A Creative Collaboration Blooms in Machida
Machida City’s connection with ‘The Idolm@ster’ series runs deeper than just this new project. In 2024, the city hosted ‘Machida ECOto Go-Round!’, an environmental collaboration event with ‘The Idolm@ster Shiny Colors’ that focused on reducing food waste and promoting plastic resource recycling within the scenic Shikisai-no-Mori Yakushiike Park area. This previous partnership laid the groundwork for the city’s enthusiastic participation in ‘Futa Masu!!!!!!’.
The specific designs, installation schedule, and exact locations for these artistic manholes will be announced at a later date, building anticipation among fans and residents alike.
Loco: The Artist Idol Bringing Machida’s Spirit to Life
At the heart of Machida’s ‘Futa Masu!!!!!!’ manhole project is Loco, a 15-year-old artist idol from ‘The Idolm@ster Million Live!’. Known for her unique creative worldview and a passion for crafting, Loco’s pop and cute artistic sensibilities make her a beloved character among fans. Her distinctive speech pattern, often incorporating English loanwords (affectionately dubbed ‘Loco-go’ by fans), has even inspired fan-made dictionaries, showcasing her deep connection with her audience.
A Canvas of Local Charm and Artistic Expression
The manhole designs will not only feature Loco but will also proudly incorporate iconic symbols of Machida City. These include the ‘Hikari no Mai’ public art sculpture in front of Machida Station, the city’s specialty ‘Silk Melon,’ the city bird ‘Kingfisher,’ and the beautiful ‘Dahlia’ flowers. This thoughtful integration ensures that the manholes celebrate both the idol’s charm and Machida’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Loco’s artistic personality and philosophy—her love for art and creation—resonate profoundly with Machida City’s diverse cultural landscape. The city boasts a strong foundation in arts and culture, including the International Woodblock Print Museum, a vibrant subculture scene, lively commercial facilities, and an overarching respect for free expression. This synergy between Loco’s character and Machida’s multi-faceted appeal makes her the perfect ambassador for this project.
A Future of Amazing New Stories
The Mayor of Machida City expressed immense excitement about the project, stating, “We are extremely pleased to have ‘Futa Masu!!!!!!’ installed in Machida City. The creative sensibilities of Loco and the diverse culture thriving in Machida City deeply resonate. We are excited to create amazing new stories for the future, connecting producers, citizens, and Machida City!” This sentiment highlights the project’s potential to foster community engagement and create a unique blend of fandom and local pride.
For more information on the project, please visit the official websites:
This initiative marks a charming new chapter in how ‘kawaii’ culture, epitomized by beloved idol characters, can intertwine with local communities. By transforming everyday infrastructure like manholes into canvases for artistic expression and local identity, Machida City is poised to attract new visitors and deepen the connection between residents and their vibrant city, all while celebrating the enduring appeal of ‘The Idolm@ster’ series.
