Japanese Idol Culture for ‘Contents Tourism’ and Regional Revitalization: A Case Study of Regional Idols

Abstract

The popularity of Japan’s idol culture is well represented through the Japanese media. Although in years past, idols were active mainly in Tokyo, more recently, idols have established themselves in specific geographic areas. These modern idols differ from their predecessors in that they personify ‘regional characteristics’ and ‘regional authenticity’ in the modern context. When we look at contemporary idols in Japanese social context and media, we notice how, starting from around 2010, there have been many so-called ‘regional idols’, with activities focused on a specific geographical area. This chapter addresses the television show Amachan and explores the relationship between media content in Japan and the residents of the community that serve as its stage, as well as the activities of Ama Club, which is the regional idol group born in its filming location Kuji-shi, Iwate Prefecture, in the Tohoku region. At the same time, by understanding the characteristics of regional idols using specific case studies as examples, this chapter discusses the potential of Japanese idol culture for contributing to contents tourism and regional revitalization.