Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo Welcomes New Ambassadors
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – Making of Harry Potter has recently appointed actors Hiyori Sakurada and Ai Kagawa as its first official ambassadors since the tour's opening. This marks a significant moment for the studio as it aims to enhance engagement and excitement among fans of the beloved Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises. The two actresses, both ardent fans of the series, were introduced during a special event that highlighted their roles as ambassadors.
Hiyori Sakurada and Ai Kagawa share a deep passion for the Harry Potter universe. Their extensive understanding and appreciation of the series, combined with their impressive acting skills, resonate with a wide audience. Their friendship and shared dreams align perfectly with the themes of camaraderie and growth portrayed in the Harry Potter films. Notably, as the 25th anniversary of the release of the first Harry Potter movie approaches in 2026, these ambassadors will spotlight the intricacies of the studio tour while celebrating its unique offerings.
Event Highlights: A Magical Evening
During the ambassador unveiling event, Hiyori and Ai shone brightly. They participated in the enchanting Christmas event called "Hogwarts in the Snow," where they lit up the magnificent Christmas trees in the Great Hall. This year’s experience featured 400 floating candles overhead, creating a magical atmosphere that thrilled both actresses. Hiyori expressed her excitement, saying, "The Christmas ambiance truly captures the spirit of the season!" Meanwhile, Ai added, "Seeing everything just like the movies lifted my spirits tremendously!" Together, they cast the spell "Lumos!" to illuminate the trees, evoking a sense of wonder in the room.
Their joy was palpable, particularly when they embraced each other after realizing they could share this moment together as best friends in their dream roles. Hiyori recounted how she had been waiting for this day, excited to work with Ai and live out their mutual passion for Harry Potter. The love for the series also came through when they discussed their childhood memories associated with it. Hiyori shared how her father introduced her to the films, igniting her fascination with the magical world, while Ai fondly recalled her mother's influence in introducing her to the franchise.
A Bond Beyond Friendship
The bond between Hiyori and Ai is evident as they describe each other as family. They elaborated on how they have supported each other through life's ups and downs, with Hiyori affectionately calling Ai her big sister. Their rapport extends into playful banter about their favorite Harry Potter elements, showcasing their genuine friendship. They even dreamt about taking a tour of the studio together and reenacting scenes from the movies, adding a layer of both nostalgia and excitement to their roles as ambassadors.
As ambassadors, their aspirations go beyond merely promoting the studio; they aim to make the experience even more immersive for visitors. Ai whimsically mentioned that now that they are ambassadors, perhaps they could perform real magic, joking about wanting to fix her own glasses like the characters in the movie. In contrast, Hiyori expressed a desire to lend her voice for an audio guide at the tour, showcasing her commitment to providing an outstanding experience to guests.
The Future of Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
At the event's conclusion, Hiyori and Ai pledged to spread the magic of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo, which officially opened on June 16, 2023. It invites fans to explore iconic sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest. The tour offers a chance to engage with the behind-the-scenes magic of the films, including getting up close with magical creatures and seeing stunning costumes firsthand.
With special exhibitions such as "Hogwarts in the Snow" running until January 12, 2026, fans are encouraged to immerse themselves in this magical experience. Hiyori and Ai enthusiastically called on everyone to visit the studio, promising an unforgettable adventure filled with the enchantment of Christmas.
The event culminated in a spectacular finale, where illuminated acceptance letters featuring their names floated down, reminiscent of the iconic scene in the first movie. With the heartfelt send-off of “Welcome to Hogwarts!” ringing through the Great Hall, anticipation builds for the busy seasons ahead at the studio.
The studio continues to thrive as the largest indoor Harry Potter-themed attraction in Asia, with exclusive merchandise and experiences that are unmatched. As both ambassadors prepare to embark on their journey, their excitement reflects the spirit of Harry Potter: a celebration of friendship, adventure, and a world that will continue to enchant generations to come.