Osaka’s Next Top Student Models to Shine at GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER
Kansai Collection-produced event empowers young talent to walk the dream runway, with top winners advancing to a major stage.
Japan’s largest female student participation event, “GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER in OSAKA,” is set to take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Namba Hatch. Produced by the renowned Kansai Collection, this seventh iteration of GAKUSEI RUNWAY offers an unparalleled platform for aspiring models from elementary school through university and vocational school.
The event champions the dreams of young women who long to walk a professional runway, regardless of prior modeling experience. Participants receive comprehensive support, including auditions, walking lessons, and professional photo shoots, all designed to prepare them for the grand stage.
At its core, GAKUSEI RUNWAY is a celebration where female students across Japan take center stage. Those who successfully pass the auditions will make their runway debut at the “GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER in OSAKA” event. A unique aspect of the competition is the real-time audience voting on the day of the event, which helps determine the “Osaka Selected Models.” Furthermore, the Grand Prix and Semi-Grand Prix winners, totaling 19 individuals, will earn the prestigious opportunity to appear on the “KANSAI COLLECTION 2027 SPRING&SUMMER” stage, marking them as leading female student models in Japan.
The event promises a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of engaging content. Attendees can look forward to fashion shows featuring popular brands favored by Generation Z, special photo sessions offering close-up encounters with celebrity guests, and energetic live performances by notable artists who will electrify the venue.
Namba Hatch has been a birthplace for many “Osaka Selected Models,” witnessing the growth and triumphs of countless female students. This year, GAKUSEI RUNWAY in Osaka is expected to foster even more rising stars, paving the way for the next generation of talent. “It’s truly inspiring to see so many young women bravely step onto the runway and pursue their dreams,” a fan remarked, encapsulating the spirit of the event.
Star-Studded Guest Lineup Announced
As of January 17, 2026, a remarkable roster of guests has been confirmed to support and elevate the “GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER in OSAKA” stage. These include creators and influencers highly popular among Generation Z, adding a dazzling touch to the student-led runway.
Notable figures making an appearance include:
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Kanato Kawamura: Gained significant attention from ABEMA’s popular reality dating show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.”
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Kyosuke Hayashi: A model and TV personality widely active in fashion and stage scenes.
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Haruto Imai: Younger brother of popular influencer Osaki, known for his genuine charm and expressive modeling.
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Suzushoto: An Osaka-born YouTube duo with over 1 million subscribers.
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Hinata and Mahoko Seno: Creators who resonate with younger generations through their authentic social media presence.
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Maikichi: An Osaka-born influencer known for diverse style and strong Gen Z support.
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Ai Hayasaka and Yu Hayasaka: Twin influencers, with Ai currently active as a regular model for “Popteen.”
The full list of confirmed guests as of January 17, 2026, is available on the official website. More exciting guests are expected to be announced, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere and inspiring the student participants.
Confirmed Guest List (as of January 17, 2026, alphabetical order):
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SPECIAL GUEST: Haruto Imai, Suzushoto, Kone Nagano, Hinata, Maikichi, Mirai Yokota and more
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GUEST: Mizuki Akiyama, Kanato Kawamura, Kensho Kojima, Shoyan Otoko San Kyodai, Shoyanan, Mahoko Seno, Sophia, Hinano Nishino, Hamachiko Channel, Ai Hayasaka, Yu Hayasaka, Kyosuke Hayashi, Yurina, Ririka and more
Stay updated on the latest guest announcements via the official website.
Event Overview
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Event Name: GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER in OSAKA
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Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
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Times (all scheduled): Doors Open 15:45 / Start 16:30 / End 20:30
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Venue: Namba Hatch
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Organizer: GAKUSEI RUNWAY Executive Committee
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Content: Fashion Show, Artist Live Performances, etc.
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Planning/Production: GAKUSEI RUNWAY Co., Ltd.
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Copyright: GAKUSEI RUNWAY Co., Ltd.
For more information and updates, visit the official website: https://gakusei-runway.com/
Join the conversation on social media:
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LINE: @gakuseirunway
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X: @GAKUSEI_RUNWAY
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Instagram: @gakuseirunway
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TikTok: @gakuseirunway
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YouTube: @GAKUSEIRUNWAY
The GAKUSEI RUNWAY 2026 SUMMER in OSAKA is not just an event; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of Japanese talent, embodying the vibrant spirit of youth and the evolving landscape of kawaii fashion culture. This platform will surely inspire countless dreams, showing the world the fresh faces and unique styles emerging from Japan’s dynamic youth scene.
