Sakurazaka46's Hikaru Morita Shines at Pokémon Sleep Relaxation Event
On March 12, 2026, a special event celebrating 'Pokémon Sleep' took place at the Garden Room in Ebisu Garden Place, coinciding with World Sleep Day. Hosted by The Pokémon Company, this event introduced a new relaxation routine called 'Hoge-Taisou,' designed to help people unwind before bedtime.
The event began with a speech from Takahito Utsunomiya, COO of The Pokémon Company. He shared insights about the new features of the 'Pokémon Sleep' app and presented the results of the latest sleep research. Utsunomiya emphasized the app's mission to redefine sleep as a pleasurable experience rather than a chore and highlighted the importance of preparing for restful sleep through gradual muscle relaxation techniques.
As a part of this initiative, Pokémon has collaborated with Eisai Co., Ltd. to distribute a children's picture book titled 'Kabigon's Dream' to medical institutions focused on sleep health across the country, aiming to raise awareness about the significance of proper sleep. Additionally, a limited edition collaboration face mask with the leading facial mask brand 'Lululun' was announced, set for early sales starting March 25 on the Lululun official online store, alongside discussions of several ongoing collaborative efforts.
The event captured the audience’s attention when Hikaru Morita from Sakurazaka46 took the stage, embodying the spirit of Hoge-ta in a themed outfit. She expressed her delight in the Hoge-ta character and mentioned how the apparel reflected the character’s aesthetics. Morita shared her thoughts about the Hoge-Taisou routine, emphasizing its soothing qualities, "The figure was just so adorable; it provided a comfort that truly brightened my day," she remarked.
Special guests Mayurika, the comedy duo known for their goofy charm, joined Morita in adorable pajama outfits to demonstrate the 'Hoge-Taisou'. They humorously commented on their unusual attire, with member Sakamoto amusingly acknowledging their outfit coordination with his partner Nakaya, stating that it felt fresh for them.
Following this, Professor Yoshishi Okajima, a specialist in muscle relaxation techniques from Tokyo Kasei University, took the stage to further explain how 'Hoge-Taisou' could assist in achieving a better state of relaxation before sleep. His insights included the role of muscle tension and relaxation and how the 'Hoge-Taisou' could help create a conducive environment for a good night's sleep. He encouraged attendees to adopt a nightly routine characterized by releasing tension and embracing relaxation, reinforcing that the method relies on easing up on oneself without striving for perfection.
As a fun interactive segment, a quiz on relaxation methods was presented, eliciting laughter and engagement from the audience. Participants learned deeply about how relaxation aids sleep quality and through experiential sharing, celebrities shared their own "Hoge-no-shunkan" (moments of relaxation).
In a heartwarming closing, the character Hoge-ta made a surprise appearance on stage alongside Morita, Mayurika, Professor Okajima, and the presence of media participants, who all joined in practicing the 'Hoge-Taisou.' The room resonated with cheerful shouts of 'Hoge~' as attendees collectively engaged in the calming routine, concluding the event on a light-hearted and majestic note. Throughout the event, the atmosphere remained relaxed and joyful, perfectly capturing the essence of the event. This initiative not only promotes relaxation and sleep wellness but also highlights the delightful fusion of entertainment and health awareness.
The event began with a speech from Takahito Utsunomiya, COO of The Pokémon Company. He shared insights about the new features of the 'Pokémon Sleep' app and presented the results of the latest sleep research. Utsunomiya emphasized the app's mission to redefine sleep as a pleasurable experience rather than a chore and highlighted the importance of preparing for restful sleep through gradual muscle relaxation techniques.
As a part of this initiative, Pokémon has collaborated with Eisai Co., Ltd. to distribute a children's picture book titled 'Kabigon's Dream' to medical institutions focused on sleep health across the country, aiming to raise awareness about the significance of proper sleep. Additionally, a limited edition collaboration face mask with the leading facial mask brand 'Lululun' was announced, set for early sales starting March 25 on the Lululun official online store, alongside discussions of several ongoing collaborative efforts.
The event captured the audience’s attention when Hikaru Morita from Sakurazaka46 took the stage, embodying the spirit of Hoge-ta in a themed outfit. She expressed her delight in the Hoge-ta character and mentioned how the apparel reflected the character’s aesthetics. Morita shared her thoughts about the Hoge-Taisou routine, emphasizing its soothing qualities, "The figure was just so adorable; it provided a comfort that truly brightened my day," she remarked.
Special guests Mayurika, the comedy duo known for their goofy charm, joined Morita in adorable pajama outfits to demonstrate the 'Hoge-Taisou'. They humorously commented on their unusual attire, with member Sakamoto amusingly acknowledging their outfit coordination with his partner Nakaya, stating that it felt fresh for them.
Following this, Professor Yoshishi Okajima, a specialist in muscle relaxation techniques from Tokyo Kasei University, took the stage to further explain how 'Hoge-Taisou' could assist in achieving a better state of relaxation before sleep. His insights included the role of muscle tension and relaxation and how the 'Hoge-Taisou' could help create a conducive environment for a good night's sleep. He encouraged attendees to adopt a nightly routine characterized by releasing tension and embracing relaxation, reinforcing that the method relies on easing up on oneself without striving for perfection.
As a fun interactive segment, a quiz on relaxation methods was presented, eliciting laughter and engagement from the audience. Participants learned deeply about how relaxation aids sleep quality and through experiential sharing, celebrities shared their own "Hoge-no-shunkan" (moments of relaxation).
In a heartwarming closing, the character Hoge-ta made a surprise appearance on stage alongside Morita, Mayurika, Professor Okajima, and the presence of media participants, who all joined in practicing the 'Hoge-Taisou.' The room resonated with cheerful shouts of 'Hoge~' as attendees collectively engaged in the calming routine, concluding the event on a light-hearted and majestic note. Throughout the event, the atmosphere remained relaxed and joyful, perfectly capturing the essence of the event. This initiative not only promotes relaxation and sleep wellness but also highlights the delightful fusion of entertainment and health awareness.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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