“Oshi-Activities”: The Cultural Phenomenon Reshaping Japanese Society Across Generations

The Rise of ‘Oshi-Activities’ in Japan’s Cultural Landscape

In Japan’s cultural landscape, the term “Oshi-Activities” has emerged as an influential trend that is impossible to overlook. This term, originating from “Oshi-Men” meaning favorite members, spans back to the 1980s, used predominantly among idol fans. “Oshi-Activities” involve supporting and cheering for a favorite person or thing (“Oshi”). Its appeal lies in promoting positive thinking and offering emotional support. The range of “Oshi” is vast, from singers, athletes to anime characters, and even extends to inanimate objects like Buddha statues and warships. The term’s inclusion in Rin Usami’s novel “Oshi, Moyu” and its nomination for the New Words & Buzzwords Awards in 2021 demonstrates its widespread societal resonance, attracting not just the younger generation but also rapidly spreading among older demographics.

Cross-Generational Embrace of ‘Oshi-Activities’

Mikako Izumiya, a 59-year-old Japanese woman, embodies the typical participant in the “Oshi-Activities” culture. Initially skeptical about 2.5D stage plays, her firsthand experience with these live adaptations of anime, games, and manga deepened her…