Men Only At The Museum

For some reason the head priest of Tenmangu Shrine, which has a close connection to the museum, also has a connection with Momoiro’s management. It was the priest who, according to media reports, arranged for the concert. Earlier this summer the priest, the museum, and Momoiro’s management worked out details for the show, which is scheduled Oct. 31. One of the group’s demands became a sticking point, however. The management said they wanted to perform only for male fans, and despite entreaties from the priest to change their minds, they stood firm.

Like most female idol groups, Momoiro has a large contingent of male fans, but they are slightly different in that they also appeal to girls and young women. As pointed out by Japan pop culture website RocketNews24, the group did the theme song for the popular anime “Sailor Moon Crystal,” which is “aimed almost exclusively at women in Japan.”

Local women’s groups have reacted negatively to the announcement, saying a regional celebration that is being funded with public money should be open to all residents, not just half of them. So far, Momoiro has not commented on the controversy or explained its reasons for limiting attendance.