There’s a reason Snow Man sits comfortably on the throne of J-pop—ruling the airwaves and winning the hearts of fans all over the world. They’re cool, they’re charismatic—and they’re some of the cutest (and most charming) group of men you’ll ever see sharing a screen. Since discovering them back in 2021, I’ve listened to their songs, watched every music video, and taken in as many dramas and films as I could.
But Traveling with Snow Man (旅する Snow Man), their brand-new docuseries–now available to stream worldwide on Disney+ offers something completely different.
Released in celebration of the group’s fifth anniversary, the series doesn’t focus on them as idols, but rather young men, trading the stage for scenic backdrops across ten of the most beautiful areas in Japan, as the members explore their homeland—and themselves—at a slower, more personal pace.
The journey begins in sun-kissed Okinawa, where group leader Hikaru Iwamoto (岩本照) plays with TABI, a snowman-shaped AI travel companion (built specifically for this series), while waiting for the others to arrive. Once they’re all together, he reveals the theme of their trip:
“One for Snow Man, Snow Man for One.”
It’s a simple yet meaningful motto that sets the tone for the entire series—a celebration of personal growth, mutual support, and the unbreakable bond they’ve built with one another since their formation in 2009.
The first episode unfolds at Hoshinoya Okinawa, a breathtaking resort nestled along the Yomitan coastline. With its infinity pool, private beach, and quiet walkways, it’s a utopia.Daisuke Sakuma (佐久間大介) even remarks that walking through the grounds feels like “stepping into the world of Totoro”—a sentiment that encapsulates the episode’s gentle, dreamlike atmosphere – and lending credence to the fact that Heaven truly is a place on earth.
Rather than choreographed perfection or high-stakes drama, this is Snow Man at their most natural. They stroll the beach, shop for the ingredients for a beachfront BBQ , and chat about snacks. There’s a sweet moment where the group teases Watanabe for being so hypnotized by the sea that he zones out completely.
What makes this episode shine is its quiet intimacy. Again, they’re not idols entertaining crowds—they’re friends on a getaway, enjoying each other’s company. There’s no pressure to perform, just time to breathe, reflect, and be present.
The episode closes on a reflective note: Iwamoto reveals that he always visits a local shrine when arriving somewhere new. Meanwhile, Tatsuya Fukazawa (深澤辰哉), ever the foodie, is more focused on what’s for dinner. It’s a light, playful contrast that perfectly captures the group’s dynamic.
A tranquil, heartfelt introduction to the series, Traveling with Snow Man is a gentle reminder that the journey of life isn’t just about the places we go, but who we take with us.
As if the docuseries wasn’t dazzling enough, Snow Man also blessed fans with a surprise digital drop of ｢Ready Go Round｣—one of many undeniable bops from their 2023 album i DO ME. Marking the first release from their back catalog since the arrival of THE BEST [2020–2025] earlier this year.
https://open.spotify.com/album/4vzU5RsrygwZaFOdpqWFZj?si=rbeRiEncS5K4FP8T4POCQw
There will be more Snow Man soon so…
Stay tuned!
Life In Cartoon Motion 