Unboxing “TOY BOX”: A Journey Through Ryu’s Late Teens
“TOY BOX” is more than just a photobook; it’s an immersive experience designed to surprise and delight with every turn of the page. The title itself hints at the treasure trove of expressions and moments contained within, reflecting the dynamic transition from innocent youth to a more mature demeanor. Photographer Mamiko Ando masterfully captured Ryu’s diverse facets, from his mischievous boyish charm to his subtly adult expressions, ensuring every nuance of his 10s is preserved.
This debut work is published by Shueisha and will be released on February 18, 2026. Priced at 3,850 yen (tax included), the B5-sized photobook spans 112 pages, packed with captivating visuals.
Exclusive Fan Events and Online Signings
To celebrate the launch, fans can look forward to special events. An in-person release event is scheduled for February 21, 2026, at Shosen Book Tower in Tokyo. This exclusive event will feature a photobook handover session and two-shot photo opportunities, offering a rare chance for direct interaction with Ryu. Tickets for the event, bundled with the photobook, went on sale starting January 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM JST, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For those unable to attend in person, an online signing event is also planned for February 22, 2026. Further details regarding this online event will be announced at a later date, allowing fans worldwide to participate and connect with Ryu.
Where to Get Your Copy
Pre-orders for “TOY BOX” are available at various online retailers. A special edition with an exclusive cover is also offered through Seven Net.
Stay updated on all photobook news and behind-the-scenes content by following the official Ryu Photobook X account: Ryu Photobook Official X
Meet Ryu: A Dance Phenomenon
Ryu, a prominent member of REAL AKIBA BOYZ, began his dance journey at just three years old with ballet and jazz dance, discovering street dance by age six. His exceptional talent quickly propelled him to success in various dance battles and crews, including “Ryu & Yuta” and “Sunset Ravens.” He leads “DESCARADOS,” a group of celebrated kid dancers. In 2022, while still a high school freshman, he officially joined REAL AKIBA BOYZ, a group known for their dynamic anime-song dance performances.
His impressive list of achievements includes winning the MyNavi DANCEALIVE 2023 CHARISMAX I HIPHOP division and securing the Redbull Dance Your Style 2023 Japan Final, earning him the title of Japan representative. With “Ryu & Yuta,” he reached the world’s top 4 at the Freestyle Session World Finals 2025 2on2. Ryu’s unique style, unconstrained by genre, and undeniable skill have made him a true force in the dance world.
Beyond battles, Ryu has also graced major stages. In October 2024, he performed with REAL AKIBA BOYZ at their first-ever Nippon Budokan concert, “REAL AKIBA BOYZ Nippon Budokan -Represent Akihabara-.” July 2025 saw the success of his first solo dance one-man live, “Ryu LIVE ‘Zetto’,” performed to a sold-out audience. His expressive power and captivating performances continued to shine at the REAL AKIBA BOYZ ONEMAN LIVE ~Bokura no Masterpiece~ at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium in October of the same year.
It’s clear that Ryu’s journey is just beginning, and “TOY BOX” serves as a beautiful encapsulation of his formative years, a must-have for fans eager to witness his continued evolution in the world of Japanese idol and dance culture. As one fan excitedly commented, “Ryu’s energy is infectious, and seeing his journey captured like this feels like a true gift!”
Connect with Ryu
Follow Ryu’s journey and daily updates on his social media channels:
This photobook is not just a collection of images; it’s a vibrant testament to a young artist’s growth, offering fans a deeper connection to the dynamic world of Japanese idols and the ever-evolving kawaii culture.
