History

Pre-debut
Keyakizaka46
Sakurazaka46

2015 (Pre-debut)

© TOKYO POP LINE

A total of 22,509 applicants auditioned to become part of the 1st Generation of Toriizaka46 (鳥居坂46). On August 21, 2015, 22 applicants were chosen as 1st Generation members. Simultaneously, the group’s name changed to Keyakizaka46 (欅坂46). This is the second group in the “Sakamichi Series” following Nogizaka46 (乃木坂46). 2 members left the group before debuting in September and October respectively.

© Seed & Flower, LLC || From Keyakizaka46 Official Site

The group held their first event “Omitatekai” at Tokyo Zepp DiverCity on November 14, 2015. This event showcased the members’ different skills and appeal to the attendees. On November 30, 2015, Nagahama Neru was introduced as the first member of “Hiragana Keyakizaka46” (けやき坂46) on the group’s crown program, “Keyakitte, Kakenai?” (欅って、書けない?). Auditions for 1st Generations members of Hiragana Keyakizaka46 also began.

2016 (Debut year)

© Seed & Flower, LLC || From Silent Majority Music Video

Keyakizaka46 held their first live “Keyakizaka46 Debut Countdown Live” at Yoyogi National Gymnasium No. 1 on March 17, 2016 where they performed all their songs from their upcoming Debut Single, “Silent Majority.” On April 6, 2016, the group’s debut single was released. After it’s release, it ranked first on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 261,580 copies sold on its first week. They broke the record for the most number of copies sold in a week for a debut single for a female artist at the time. It also ranked No.1 on the Billboard Japan weekly chart and No. 10 on its yearly chart. On May 16, 2016, 11 members were chosen to join Nagahama Neru as 1st Generation members of Hiragana Keyakizaka46.

© “Tokuyama Daigoro wo Dare ga Koroshitaka?” Production Committee || From TV Tokyo 

Keyakizaka46’s 2nd variety program “KEYABINGO!” (similar to AKBINGO and NOGIBINGO) aired from July 5 – September 27, 2016. Keyakizaka46’s first drama “Tokuyama Daigoro wo Dare ga Koroshitaka?” (徳山大五郎を誰が殺したか？) also aired on TV Tokyo from July 16 – October 1, 2016. The group’s 2nd Single “Sekai ni wa Ai Shikanai” was used as the theme song for the drama. On August 10, 2016, the group’s 2nd single was released and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 323,066 copies sold in its first week. Nagahama Neru joined the title song as a concurrent member of Keyakizaka46 while Hiragana Keyakizaka46 participated in their first song “Hiragana Keyakizaka.” On October 28, 2016, Hiragana Keyakizaka46 1st Generation members held their “Omitatekai” at Akasaka BLITZ.

© Modelpress

On November 24, 2016, Keyakizaka46’s appearance in the “67th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” was decided. The group’s 3rd single “Futari Saison” was released on November 30, 2016 and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 442,322 copies sold on its first week. Keyakizaka46 held their first one-man live “Keyakizaka46 One Man Live” at Ariake Colosseum on December 24 – December 25, 2016. On December 31, 2016, the group made their first appearance in the “67th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.” They performed their debut single, “Silent Majority” with all 21 members. 

The group’s program “KEYABINGO!” was renewed for season 2 called “KEYABINGO! 2″ which aired from January 10 – March 28, 2017. At the mini-live held on January 21, 2017 at the National Handshake event at Makuhari Messe, Sugai Yuuka and Moriya Akane were appointed as captain and vice captain respectively.

2017

© SONY MUSIC RECORDS || From Natalie Music 

On April 5, 2017, the group’s 4th single “Fukyouwaon” was released and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 632,667 copies sold on its first week. Keyakizaka46 celebrated their one year debut with the “Keyakizaka46 Debut 1st Anniversary Live” at Yoyogi National Gymnasium No. 1 on April 6, 2017. Auditions for Hiragana Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation members were also announced at the live. 

Keyakizaka46’s member, Imaizumi Yui went on an indefinite hiatus from April 13, 2017 due to her poor health condition. Keyakizaka46’s second drama “Zankokuna Kankyakutachi” (残酷な観客達) aired on Nippon TV network from May 18 – July 20, 2017. The group’s 4th Single coupling track “Eccentric” was used as the theme song for the drama.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Realsound

The group’s program “KEYABINGO!” was renewed for season 3, titled “KEYABINGO! 3″ which aired from July 18 – September 26, 2017. This is the first season of “KEYABINGO!” that featured both Keyakizaka46 and Hiragana Keyakizaka46 members. Keyakizaka46’s first album “Masshiro na Mono wa Yogoshitaku naru” was released on July 19, 2017, and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart, with 279,093 copies sold on its first week. The group also held its first outdoor live, “Keyaki Republic 2017” at FujiQ Highland Conifer Forest from July 22 – July 23, 2017. 

Keyakizaka46 held their first national tour “Keyakizaka46 National Tour 2017: Masshiro na Mono wa Yogoshitaku naru” from August 2 – August 30, 2017 which was held in 5 venues with the final at Makuhari Messe. Imaizumi Yui returned from her hiatus after 4 months of rest on August 29, 2017, the first day of the final leg of the tour at Makuhari Messe. On August 15, 2017, it was announced that 9 new members joined the group as Hiragana Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation members.

© Seed & Flower, LLC || From Keyakizaka46 Official Website

On September 24, 2017, it was announced that Nagahama Neru will end her concurrency with Hiragana Keyakizaka46 and become a full-time member of Keyakizaka46 with the release of the group’s newest single on “Keyakitte, Kakenai?”. The group’s 5th single “Kaze ni Fukarete mo” was released on October 25, 2017, and debuted No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 642,936 copies sold on its first week. 

Keyakizaka46 won the 59th Japan Record Award’s “Excellent Works Award” for the first time and was also for nominated the Grand Prix Award with their 5th single, Kaze ni Fukarete mo. On December 31, 2017, the group made their second appearance in the “68th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” with their 4th Single “Fukyouwaon.”

2018

 Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Realsound

Keyakizaka46 was originally scheduled to do a concert at Nippon Budokan from January 31 – February 1, 2018 but due to Hirate Yurina’s injuries, it was cancelled and the concert was rescheduled to “Hiragana Keyaki Nippon Budokan 3 DAYS!” with Hiragana Keyakizaka46 as the main act. Hiragana Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation members held their “Omitatekai” at Makuhari Messe on February 13, 2018.

On March 7, 2018, the group’s 6th single “Garasu wo Ware!” was released. It debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Single Chart, with 833,346 copies sold on its first week and went on to be the group’s first single to reach one million copies sold. It was announced on March 9, 2019 that Hirate Yurina would suspend all group activities due to scheduling conflicts as she was filming the movie “Hibiki” at the time.

“Sakamichi Joint New Member Audition Seminar” was held all over Japan on April 1, 2018. Keyakizaka46 held their second anniversary live, “Keyakizaka46 2nd YEAR ANNIVERSARY LIVE” at Musashino Forest Sports Plaza on April 6 – April 8, 2018. This is the first live where different members performed as center for the songs. 

The group’s program “KEYABINGO!” was renewed for season 4 called “KEYABINGO! 4” which featured only Hiragana Keyakizaka46 members and was aired from April 17 to June 26, 2018. Hiragana Keyakizaka46 were cast to their first stage performance stage performance “Ayumi” from April 20 – May 6, 2018.

It was announced on May 3, 2018 that Keyakizaka46’s member, Shida Manaka will go on an indefinite hiatus due to poor health condition while Harada Aoi will be on hiatus to focus on her studies.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

On June 20, 2018, Hiragana Keyakizaka46 released their first album “Hashiridasu Shunkan” which marked their official debut. Keyakizaka46 held a one-man live “Keyaki Republic 2018” at FujiQ Highland Conifer Forest for the second year in a row from July 20 – July 22, 2018. On August 15, 2018, the group’s 7th single, “Ambivalent” was released and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 811,214 copies sold on its first week.

Keyakizaka46 held a nationwide Arena Tour, “Keyakizaka46 Summer Zenkoku Arena Tour 2018” from August 11 – September 8, 2018. The group also released their first DVD/Bluray, “Keyaki Republic 2017 DVD/Bluray” on September 28, 2018 with 83,244 copies sold on its first week. On November 16 – November 25, 2018 the Zambi stage play was held at Tokyo Dome City Hall as part of the “Zambi” project. Members from Nogizaka46, Keyakizaka46, and Hiragana Keyakizaka46 (Sakamichi Series) were cast as the leads in the said stage play. 

In November, two Keyakizaka46’s members graduated from the group; Imaizumi Yui graduated on November 4, 2018 at the group’s individual handshake event at Kyoto Pulse Plaza and Shida Manaka graduated on November 16, 2018.

On November 29, 2018, the assignments for the 39 passed applicants from the Sakamichi Joint New Member Auditions were announced. 9 new members joined the group as Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation while 1 new member joined the group as Hiragana Keyakizaka46 3rd Generation on November 29, 2018. The Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation members and Hiragana Keyakizaka46 3rd Generation member held their “Omitatekai” at Nippon Budokan on December 10, 2018. Later that month, Keyakizaka46 member, Yonetani Nanami graduated from the group on December 22, 2018 at the group’s handshake event at INTEX Osaka.

Keyakizaka46 won the 60th Japan Record Awards “Excellent Works Award” and was also for nominated the Grand Prix Award with their 7th single, “Ambivalent.” On December 31, 2018, the group made their third appearance in the “69th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” with their 6th Single, “Garasu wo Ware!” Kobayashi Yui was the center for the live performance as Hirate Yurina was absent due to her injuries.

2019

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From M-On Music

On February 7 – February 17, 2019, a new Zambi stage play, “Zambi ~Theather’s end~” was held at The GALAXY Theatre as part of the 4th “Zambi” project. The stage play casts were different from the first stage play but still consisted of members from Nogizaka46, Keyakizaka46, and Hiragana Keyakizaka46 (Sakamichi Series). It was announced on a SHOWROOM Live on February 11, 2019 that Hiragana Keyakizaka46 will be releasing their first single and will be renamed as Hinatazaka46, a new group part of the Sakamichi Series. Keyakizaka46 released their 8th Single, “Kuroi Hitsuji” on February 27, 2019 which debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 750,382 copies sold on its first week. This was the last single where Hiragana Keyakizaka46 participated.

The group held their third anniversary live, “Keyakizaka46 3rd YEAR ANNIVERSARY LIVE” at Osaka Festival Hall on April 6 – April 8, 2019, and at Nippon Budokan on May 7 – May 9, 2019. Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation members held their second “Omitatekai” at Maruzen Intec Arena Osaka on April 20 – April 21, 2019 and at Musashino Forest Sport Plaza Main Arena on April 27 – April 28, 2019. Keyakizaka46 held a one-man live “Keyaki Republic 2019” at FujiQ Highland Conifer Forest for the third year in a row from July 5 – July 7, 2019. During this live, Keyakizaka46’s member, Harada Aoi returned from her hiatus after being away from the group for more than a year. Keyakizaka46’s member, Nagahama Neru graduated from the group at her graduation event “Nagahama Neru Graduation Event” on July 30, 2019.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

Keyakizaka46 released “Keyaki Republic 2018 DVD/Bluray” on August 14, 2019 with 75,919 copies sold in its first week. Keyakizaka46 held a nationwide Arena Tour, “Keyakizaka46 Summer Zenkoku Arena Tour 2019” from August 16 – September 6, 2019 though Hirate Yurina didn’t participate for some of the tour due to her injuries. The group also held an additional 2 day lives “Keyakizaka46 LIVE at Tokyo Dome ~ARENA TOUR 2019 FINAL~” at Tokyo Dome for the first time in the group’s history on September 18 – September 19, 2019.

Keyakizaka46’s member, Hirate Yurina released a solo song, “Kado wo Magaru” which was used as ending song for the movie “Hibiki” digitally on streaming services on October 9, 2020. Keyakizaka46 announced the group’s 9th Single on “Keyakitte, Kakenai?” on September 8, 2019 however on December 8, 2019, the 9th single release was announced be postponed and it was eventually cancelled. Keyakizaka46 won the 61st Japan Record Awards “Excellent Works Award” and was also for nominated the Grand Prix Award with their 8th single, Kuroi Hitsuji. On December 31, 2019, the group made their fourth appearance in the “70th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” performing their 4th Single, “Fukyouwaon” once again.

2020

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Modelpress

On January 23, 2020, it was announced that Keyakizaka46’s members, Oda Nana and Suzumoto Miyu had graduated from the group while Hirate Yurina announced her withdrawal. On the same day, it was also announced that Sato Shiori would be taking a hiatus to further her studies overseas, however due to the COVID-19 pandemic she resumed her activities with the group. Keyakizaka46 released “Keyakizaka46 LIVE at Tokyo Dome ~ARENA TOUR 2019 FINAL~” DVD/Bluray on January 29, 2020 with 98,739 copies sold on its first week.

On February 16, 2020, the remaining 14 Sakamichi trainees were assigned to their respective Sakamichi Series groups in “Sakamichi Trainee Assignment Announcement SHOWROOM.” Six of these trainees joined the group as new members of Keyakizaka46 2nd Generation. Keyakizaka46’s member, Nagasawa Nanako graduated from the group on March 31, 2020.

On April 15 – April 16, 2020, the planned Keyakizaka46 anniversary live “Keyakizaka46 4th YEAR ANNIVERSARY LIVE” was cancelled due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection. Instead on July 4th, the group held a special livestream on Youtube that included a series of “fragments” interviews from the members and a special “Futari Saison” acapella performance.

On May 29, 2020, it was announced that the Keyakizaka46 live “Keyaki Republic 2020” that was scheduled for July 2020 would be postponed due to the pandemic. Instead, there was an online stream of the “Keyaki Republic 2017” concert. During the ending of the second date, a special “Taiyou wa Miageru Hito wo Erabanai” video shown.

Keyakizaka46’s first online one-man live “KEYAKIZAKA46 Live Online, but with YOU!” was held on July 16, 2020. During the live, it was announced that Keyakizaka46 will close their 5 years of history and would be rebranded into a new group. They also announced that the “Keyakizaka46 THE LAST LIVE” would be held some time in October 2020.

©Seed & Flower, LLC || From Keyakizaka46 Official Site

Keyakizaka46 released “Keyaki Republic 2019 DVD/Bluray” on August 12, 2020 with 61,506 copies sold on its first week. On August 21, 2020, Keyakizaka46’s Last Single “Dare ga Sono Kane o Narasuno ka?” was digitally distributed and debuted at No.1 on Oricon Weekly Digital Singles Chart with 34,245 downloads on its first week.

On September 4, 2020, Keyakizaka46’s first documentary movie “DOCUMENTARY of Keyakizaka46, Our Lies and Truths” was released in cinemas across the country. It was originally scheduled to be released on April 3, 2020 but was postponed due to the pandemic. After its release, the documentary would gross 220 million yen in the Japanese box office. Keyakizaka46 held their second online concert exclusively for AEON Card customers where they performed the original 9th Single song “10gatsu no Pool ni Tobikonda” for the first time.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

On September 20, 2020 at 8:00PM JST, a surprise announcement was made at Shibuya’s Scramble Crossing which announced that Keyakizaka46 will be renamed as “Sakurazaka46 (櫻坂46).” The official announcement was made on the Keyakizaka46 website the next day. Keyakizaka46’s member, Ishimori Nijika graduated from the group on September 30, 2020. On October 7, 2020, Keyakizaka46 released their first best-of album, “Best Album – Eien Yori Nagai Isshun 〜Ano Koro, Tashika ni Sonzaishita Watashitachi〜” and ranked No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart, with 145,547 copies sold on its first week.

Keyakizaka46’s crown program, “Keyakitte, Kakenai?” aired its finale on October 11, 2020 and the group’s new crown program would take over its slot on October 18, 2020. Keyakizaka46 held the final live “Keyakizaka46 THE LAST LIVE” (National Yoyogi National Gymnasium No. 1 Gymnasium) as an unattended live stream on October 12 – October 13, 2020. With the end of live, the members’ activities as Keyakizaka46 ended and Keyakizaka46’s member, Sato Shiori also graduated from the group. At the end of the live, Keyakizaka46 was reborn to Sakurazaka46 and performed their 1st single title track “Nobody’s fault” for the first time. Sakurazaka46 members started their activities as Sakurazaka46 on October 14, 2020.

On October 17, 2020, Keyakizaka46 made their final appearance in SONGS (NHK music program), performing “Dare ga Sono Kane wo Narasuno ka?” and “Taiyou wa Miageru Hito wo Erabanai.”

2020/2021 (A NEW BEGINNING)

Provided Photo to Chunichi

On October 18, 2020, the group’s new crown program “Soko Magattara, Sakurazaka? ” (そこ曲がったら櫻坂 ?) started. It was announced on October 21, 2020 that alongside Morita Hikaru who would be serving as the center of the title track, Fujiyoshi Karin and Yamasaki Ten would also serve as centers for Sakurazaka46’s 1st Single “Nobody’s fault” in the the group’s new system, with the 3rd row members being rotated and the birth of “Sakura Eight”.

Sakurazaka46 also held their live “Sakurazaka46 Debut Countdown Live” on December 8, 2020 with live viewing in cinemas across the country. They performed all the songs from Sakurazaka46 1st Single “Nobody’s fault” and also unveiled a new song, “Sakurazaka no Uta” during the encore. On December 9, 2020, the group’s 1st Single “Nobody’s fault” was released and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 413,889 copies sold on its first week. On December 31, 2020, Sakurazaka46 made their first appearance (fifth overall) in the “71st NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” performing their 1st Single “Nobody’s fault”. 

On January 4, 2021, with the start of the new group, it was announced that Sugai Yuuka will continue to be the captain, and Matsuda Rina will serve as the new vice captain. On January 8, 2021, it was announced that Sakurazaka46’s member, Matsudaira Riko will be graduating from the group at the end of the group’s 1st Single activities. A Sakamichi series collabration drama “Borderless” starring Morita Hikaru, Kobayashi Yui and Watanabe Risa with Nogizaka46 and Hinatazaka46 members will start airing on March 7, 2021. Matsudaira Riko officially graduated from the group on March 14, 2021 with the end of the 1st Single Online Meet & Greet. 

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

Morita Hikaru, Kobayashi Yui, and Watanabe Risa starred in Sakamichi series collaboration mystery drama “Borderless” alongside members from Nogizaka46 and Hinatazaka46 which aired from March 7 – May 9, 2021 on Hikari TV.

Sakurazaka46 released their 2nd Single “BAN” on April 14, 2021 and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 373,574 copies sold in its first week. On May 7, 2021, it was announced that Ozeki Rika went on indefinite hiatus to recover her health. A BACKS members only live, “BACKS LIVE” was held at Maihama Amphitheater from June 16 – 18, 2021 and all three days of the live was also livestreamed. It consists of BACKS members from the 2nd single and each of them had the chance to serve as the centers. The group also held a joint outdoor live with Hinatazaka46, “W-KEYAKI FES. 2021” at FujiQ Highland Conifer Forest from July 9 – July 11, 2021. This marks the first joint live the two groups have done since parting ways in 2019. Ozeki Rika also returned from her hiatus after 2 months of rest on the first day of the outdoor live. 

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

Sakurazaka46 held their first national arena tour “1st TOUR 2021” from September 11 – October 31, 2021 which was held in 4 venues with the final at Saitama Super Arena. On October 13, 2021 Sakurazaka46 released their 3rd Single “Nagaredama” and debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, with 376,000 copies sold in its first week.  On October 22, 2021, it was announced that Sakurazaka46’s members, Moriya Akane and Watanabe Rika will be graduating from the group at the end of the group’s 3rd Single activities.

 

Sakurazaka46 won “Best Japan Act” at MTV EMA 2021 on November 15, 2021. This marks the first time the group has won an award outside of Japan. Sakurazaka46 celebrated their one year debut with the “Sakurazaka46 1st ANNIVERSARY LIVE” at Nippon Budokan from December 9 – 10, 2021. Moriya Akane and Watanabe Rika Graduation Ceremonies were also held on the 2nd day of the concert and they officially graduated from the group. It was the first time the Keyakizaka46/Sakurazaka46 have held a graduation ceremony during a concert. On December 31, 2021, Sakurazaka46 made their second appearance (sixth overall) in the “72nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen” performing their 3rd Single “Nagaredama”. The 2nd BACKS members only live, “3rd Single BACKS LIVE”consisting of 3rd Single BACKS members was held at Tokyo Garden Theatre from January 8 – 9, 2022.

2022

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From MyNavi

On January 24, 2022, it was announced that Watanabe Risa would be graduating from the group at the end of the group’s 4th Single activities. Five days later, on January 29, 2022, it was announced that Harada Aoi would also be graduating following the same period.

Sakurazaka46 released their 4th single “Samidare yo” on April 6, 2022, which debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, selling more than 393,000 copies in its first week. The single features Yamasaki Ten as the title track center ―marking her first time in this position― and Watanabe Risa in her first center position since her debut. For the first time, official English subtitles were included in all three music videos released for the 4th single on the Sakurazaka46 Official YouTube channel.

On May 1, 2022, the group performed at the “JAPAN JAM 2022!!”, marking their debut appearance at any JAPAN JAM event.

Watanabe Risa released her memorial graduation book “Dakishimetakunaru Shunkan” on May 17, 2022, and officially graduated following the “Watanabe Risa Graduation Concert”. The event was held at Yoyogi National Stadium on May 21 and May 22, 2022, where both days were live-streamed.

On May 26, 2022, it was announced that Sakurazaka46 was going to hold their second joint outdoor live with Hinatazaka46, “W-KEYAKI FES. 2022” on July 21 and July 23, 2022, but due to several Sakurazaka46 members testing positive for COVID-19 days before the event, Sakurazaka46’s appearance was canceled and later rescheduled to August 19 and August 20, 2022.

The group also announced the commencement of auditions for their 3rd generation members on June 5, 2022. The Sakurazaka46 New Member Auditions were announced to be held from July 2022 to December 2022.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Nippon Broadcasting News Online

On June 14, 2022, 1st generation member Ozeki Rika announced that she would graduate after the end of the first album activities. The first album, “As you know” was released on August 3, 2022, and debuted their first ever W-center consisting of Morita Hikaru and Yamasaki Ten and ranked No. 1 on the Orion Weekly Albums Chart with a total of 121,000 copies sold in the first week.

They then later held their concert for W-KEYAKI FES 2022 on August 19 and 20, 2022. That was originally scheduled for July 22 and July 24, 2022. It was moved due to several members testing positive for COVID-19. Ozeki Rika and Harada Aoi’s graduation ceremonies were held on the last day.

On August 22, it was announced that Sakurazaka46’s captain, Sugai Yuuka would be graduating by the last day of their 2022 Arena Tour. Endo Hikari announced her indefinite hiatus to focus on her health on September 6, 2022. After speculation from fans, the group officially announced their TikTok account on September 9, 2022. On October 26, 2022, the music video to Sugai’s graduation song, “Sono hi made” was released.

Sakurazaka46 would then go on their 2nd Arena Tour titled “2nd TOUR 2022 – As you know?” from September 29 to November 9, 2022, and was held in 6 venues, with the last two days being held in Tokyo Dome. They also won the “Group of the Year” award at the MTV VMAJs 2022 on November 2, 2022.

On November 8, 2022, Day 1 of Tokyo Dome, it was announced that Vice Captain Matsuda Rina would take over the position of Captain following Sugai Yuuka’s graduation, on the same day, the digital single “Sono hi made” was released. On the following day, November 9, 2022, Day 2 of Tokyo Dome, Sugai’s graduation ceremony was held, officially graduating from the group. This was the only day of the tour that was streamed online and had a special Yuuka-focused camera version alongside it.

2023

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Nippon Broadcasting News Online

On January 6, 2023, the group unveiled their 3rd Generation members who were selected from the Sakurazaka46 New Member Auditions that were held from July to December of last year. The first 9 members were announced starting from January 6 to 13, 2023, with an accompanying member introductory vlog. Due to academic reasons, the remaining 2 members had to be revealed at a later date, with their profiles and introductory vlogs posted on March 1 and 2, 2023.

Sakurazaka46 released their 5th single “Sakurazuki” on February 15, 2023, and ranked No. 1 on the Orion Weekly Albums Chart with a total of 348,921 copies sold in the first week. This single features Moriya Rena’s first title center, Ozono Rei’s first Sakura Eight selection, Masumoto Kira’s first senbatsu, and the 3rd generation’s first single participation, debuting with “Natsu no Chikamichi” centered by Taniguchi Airi.

On March 4-5, 2023, the 3rd generation held their Omotenashikai at the Pia Arena NM. On March 6, 2023, a second Sakamichi collaboration drama was announced titled “Actress” which would be a sequel to “Borderless”. Morita Hikaru and Kobayashi Yui reprised their original roles while Ozono Rei joined them as a new cast member.

On March 9, 2023, it was announced that Sakurazaka will get a new variety show titled “Sakura Meets” with members Inoue Rina, Onuma Akiho, Takemoto Yui, and Masumoto Kira being regulars in the show and that the first episode would air on April 6, 2023.

The group then started their 3rd tour on April 12, 2023, until June 1, 2023, this also marked the first concert appearance of the 3rd generation members. Endo Hikari then announced that she wouldn’t be participating in the performances in Nagoya and onwards, Kojima Nagisa was absent on the second day of the Nagoya concert (April 20) due to academic reasons, while Seki Yumiko only appeared in the first 6 concerts, and her graduation ceremony was held on April 30, 2023, at the Fukuoka Convention Center.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From The First Times

On June 15, 2023, Sakurazaka46 announced a new mobile game app called SakuKoi which would be released on July 19, 2023, and launched their pre-registration campaign. On June 24, 2023, the group announced their very first overseas appearance, held at Japan Expo Paris on July 15, at Parc des Expositions de Villepinte.

On June 28, 2023, they released their 6th single “Start Over!” and ranked No. 1 on the Orion Weekly Albums Chart with a total of 439,419 sales in the first week. This marks the first single without the Sakura Eight system and Fujiyoshi Karin’s first title center.

They then held the opening of their first exhibition, titled Shinsekai on July 23, 2023, at Sony Roppongi Museum.

A month after their first overseas appearance, on August 8, 2023, Sakurazaka announced that they would be appearing at Japan Expo Malaysia at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Malaysia on August 19, 2023. On August 22, 2023, 1st Generation member Habu Mizuho announced her graduation from the group, graduating on Day 1 of Sakurazaka46’s 3rd Anniversary Live.

On September 27, 2023, official English subtitles became available on the Sakurazaka46 channel.

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

A few days before the release of the group’s 7th single, on October 2, 2023, Sakurazaka46’s “Sakurazaka no Sa” aired for the first time as a regular radio program, with Ozono Rei as its first radio personality.

Sakurazaka46 released their 7th single “Shoninyokkyu” on October 18, 2023, which debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, selling more than 449,000 copies in its first week. The 7th single is the first single to include the 3rd generation members in senbatsu, and features Morita Hikaru as the title track center ―marking her fourth time in this position―. “Shoninyokkyu” was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

On October 25, 2023, it was announced that Sakurazaka46 was nominated for the “Female Singer Popularity Award” in the 2023 Asia Artist Award. A little more than a month later, in December 2023, after a hard-fought battle of votes, where fans from all over the world joined, it was announced that the group had won such an award, becoming the first Japanese artist to receive an AAA Popularity Award. In addition, during their participation in the live awards event held on December 14, 2023 in the Philippine Arena―in which the group performed “Shoninyokkyu”― it was revealed that Sakurazaka46 was also awarded the “Best Musician Award”.

On November 13, 2023, NHK announced that Sakurazaka46 would participate at the 74th Kouhaku Uta Gassen, marking their comeback to the event after their absence the previous year.

Kobayashi Yui announced her graduation on November 29, 2023. To commemorate her graduation, Sakurazaka46 released a special edition of the 7th single on December 25, 2023 featuring Kobayashi Yui as the cover member. This edition included her special solo song “Sukimakaze yo”, which was not included in the original release of the single. The music video for “Sukimakaze yo” was also released on Sakurazaka46’s YouTube official account on January 11, 2024. Kobayashi Yu officially graduated from the group at the “Kobayashi Yui’s Graduation Concert” held at Yoyogi 1st Gymnasium on January 31, 2024, and February 1, 2024.

On November 25, 2023, and November 26, 2023, Sakurazaka46 held their first stadium live, “Sakurazaka46 3rd YEAR ANNIVERSARY LIVE”, as part of the third anniversary of the group. The first day of the concert featured Habu Mizuho’s graduation ceremony.

Additionally, Sakurazaka46’s 3rd generation held a series of concerts from November 6, 2023, to December 2, 2023 at THEATER MILANO-Z in the Kabukicho Towers. These concerts are the first concerts in which only members of the third generation participated.

7th Single BACKS LIVE!! Concerts were also held on January 15 and January 16, 2024, at Toyosu PIT and on January 22 and January 23, 2024, at Zepp DiverCity.

On December 29, 2023, Fujiyoshi Karin participated in a collaboration with the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE, marking the group’s first participation in such a channel. A special version of “Start Over!” was performed for this participation. 12 days later, on January 10, 2024, Yamasaki Ten participated in a second collaboration with the channel. In this new collaboration, “Samidare Yo!” was performed.

2024

Photographed by 上山陽介 (Yosuke Kamiyama) || From Natalie Music

Sakurazaka46 released their 8th single “Ikutsu no Koro ni Modoritai no ka?” on February 21, 2024, which debuted at No.1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, selling more than 433,000 copies in its first week. The single features Yamasaki Ten as the title track center, marking her second time in this position. The group opened their official Instagram account on the same day.

Sakurazaka46 “4th ARENA TOUR 2024 Shin Sakura Zensen -Go on back?-” was held from March 2, 2024, to March 27, 2024. On March 2, 2024, Sakurazaka46 announced their return to Tokyo Dome with the announcement of two additional concerts to their 4th Arena Tour 2024 scheduled for June 15 and June 16, 2024. For these two additional dates, and for the first time in the group’s history, a limited number of tickets specifically for non-Japanese fans were made available for sale.

Additionally, Sakurazaka46’s “BACKS” members hold the 8th Single BACKS LIVE! concert at Makuhari Event Hall on May 9 and May 10, 2024.

On March 12, it was announced that Sakurazaka46’s variety show “Sokomagattara, Sakurazaka?” would be available to stream on Lemino from April 8, 2024, with a ceremonial special show scheduled for March 22, 2024. In addition, “Chokosaku”, a spin-off of the Sokomagattara, Sakurazaka?, created exclusively for the platform, began its broadcasting on Lemino, airing every Monday.

Sakurazaka46’s Saku_Satsu also began its serialization on May 3, 2024 in Friday’s magazine. Additionally, on May 28, 2024, all of Sakurazaka46’s 2nd generation appeared on the cover of B.L.T magazine’s 2024 July issue.

As additional milestones, it was announced that Sakurazaka46’s 3rd YEAR ANNIVERSARY LIVE at ZOZO MARINE STADIUM would be released on Blu-ray and DVD on May 15, 2024, and Sakurazaka46’s 3rd generation was added into the romance simulation game of the group, SakuKoi, on March 22, 2024.

Disclaimer: Photos used in this page are taken from various websites. None of it is owned by Sakurazaka101.