Minami Kizuki’s “Utaashibi 2026 Spring” Tour Sweeps Japan with Sold-Out Performances
Minami Kizuki, the enchanting vocalist hailing from Amami Oshima, has successfully completed her “Minami Kizuki Utaashibi 2026 Spring” national tour. The tour, which celebrated her latest album, also titled Utaashibi, saw every single venue, from Kagoshima to Tokyo, including an additional show in Amami Oshima, completely sell out, a testament to her widespread appeal. The final performance of the main tour took place on April 5th at Tokyo’s Otemachi Mitsui Hall, leaving only an eagerly awaited additional concert at Tokyo’s Cotton Club on April 19th.
The tour was a vibrant showcase of her new album, which launched in January. A highlight for many attendees was the performance of “Kyorajima ~Utsukushii Shima~,” a track penned by the acclaimed Kazufumi Miyazawa. Each stop on the tour was further enriched by the participation of local Amami island singers, such as Shunji Yamamoto in Kagoshima, Momoko Ibusuki in Fukuoka, Michiyo Uchi in Osaka, Nami Makioka in Nagoya, and Shingo Maeyama in both Tokyo and Amami Oshima. Their presence wove a rich tapestry of Amami’s musical heritage into the performances, creating an authentic island atmosphere.
During the Tokyo finale at Otemachi Mitsui Hall, guest artist Shingo Maeyama joined Kizuki for several songs, including “Kyorajima ~Utsukushii Shima~,” “Hounen-bushi,” “Wide-bushi,” and “Yoisura.” Kizuki shared a heartfelt moment with the audience, reflecting on her collaboration with Maeyama: “Shingo-niichan chose to stay in Amami and preserve island songs, while I chose to leave Amami and continue singing. We talked about how there are different paths to cherish our hometown and protect its unique music.” This sentiment resonated deeply, bringing a warm, Amami breeze to the heart of Tokyo.
The stage also welcomed Ryu from the piano band Ryu Matsuyama, who composed “Ibuki” and “Okaeri” and arranged three other tracks on the Utaashibi album. Jackson, who contributed percussion to “HOKORASHA (feat. Ngaiire),” also joined the tour’s climactic performance, adding to the electrifying energy of the evening.
Kizuki delivered 15 passionate songs, charming 500 fans with her radiant smile and voice, reminiscent of Amami’s spring winds. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “When I debuted, there were times I wondered if this was right. But after about 17 years, I now feel it was good, that what comes from within me is fine. I’m so happy to have released a work that encapsulates my current self and the origins of my music. I’m grateful for all our encounters and want to continue weaving love.” This candid reflection offered a glimpse into her journey and artistic evolution.
Album Information
“Kyorajima ~Utsukushii Shima~”
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Digital Pre-release: January 7, 2026 (Wednesday)
Album “Utaashibi”
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Release Date: January 21, 2026 (Wednesday)
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Product Number: TECL-1011
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Format: CDA
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Price: ¥3,000 (excl. tax) / ¥3,300 (incl. tax)
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Tracklist highlights:
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“Hana Hana!” (Lyrics/Composition: Minami Kizuki, Arrangement: Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama))
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“Kyorajima ~Utsukushii Shima~” (Lyrics/Composition: Kazufumi Miyazawa, Dialect Assistance: Shingo Maeyama / Minami Kizuki, Arrangement: Shingo Maeyama)
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“Ibuki” (Lyrics: Minami Kizuki / Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama), Composition/Arrangement: Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama))
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“Okaeri” (Lyrics: Minami Kizuki, Composition/Arrangement: Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama))
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“Utaashibi” (Lyrics/Composition: Minami Kizuki, Arrangement: Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama))
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“HOKORASHA (feat. Ngaiire)” (Lyrics/Composition: Minami Kizuki / Ngaire Laun Joseph / Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama), Arrangement: Ryu (Ryu Matsuyama))
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“Ibuki” Streaming Link
Upcoming Performances and TV Challenge
While the spring tour concludes with the additional Cotton Club show, fans can look forward to the “Minami Kizuki Utaashibi 2026 Autumn” national tour, set to kick off on September 21st at Tokyo’s duo MUSIC EXCHANGE. Tickets for the autumn tour will go on general sale starting May 2nd (Saturday).
Minami Kizuki is also set to make her third appearance on Fuji TV’s popular show “Chidori no Onirenchan” on April 19th (Sunday). Last September, she successfully achieved a “renchan” (a continuous streak) using the “Gwin” vocal technique, a unique melodic embellishment characteristic of Amami folk songs. This time, she will challenge the formidable “Oni Hard Mode,” a feat that has fans buzzing with anticipation. Will the “songstress of Amami,” affectionately known as “Mii-chan,” conquer this new challenge? Many are certainly rooting for her.
Minami Kizuki Utaashibi 2026 Autumn Tour Dates:
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September 21 (Mon/Holiday) Tokyo・duo MUSIC EXCHANGE
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September 23 (Wed/Holiday) Aichi・Bottom Line
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September 27 (Sun) Osaka・Shinsaibashi JANUS
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October 4 (Sun) Miyagi・retro Back Page
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October 10 (Sat) Fukuoka・border live music&drinks
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October 12 (Mon/Holiday) Okayama・Shiroshita Kokaido
For more updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses, fans can follow her official TikTok account:
Minami Kizuki’s journey continues to weave the vibrant threads of Amami’s musical heritage with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and captivating experience for listeners both in Japan and across the globe. Her dedication to her roots, combined with her evolving artistry, promises an exciting future for this remarkable talent.
