Idol Runway Collection 2026: A Fusion of Idols and Fashion to Ignite Global Kawaii Culture

Japan’s Premier Idol and Fashion Extravaganza Returns in 2026

“CREATEs presents IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION 2026 Supported by TGC” Set to Dazzle with Top Idol Acts and Innovative Fan Engagement

The IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION (IRC), a celebrated fusion of idol performance and high fashion, is set to make a grand return on March 15, 2026, at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium. Building on the success of previous years with the cooperation of Tokyo Girls Collection (TGC), a major Japanese fashion event, this year’s installment, officially titled “CREATEs presents IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION 2026 Supported by TGC,” promises an even more spectacular experience. The event has announced its first wave of dazzling performers, including Nogizaka46, FRUITS ZIPPER, CANDY TUNE, CUTIE STREET, and Takane no Nadeshiko. Tickets are now on sale, coinciding with the launch of the official IRC APP, a new platform designed to deepen fan engagement.

This event is organized by YOAKE entertainment, a joint venture formed by leading entertainment companies such as ASOBISYSTEM Co., Ltd., TWIN PLANET Co., Ltd., W TOKYO Co., Ltd., and Y&N Brothers. By combining the expertise of these entities, IRC aims to further develop its unique blend of idol and fashion culture, not only within Japan but also for a global audience. The 2026 event embraces the theme of “co-creation and connection,” striving to be a platform where diverse aspirations converge to generate new value and enjoyment. The goal is to provide an immersive experience where fans can actively participate in shaping the IRC journey.

IRC APP: Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with “Oshi-katsu”

A groundbreaking aspect of CREATEs presents IRC 2026 is the introduction of the official “IRC APP.” This innovative app, built on Sony Group’s “Soneium” blockchain, transforms daily fan activities, known as “Oshi-katsu” (supporting your favorite idol), into event benefits. By accumulating “IRC Scores” through various interactions, users can climb membership ranks within the app, unlocking exclusive perks such as increased voting tickets for contests, early access to tickets, opportunities for ticket upgrades, special early entry to the venue, and access to dedicated cloakrooms. This initiative aims to enhance fan satisfaction and bridge the gap between online engagement and the live event experience.

This new app promises to weave online support seamlessly into the live event experience, creating a deeper bond between idols and their fans. For more details on the IRC APP and its features, visit the official website: https://x.gd/gNT2L

First Wave of Star-Studded Performers Revealed

The CREATEs presents IRC 2026 will feature an exciting lineup of top idol groups set to light up the live stage:

Nogizaka46

Formed in August 2011, Nogizaka46 debuted in February 2012. They have consistently topped the Oricon single charts and boast over 30 million total sales. The group’s live performances continue to grow in scale, with their first-ever concert at Ajinomoto Stadium scheduled for May 2025. Their international popularity is also significant, with successful large-scale performances in France, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Taiwan, including a solo concert in Hong Kong in 2024. They stand as a representative Japanese idol group.

FRUITS ZIPPER

Debuting in April 2022 from ASOBISYSTEM’s idol project “KAWAII LAB.,” FRUITS ZIPPER is a seven-member group. With the concept of “From Harajuku to the World,” they aim to disseminate “NEW KAWAII” from Harajuku, a hub of diverse cultures and unique fashion. Their second single, “Watashi no Ichiban Kawaii Tokoro,” garnered significant attention among Generation Z on TikTok, accumulating approximately 3 billion views, while its music video surpassed 64 million views. The group is slated to make their first appearance on the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2025 and will hold their largest-ever Tokyo Dome concert in February 2026.

CANDY TUNE

CANDY TUNE, a seven-member idol group, debuted on March 14, 2023, also from ASOBISYSTEM’s “KAWAII LAB.” project. The group’s name embodies the idea of diverse members, like candies of various flavors and shapes, coming together to create their unique, pop “tune.” They are scheduled to make their first appearance on the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2025.

CUTIE STREET

CUTIE STREET, an eight-member idol group, debuted in August 2024 from ASOBISYSTEM’s “KAWAII LAB.” project. Their concept is “KAWAII MAKER,” with eight members of varying ages and backgrounds creating and transmitting “KAWAII” from Harajuku to the world. Their debut song, “Kawaii Dake Ja Dame Desu Ka?,” has exceeded 200 million streaming plays and 7 billion total TikTok views. The group has received accolades such as the Music Category Award at the TikTok Half-Year Trend Awards 2025 and nominations in four categories at the MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025.

Takane no Nadeshiko

Formed in August 2022, Takane no Nadeshiko is an idol group produced by HoneyWorks. They aspire to be a proud idol group, admired like a “Takane no Hana” (flower on a high peak) and embodying the pure beauty and charm of a “Yamato Nadeshiko” (ideal Japanese woman). Their anticipated first album, “Miageru Tabi ni, Koi wo Suru,” will be released on December 17, 2025. The group will embark on the “Takane no Nadeshiko LIVE TOUR 2026” across six locations nationwide starting February 2026, with overseas performances in Asia planned for April, culminating in the tour final at Tokyo International Forum Hall A on May 6, 2026.

Interactive Campaigns and Opportunities

#IRCChallenge on X

In conjunction with CREATEs presents IRC 2026, an “IRC Challenge” hashtag campaign will be held weekly on X (formerly Twitter). Participants are invited to share episodes and memories related to their favorite idols based on changing weekly themes. Totaling 1,000,000 JPY in Amazon gift cards will be awarded to selected participants. Follow the official X account (@idolrunwaycolle) for details.

Opening Act Audition: Fan-Voted Opportunity

CREATEs presents IRC 2026 offers a special fan-participation project: the “Opening Act Audition.” Fans can nominate artists they wish to see perform as the opening act, and the chosen artist will be decided through voting via the IRC APP. Nominations are open from November 28, 2025, to December 13, 2025, with voting scheduled for mid-January 2026. This is a unique chance for fans to directly influence the event’s vibrant atmosphere.

CREATEs as Platinum Partner: Styling “Kawaii” Hair Trends

Leading hair care appliance manufacturer CREATEs, recognized as the No. 1 brand in curl iron market share for hair salons, will serve as the platinum partner for IRC for the second consecutive year. Upholding their brand concept of “Pro Quality for Everyday Life,” CREATEs continuously introduces global trends and techniques from professional settings to daily routines. At CREATEs presents IRC 2026, CREATEs group’s styling tools, including hair irons and dryers, will be used as official hair makeup items backstage. Furthermore, CREATEs will produce “idol hair” at the CREATEs stage, fully supporting the “Kawaii” aesthetic of the idols.

Event Essentials: Tickets and Merchandise

Original event merchandise will be available for a limited time via pre-order. Do not miss this opportunity to acquire exclusive items. Details can be found on the official goods sales site: https://goodsmake.jp/collections/irc-store

Ticket sales are ongoing, with various phases:

• IRC APP Member Pre-sale (Lottery): General Reserved Seats 8,000 JPY (tax included). Applications from November 28, 2025, 11:00 to December 14, 2025, 23:59. Requires IRC APP membership.

• ticket board Pre-sale (Lottery): General Reserved Seats 8,000 JPY (tax included). Applications from December 21, 2025, 12:00 to January 5, 2026, 23:59.

• General Sale (First-come, first-served): General Reserved Seats 8,500 JPY (tax included). Sales from January 17, 2026, 12:00 until sold out.

• Upgrade Ticket Lottery (Arena Reserved Seats): 5,000 JPY (tax included) for those with General Reserved Seats. Available in phases based on IRC APP membership rank (Gold/Silver, Bronze+, Regular-). Check the IRC APP for specific application periods.

For the latest information, please visit the official website: https://idolrunwaycollection.jp/

The Future of Kawaii Culture: Bridging Real and Digital Worlds

IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION represents a significant step in the evolution of Japanese idol culture. By integrating fashion and cutting-edge technology, the event aims to not only expand the appeal of idols domestically but also to project Japan’s unique “Kawaii” culture onto the global stage. The emphasis on “co-creation and connection” through digital platforms like the IRC APP signifies a forward-looking approach, where fan interaction is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the event. This blend of real-world spectacle and digital engagement is poised to create new entertainment economic zones and accelerate the global reach of Japanese idol culture, offering an unparalleled experience that transcends traditional boundaries.