INI's Takatsuka Hiromu Takes on Legendary Role of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, Sparking Frenzy at Hiraizumi Festival

The role of Yoshitsune in the "Spring Fujiwara Festival: Minamoto no Yoshitsune Eastern Journey Parade," scheduled for May 3, 2026, in Hiraizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture, has been decided: Takatsuka Hiromu of the popular dance and vocal group INI. This announcement has generated significant buzz. A "dream baton pass" has been realized from INI's Ozaki Takumi, who played the same role last year. A splendid poster featuring both individuals has been released, drawing enthusiastic reactions on social media.

The newly unveiled poster prominently features Ozaki Takumi, who played Yoshitsune last year, and Takatsuka Hiromu, who will take on the role this year. It has been widely praised as "cool" and "elegant and beautiful." In particular, their joint appearance has evoked deep emotion among fans, described as "the best combination" and "heart-pounding." There are even calls for the poster to be displayed not only within Hiraizumi Town but also at major stations nationwide.

The role of Yoshitsune in the "Minamoto no Yoshitsune Eastern Journey Parade" is also known for being played by renowned actors in the past, such as Yoshizawa Ryo (2015), Yokohama Ryusei (2017), and Tsumabuki Satoshi, leading to whispers of it being a "gateway for famous actors." Takatsuka's casting is highly anticipated to add new appeal to this historical and traditional role.

On the day of the event, a large number of fans, known as "MINI," are expected to arrive from various parts of the country. Numerous plans have been posted on social media, such as "traveling to Iwate a day early" and "making it a part of a trip." Motsuji Temple is making efforts to welcome visitors, including setting up photo spots featuring designs inspired by Takatsuka's (light blue) and Ozaki's (orange) member colors, as well as rainbow colors representing INI. Furthermore, attention is also focused on "Takara White," the banba (draft horse) that Lord Yoshitsune will ride, with exclamations of admiration for its grandeur. Visitors are also urged to adhere to viewing etiquette to ensure safety.

May 3, 2026, promises to be a day when Hiraizumi's history and culture are adorned with even greater splendor alongside the brilliance of INI. Many visitors are expected to be captivated by the valiant figure of Lord Yoshitsune portrayed by Takatsuka Hiromu and the procession, which resembles a historical scroll.

The context

Hiraizumi: A town in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, and a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its 12th-century temples, gardens, and archaeological sites, particularly those associated with the Northern Fujiwara clan. It served as an important political and cultural center in medieval Japan.

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: An iconic military commander of the late Heian and early Kamakura periods (12th century). He is a legendary figure in Japanese history and folklore, known for his bravery, tactical genius, and tragic fate. After helping his elder brother Minamoto no Yoritomo establish the Kamakura Shogunate, he fell out of favor and fled north, eventually seeking refuge with the Northern Fujiwara clan in Hiraizumi.

Spring Fujiwara Festival (Haru no Fujiwara Matsuri): An annual festival held in Hiraizumi celebrating the golden age of the Northern Fujiwara clan. It features various historical re-enactments and parades, with the "Minamoto no Yoshitsune Eastern Journey Parade" (源義経公東下り行列, Gen Yoshitsune-ko Azumakudari Gyoretsu) being a major highlight. This procession re-enacts Yoshitsune's arrival in Hiraizumi, welcomed by Fujiwara no Hidehira.

INI: A popular 11-member Japanese boy group formed through the reality competition show Produce 101 Japan Season 2 in 2021. They are known for their powerful performances and strong fan base, referred to as "MINI."

Ozaki Takumi and Takatsuka Hiromu: Both are prominent members of INI. Their participation in the festival, particularly in the role of Yoshitsune, brings significant celebrity attention and a surge of interest from their widespread fan base, blending contemporary pop culture with historical tradition.

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