Legendary Japanese idol group Arashi will disband after a final concert tour in spring 2026. The five-member group, on hiatus since December 2020, announced the decision on social media. They plan to reunite for the tour to thank fans directly for their support over 25 years. The announcement has sparked emotional reactions from fans globally. This tour will mark the end of Arashiโs activities and their fan club.
Arashi, formed in 1999 under Johnny & Associates, consists of Satoshi Ohno, Sho Sakurai, Masaki Aiba, Kazunari Ninomiya, and Jun Matsumoto. The group debuted with their single โAใปRAใปSHI,โ which sold nearly a million copies. Known for hit songs like โLove So Sweetโ and โHappiness,โ they dominated music charts and sold over 58 million records. Their versatility in music, dramas, and variety shows made them a household name. The groupโs announcement reflects their unity and gratitude toward fans.
The decision to disband came after extensive discussions among the members. They began talks about resuming activities a year and a half ago but faced challenges due to changed circumstances. The members felt a concert tour was the best way to express gratitude before closing this chapter.
โWe could not imagine resuming our activities only to go on a hiatus yet again.โ
โSuch being the case, after much time and repeated conversations, we came to the conclusion that we should all come together as ARASHI, hold a concert that would allow us to express our thanks directly with the kind of in-person performance our Corona concert did not allow for, and then end our activities as a group.โ
The 2026 tour will prioritize current fan club members for tickets. New fan club memberships are temporarily suspended to ensure this. Arashi plans to work with their long-time staff rather than new teams. Specific tour details are still in preparation, but fans will be updated directly. The group also promised more content for fans until the fan club closes in May 2026.
Arashiโs hiatus began after their final livestreamed concert on December 31, 2020. The decision stemmed from leader Satoshi Ohnoโs desire to live freely after 20 years in the spotlight. The other members supported him, emphasizing that Arashi is only complete with all five. During the hiatus, members pursued solo careers in acting, hosting, and music. In 2024, they formed Arashi Inc., signaling their intent to make independent decisions.
Fans have expressed mixed emotions about the disbandment. Many are heartbroken but respect the groupโs choice. Social media posts highlight the groupโs unique bond with fans and each other.
โI love how Japanese fans are saying itโs just so Arashi how they used the term ๆดปๅ็ตไบ โend of activitiesโ instead of ่งฃๆฃ โdisbandingโ because Arashi will always be the 5 of them even after the end ๐ญ๐ญ๐ญโ
โThis is something that was expected. Youโre all leading your own lives, but what precisely characterizes you guys as a group is the love you have for each other and your fans. Thatโs something no disbandment can break.โ
Arashiโs impact on J-Pop is undeniable. They broke records with 54 singles topping the Oricon charts. Their 2018-19 tour drew 2.38 million fans across 50 shows. They hosted NHKโs Kohaku Utagassen nine times, a testament to their cultural influence. Their music, blending pop and contemporary styles, appealed to all ages. Their approachable image and philanthropy, like disaster relief efforts, deepened their connection with fans.
The groupโs final tour will celebrate their legacy of music and memories. Fans in Japan can attend theatrical screenings of their 2009 concert โARASHI Anniversary Tour 5ร10โ in 2025. These 505 screenings, exclusive to fan club members, allow fans to relive past performances. Attendees are encouraged to bring uchiwa fans and penlights for an immersive experience.
Arashiโs announcement has stirred Japanโs entertainment industry. Their hiatus already caused an estimated economic loss of 100 billion yen annually. The disbandment will likely have a similar impact, given their commercial presence. Companies like Japan Airlines and Japan Post, which collaborated with Arashi, have previously praised their contributions.
The groupโs decision reflects changes in the idol industry. Johnny & Associates, now Smile-Up, faced scrutiny after 2023 allegations against founder Johnny Kitagawa. Arashiโs move to form their own company in 2024 showed their push for independence. This disbandment marks a shift for Japanโs idol culture, with younger groups like King & Prince poised to take over.
Fans globally are preparing for an emotional farewell. Arashiโs commitment to putting fans first remains evident. They shook hands with attendees at a 2013 disaster relief concert and prioritized fan access during their 20th-anniversary tour. Their final tour will likely embody this spirit, offering a heartfelt goodbye.
โI already have a feeling they wonโt be back as a group and if they do itโs prolly for the last timeโฆ Iโm sad thereโll be no more Arashi, but Iโm glad to know and be your fan for 14 yrs. Thank you Arashi for existing these past 25 yrs, youโre so loved.โ
Also Read: K-Pop Group XEED Announces Disbandment, Leaving Fans Confused and Disappointed
Arashiโs legacy will endure through their music and fan community. Their discography is available on streaming platforms, and their YouTube channel shares iconic music videos. The groupโs final content distribution is set for mid-June 2025. The 2026 tour will be a historic moment for J-Pop, closing Arashiโs remarkable journey.
Credits: X/@arashi5official
