Japanese Idol Culture in China: A Growing Phenomenon

Japanese idol culture has become a vital part of Japan’s entertainment industry. Although it sometimes sparks debate, there’s no denying its continuous growth and strong influence on society and the economy. Its impact has even spread beyond Japan’s borders, reaching other countries, such as China. Let’s take a closer look and discuss how this unique and vibrant culture from Japan is now shining brightly in the world’s most populous country!

What is Japanese idol culture?

Japanese idol culture is a lively world filled with music, performances, and young talents chasing their dreams. A Japanese idol is usually a young singer or dancer who shines on stage. These idols are trained by agencies that teach them how to sing, dance, act, and even model. They become famous not just for their songs, but also for their bright personalities and positive energy that make fans happy. 

This culture first started in the 1970s with groups such as Candies and Pink Lady. It became popular in the 1980s, known as the “Golden Age of Idols”. During that time, idols appeared in TV shows, dramas, and commercials everywhere in Japan. Over time, new types of idols emerged, including local idols, voice idols, and even virtual ones that perform online.

Japanese idol groups often host fun events where fans can meet and interact with their idols. At these events, fans join handshake sessions, attend concerts, and even vote for their favorite members. Through these experiences, they build a special bond that makes them feel closer to the idols.

One of the most exciting parts of this culture is the fans’ energy. At concerts, fans wave colorful glow sticks and dance together to cheer for their favorite idols. Even underground idols who perform in small halls have loyal fans who cheer with all their hearts.

How has the underground Japanese idol culture been developing in China?

The underground Japanese idol culture has been growing fast in China, bringing a new wave of music and excitement to young fans. They perform in small local venues, creating a close and friendly atmosphere. Their shows are colorful, full of energy, and include fun interactions with the audience. Many of them can sing and perform in both Japanese and Chinese, making their stages even more special and diverse.

One significant reason this culture is gaining popularity is that people in China enjoy its cheerful and welcoming style. After pandemic restrictions ended, more groups started forming, growing from around 40 in 2023 to over 250 in just a year! Fans can watch several groups in one event and later join “perks meetings” to chat, take pictures, or get autographs from their bias.

Groups like Affloret in Shanghai and the Changsha group are great examples of this trend. Affloret members sing in both Japanese and Chinese and were inspired by Japanese idols such as AIBECK and iLIFE. The group mixes local culture with Japanese idol charm, attracting over 100,000 fans online. The Changsha group, on the other hand, performs songs in Chinese with styles like rock and punk, giving their music a fresh and bold twist.

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How is this culture in China different from that in Japan?

The underground idol culture in China differs slightly from that in Japan. In China, the atmosphere is more open and relaxed. Fans can talk more freely with their favorite idols and feel closer to them during meet-ups and events. This friendly connection makes every performance feel warm and personal, almost like chatting with a friend after an exciting show.

In Japan, fans usually follow strict rules to keep a polite distance from idols. However, in China, things are more casual, and the lines between fans and idols are less defined. Many Chinese idols are adults who perform for a short time before transitioning to other careers, so their stage moments feel all the more special.

Another big difference is the massive number of fans in China. With so many people, even small idol groups can find an audience who truly enjoys their music. Since the culture is still evolving, there is ample room for creativity and new ideas.

What does the growth of this culture in China tell us?

The rise of underground Japanese idol culture in China demonstrates how music can transcend borders and connect people in new and innovative ways. It reflects a growing interest among Chinese fans in creativity, teamwork, and emotional connection. As young people search for ways to express themselves, this culture gives them both comfort and inspiration. It becomes not only entertainment but also a reflection of shared dreams and cultural exchange.

Altogether, the growing idol scene in China demonstrates how creativity and passion can bring people together in a warm and meaningful way. It combines the lively spirit of Japanese idols with China’s own colors and ideas. 

What makes this movement so unique is the love and effort that go into every song, dance, and smile. Each group has its own style, music, and look, making every show a fresh experience for fans. For many, the best part is the joy of being close to their idols and sharing happy moments. Do you think this culture will continue to evolve and spread to even more countries in the future? Share your thoughts below!

Cited Sources

• Japan Wire by Kyodo News. “Japanese underground idol culture booming in China“.
• The Japan Times. “Japanese pop culture in China: It’s complicated“.
• Nikkei Asia. “Watch out, J-pop and K-pop stars, here comes China“.