Do you have an Oshi?
An “oshi” refers to a person, idol, or fictional character that you absolutely adore and passionately support.
Whether it’s a J-pop idol, an actor, an anime character, or an athlete – everyone has their own favorite! ✨
And “oshikatsu” isn’t just about supporting your favorite person or character. Just looking at your oshi or supporting them brings an immense feeling of happiness, which is one of the best parts of the whole experience. 😌
Back in the day, whenever I went to my oshi’s concerts, I used to love wearing their official “member color” or doing “twin outfits” (matching outfits) with my friends!
Lately, more and more people are visiting cute cafes or traveling with small plushies or acrylic stands of their oshi. They take photos of their plushie at their travel destination or photograph an acrylic stand with a beautiful view in the background. It gives you the feeling of, “I came here with my oshi!” and lets you enjoy traveling and oshikatsu at the same time. 😊
Recently, even hotels have started offering services for people who want to enjoy oshikatsu. For example, Toyoko Inn offers an “Oshikatsu Support Plan,” where guests can order things like tiny beds and pajamas for their plushies. Just imagine a little plushie sleeping in its own tiny bed… So cute! 🧸💕
In Japan, people aren’t just cherishing time spent with friends, partners, or family anymore, an increasing number of people are really enjoying “time spent with their oshi”.
If you ever come to Japan, you should definitely try traveling around with your own oshi! Haha.

(Translated by Thanh Van)