On May 29th, idol group Hinatazaka46 performed the second day of their two-day live show "BRAND NEW LIVE 2025 'OVER THE RAINBOW'" at the National Yoyogi Stadium First Gymnasium (Shibuya Ward, Tokyo). All of the first-generation members who built the foundation of the group have graduated, and this was the first live performance under the new system with the addition of new fifth-generation members, attracting approximately 22,000 people over the two days. This marked a new page in the group's history.
The concert traced the group's history so far, but was structured to hint at a bright future. The concert opened with "Seishun no Uma," with ace Nao Kosaka at the center, and the audience was enthralled with a performance by the 2nd to 4th generation members, who are currently the core of the group. They also took on a new challenge of performing a medley of the group's signature songs, "Kyun," "Tteka," and "Kimi Shika Katan," in danceable arrangements.
Afterwards, the new 5th generation members appeared. They joined in the songs of their seniors, adding color to the show, and also performed the single "Zettai Dairokukan" by the 5th generation members alone. The dignified performance, which was hard to believe was only about two months after their debut, drew huge cheers.
Kosaka, who also takes the center position in the latest single "Love yourself!", said with a smile during the MC at the end of the show, "It was our first live show since the new group lineup, so I was very nervous and anxious. But my fellow (2nd generation) members, as well as the 3rd, 4th, and 5th generation members, are all really strong. They were a great source of strength to me."
Takahashi Mikuni, who succeeded the graduating Kumi Sasaki as the second captain, choked up as she spoke to the audience, saying, "As we embark on a new journey, I couldn't really imagine how all the members and Ohisamas (nickname for Hinatazaka46 fans) would feel today. Change can bring about anxiety, but the applause and cheers we received, and the sight of glow sticks spreading out before us, I took it as a response from you all to the message we wanted to convey. It felt like I saw a ray of light at the end of the rainbow."
At the end of the concert, it was announced that they will be going on a nationwide tour this fall. From September 20th to November 21st, they will perform a total of 13 shows in six cities: Miyagi Prefecture, Hiroshima Prefecture, Fukuoka Prefecture, Aichi Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture, and Tokyo. The final show in Tokyo will be held for three days at the same venue as this one.
Takahashi said, "2024 and the beginning of this year have been a year of many changes, but that's why I feel even more that releasing a new single and holding live shows are not something to be taken for granted. We have been working with the belief that if we don't put our soul into each and every thing, it will not lead to a bright future for Hinatazaka46...I am really, really happy to be able to visit all over the country." She added with joy, "We've increased the number of cities we'll be visiting from last year. We want to take on lots of challenging things from here as we head towards autumn. I promise everyone that we will return to this place even more powerful!"
Finally, they sent a message to the fans, saying, "To our members, Ohisama, and all the staff who always support us. Team Hinatazaka46 is eternal. Let's support each other and move forward together. Please continue to support Hinatazaka46!" and all the members bowed deeply.
