Celebrity Travel: Go away with One Or Eight

The Japanese group ONE OR EIGHT said that traveling so much has given them the opportunity to experience the musical landscapes of places they had grown up hearing about. For instance, “visiting [the United States] and connecting with the birthplace of hip-hop has significantly fueled my drive as an artist focused on the genre,” group member NEO said. While hip-hop is a strong element of the octet’s sound, they also appreciate a good pop song. Their best collaborations are a fusion of both musical styles. Big Sean rapped on their song “Kawasaki,” while “Don’t Tell Nobody” – written and produced by Dave Stewart and One Republic’s Ryan Tedder – harkens back to the lush vocals of the ’90s boy bands. Based out of Tokyo, the entire group participated in this interview with the help of an interpreter. For more information about ONE OR EIGHT and their upcoming fan meeting tour, check out their website at https://oneoreight.com/en/, Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/oneoreight_ ) and X (@oneoreight), (https://x.com/oneoreight__ ).

Q: Where are some places you've visited for work?

MIZUKI: We’ve been lucky to travel to so many places recently, including the United States, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, South Korea and Singapore. Performing in Thailand was an unforgettable experience. The energy from the crowd was insane. Even though it was their first time seeing us, they cheered like we were their favorite group, making it feel like our own concert. It was such a warm and unforgettable welcome.

Q: What was a trip you took as a child that stands out?

TAKERU: One of my favorite childhood memories is visiting Ikaho Onsen in Gunma with my family. I remember eating amazing seafood and for the first time, sleeping in a tatami room together. It was such a unique and special experience.

SOUMA: My first time at Universal Studios Japan was unforgettable, mostly because of the Jaws ride. I was terrified and really did not want to go on it, but I got forced into it. I ended up crying my eyes out the whole entire time, not even caring about whether anyone saw me. But in the end, it wasn’t as scary as I thought, and I remember feeling kind of embarrassed about it afterwards.

Q6: What is your favorite vacation destination?

YUGA: I love Singapore. It’s such a beautiful city. I’ve only been there for work so far, so next time, I’d love to go back just for sightseeing and explore more of what they have to offer.

Q: If someone was going to Japan for the first time, where would you recommend that they visit?

YUGA: I’d definitely recommend Kyoto! In Arashiyama, you can enjoy beautiful scenery while trying different street foods. And if you visit Kyoto, you have to try Kyoto-style pickles [京漬物]. They’re a must!

Q: Japan is famous for its sushi. What other Japanese cuisine should fans try?

TAKERU: If there’s one thing you have to try, it’s ramen! I highly recommend Ichiran [restaurant]. It’s one of my favorites. I love it so much that I go there twice a week. Also, if you're up for something different, try motsuni [stewed offal]. It might not be for everyone, but it’s a great way to experience authentic Japanese flavors.

Q: What's the most important thing you've learned from your travels?

TSUBASA: Getting enough sleep is so important, especially on long flights. I’ve definitely learned that the hard way. I often have long flights and I’ve really learned how important relaxing and unwinding is.

Q: Where are some places you'd like to visit in the future?

SOUMA: I’d love to visit Brazil, Argentina and Paris. I’ve heard that there are a lot of people there who know about us, so I’d love to connect with them through our live performances.

REIA: I’d love to visit Paris someday since I haven’t been there yet. I really enjoy taking photos of cityscapes and night views, so I’d love to capture the Eiffel Tower with my camera.

Q: What foreign languages do you speak?

NEO: I am fluent in both English and Japanese, and I also have elementary proficiency in French and Korean. I believe that being a speaker of both a Western and Eastern language has greatly enhanced my ability to learn new languages.

REIA: Besides Japanese, I can speak Korean. I was never great at studying and had never really tried learning another language before, but I had always been interested in Korean culture and learning the language. At first, it was pretty tough to pick up, but before I knew it, I was able to speak it!

Q: What are some of the places you’ve visited that you loved?

MIZUKI: It’s so hard to choose because every place I’ve visited has left me with amazing memories. I’ve been to Los Angeles, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong and South Korea, and each one has been special and unforgettable in its own way.

RYOTA: Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore and South Korea hold so many memories for me. Every country I've visited has given me special experiences.

Q: When you travel, what are some of your must-have items that you always bring with you?

RYOTA: If I had to bring just one thing on a trip, it would definitely be protein powder. Even when traveling, working out is a part of my daily routine, so I always make sure to get enough protein in my system.

Q: What is your worst vacation memory?

TSUBASA: [It] has to be when I went to L.A. I had an allergic reaction as soon as I arrived and ended up feeling sick for the entire week.

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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)