the middle of the night.  But if I keep it up, I will have gotten my money's worth in no time.

I know that too much singing is not good for my throat, but it's very convenient to be able to record and listen to my songs during my personal time, so I will make the most of it.

I hope you enjoy the new songs.

My self-analysis results...

There's one more thing.  A little thought I had.

My manager often tells me "Rihoppi doesn't talk about herself at all."

She doesn't mean it in a bad way lol

Sometimes during interviews, or meetings, or discussions not related to work, I may have talked too much about myself, and not really pay attention to what the other person has to say.  I often reflect on this.

When I tell my manager she responds "No, it's the opposite.  You don't talk about yourself at all."

It would be ok if her perception was a little different than mine, but it's the complete opposite.  It made me think of something.

I am one of those people who has a difficult time answering questions like "What did you do today?" or "What are you planning to do today?"

If any of my friends are reading this, and are thinking they shouldn't ask me such questions again, it's ok, I don't always hate these type of questions.

But what exactly is the issue?  Sometimes I can feel uncomfortable if people know too much about me, like what I'm planning to do that day.  Let's say that my answer is I will go and work at a cafe.  But if I can't make much progress with my work there, I may decide to practice my singing instead.  

When that happens, I feel as if I lied to them, and didn't accomplish my goals for the day.

That's the kind of person I am.

So sometimes my friends won't ask me such questions, but then I can't tell them what I have in mind. lol

So the solution is to make my answer to what my plans are, my mission for the day!  But also have a back-up plan:  if I am too tired to work at the cafe, I can practice my singing.

I can be so annoying...

Well, this was the 50th edition of Rihokora(mu).  They say that when dust piles up, it becomes a mountain, and that's exactly how I feel about #50.

I would appreciate it if you continue to support me.  See you next month.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3493

Rihokora #49 - July 28, 2022 - Different perspectives

Remaining alert until the end of the run of the play...

Dear everyone,

How have you been?  I am currently in the Sayashi home, being reminded that it's summer by the increasing number of insect bites that I have on my hands and feet without realizing it.

I am currently performing in the play "Surume ga oka wa...".  Thank you so much to everyone who has been coming to the theater in this heat.  Given the situation with the pandemic, it is nothing short of a miracle that we have been able to perform every day without cancellations.

We have worked very hard doing rehearsals, so it is very painful to hear news of shows being cancelled.  We are always aware of the risks we are taking as we perform.  I hope we can get through this together.

I am, after all, a person that worries about many things

Well...

When I have free time in my schedule, I try to see various artworks, and I am sure the things I see, subconsciously, affect my life, for better or for worse.  But isn't it difficult to recall exactly what influenced you, or how your view on life has changed, after some time has passed?

This is true for everyday, human relationships as well.

There is an expression about how others don't really notice us as much as we think they do, which applies to people that worry too much about the impression they give to others (myself included).  But even if this expression is true, everyone we meet leaves an impression that can influence us.

There are people who can remember a scene from a movie or a discussion you had with them very clearly.  I can remember such things for some time, but as time passes, all that is left is a vague impression.  I think I feel a little envious of people who can remember such things vividly.  On the other hand, I can become anxious about someone remembering something I have forgotten.

I just met someone at work for the first time in 10 years, and they remembered me well, which made me happy, but at the same time, I was worried that I might have left a bad impression lol

The meaning of a single impression

Having said that, I think that the impression we get, has a lot to do with our own attitude at the time.

For example, in today's world, where we want everything to be simple and catchy, we often feel that first impressions are enough to tell us everything we need to know, and this can make it difficult to dig deeper.

Also, the person that receives the impression may be irritated by something that happened earlier, or on the contrary, be in a good mood, which can change the impression they get.  For this reason it is difficult to have expectations on how the other person will perceive us.

I am a person that stands in front of a lot of people to deliver my work, and I remember many times being upset when I was being misunderstood.

So when I look at things from a distance, I try to understand their deeper meaning.  I try to understand what a person is trying to convey, and not judge based on first impressions.  I think I can receive more that way from people around me.

Because if I am subconsciously being influenced by various things, I want those influences to be good ones, right?  I want to hold on to that thought.  If you agree, I hope you can do that too.

Until next time.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3381

Rihokora #48 - June 28, 2022 - Seeking emotions

 A space where time flows gently

The first half of 2022 is coming to an end... The last few days it feels like we have reached the middle of the summer, and it has been hard to manage.

I usually try to walk as much as I can, but when it's this hot, I sometimes have to take a break in a store with AC, before I reach my destination.  I wonder why we are so surprised by the heat every year...

A lot of people also don't want to take their masks off, but if you are going to get heat stroke, it might be better that you do.

I am currently preparing for the 2022 Parco Stage production "Surume ga oka", which opens on July 21.  Most of the cast are generally relaxed, much like me, and I feel we are all on the same wavelength.

One day, to deepen our friendship, we all sat in a circle for 30 minutes, chatting, but once a conversation topic was over, we couldn't find another one, since all of us are so relaxed.  But since everyone is friendly, we quickly find another topic, and continue our conversation.

I feel we have become a good team already, and since there is still time until the first performance, I feel we will get to know each other even better.

First new challenge of the 2nd half of 2022!

The writer and director of this play is Udai Iwasaki of (the comedy duo) Kamomental.  He also plays the role of Chloe's (my character's) father.  

Udai-san's directing style is to pay attention to details, and the way he works, allows me to incorporate his ideas into my performance.  The first few days, we all sat down together and read the script carefully.  The direction of the performance was decided during the reading, and the meaning behind the dialogue was communicated to us clearly, so that we could connect the dots, and understand our characters.

Since the foundation was already laid and we were not starting from scratch, when we began rehearsals, it was very enjoyable to add color to the words, as we moved through the piece.

The lead actress, Riho Yoshioka, as well as the rest of the cast, have different ways of approaching acting, and I am constantly experimenting with my own approach, while watching them.  I am also trying to find my own method.

Chloe, who I play, has been given the opportunity to be the protagonist of the story, and I will do my best to portray this interesting character, who is going through her own struggles.

If you would like to, I would appreciate it if you came to the theater to see the play.

I am rehearsing every day, but I try not to be in "work, work, work!" mode constantly, so I try to meet with friends when I have the time, even if it's for an hour or two.  Thank you to everyone who has helped me relax.

Also, during this time of year, from spring to summer, plants grow, and my Everfresh plant, Ebappi, keeps getting bigger, and bigger.  In the morning, when I checked, some leaves had sprouted, but when I came home after the rehearsal, it had grown another centimeter or so.  This is what makes me happy these days...

Originally, this Everfresh plant opened its leaves during the day, and closed them when the sun went down, but during the growing season, it feels more alive, and pretty.  I have been pruning it, and it has been growing well, but it has been in my house for a year and a half now, and I wonder if I should change the pot...

I sometimes go and buy flowers, but the other day, I bought this little tree for the first time.

I think it's an asebi (Japanese andromeda), but I am not sure, which is sad.

Just one of these plants can make a room feel refreshed at once, and my space becomes more pleasant.  I also hear that it lasts longer than flowers, so it will be a friend that I can spend some time with! 

^_^

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3292

Rihokora #47 - May 28, 2022 - Meeting face to face

 Gratitude and the importance of being able to meet

Hello everyone.  Long time no see.

I will be holding a live tour this winter, and I am currently visiting the tour venues to meet the fans in advance.  So far I have been to Hiroshima, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.  This was the first time since I returned to work that I did events like these in many cities, and I was able to meet many people for the first time since coming back.  It felt like a miracle.

We had so much to say.  There were people who told me they hadn't seen me in 7 years.  There were others who told me they were in elementary school, junior high, or high school when I was active in the past, and they couldn't meet me at the time.  There were also many children.  And people who only learned about me recently.  Amazing, isn't it?

Everyone was there for different reasons, but regardless of the reason, I was full of gratitude.  Meeting so many people was really a miracle.

I am having events in Tokyo and Sendai, beginning tomorrow, so please come and see me if you like.

By the way, in my last column at the beginning of May, I said that the column would be updated on the 28th of next month.  Based on that statement, the next update should have been on June 28.  However, I had written the article in April (without knowing it would have been posted in May), so... I am updating it today, May 28.

So you must be wondering, why am I not updating it in June?  You probably don't know me at all if you are asking that.  Because today is my 24th birthday.

Starting my 24th year with everyone!

Today we have a fan meeting where we will have the chance to play and deliver a, different than usual, live performance.  It might be my birthday, but I want everyone to enjoy the show.  I have given this event a lot of thought, worked hard rehearsing, and preparing.  Now that I am writing this, I am nervous, hoping it will be a good event.

It's been a while since I felt this way.  In previous years, nothing really happened on my birthday, and I wouldn't realize what day it was, until my birthday arrived, so now that I am having a big celebration, I can't help but be nervous.  Even talking about it here is making me nervous.  Today's event will have an audience.  So lately, when I return home after finishing my daily schedule, I feel anxious and have a hard time falling asleep lol

Today will be a good chance to digest everything that has been piling up.  I wonder what kind of day, and year it will be.

Here's a picture from after one of the events, where I'm drunk with happiness lol

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3193

Rihokora #46 - May 6, 2022 - Don't feel down

 The first update in a few weeks!

Long time, no see.  How have you been lately.  Is everyone doing well?

I am not so busy at the moment, and I have time to sit back, think, and absorb things.  However, even though I am not busy with work, I still have a lot of stuff to do.

Today, as I am writing this column, the weather is very nice, and I am writing on the terrace for the first time in a while.  I feel better, especially since I got a haircut recently.

When it's cold, we only really go out when we have to, right?  I feel that my QOL (quality of life) has improved, simply by having the desire to spend time outside.  (I really wanted to use the word QOL).

Ah... Speaking of QOL, I recently replaced my bike with an electric one.  It was warmer the other day, and I thought I should go for a ride, and as I was cycling, I passed by a bike shop.

I was looking at the bikes in the shop, and the clerk said "You're interested in electric bikes, right?", and went on to explain how different types of bikes compare to each other, and the trade-in evaluation of my current bike.  It was a difficult decision to make, but the kindness of the clerk convinced me to buy the bike there.  It was probably just the way they do business, but it's fine.

Now I can ride my bike to many places.  It's fun, and easy to go far now.  It makes me happy that I now look forward to commuting by bike.  My QOL has really improved.

Self experimentation

Now, let's change the subject.  What kind of person do you see me as?  I honestly don't know how people see me, but I think I am a person whose mood and personality changes easily, depending on the time of year, or even the day, or time of day.  And that's something I don't like.

For example, sometimes when I am talking to "high tension" people, I feel embarrassed.  Or I suddenly become shy with people I used to feel comfortable being frank with, which surprises me.

I often felt I was in the gray zone of my mood level.  And I feel I have been able to exit this gray zone the last few weeks.  The reason is because I have been experimenting lately, trying to prioritize my own feelings when interacting with people.

I know, it sounds like I am being selfish, but... when someone would ask me "What do you want to do?", my answer would be "I don't know", because I was thinking "What would be the most convenient answer for the other person?"

I think it's because I am afraid of being hurt if people don't like me, but I do this so much, that I don't even know what I want myself anymore.

Now, I am trying to say "no" when I mean "no" and "yes" when I mean "yes".  I wasn't used to this type of thinking and behavior, and it made me feel uncomfortable for a while.

I was wondering if this is really the right behavior, but after some time, I have finally gotten used to it.

Just before I turn 24... time for change

It's a bit hard to explain, but I tend to avoid challenges that I can sense will get me in trouble.  But from now on, I will try to act in a way that is more in line with my feelings.  So that I can try more things perhaps.  Does it make sense?  I hope you can understand.

As an adult, I realize the importance of self-care, and I think I should focus more on my life, so that I can live better with the people around me.  Having said that, I worry that those who read this may begin to dislike me.

Well, this was the first column in a long time, but beginning next month, I will be updating on the 28th every month.  The bi-weekly updates will become monthly updates.  Although the updates will be less frequent, they will definitely include more content.  So I hope you will continue to look forward to them.  Thank you.

Finally, I would like to end with a picture that made me realize what a big city Tokyo really is.

It's something you forget sometimes when you live here.  See you next time!

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3127

Rihokora #45 - Apr 2, 2022 - If I could travel back in time

 I even miss those days...

The new year has started (Note: the Japanese school year begins in April).  Some of you may be starting something new or changing your environment, right?  When I was living in the U.S., I couldn't get used to the idea that the school year begins in September.  I also couldn't get used to the daylight saving time.

When I went to language school, my routine was to wake up at around 6 am every morning on weekdays, and walk for about an hour to get to the school.  My host family had offered to drive me to school, and then pick me up, but I preferred to walk.  Now that I don't have to go to work at a specific time, I miss that lifestyle sometimes.

At school or at work, you can meet friends, right?  It's nice to meet people on a daily basis.

I can imagine some of you thinking that it isn't really like that.  There may be people at work or school that we don't like, and it's not fun to have to see them everyday.  I guess the grass is always greener on the other side.  I'm just missing what I can't have now, so please read the rest of the article lol

When I was in elementary school, we had school attendance groups, led by 5th graders, and 6th graders, who would gather the children in the neighborhood, and lead them to school.  Even now, when I go out for a walk early in the morning, I greet my neighbors, who are much older than me.  Children going to school also greet me cheerfully.  Such things make me want to cry, as they remind me of when I was in elementary school.

New challenges in the Spring

I had a really hard time getting up in the morning, and I hated going to school, but me and my friends would walk alongside the rice fields for about 40 minutes every morning talking nonsense and making fun of our teacher (sorry Shimono-sensei).  I realize now how great those times were.  Back then I wanted to leave school as soon as possible, but now, I wish I could go back.  It was really nice back then.  I don't know why, but that's what I have been thinking about lately.  But now, I am an adult.

Well, let me share what I will be doing this new year.

First, I am the MC on an NHK E educational program called "NHK High School Course: English Communication I".  Doing this has made me feel like I enjoy learning English again.  I have already recorded some episodes, and I try to speak clearly and in a relaxed way, so that the viewers don't struggle.  But if you find that boring, I will see what I can do.

I will also be appearing in the Asahi TV drama "My cuteness (kawaii) is about to expire!?".  This is my first regular role in a drama, and I have been enjoying filming, as well as learning.  I hope you look forward to it.

Although I have been doing new and different things, I always try to learn through trial and error.  I try to feel grateful for what I have in the present moment.  Before it's over.

I hope everyone has a happy new year.

A picture from the recording studio of NHK High School Course.  It looks like I'm going to eat the flowers.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/3007

Rihokora #44 - Mar 19, 2022 - Going to the art museum

 The many faces of sakura (cherry blossoms)...

To everyone that follows Rihokora(mu), it's been a long time.  I took a break the last time, so it's been 4 weeks since my last update.  How is everyone doing?

Spring has arrived, right?  There is a sakura tree along the path where I usually walk, and as I watch the buds expand, I have been waiting for the flowers to bloom.

Speaking of sakura trees, let me tell you of my recent trip to an art museum, where I had the opportunity to see an exhibition of sakura-themed works by an artist called Damien Hirst.

I was finishing some stuff I had to do in the morning when I saw a poster about the exhibition, and became interested.  I like going to art museums, but I rarely have the chance.  For that reason, I decided to go immediately.  It was all so exciting... walking to the museum, buying tickets, and then going up the escalator to the exhibition room.  I wonder if this is how people feel when they go to concerts or to the theater.

The 24 artworks I saw featured sakura trees, but they were all completely different from each other.  The differences were due to the colors, and painting methods used, but I was surprised by the wide range of emotions that can be conveyed by each portrait of a sakura tree.  While cherry blossoms are pink, the petals were blue and yellow, and looked like cherry blossoms when they start blooming.  Or like cherry blossoms in the morning... or memories of cherry blossoms.  So strange.  Such memories of cherry blossoms made me think of being alive.  I stood in front of the artwork, staring at it for a while, and breathing deeply.

In the back of the exhibition room you can watch an interview with Damien Hirst, and even those of us who are not painters, can relate to his thoughts on the project.

In the Spring of 2022, I will refresh my thoughts

Thanks for coming back to my column, a column that doesn't really have a topic.

When I think "Time to write a column!", I wonder if I should write something deep, or something more fun, and whether my writing will be readable or not.

It isn't easy for me though to show my emotional side, or my deepest thoughts, so the column is just me being free to write what I feel like.  It has been like that since the beginning!

I often find myself thinking, "don't do this, or that" or "this is how it should be".  Have you ever been in such a position?  I have... many times lol

I realized though that if I keep doing that I won't be able to express myself (strangle myself), and lose sight of my own feelings.  And I don't want to lose sight of who I am.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2957

   

Rihokora #43 - Feb. 19, 2022 - (mu) day

It wasn't what I planned.. but it's good!

I know this is sudden, but...

I was wondering if you remember how I came to name this column Rihokora(mu).  I wanted the shorter version of the name to be Rihokora.  But everyone kept saying (note: on the day the column comes out) "Today is (mu) day, right?"  I've never seen anyone call it Rihokora lol

It's totally fine, but I feel you're making things more difficult for yourselves (when you use that name).  Isn't it hard to type parentheses every time? lol

That's my only concern, so I thought I should say something, but you are free to use any name you like. hehe (fufu)

I would like to talk about the January tour since the full version, along with backstage footage, was broadcast the other day, but there is an interview included in the tour photobook, so I'll wait for its release.  If there's still something I would like to say, I will write about it here later.

Instead, I will share some of my memories with you.

The latest HAPPY stuff, in a more relaxed column

The final day of the tour, I received a wonderful gift from the 4 dancers who toured with me, NOSUKE-san, who was the choreographer and director of the performances, and MIPPO-chan, who replaced me during the dance rehearsals.

I thought it was a gift box, but when I opened it, I realized it included pictures taken during the rehearsals and the tour, with messages from everyone!

YUKINA-chan put it together, and she did a really great job.  I will blur the contents because there were a lot of funny moments.  I was really glad I was able to do the concerts with such kind and reliable people.  It really felt like a school club activity lol

It made me really happy and I still keep it at a prominent place in my room.

Speaking of messages, as someone who used to be a stationery otaku, I still like to collect stuff like message cards, letter sets, stickers, masking tape etc., but I also like to give gifts to those who have been kind to me, so I'm quickly running out of cards.  For this reason, I went to get some new cards, the morning of the day I was writing this column.

I usually go to stationery stores, or general stores (variety stores), but this time I went to the 100 yen store, the store that is everyone's best friend.  I was looking for message cards when I saw these in the gift section of the store, and I instantly fell in love.  I seem to be into pastel colors lately, and I have been slowly collecting a lot of stuff like this.

Good vibes.

I look forward to writing messages again with these.

It was a more relaxed column this time, but thank you very much for reading.  

Until next time.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2869

Rihokora #42 - Feb. 5, 2022 - Don't let the cold get to you

 A strong ally for this season!

I feel that every year I have less and less tolerance to both cold and heat.  I am typing this right now while drinking a bottle of hot water.  I hate the cold now, but you know what?  When I was an elementary/junior high school student, I would wear mini skirts/knee high socks in the winter.  Such outfits were in fashion at the time, I guess.  I can't imagine myself going out in the cold like that now.

It seems that knee high boots are back in fashion.  I see people wearing them both online and in the city, especially those in my age group.  I don't know how they can stand the cold.  My feet get cold, even if I'm home, wearing socks and slippers.  

In such cases, hot water bottles are a life saver.

If you cook for yourself at home, you can use a hotpot.  I am doing that now and enjoying my food.  I should take a photo, but it didn't really look too fancy, so I didn't take one.  I will take one another time.  But regardless, watching movies and dramas, while keeping myself warm, is what I enjoy doing the most these days.

Becoming a real adult...

I watch a lot of Korean dramas now.  The other day I was watching a drama called "Nevertheless", and as I was watching, I began to understand the meaning of phrases such as "is that so?" or "I hate it".  A lot of words sound similar to Japanese ones, right?  I thought, this may not be the same as when I study English, but I am still learning words by listening.

Well, I need to start listening to English again.  I also need to start practicing guitar again.  There's so much I've been meaning to do, but haven't been able to.  I wonder how people with a lot of hobbies can make time for them.  For me, it's only when I start doing something that I think "Oh, I have to do laundry" or "I have to get ready for work tomorrow".  Can anyone relate to that?  I end up taking forever to do things, which is annoying.

I don't want to be an adult that gets cold easily, but an adult that uses her spare time more efficiently.

p.s. I'd like to introduce something new I got.  It's called a bubble clock.  It doesn't measure time like an hourglass, but you can watch the bubbles come and go.  I fell in love at first sight when I saw it at the store, and bought it.  I can't stop looking at it.  It's so relaxing.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2832

Rihokora #41 - Jan. 22, 2022 - Knowing the bu(mu) (=boom, latest trends)

Fashion is for all ages

It's cold this morning... When taking a shower, I forgot to turn the shower head away from me (before the water warmed up) and I ended up taking a cold shower.  It's the kind of thing that wakes you up in the morning, but it's not good for you, so be careful everyone.

My 2nd ep "Reflection" has been released.  Did you have the chance to listen to it?

I'm so relieved it was finalized and available.  I'm really happy that so many people are listening to it.  Tomorrow will be the last day of the tour, in my hometown, in Hiroshima prefecture.  I hope we can finish the tour safely.

Now, lets talk about what I've been doing recently.

As someone who creates content online, I try to keep up with the latest trends, but I'm not yet familiar with TikTok.  I have downloaded the app of course, but I only use it occasionally.  But recently, while I was talking to my grandmother on LINE, she sent me a link.  When I opened it, I found it it was a TikTok video of a hairdresser teaching how to cut bangs.  I couldn't imagine my grandmother recommending me a TikTok video, because it's something my generation supposedly uses.

But then I remembered that my grandmother used to be a hairdresser.  So it was only natural for her to find such a video interesting.  She followed up with messages such as "This part of the technique is amazing" or "Why don't you cut your hair like that?"

Life lessons my grandmother taught me...

I realized that just because the tools we use change, our interests don't.  It was a great learning experience for me who had assumed that TikTok was only for young people.  I was impressed that my grandmother keeps up with the latest trends.

She's in her 70s, and she's interested in a lot of things, and now that I think about it, I never really feel like there's a generation gap when we talk.  And she's probably more interested in fashion than I am (although I should also become more interested).

She collects old rings and accessories and sometimes gives them to me.  She jokes "They're katami (=memento, souvenir, something to remember her by)".

Please don't say things like that grandma.  Having said that, it's not easy to meet at the moment, and I've been busy.  I should make time to go see her.

I hope that when I am as old as my grandmother is now, I will still be fashionable, and enjoy the same things people much younger than me enjoy.

Until next time!

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2787

Rihokora #40 - Jan. 8, 2022 - I was surprised!

 This year, is the second time*!

(Note: I believe Riho is referring to the fact that she was born in 1998, which was the year of the Tiger, and 2022 is her second year of the Tiger after 2010)

Happy new year everyone.  I hope you will continue supporting me and Rihokora(mu) in 2022.  2022 is the year of the tiger and I will be turning 24.

I suddenly remembered that when I was in elementary school, my parents took me to the zoo, and let me hold a baby tiger.  I'm not sure about this, but I think we had a conversation such as "it's the year of the tiger, so it's great you got to hold a baby tiger."  I thought I had already told all the stories from my childhood, but I guess there's more that I keep remembering.

I have been rehearsing every day for the January tour.  I am glad I have been busy with live performances and music activities.

When we do music activities, there are always teams formed for song production, or for live performance production.  Since I'm only 23, most of my team members are older than me.  I've been working for 11 years now, but I've always been the youngest member of the team, even in my own projects.

It takes me time to get to know people, and I tend to get intimidated when I am around older people, and I was worried that it would be hard to work, if such feelings continued to exist.  However, after I thought about it, I realized how lucky I am to be the youngest.  Ever since my debut, I have been supported by my relationships with my senpai, and I think it's ok to continue to rely on them.

A real baby tiger!?

When I get to know them, I find it very helpful and enjoyable to talk about various things to my senpai.  I think I actually fit in better with them now.

It's not just because they can share their knowledge about music or the entertainment industry, but it's also because they can share information such as "that inn in Kyushu has a great view, it's relatively close to the airport, and the building has a long history".

When I'm with younger people I keep thinking that I have to be strong, but I don't have to think like that when talking to my senpai.  I feel very lucky that I am again the youngest in my current work environment.

Since I started my solo work, people I met for the first time would often call me a baby, which annoyed me at first, but as I gave it more thought, I realized "maybe I'm still a baby!"

During the rehearsal, I thought "I haven't taken any pictures.  I need to take one!", and I took a picture of myself in the mirror.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2746

Yahoo! News Voice - Riho Sayashi interview (January 5, 2022)

 "I couldn't wait!": What Riho Sayashi learned while writing songs in the covid era

The interview took place on December 14, 2021

Since last year, everyone has experienced difficulties meeting people due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.  Artist Riho Sayashi says that the pandemic made her reconsider how she spends her time, as she "couldn't wait to talk to friends" and felt lonely at times.  We asked Sayashi-san, who says that "leading a normal life isn't something we can take for granted at the moment", to look back at 2021, and tell us how she is feeling now.

Covid made me realize the importance of human interaction

Q: Please tell us about your work as an artist during the covid era.

A: The impact of the pandemic has been much greater, and longer than I had imagined.  You know, last year, I had events in 4 cities other than Tokyo (Nagoya, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka), but they were cancelled.  When I heard about the decision to cancel them, I couldn't hold back my tears in front of my manager.  I was looking forward to it, and it made me really sad.  I realize how much an artist's career is made by their fans, and I feel that the time I can spend with them is very important.

What made you sad?

I simply realized that my life is richer when I am around people.  In this new situation, it is possible to continue living your life without meeting anyone, if you don't want to.  I noticed that I spent more time at home during the lockdown.

However, when I was at home, I would feel lonely, and when I was chatting online, even after a meeting was over, I would sometimes think "I wish we could keep talking".

How did you deal with that loneliness?

I became more proactive in contacting my friends.  We couldn't talk as much, since we couldn't meet in person, so I valued our interactions.  It's a bit of a cliche thing to say, but in this situation, leading a normal life isn't something we can take for granted.  I couldn't wait to talk to people.  When I contacted someone and then received a reply, it would make me so happy.

Emotion and reason

You are working on an album, where you wrote the lyrics yourself.  How did you feel about that?

The first thing I thought about is how draining it is.  Writing a song takes a lot of work.  It's not something one person can do alone, and I am glad there were a lot of people involved in the process.  It also changed the way I speak and behave to the staff.

I am a rather shy person.  I am the type who has a hard time hitting the send button on an email to someone I'm working with for the first time.  But communication is very important when writing songs, and I had to communicate what I was thinking.

In the past, when performing, I would be using my emotions more, but now that I am also writing songs, I have to act with reason as well.  I don't just think "this is beautiful" or "this is cool", but also "why is this beautiful?" or "why is this cool?"

As I was writing, that back and forth, increased at once.

This year, I thought I want to lead a "teinei" life

What did you cherish the most about last year?

The most important thing I felt was the need to cherish every moment of daily life, things that we often don't pay much attention to.  The time spent with fans, but also the time spent at the live shows.  I feel every moment is precious.

I am very wasteful with my time, and the experiences I had made we want to lead a "teinei" life.

How do you waste your time?

There's a huge gap between my hard-working self, and my lazy self.  When I'm focused, I can work without any rest, but once I'm lazy, I can remain that way for days, and become very inefficient.  So I have to push myself hard and say "No!"

How have you changed compared to how you were a year ago?

Since the interview we did almost a year ago, I think I've gained confidence.  I had said in that interview that I have become an adult, and now it kind of feels like a childish thing to say.  

But the fact that I thought like that a year ago, and now I think differently, is a sign of growth.

Riho Sayashi (Artist): Born in Hiroshima prefecture in 1998;  Joined Morning Musume in 2011 at the age of 12; Graduated from the group at the age of 17 in 2015; Studied in New York; Resumed her activities in September 2020; In 2021 established her own independent label SAVO-R and released her first mini album "DAYBREAK" in August; Her second mini album "REFLECTION" will be released on January 12th, and her tour in Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima will take place from January 15th to January 23rd.

https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/6cdde2d25a0cd6e5aa96b11d9ab977c24ce1c825?page=1

Rihokora #39 - December 25, 2021 - Dreams (dorimu)

 The long version of the last song of 2021 has been released!

Meri kurisumasu!

I recently saw "The Nightmare Before Christmas" on tv, which made me want to go to Disneyland for the first time in a while.  I'm not a big fan of amusement parks.  While I like the parks, I don't really like the crowds, so I don't go very often.  But places that make you dream are wonderful, right?  During this season I find myself wanting to dream.  I wonder what this all means... 

It feels like being between an ordinary and a special place, and when that happens, I have to remind myself to put my feet on the ground.

Ah... I have a small gift for Christmas.  The song "Melt" from my new EP is now available to order.  Please listen to it if you like.

What is a perfect life to me?

Well...

I've been putting it off for a while because I've been busy, but I finally started organizing things in my house for the end of the year.  I always buy things, thinking about whether I need them or not, so I like to tidy up.  This time I was able to find clothes in the back of my wardrobe that I haven't worn in a long time!  And I can still wear them!  I need to do that more often.

One thing I enjoy is trying to find the best way to do housework and spend my time at home, and hearing that, you would think I lead a very efficient life, right?  

Lately I've realized that's not what perfection means.  

(I'm actually not like that at all lol)

Even if it seems like the right thing to do, if something begins to feel like a burden, then doing it isn't efficient at all.

Skipping tasks.  It may sound like something negative, but it's good to skip certain things to spend more time on things you want to do.  

There are many conveniences that can save you time nowadays.  But I think it is important to only collect items that are useful.  The more stuff you have, the more you have to take care of.  We are often tempted to get things (we don't need) because of what they can supposedly do...

Next year, let's relax, and focus on reality instead of dreams!

By the way, the humidifier I was using, broke down the other day.  When I reported the news to my fan club community, a lot of people suggested products that are easy to clean.  They are people that care about me, so I trusted them, and using their comments as a guide, I bought a kettle-like item, that is very easy to clean.  Maybe we should have a tea party some time, where everyone can talk about their lives.  It really felt like a nice neighborhood meeting.

I want to dream!  I'm sorry for bringing you back to reality lol

  

So this is how I will be ending my last column of 2021.  Please look forward to my column again next year.  It's getting really cold now, so please stay warm and enjoy the holidays.

p.s. an off-shot selfie from the latest issue of Up To Boy

I will be making an appearance, so please look forward to it, if you can.

Happy new year!

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2726

 

Riho Sayashi EP "Reflection": Track list and other info

The track list for "Reflection" has been announced:

1. Go-by
Lyrics by Riho Sayashi, Akira Sunset
Music by Akira Sunset, APAZZI

2. Take a Breath
Lyrics by Riho Sayashi, Gento Miyano
Music by Gento Miyano

3. Melt
Lyrics by SALASA, Riho Sayashi
Music by Micheal Kaneko

4. Baby Me
Lyrics by Riho Sayashi
Music by orange spotting

5. Winding Road
Lyrics by Kanata Okajima, Riho Sayashi
Music by TAKAROT, FUNK UCHINO

The 2nd ep "Reflection" will be released 5 months after the 1st ep, and represents the expansion of light as the sun, which rose in the 1st ep "DAYBREAK", illuminates the water and the earth.  The cd jacket photos express the album concept by using mirrors and sequins.  The photos are taken in a pink outfit that is reflected on the surface of the lake.

In addition to the writers that collaborated in the first album, Kanata Okajima, who has written songs for NiziU (note: and many others; she has written more than 50 Oricon no. #1 hits), and Michael Kaneko, a singer-songwriter who grew up in Southern California, have also joined the project.  The song "Winding Road", composed by TAKAROT and FUNK UCHINO, and with lyrics by Kanata Okajima and Riho is about:

"People who can face their own weaknesses are strong and kind, even if they have been hurt in a difficult situation and haven't fully recovered.  Even if you don't find the answer right away, take a break, and go one step at a time".

"Reflection" will be released, January 12th, 2022.

https://ototoy.jp/news/104593

Rihokora #38 - December 11, 2021 - Time flies "taimu furaizu"

Will I achieve my goal by the end of the year?

It's December, right?

When I look back at my pictures from a year ago, it feels as if it's only been a while.  It's been about a year and a half since I started this column.

When I was in school, I could feel the passage of time every time an annual event that made me go "It's time for that!" occurred.  Without any such events in my life, I feel the seasons from what happens around me in the world.

The sun, for example, is setting earlier now, which makes me realize it's winter.  It gets dark, so it's time for dinner, right?  But it's only 4 pm lol

Do you have any unfinished business this year?

My goal is to edit a video and post it on the fan club by the end of this year, but I might not be able to finish it this year, because I have spent more time and energy on music production than I expected.... Ah, I'm sorry...

Of course, if I had managed my time properly, I would have been able to do it.  I need to work on that.  But I haven't given up on my goal yet!  I still have time.  And, after all, it was a big deal for me to be able to sing again as a solo artist.  I'm sure I have spoken many times about my passion for singing and dancing, so I won't repeat myself here, but I have had the chance to work with many people, and I am happy to be able to deliver songs that are my own.  I hope I will be able to continue what I am doing carefully.

The last few days of 2021 are going to be busy for me!

There are 2 major events coming up.  The first is the tour, and the second, the release of my 2nd EP.  This is the 2nd time I will be doing a live concert, and I will need more songs to perform.

My previous EP and live concert were in August, 4 months ago, but to me it feels like it was only a month ago.  I am exaggerating, but it doesn't feel like it happened that long ago.  It's been busy.  I feel like December has just started, but it's already the 11th.  I still have a lot to do, and I'm sure I won't have time to enjoy the holidays, but I don't mind.  I am ready to work and get things done this month!

So far I have only released a teaser for "Winding Road" from my 2nd EP, titled "Reflection", but more songs will be available soon, so I would like to say a few things about them.

While this EP is a follow-up to the previous one, I feel it also presents a new side of me.  The title "Reflection" refers to the way the light expands, and I hope my songs will also show the expansion of how I express myself.

As for the live performances, this will be my first tour, and I hope everyone will come to see this new start.  I think it will be different than the last live performance, so please look forward to it hehe (fufu)

The countdown to the end of the year has begun, but I have plans for next year too!

p.s. I was so happy the other day, seeing the Christmas lights for the first time this year, so I thought I'd share a picture with you.

This was also at 5 pm.  An early sunset.

https://wanibooks-newscrunch.com/articles/-/2671