Hinata Honma appointed as Hie Shrine image character for second consecutive year

Actress Hinata Honma, a former member of the idol group NGT48, has been appointed as the image character for the Reiwa 9 Hie Shrine Hatsumode (New Year's visit). This appointment marks a historic milestone, as she is the first individual to be selected for the role for two consecutive years.

During a press conference held at Hie Shrine in Akasaka, Tokyo, Honma appeared in a red furisode. She expressed her gratitude for the appointment and shared her personal connection to the shrine, noting that it has become a place of peace for her since moving from Niigata to Tokyo. Honma also discussed her recent acting career, including her starring role in a stage production, and expressed her ambition to succeed in the entertainment industry, drawing inspiration from the shrine's association with the Sanno Festival.