Chiikawa releases large plush toys as Ireis members expand to live-action

The Japanese entertainment landscape sees new developments in both character merchandise and idol activities. The popular manga series ‘Chiikawa’ by Nagano is releasing large-scale, 70cm plush toys featuring characters ‘Stronger Hachiware’, ‘Stronger Usagi’, and ‘Anoko’ from the ‘Magical Chiikawa’ series. These items are available for pre-order via the Chiikawa Market official web shop through October 20, 2026, with shipping expected in early 2027.

In the music industry, members Liura and Yusuke of the 2.5D idol group ‘Ireis’ have announced a shift toward live-action activities. During a 6th-anniversary stream, the duo revealed plans to expand their reach through acting and face-revealing music videos. Liura intends to focus on social media presence and acting, while Yusuke aims to broaden his musical expression by performing without a mask. The group management emphasized that these changes are individual decisions and will not replace the group’s existing illustration-based content.