For me, the OC Japan Fair was more than just a weekend of good food and great music. It was the first time since 2020 that I really allowed myself to step out of my comfort bubble and be out in public for any extended period of time. And as a bonus, because I’m a member of the press I got to meet some truly outrageous and incredibly talented individuals. Individuals like Ai Haruna.
As one of Japan’s most influential transgender entertainers, Ai is an actress, a singer, and a businesswoman. In October 2009 she became the first Japanese contestant to win the Miss International Queen beauty pageant. That same year she was featured in Asia Engineers Momi Momi Fantastic.
I first noticed her while speaking with Travis Japan. The bright colors and shimmering fabrics of the dress she was wearing shimmered with echoes of Rainbow Brite and Jem and the Holograms, so I knew she was someone I had to meet. So, when she approached the guys for a photo, I took the opportunity to introduce myself and when she agreed for an interview I was over the moon!
When did you first realize you wanted to be a performer?
When I was young, Japanese singer Seiko Matsuda was my idol. Whenever I listened to her songs, I felt like I could forget reality and become the person I wanted to be. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a singer.
Starting out as a trans personality, was it a difficult road?
In the beginning, yes. There wasn’t a lot of understanding (of Trans identity) in Japan. No one really understood me and I was bullied. I often didn’t know what I was living for and even thought about suicide. But little by little, the more work I did find, not only did my own feelings change, but so did those around me. My visibility became Trans visibility. It’s a very different world now. I’m proud to have been a part of the growing understanding (and acceptance) in Japan.
Do you have any advice for trans performers just starting out?
Times have changed. The truth of a person’s heart is more important than their gender. If my story touches your heart and you can see my path as your own, I hope you embrace it. You are the star of your own life. Follow your truth.
Do you have a favorite song that you have performed?
“Enka” is a song my father taught me when I was young, so it’s very close to my heart. It became an anthem based on the experience I had when visiting the victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Its message is that It’s okay to be yourself. Whether it’s me, you, or anyone else, the message is simple: You don’t have to fit in with other people. Your life is your journey, which is one of the mottos of my hometown, Osaka.
Are there any artists you would like to work with in the future?
I am open to all possibilities because no matter who I work with I’m sure it would be an interesting collaboration!
What was your favorite part about performing at the OC Japan Fair?
I was impressed by the crowds! So many people came out to support artists, like myself, and even though English is not my native language and I didn’t understand everything, the sincerity of the people who came up to me was so wonderful. It was a beautiful experience.
Finally, do you design your own outfits?
Yes. I love Japanese kimonos. This kimono dress combines the beauty of a kimono with the pop of Japanese idols.
Okay, so that last question was one I had to ask for myself, because she really did look FABULOUS, and as a costume-design major in college, I just had to ask.
Charming, sweet, and incredibly kind, it was an incredible honor to interview a fellow member of the community who has done nothing but influence positivity.
I hope to include more on Ai Haruna soon so…
Stay Tuned!
Life In Cartoon Motion 