Sunday 7 August 2016

An Introduction to The Houkago Princess Apprentice, Cadet and Youth Programme (Updated on June 29th, 2020)

*As of August 7th, 2016, the day this was posted, Kojima Mayumi, and possibly Nagasawa Marina and Sekine Sasara, were promoted to the Regular Lineup.

*As of May 25th, 2020, this post has finally been updated.

With Houkago Princesses 5th Anniversary happening this very month, as well as the first anniversary of their major debut, I thought it wise to create a small series of posts commemorating this beautiful groups latest accomplishment. Following the Introduction Post for the Regular lineup that makes up Houkago Princess, it is now time to introduce the newest group under the Princess name, HoupriYusu, otherwise known as HouPri Youth. If you would like to know more about this Model Generation, then stay tuned and take some notes!


You can find the Regular Member Profiles HERE, if you have not yet read it!

An integral part to Houkago Princesses system, HouPri Youth was formerly known as the 'Apprentice-Candidate system', and originally acted as a smaller but just as important branch within the main groups system. From 2011 up until 2015, Apprentices and Candidates would perform with members in the back of all performances, typically wear similar costumes - minus a few embellishments and frills - and would even appear in music videos and in songs with the Regular members.

The idea behind the Apprentice to Candidate system was that, in order to prove you were earnest in your plight to becoming an idol, you would do the graft and showcase your skills, or perhaps prove your popularity and capability to the staff members. For some promotion was easy, but for others it could take a year or two to be recognised. Regardless of how long it took, it should be noted that promotion within HouPri's first Indies period was far easier than it is now.

2015 saw a shift in how the trainee system worked for Houkago Princess. With the groups major debut in place, the Apprentice to Candidate system turned into what is now known as HouPri Youth. Introduced on February 18th 2015, Houpriyusu (or, HouPri Youth) became the groups official younger sister unit. Housing Apprentices and Candidates with a desire to become Regular members, HouPri Youth would hold separate performances from the Regular members to improve their skills as singers as dancers, whilst also being given the opportunity to perform as backing dancers and chorus for bigger live shows. There was also the odd opportunity for some Youth members to act as backups for absent Regular members, which would allow any given Youth member to prove their worth.

As it goes, most HouPri Youth members dabble in modelling work of some form, especially bikini gravure.

Since the dynamic changed in early 2015, HouPri Youth members will now have a timeline of a year or more before expecting to be promoted to the Regular lineup. With stricter rules in place and high expectations to match up to, the goal to become a Regular member is a lot farther than it was before. Because of how difficult it is to get to this point, it's common for Youth members to stop their activities at some point, especially if they have been told that they do not meet the standards set by the staff.

As of mid-2019, HouPri Youth is currently a one-idol show. Whether FORZA Records will continue to keep the group going or not is an uncertainty, however the remaining member is working hard alongside her seniors and supporting them as best she can.

In A Nutshell: HouPri Youth has had 3 phases so far. The first being the original Apprentice-Candidate system that had no unique name to define it, the second phase that began in 2015, and the third phase that started with a whole new lineup in 2017. The 3rd phase is slowly pattering out with its remaining member, and it looks unlikely that FORZA Records will continue implementing the Youth system as it currently stands.

With a desire to become Princesses and attain their own tiaras, HouPri Youth are the support that Houkago Princess needs. They may be backing dances and chorus singers, but the hard work and effort they put in will showcase their desire to become the best idols that they can be. So when the clock strikes 4pm, will these girls have a chance to turn into Princesses, or will they turn into Pumpkins instead?

Let's see if they can find the fairy tale ending they have been longing for~


Members


Name: Nishimiya Airi (西宮愛理)
Nickname: Airi, MiyaAi (あいり, みやあい)
D.O.B: April 20th, 1995
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Saitama
Height: 160cm
Hobbies: Shopping, watching Idols
Likes: Disney, Nogizaka46, Hello! Project, spicy food, sweets, Detective Conan
Skills: Stunts (Gymnastics), Calligraphy
Pros: Smiling, doing things until she reaches her goal
Status: Active
Reign: April 2020 - Present
Affiliated Groups: Tokyo Flamingo (September 2019 - March 2020)

Twitter  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Tokyo Flamingo Profile

Info:

Originally a member of Tokyo Flamingo, Nishimiya Airi began her Idol career in September 2019, though she had previously auditioned for Akishubu Project prior to that in April that same year. Her audition number was No.016. Airi was active in Tokyo Flamingo alongside Yoshinaga Yuriko, who she is good friends with.

On March 21st, 2020, Tokyo Flamingo's activities ended. Sometime after Yuriko had been accepted into the Youth programme, Yuriko asked Airi if she would audition as well. Airi, already a fan of Houkago Princess and wanting to continue pursuing her dream of being an Idol alongside Yuriko, agreed. She was introduced as the Youth programmes newest member on June 12th, 2020.

On June 17th, 2020, at the announcement of Yuriko's departure from Youth, Airi was asked by the staff members if she wanted to write a comment on it. She did so, and it was released alongside Yuriko's own statement.

Airi has a relaxed personality, and recently took part in one of the Houkago Princess sign events for the single, Shakunetsu n Mystery Eye / Zesse Cleopatra.

Airi has a Qualification in Calligraphy.


Former Members


Name: Toyota Serina (豊田瀬理奈)
Generation: 2nd, Candidate
Status: Active
Affiliated Groups: READY TO KISS (Graduated)
Reign: October 2011 - November 2012 (Withdrew)
Status: Inactive

Info:

One of the original 2nd generation candidates for Houkago Princess, however she withdrew one month after. Toyota Serena found success as a gravure model after this, and has released some gravure DVD's.

From 2013 to 2014, she was a member of READY TO KISS. Currently, she is inactive within the entertainment industry.


Name: Kaji Nana (梶奈々)
Generation: 2nd, Candidate
Status: Inactive
Reign: October 2011 - November 2011 (Withdrew)


Name: Shirahoshi Chiaki (白星ちあき)
Nickname: Chamu
D.O.B: August 13th, 1993
Blood Type: O
Height: 154cm
Generation: 3rd, Candidate
Position: Charming Dog Chairman
Status: Active
Affiliated Groups: Prism Fantasia
Reign: June 2012 - October 2012 (Dismissed)


Info:

Chiaki was dismissed from the group for breaking the rules within her contract, which included contacting fans and meeting up with them. She took time away from the industry, however returned in 2014 to take part in the stage play LIFE. She then made her return to the Idol scene in 2015, and is currently the leader of the indies Idol unit Prism Fantasia.


Name: Matsumoto Ria (松本梨愛)
Generation: 4th, Candidate
Status: Inactive
Reign: December 2012 - April 2013 (Dismissed)


Name: Asakura Erina (朝倉恵璃菜)
D.O.B: April 2nd, 1995
Generation: 3rd, Candidate
Position: Bland Chairman
Status: Inactive
Reign: June 2012 - April 2013 (Dismissed)


Name: Suzukawa Kanari (鈴川かなり)
D.O.B: November 16th, 1995
Generation: 5th, Apprentice
Position: Baby Chairman
Status: Inactive
Reign: May 2013 - July 2013 (Withdrew)

Info:

Because of Kanari's commute from Aichi to Tokyo, it was difficult for her to attend promotional events and concerts, so she chose to withdrew. Later on in the year, she joined READY TO KISS, however withdrew from the group before the year ended.


Name: Momose Fuuka (百瀬楓花)
D.O.B: January 9th, 1995
Generation: 3rd, Candidate
Position: Healing Chairman
Status: Inactive
Reign: June 2012 - June 2013 (Withdrew)


Name: Aiuchi Kohana (相内今華)
Generation: 4th, Candidate
Status: Inactive
Reign: December 2012 - July 2013 (Graduated)

Info:

Kohana graduated due to family problems, however came back to the industry for a brief period of time as a gravure model. She quickly left a month later, however.


Name: Kawamura Shiori (河村しおり)
Generation: 6th, Apprentice
Status: Inactive
Reign: February 2014 (Withdrew)

Info:

Holding one of the shortest tenures within HouPri history, Shiori withdrew just 13 days after joining the group due to personal issues.


Name: Fukuhara Kyoka (福原杏夏)
Nickname: Kyo-chan
D.O.B: January 9th, 1993
Generation: 5th, Candidate
Position: Undecided Chairman
Status: Inactive
Reign: May 2013 - February 2014 (Withdrew)


Name: Sakurai Riho (櫻井りほ)
D.O.B: January 26th
Generation: 5th, Candidate
Position: Classical Piano Chairman
Status: Inactive
Reign: May 2013 - February 2014 (Dismissal announced in May 2014)

Info:

Before joining Houkago Princess, Riho had been studying classical piano since she was 3 years old, and had entered multiple competitions as a result. From late December 2013 until January 2014, Riho travelled to Vienna, Austria in order to study Classical Piano further. She had also at that time been chosen to participate in the Young Gangan Gravure Contest for 2014.

In May of 2014, it was revealed that from January 8th of the same year that Riho's contract had been terminated once it came to light that she had a boyfriend, therefore breaking the rules. The announcement came late due to Riho's participation in the Young Gangan competition.

 

Name: Haruno Akane (春野茜)
Nickname: Harurun
D.O.B: March 24th, 1995
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Generation: Apprentice
Position: Undetermined
Hobbies / Skills: Games, Disney, Making Candy, Tako Drum Master, Pokémon
Status: Inactive
Reign: April 2015 - July 2015

Info:

The fourth member to be announced Akane made her debut on April 11th 2015 and performed regularly with HouPri Youth, However, on June 15th that year, Akane injured her foot and could not perform, though she did MC the groups performances.

Because of her absence, as well as her injury, it was discussed whether she should continue her activities as an Idol or not. Because she was unsure as to whether or not she would continue being an Idol, the decision was made that she would withdraw, and so she left the group July 6th, 2015. It is currently unknown if she is still within the Entertainment Industry or not.


Name: Kamiya Airi (神谷愛理)
Name: Avery-chan
D.O.B: August 25th, 1995
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 160cm
Generation: 7th, Candidate
Position: Undetermined
Image Colour: Light Blue
Hobbies / Skills: Basketball, Winking, Fashion coordination, Soran Bushi
Status: Inactive
Reign: March 2015 - March 2016

Info:

The second member to join HouPri Youth, Airi had originally joined the entertainment industry as a model for online publications from the years 2013 until 2015. Once she joined HouPri Youth, she began her activities in singing and performing, as well as modelling.

Initially intending to leave HouPri Youth alongside Marina and Sasara to begin a new unit in early 2016, Airi then changed her mind after realising she was not pursuing her Idol career as enthusiastically as she had a year before. So, she made the decision to graduate from both HouPri Youth and the Entertainment Industry to begin a normal life again. Her graduation was held on March 20th 2016, alongside Izumi Sakura.

Personal Comments:

My original favourite of the HouPri Youth members. I'm still sad about her graduation, actually, however I know that Idols come and go, and for Avery-chan, it happened to be her time to graduate... ;; waaah!


Name: Izumi Sakura (泉美 桜)
Nickname: Mishan
D.O.B: 1994-1995
Generation: 7th, Candidate
Position: Undetermined
Image Colour: Orange
Hobbies: Music, watching Naruto
Status: Inactive
Reign: June 2015 - March 2016

Info:

Joining Houkago Princess in June 2015, Sakura began activities within the group quickly, however in October of the same year, she injured her foot and had to suspend performing with the group, though she attended events regularly. By December 2015, it was revealed that her doctor had instructed her not to perform, as it would worsen her condition.

During her time off from HouPri Youth, Sakura pursued Gravure activities, and eventually announced her Graduation from the group in order to continue working towards a solo career in Gravure. She graduated on March 20th 2016, alongside Kamiya Airi. She debuted her first and only solo DVD on April 22nd, 2016.

As of May-June 2016, Izumi Sakura's Twitter account became inactive, indicating she has left the Industry altogether.


Name: Makihara Yuyu (牧原ゆゆ)
Nickname: Yuyu
D.O.B: April 10th, 1996
Height: 153cm
Generation: 7th, Apprentice
Position: Undetermined
Image Colour: Green
Hobbies: Singing, Dancing, Cosplay
Status: Inactive
Reign: March 2016 - April 2016 (Withdrew)

Info:

Originally a cosplay model, Yuyu joined HouPri Youth on March 29th, 2016, however left after only one month due to issues with spinal cord disease, and cited that this would halt her from performing regularly. Though she withdrew from the group, Yuyu was still affiliated under the Cute black umbrella as a model until July of 2016.

Currently, Yuyu is a semi-finalist in the Miss iD 2017 competition, an Idol and Tarento voting contest that Nagasawa Marina had previously ran in. She has been inactive since.


Name: Shindo Manami (新藤まなみ)
Former Name:
 Ota Nozomi (太田希望)
D.O.B: July 25th, 1992
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 153cm
Generation: Apprentice
Hobbies: Fishing, cooking, beauty research
Skills: Bowling, speaks 5 languages
Status: Active, Actress and Model
Affiliated Groups: BERRY GIRL'S, Heart x Strings
Reign: January 2017 - February 2017 (Fired)

Twitter  |  Instagram  |  eggstar profile

Info:

Active since 2008, Shindo Manami has a variety of skills under her belt as a tarento. She has been active as an actress, model, reporter, TV cast member and more. She began her career as a model for the magazine Popteen in 2008, and eventually went on to become a regular model for KATY in 2012. Manami has also worked as an actress both on stage and for TV.

Manami debuted as an idol in 2013 with the group BERRY GIRL'S, and was active for a year. She didn't return to the idol world until 2016, where she joined the idol group Heart x Strings, and was active from January 2016 until December 2016. When the group went on hiatus, it was decided that Manami and fellow Heart x Strings member Tanaka Asami would be moved to HouPri YOUTH and begin their activities in 2017.

In February 2017, it was believed that Manami was dating a member of the boy group NEWS. Shortly after the allegations arose, it was revealed that Manami had been fired from HouPri YOUTH for breaking the rules within her contract. Though it was never explicitly revealed why Manami was fired, it is believed that evidence of her relationship with the NEWS member was found.

Shortly after, Manami returned to the entertainment industry under her current name, Shindo Manami, and she is active as a model and actress.

Manami is currently affiliated with eggstar.


Name: Horii Nina (堀井 仁菜)
Nickname: Nina
D.O.B: January 7th, 2000
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Fukui, Japan
Height: 159cm
Generation: Candidate
Image Colour: Light Blue
Hobbies / Skills: Singing, Dancing, Hula Hoop, playing with cats
Status: Active
Reign: January 2016 - June 2017 (Graduated)

Instagram

Info:

Initially the youngest member of HouPri Youth, Nina came into the Entertainment world in 2015, where she entered the Idol contest Miss iD 2016 in order to pursue a career as an Idol. Making it to the finals, Nina was then chosen to join HouPri Youth with the chance of being promoted to Cadet status, and possibly to that of a Regular member. From her time in Miss iD 2016, one of the judges noted how he liked her modelling images. Recently in July 2016, Nina travelled to Guam alongside Nagasawa Marina, and did a small gravure shoot which would later feature in a magazine.

Nina likes Uverworld and Momoiro Clover Z, and joined Miss iD 2016 with the intention of fulfilling her dream of becoming a singer and an Idol. She was the first member of HouPri Youth to be born in the year 2000.

During her time in HouPri Youth, Nina became a popular gravure model within the industry, and was cited to become the next Nagasawa Marina because of this. She featured in Young Gangan in 2017, and also released her sole photobook.

When asked if she would consider being promoted, Nina instead rejected the offer and chose to graduate from HouPri Youth.

In July 2019, Nina made her return to the industry as a model and talent under Trustar. It is currently unknown whether she is still with the company.

Personal Comments:

Nina is was my favourite member of HouPri Youth, period. I find her so cute and darling whenever I visit her twitter, that I can't help but love her! Nina is also very refreshing to look at, so whenever I see her post a new picture, I feel as if I'm looking at pure innocence. She's a doll, and she feels fitting for Houkago Princess. She seems to get along really with Marichu, too, as well as the other senior members in the Regular lineup. So far, it feels like she gets along with everyone, and they all like her just as much as she likes others!

I love Nina, and I do want her to debut soon, because this refreshing Idol must not be left behind! Nope nope, no way!

My heart pretty much broke when she left HouPri Youth :) I'm still not over it.


Name: Natsumoto Asami (夏本あさみ )
Former Name: Tanaka Asami (田中あさみ)
D.O.B: July 1st, 1993
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Kyoto, Japan
Height: 154cm
Generation: Apprentice
Likes: NMB48, SMAP, Disney, cuisine
Status: Active, Model
Affiliated Groups: Heart x Strings, Pacific Fairies
Reign: January 2017 - June 2017 (Graduated)

Twitter  |  Instagram  |  is field profile  |  YouTube  |  Wikiwand

Info:

Prior to joining HouPri Youth, Natsumoto Asami debuted with the group Heart x Strings in 2015. She stayed with the group until went into hiatus in December 2016, and it was decided that she would move offices and join Houkago Princess alongside fellow Heart x Strings member, Ota Nozomi.

Asami continued to work as an Apprentice alongside Horii Nina after Ota Nozomi was fired, however eventually graduated with Nina from the group in June 2017, citing that her physical health was a factor in her leaving the group.

In January 2018, Asami returned under the name Natsumoto Asami. She began working as a gravure model, debuting on AbemaTV's All Japan Gravure Flexible Queen Contest, which she went on to win, marking her as the first to gain the title. She would go on to win an award in Miss iD 2019.

In 2019, Asami was selected to be a member of the Pacific Fairies 2019, a race queen unit for the PACIFIC RACING TEAM. She has also been cast in a few small roles for film and TV.

Since debuting as a gravure model, Asami has released DVD'S, Image VR'S and a calendar. She is also a YouTuber.


Name: Haruyama Muta (晴山むた)
D.O.B: April 14th
Height: 164cm
Generation: Apprentice
Likes: Sleeping, Eating, Jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, Watching idol videos, Games
Status: Inactive
Affiliated Groups: TOYZ (2018)
Reign: September 4th, 2017 - September 13th, 2017 (Fired)

Following the 2017 HouPri Youth auditions from July until August that year, Haruyama Muta was announced as a member on September 4th, some time after the initial 18 members were revealed. However, shortly after making her debut, it was revealed that Muta was already signed to another agency. Due to Muta violating the rules of the audition - which stated you could not be tied to another office - she was ultimately fired from HouPri Youth just 9 days after being introduced, making her tenure the shortest within the group.

After, Muta debuted with the group TOYZ in 2018, however it is uncertain when she left the group or when she debuted.



Name: Yuduki Nene (結月ねね
D.O.B: June 19th, 2001
Blood Type: AB
Generation: Apprentice
Likes: Takarazuka Theatre
Status: Active
Reign: August 2017 - November 2017 (Withdrew)

Twitter

Info:

After joining HouPri Youth through the national auditions, Nene was active within the group for over 3 moths before questing to withdraw, with studies being cited as her reason for leaving.

Shortly after leaving HouPri Youth, Nene began modelling professionally and is still active within the field.


Name: Kirisawa Ririsa (桐澤怜々紗)
Nickname: Riri
D.O.B: April 23rd, 1996
Blood Type: B
Generation: Apprentice
Hobby: Shopping
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - December 2017 (Dismissed)

Info:

Due to an on-going issues regarding her attitude, the company saw that there was no improvement in Ririsa's behaviour and decided that she did not uphold the standard of an Apprentice within HouPri Youth. Her involvement with the company and group ended just 4 months after debuting.


Name: Akimoto Natsuko ( 秋元なつこ)
Nickname: Nacchan
Generation: Apprentice
Status: Inactive
Status: January 2018 - March 2018 (Withdrew)

Info:

Prior to joining HouPri Youth, Akimoto Natsuko worked as a gravure model from 2017. She joined the HouPri YOUTH search via Showroom, and placed 12th during the first set of votes.

Due to a leg injury that was not recovering as quickly as hoped, Natsuko offered to withdraw from HouPri Youth, and was granted permission to do so. She has since been inactive.



Name: Serizawa Ayame (芹沢あやめ)
D.O.B: July 6th, 1999
Blood Type: AB
Generation: Apprentice
Hobby: Adoring flowers and cats
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - March 2018 (Withdrew)


Name: Takamiya Yuri (高宮悠里)
D.O.B: June 17th, 1995
Hometown: Oita Prefecture
Blood Type: B
Generation: Apprentice
Hobby: Idol Appreciation, dancing
Status: Inactive
Status: August 2017 - March 2018 (Withdrew)

Info:

In May 2018, Tamaiya Yuri, Suzuki Ai and Nakano Yui decided to withdraw from HouPri Youth, and ended their activities with the group and CUTE BLACK at the end of May that year.


Name: Michishige Rio (道重利緒)
D.O.B: July 17th, 1997
Hometown: Osaka
Blood Type: B
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Shopping, eating
Likes: Dumplings, tapioca milk tea
Status: Inactive
Status: August 2017 - April 2018 (Estimated withdrawal period)

Info:

Though her departure from HouPri Youth was never confirmed, it can be assumed that Michishige Rio left the group and CUTE BLACK in early April of 2018, as her last recorded performance with the group was on March 29th, 2018.

In September 2018, Rio participated in the 4th chapter auditions for Super☆Girls, where she was one of 12 participants. Rio was not successful, and has since been inactive.

Though it has not been verified, Rio is possibly a distant relation to Michishige Sayumi (ex. Morning Musume) and Michishige Saho (Houkago Princess).



Name: Suzuki Ai (鈴木亜依)
D.O.B: May 26th, 1999
Hometown: Ibaraki, Japan
Blood Type: A
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Watching Anime
Status: Inactive
Status: August 2017 - May 2018 (Withdrew)

Info:

In May 2018, Tamaiya Yuri, Suzuki Ai and Nakano Yui decided to withdraw from HouPri Youth, and ended their activities with the group and CUTE BLACK at the end of May that year.


Name: Nakano Yui (中野 唯)
D.O.B: February 11th, 2000
Hometown: Hiroshima, Japan
Blood Type: AB
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Reading Princess Rules, watching dog videos
Skills: Waking up early, clarinet
Looks up to: Watanabe Mayu and Tsugunaga Momoko
Status: Inactive
Status: August 2017 - May 2018 (Withdrew)

Model Press Interview

Info:

In May 2018, Tamaiya Yuri, Suzuki Ai and Nakano Yui decided to withdraw from HouPri Youth, and ended their activities with the group and CUTE BLACK at the end of May that year.

In late 2018, Yui was one of three winners for the award of 'the cutest freshman in Japan' for the FRESH CAMPUS CONTEST during her freshman year at University. She revealed in the interview that she wants to promote Hiroshima and become an announcer.

It is possible that she left HouPri Youth in order to focus on her studies.


Name: Tobe Marina (戸部まりな )
D.O.B: January 27th, 2001
Hometown: Kanagawa, Japan
Blood Type: A
Height: 154cm
Generation: Apprentice
Hobbies: Making slime, cooking, observing people
Skills: High soprano
Status: Inactive
Reign: May 2018 - September 2018

Mache TV Profile

Info:

After working as a member of HouPri Youth for 4 months, Tobe Marina left HouPri Youth at the end of the month when it was revealed that she did not meet the standards set. Shortly after leaving the group and CUTE BLACK, Marina became a gravure model and even participated in the Miss Young Champion competition for 2019.

She is currently inactive.


Name: Sunohara Yuka (春 原 優 花)
Generation: Apprentice
Reign: October 15th, 2018 - November 24th, 2018

Info:

Due to vague reasoning, it was announced that Sunohara Yuka's activities within HouPri Youth would immediately end on November 24th, 2018. It was noted that it would be difficult for Yuka to continue with the group.


Name: Masuda Hana (増田 花)
D.O.B: May 23rd, 1997
Hometown: Shizuoka, Japan
Blood Type: O
Generation: Candidate
Hobbies: Hair care, tea making, singing, reading, acting
Likes: Black tea, Disney, Horror, Dolls
Status: Active, Actress
Reign: August 2017 - November 2018 (Withdrew)

Twitter  |  Showroom

Info:

Feeling that she was lacking in certain areas, Hana asked to withdraw from HouPri Youth and was given permission to do so. She noted that she enjoyed her time as an idol, was thankful for her seniors' help and thanked everyone for their warm support.

Hana is currently affiliated with the theatre company AKED, where she performs regularly. More recently, Hana was one of 7 singers included in the CD release for 7-Ri no utahime asakura kaoru o utau's single.


Name: Shirakawa Ai (白川 愛)
D.O.B: January 19th, 1994
Blood Type: A
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Handicrafts
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - December 2018 (Withdrew)

Info:

After feeling she was too immature to progress any further, Shirakawa Ai decided to withdraw from Houkago Princess after being a part of the group for a year and four months. She apologised for being selfish, and cited that at times she felt frustrated that she couldn't become a Regular member. She also said she loved and respected her senior members, was encouraged by the hard work of the other Youth members, and was thankful for the staff that she trusted, and of course the fans who supported her.


Name: Kawanishi Fuyuka (川西冬華)
D.O.B: February 17th, 2000
Hometown: Osaka, Japan
Blood Type: B
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Singing
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - January 2019 (Graduated)

Info:

After working with HouPri Youth for a year and five months, Kawanishi Fuyuka decided to withdraw from the group after not being able to get a promotion to the Regular lineup. She wrote that upon graduating from high school, she had spent 8 months trying her best to be promoted, however could not meet her own or the fans' expectations, so decided to leave the group.


Name: Kusunoki Rea (楠木れあ)
D.O.B: October 11th, 1997
Blood Type: O
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Cooking
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - February 2019 (Withdrew)

Info:

Kusonoki Rea was the first place winner for the Houkago Princess Showroom auditions.

She left HouPri Youth after being a member for a year and 6 months alongside Hanamura Nami.


Name: Hanamura Nami (花村なみ)
D.O.B: July 23rd, 1996
Hometown: Chiba Prefecture
Blood Type: O
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Idol research, anime, manga, eating
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - February 2019 (Withdrew)

Info:

Kusonoki Rea was the first place winner for the Houkago Princess Showroom auditions.

She left HouPri Youth after being a member for a year and 6 months alongside Hanamura Nami.



Name: Kansai Erina (閑歳絵里菜)
D.O.B: July 12th, 2001
Blood Type: A
Generation: Candidate
Hobby: Idol Appreciation
Status: Inactive
Reign: August 2017 - March 2018 (Withdrew) / January 2019 - May 2019 (Withdrew)


Info:

Prior to joining HouPri Youth, Kansai Erina worked as a solo idol. She started her activities in 2015.

Though Erina initially withdrew from HouPri Youth in March 2018, she hinted that she would return as a performer in the future and hoped fans would support her decision to return to the stage.

Erina returned to HouPri Youth in January 2019, however in the withdrawal announcement it was revealed that the original reason for leaving was due to a physical condition, and upon returning it became clear that Erina had not fully recovered, ultimately leading her decision to withdraw from the group once again.

She left the group with fellow Candidate, Ozawa Ruru.


Name: Ozawa Ruru (小沢るる)
Nickname: Ru-chan, Ozawa-chan
D.O.B: April 7th
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 158cm
Generation: Apprentice
Status: Active
Reign: March 2019 - May 2019 (Withdrew)

Twitter  |  Instagram

Info:

Prior to joining HouPri Youth, Osawa Ruru was alread acquainted with Morishita Rina.

Ruru has also worked as a maid in a maid cafe.


Name: Aoki Ririka
D.O.B: April 25th
Height: 145cm
Generation: Apprentice
Likes: Sweets, cosmetics
Status: Inactive
Reign: March 2019 - June 2019 (Withdrew)



Name: Himekawa Arisa (姫川ありさ)
Generation: Candidate
Status: Inactive
Reign: September 2017 - July 2019 (Withdrew)

Info:

Despite being a member of HouPri Youth for almost two years, Himekawa Arisa was often missing out on performances due to poor health. She eventually graduated from the group alongside Morishita Rina, ultimately leaving HouPri Youth with one member.

Reasons for leaving include her own frustrations at not being able to become a Regular member, but felt that her time within HouPri Youth had allowed her to create irreplaceable memories.


Name: Morishita Rina (森下里奈)
Nickname: Rinapon
D.O.B: April 18th, 1994
Generation: Candidate
Image Colour: Yellow-Green
Likes: Tanuki, Idols
Status: Inactive
Reign: December 2016 - January 2017 / September 2017 - July 2019 (Graduated)

Twitter

Info:

Morishita Rina initially debuted in HouPri Youth in late 2016, however was dismissed in early 2017 for breaking contract rules. When auditions were being held for the newest generation of HouPri YOUTH in August that same year however, Rina participated via Showroom to showcase her dedication to the group and desire to return. Because of her determination, Rina impressed the staff members and was granted the chance to rejoin HouPri Youth.

Rina was active and dedicated to the group upon returning, however made the choice to withdraw from the group completely.

In her note regarding the withdrawal, Rina wrote that she hadn't given up on wanting to be in HouPri Youth despite the mistakes she had made in the past. Her goal had been to debut as a Regular member, however she could never meet the expectations set for her, and thus chose to withdraw from the programme.

She graduated alongside Himekawa Arisa on July 31st, 2019.
















Name: Yoshinaga Yuriko (吉永由莉子)
Nickname: Yuririn, Yukko (ゆりりん、ゆっこ)
D.O.B: March 29th, 1996 
Skills: Memorising people's names and faces, playing tag, volleyball
Hobbies: Watching YouTube, Karaoke
Likes: Ramen, idols, Hello! Project, Ghibli, singing
Pros: Bright and energetic, always finds a persons good points, likes to make people smile.
Status: Inactive
Reign: April 2020 - June 2020
Affiliated Groups: Tokyo Flamingo (September 2019 - March 2020)

Twitter  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Tokyo Flamingo Profile

Info:

Yoshinaga Yuriko was originally a member of Tokyo Flamingo, an idol group that she joined from September 9th, 2019, and was active until the group ended its activities on March 21st, 2020.

On May 24th, 2020, it was announced that Yuriko had joined HouPri Youth as a new member, though she had been training since April 2020. She also participated in the jacket shooting for the Type B cover of the Houkago Princess single, Shakunetsu no Mystery Eye / Zesse Cleopatra.

On June 18th, 2020, it was announced that Yuriko had ended her activities with HouPri Youth, due to becoming physically unwell due to a lack of confidence. Though she enjoyed being an idol, she is sorry that she caused problems for the staff and other Houkago Princess and Youth members.

She is the same age as Kohinata Nanase, and looks up to Maika and Michishige Sayumi. Yuriko is also good friends with Youth member Nishimiya Airi, who she convinced to join HouPri Youth so that they could work together again. Prior to becoming a Youth member, she and Airi had worked together in Tokyo Flamingo, and joined the group at the same time.


Name: Sato Sumire (佐藤純恋)
D.O.B: May 27th, 1994
Blood Type: O
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Skills: Swimming
Status: Active
Height: 154cm
Reign: June 2019 - June 2020

Twitter

Info:

Sato Sumire began her activities as a member of HouPri Youth from June 5th, 2019, and has performed with Houkago Princess, as well as participated in activities alongside Team Sweet. After Team Sweet's activities were put on hold in January 2020, Sumire has mostly been performing with Houkago Princess.

With the graduations of Himekawa Arisa and Mirshita Rina in July of 2019, Sumire was the sole member of HouPri Youth for 9 months.

In May of 2020, it was revealed that Sumire had participated in the jacket shooting for the Type B cover of the Houkago Princess single, Shakunetsu no Mystery Eye / Zesse Cleopatra, alongside former Apprentice member, Yoshinaga Yukino.

On June 28th, FORZA RECORDS announced that they had terminated their contract with Satou Sumire and that had been dismissed from the Youth programme, and had left the company. Reasons for her dismissal were that after much consideration and overseeing her training and how she worked, staff concluded that Sumire was making no improvements, and that this lack of improvement had begun to affect Houkago Princesses activities. Her twitter account and FORZA profile were deleted soon after.


Updated Conclusion

The group that is HouPri Youth has a small  bigger history than anticipated, but with every training programme attached to an idol group, losses are to be expected. Sadly, a lot of talented and wonderful girls have been let go due to the high standards set by staff, and whilst I understand the need for a certain type of Idol, I do believe that Houkago Princess will only suffer in the long run if new girls aren't added periodically.

Currently HouPri Youth stands at one member leftover from the systems third phase, and I hope that she is either promoted or more members are added in due time.

Anyway, that is all. I'm tired. I spent all night editing this damn post. Night~

Original End to this post:

And now that these member introductions for both Houkago Princess and HouPri Youth have been completed, please await the next posts where I list 10 of Houkago Princesses songs new and old Fans should listen to, and the HouPri Music Videos that are a Must-See for anyone getting into the group! It's going to be a lot of fun, so sit back and enjoy, and await the HouPri Happiness I will deliver unto you all very soon!

Until next time, please take care, stay happy and healthy, enjoy your life and, of course, LOVE THOSE IDOLS! <3

Much Love and Smiles,
Chiima♡

External Links and Sources:

Houkago Princess (Official website)
HPY Staff Blog
HPY Twitter (Official)
Cute Black
Universal Music Japan (Group Page)
Seesaa wiki
Generasia
Wikipedia (Japanese)
J-Pop Idols (Profile)
Houkago Princess LOVE (fansite, version 3)
fm843 blog
HouPri Youth Introduce A New Generation

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