#Japan #Tokyo #SoftBank #Asuka Saito #Takashi Sorimachi

Exciting New SoftBank Commercial Featuring Takashi Sorimachi and Asuka Saito

SoftBank Corporation is launching a new television commercial titled 'Smartphone Debut Festival' on November 13, 2025, starring renowned actor Takashi Sorimachi and former Nogizaka46 member Asuka Saito. This new ad aims to promote the 'SoftBank Debut Discount', designed for children aged 5 to 18 to enjoy a financially advantageous smartphone debut.

In this playful and comedic CM, Takashi Sorimachi appears dressed as a cowboy, riding a rhinoceros through various settings, including a vibrant shopping district and picturesque savanna landscapes. With his trademark charm, he enthusiastically invites families to visit their local SoftBank stores and take advantage of the exciting promotions available. The ad creatively emphasizes that children between the ages of 5 and 18 can utilize the 'Smartphone Debut Plan+' with a Basic data plan of 20GB for free for six months when their parents join the eligible plans.

Asuka Saito also joins the fun in a pivotal role as a SoftBank shop crew member, cleverly dubbed 'Sai Saito'. The commercial features a humorous parody of the classic song 'NAI・NAI 16' by Shibugakitai, adjusted to fit the theme of the 'Smartphone Debut Festival'. The hilarious scenes culminate with Saito inviting viewers to join the fun.

In tandem with the television ad, SoftBank will also release a web commercial titled 'Home Visit for Smartphone Debut Festival', where Sorimachi and Saito playfully burst into the lives of families considering smartphone options, breaking walls and delivering an engaging explanation of the 'SoftBank Debut Discount'. This web ad serves to uplift parents and their children with its vibrancy and warmth, encouraging them to take the leap into smartphone usage together.

What is the 'SoftBank Debut Discount'?

The 'SoftBank Debut Discount' campaign invites children aged 5 to 18 to experience the advantages of entering the world of smartphones with SoftBank. From November 13, 2025, eligible customers will enjoy a significant reduction in costs. With a parent subscribed to an eligible plan, children can utilize the 'Smartphone Debut Plan+' for only 980 yen (approximately $10) per month for the first six months, potentially at no cost! This initiative aims to remove financial barriers and make technological access more attainable for young users.

Behind the Scenes: A Making of the Commercial

Takashi Sorimachi's Enthusiastic Performance

In the making of the commercial, Takashi Sorimachi expressed his excitement about riding a rhinoceros and how the scene exceeded his expectations. He humorously described his initial shock at the experience but soon got into the groove, bringing his character to life in delightful ways as he navigated virtual savanna landscapes. Fans will surely find joy in watching his carefree enthusiasm throughout the ad.

Asuka Saito's Charming Interaction

Asuka Saito, returning to a SoftBank commercial after nine years, radiated cheerful energy on set. She happily interacted with the iconic Shirato Family mascot, creating heartwarming moments that reflect her genuine delight and comfort while filming. The chemistry between Sorimachi and Saito adds an extra layer of charm to the creative production.

Conclusion

These upcoming commercials are likely to resonate deeply within audiences, highlighting not only the marketing prowess of SoftBank but also the relatable, entertaining performances of our beloved stars. Be sure to catch the 30-second TV ad here and the 60-second web ad here! For more exclusive content, you can check the making-of video here and the actor interviews here that go behind the scenes of these exciting new projects. Stay tuned for more updates!