Being an idol in Japan demands a level of discipline that often borders on absurdity. During the launch of her new photo book titled Sakura, singer Sakura Oda, a member of the legendary group Morning Musume. ’26, surprised the press by revealing some of the most unusual restrictions she had to follow during her 15 years in the group.

At the event held in Tokyo for the launch of her book published by Wani Books, the artist shared details about the strict rules governing the daily routine of the members. She explained that management strictly prohibits the girls from visiting pools, beaches, or hot springs during their free time. Although Oda appeared in swimsuits in several official photo shoots throughout her career, she admitted she has never been able to wear one in her daily life since joining the group, as the rules forbid exposing herself in such public places.

A swimming enthusiast since childhood, the singer has already planned her return to daily life immediately after her farewell concert at the Yokohama Arena on December 11. Oda laughed as she mentioned that she has already bought her own swimsuit and plans to go to a pool with her childhood friends during her first week of freedom. She also admitted she will spend a whole day breaking her strict diet by eating instant ramen, fried chicken, chocolate, ice cream, and pastries—foods that were completely forbidden due to the rigorous calorie and metabolism control demanded by her career.

Looking to the future, the artist expressed her desire to remain connected to the entertainment world through theater and acting, two areas that were practically impossible to explore due to the group’s demanding schedule. With her official departure, the singer hopes to have the time and freedom to interact more closely with the audience in this new professional phase.

Morning Musume is one of the most influential and historic female idol groups in Japanese pop culture, originally formed in 1997 as part of the Hello! Project collective. Over nearly three decades, the group has remained active thanks to a rotating system of graduations and incorporations of new generations of young talents.

Within this iconic musical project, Sakura Oda established herself as one of the main vocalists and undeniable references since joining in 2012 as part of the eleventh generation. Her retirement on December 11 will mark the definitive end of a 15-year stage career.

What do you think about the strict rules idols must follow in their private lives?