*AI Translated
Trepo, a Japanese trend media outlet for women of the αZ Generation (*1), conducted a survey predicting the trends for the second half of 2026 among Trepo girls (*2) in their teens to early 30s. Here are the results of the web questionnaire.
This time, the trend predictions for the αZ Generation (*1) in the second half of 2026 have been ranked in seven categories: "Artists," "Entertainment & Influencers," "Characters," "Fashion," "Things & Experiences," "Food," and "Spots," targeting Trepo girls (*2).
*1 At Trepo, the term "αZ Generation" refers to the combined group of Generation Z and Generation Alpha, born from the late 1990s to around 2024. This generation grew up surrounded by digital environments such as the internet, smartphones, and social media.
*2 "Trepo girls" refers to the female readers of the trend media "Trepo" for the αZ Generation, as well as the followers of Trepo's official Instagram account.
[Artist Category] Popular Male Dance & Vocal Groups Dominate the Rankings
1st Place: MAZZEL
MAZZEL takes the top spot.
MAZZEL is an eight-member dance and vocal group that debuted in May 2023 after appearing on the audition program "MISSION×2."
The group's variety content "MAZZEL ROOM," available on YouTube, has become a hot topic for the members' close relationships and witty banter, with comments like "It cheers me up" and "It's my first time watching, but it's so funny." On the other hand, the gap between their playful personalities and their high-level singing and dancing skills has led to a rapid increase in fans. With a nationwide fan meeting tour scheduled for 20 locations starting in October 2026, the group is expected to achieve even greater success in the future.
2nd Place: KO1KEYZ
KO1KEYZ comes in second.
KO1KEYZ is a 12-member global boy group formed through the audition program "PRODUCE 101 JAPAN: NEW WORLD." The group name reflects the hope that the 12 members, chosen by the pure "love" of their fans, will become the "keys" to opening up a new world and captivating many people.
As the latest group from the "PRODUCE 101 JAPAN" series, which produced JO1, INI, and ME:I, KO1KEYZ has attracted much attention and is scheduled to debut on October 7, 2026. Having garnered significant interest since the audition stage, expectations are high for their future music activities and performances.
3rd Place: ROIROM
ROIROM takes third place.
ROIROM is a male idol duo consisting of Hiromu Honda and Roi Hamagawa. Both participated in the audition program "timelesz project" and gained popularity as finalists for their outstanding singing and performance skills. Although they were not selected as debut members, they announced the formation of their unit after the program ended.
In May 2026, they made their major debut with "CLASSIC WAVE," and as of June 26, 2026, their Instagram followers have reached 246,000. They are also scheduled to hold a solo concert at Yokohama Arena in July of the same year, and even greater achievements are expected in the future.
[Entertainment & Influencer Category] The Top Spot Goes to a Member of a Popular Boy Group
1st Place: Daichi Shiozaki
Ranked first is "Daichi Shiozaki."
Daichi Shiozaki is a member of the boy group "M!LK" from Stardust Promotion.
In 2025, nicknames such as "Starter Gear Niki" and "Broad Shoulders Niki" emerged from his personal fashion and stage outfits, drawing attention. As the group's popularity continued to rise into 2026, he also expanded his solo activities, walking the runway as a secret guest at "Rakuten GirlsAward 2026 SPRING/SUMMER" and appearing on the Nippon TV variety show "ItteQ!." He is broadening his activities beyond the group, and with this momentum, even greater achievements are expected in the future.
2nd Place: Miyu Matsuzawa
Ranked second is "Miyu Matsuzawa."
After coming out as a lesbian and sharing her experiences mainly on social media, she participated in Chuo University's Miss Contest "Miss Chuo" in 2025. Winning the Grand Prix brought her significant attention, and interest in her messages about her sexuality, experiences, and values grew even further.
With the motto "Don't hurt anyone. Don't leave anyone behind," her honest sharing of her experiences and values has resonated with many, expanding her support base. In May 2026, she made her terrestrial TV debut by appearing on the Nippon TV variety show "Ueda and the Night When Women Roar," further broadening her activities.
With her strong communication skills and support from a wide range of generations beyond just Generation Alpha Z, even greater success is expected in the future.
3rd Place: Momo Sakurai
Ranked third is "Momo Sakurai."
Momo Sakurai is a member of the 12-member idol group "≠ME (Not Equal Me)" produced by Rino Sashihara, and is affectionately known as "Momokyun."
On TikTok, her performance of erasing the highlights from her eyes during ≠ME's song "Ai Kudasaimase" has gone viral as the "#KudasaimaseChallenge." Celebrities, idols, and influencers continue to take on the challenge, bringing even more excitement to the group.
Individually, her appearance on the Fuji TV variety show "Chidori no Oni Renchan" drew attention to the gap between her unique personality and her impressive singing ability. With her popularity on social media and TV appearances, she is expected to attract attention from a broader audience beyond just idol fans.
[Character Category] Beloved Characters Experience a New Boom
1st Place: Sugarbunnies
Ranked first is "Sugarbunnies."
Sugarbunnies are Sanrio characters—twin genius pâtissier siblings who live in the world of "Bunnies Field." Debuting in 2004, their fluffy and adorable appearance and unique world have charmed many fans.
They are regaining attention, especially among those who loved them as children, with their popularity spreading mainly through social media. In April 2026, a "Sugarbunnies POP UP STORE × Munyugurumi Patio" event was held at Tokyo Character Street in Tokyo Station Ichibangai, followed by another at Lumine Est Shinjuku in May, both bustling with fans. There are high expectations for new merchandise and future events.
2nd Place: Rilakkuma / Korilakkuma
Ranked second is "Rilakkuma / Korilakkuma."
Rilakkuma and Korilakkuma are popular characters created by San-X. Since their debut in the Heisei era, the laid-back Rilakkuma and mischievous Korilakkuma have been beloved by many for their adorable appearances.
In April 2026, the anime “Rilakkuma” began airing, and with the recent boom in Heisei-era nostalgia, collaboration cafes and limited-time shops have opened, attracting fans who fondly remember those days. Many people have shared their experiences enjoying Rilakkuma’s soothing world on social media, drawing attention from Generation Alpha and Gen Z as well. In addition, this year marks the 10th anniversary of “Chairoikoguma,” raising expectations for even more excitement across the entire Rilakkuma series, including Rilakkuma and Korilakkuma. There is also growing anticipation for new products and collaboration projects in the future.
3rd Place: Ganadi
Taking 3rd place is “Ganadi.”
Ganadi is a beloved character from Korea. He is a white dog who loves mischief and dancing. While generally calm, he is also known for his expressive emotions and sociable personality. His slightly absent-minded and adorable character has won many fans.
Ganadi first gained attention through stickers on the Korean chat app “KakaoTalk,” and the “Du..Ganadi” product reached the top spot in the shop immediately after its release, maintaining a high ranking ever since. The official Japanese X (formerly Twitter) account surpassed 20,000 followers just one day after its first post, and as of June 26, 2026, has exceeded 100,000 followers, making Ganadi a hot topic in Japan as well. In March 2026, the first-ever limited-time pop-up store in Japan was held at SHIBUYA109, drawing large crowds of fans. Another event is scheduled for Osaka in July 2026, and expectations are high for Ganadi’s future expansion in Japan.
[Fashion Category] Korean Fashion Trends Continue to Rank High
1st Place: Backpack
Taking 1st place is the “Backpack.”
Outfits that combine a sporty backpack as an accent to a girly look are starting to attract attention. In particular, the polka-dot backpack from the Korean apparel brand “heisan” has ranked high on popular sites like ZOZOTOWN and MUSINSA, gaining popularity.
Also, customizing simple backpacks sold at stores like MUJI with keychains or pin badges has become a hot topic on social media for its cuteness. On Instagram, posts with the hashtag “#バックパック” (backpack) have reached about 495,000, and the trend is expected to continue growing in popularity (as of June 26, 2026).
2nd Place: Kumada Masashi Style
In 2nd place is the “Kumada Masashi Style.”
The Kumada Masashi Style refers to layering a tank top over a T-shirt. The name comes from the Japanese comedian Masashi Kumada, whose fashion is known for this look.
This trend is especially popular among young people in Korea and has rapidly gained attention in Japan through social media. It’s easy to try with simple items and pairs well with Y2K and street fashion. It is expected to become even more popular going forward.
3rd Place: Jelly Bag
Taking 3rd place is the “Jelly Bag.”
A jelly bag is a bag with a translucent, jelly-like appearance. Its popularity has risen after being adopted by the popular K-POP idol “KiiiKiii” and Korean youth. Riding the wave of the recent retro and Y2K fashion boom, it is expected to be a major fashion trend in the summer of 2026.
With a wide variety of cool and vibrant colors, jelly bags add a pop accent to any outfit just by carrying one. They’re perfect for leisure activities like the pool or beach, and also make for great photos on everyday outings.
[Lifestyle Category] 1st Place Goes to the Latest Korean SNS for Sharing Everyday Life
1st Place: setlog
Ranked first is "setlog".
Setlog is a new social networking app from Korea that is gaining attention, especially among the Alpha Z generation. With this app, you simply record a 2-second video once every hour, and by the end of the day, you have a short video that looks just like a vlog. It can be used in invitation-only groups of 2 to 12 people, making it a communication tool for sharing daily life and updates with close friends and those around you.
Its appeal lies in the ease of capturing everyday moments as they are, without the hassle of editing or filtering, setting it apart from previous social media platforms. As a new trend, its popularity is rapidly rising, and it has confidently taken the top spot as an app expected to see even more users and further growth in the future.
2nd Place: Aikatsu!
Ranked second is "Aikatsu!".
"Aikatsu!" is a series that follows girls striving to become top idols through their "idol activities" known as Aikatsu. The Data Carddass "Aikatsu!" and the TV anime began airing in October 2012. In recent years, as the "Heisei Girls Boom" has taken off on social media, more and more people are once again captivated by the sparkling, uniquely Heisei-era world of "Aikatsu!" that they loved as children. Furthermore, in October 2026, the Data Carddass "Aikatsu! Encore" is scheduled to launch with new card designs, and the series is expected to gain even more popularity going forward.
3rd Place: GTO (Great Teacher Onizuka)
Ranked third is "GTO".
"GTO" is a school drama based on the hugely popular manga by Toru Fujisawa. The series began airing in 1998 and has remained popular for 28 years. The latest installment in the series is scheduled to air on Kansai TV and Fuji TV networks on July 20, 2026, drawing even more attention.
The lead role is played by Takashi Sorimachi, who has portrayed the protagonist since the early days of the series. The cast also includes a star-studded lineup, such as Meru Nukumi as the assistant homeroom teacher. In addition, students who passed a rigorous audition process of over 400 applicants are being announced one after another, including Kurumi Inagaki, who has been acting since childhood, Kanna Kajiwara, daughter of comedian and YouTuber Kajisac, and Sora Namba from LIL LEAGUE. The participation of these next-generation young actors and models is also a highlight.
[Food Category] Street Food & Drinks Are Trending
1st Place: Milk Tea
Ranked first is "milk tea".
Milk tea has started to gain attention in Japan after Wonyoung from the Korean girl group IVE became the ambassador for the popular Chinese tea brand CHAGEE. It is expected to become the next big trend following the bubble tea boom, and posts with the hashtag "#milk tea" are rapidly increasing on social media.
Domestically, "CHAZHONG," a milk tea that creates a smoky effect, has sparked the trend, leading to an increase in shops selling milk tea. As a drink expected to become even more popular, it has taken the top spot.
2nd Place: Mala Skewers
Ranked second is "mala skewers".
Mala skewers are a type of street food where ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables are skewered, deep-fried, and seasoned with spicy mala flavor. Since you can enjoy the familiar ingredients of mala soup with a crispy texture, it has become popular as a new kind of food experience. Among them, the mala brand "Xiao Mala," which operates over 50 stores in Korea, opened its first Japanese location in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, in April 2026. As the next big "mala gourmet" following the mala soup boom, it is attracting attention and is expected to become even more popular.
3rd Place: Butter Mochi
In third place is "Butter Mochi."
Butter Mochi is a sweet treat with a crispy exterior and a chewy, mochi-like interior, originally inspired by Chinese confections. After gaining popularity in Korea, it has also started to attract attention in Japan.
More bakeries and cafes are offering Butter Mochi, and on social media, posts comparing the taste and texture of Butter Mochi from different shops, as well as reviews from people who have tried it, are trending topics. Each shop offers its own unique texture, gentle sweetness, and rich buttery flavor to enjoy.Its nostalgic taste has won many fans, and it is expected to become even more popular as a trending sweet in the future.
[Spot Category] 1st Place: That Popular Spot in Tokyo Where You Can Experience Nature
1st Place: Todoroki Valley
Taking the top spot is "Todoroki Valley."
Located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, this lush walking spot is so rich in nature that it’s hard to believe it’s within the city.
Among its highlights is the "Golf Bridge" near the entrance of the valley, which is a hugely popular photo spot on social media. Just walking along the stream and listening to the sound of the river is enough to refresh both your mind and body.
Although the walking path along the river had been closed since July 2023 for safety reasons, it reopened in late March 2026. This healing spot is now a must-visit destination this season.
2nd Place: PokéPark Kanto
In second place is "PokéPark Kanto."
PokéPark Kanto is the first permanent outdoor Pokémon facility, which opened in February 2026 inside Yomiuriland. The park is divided into two areas: "Pokémon Forest," where you can walk through the woods searching for Pokémon, and "Kayatsuri Town," where you can enjoy various events and attractions. Even before opening, tickets were sold out months in advance, showing its high level of attention. On social media, visitors share their experiences of searching for Pokémon throughout the park and taking photos with them. With plenty of photo spots, it’s a place where both children and adults can have a great time, and its popularity is expected to continue growing.
3rd Place: TOKYO DREAM PARK
In third place is "TOKYO DREAM PARK."
TOKYO DREAM PARK is a multi-purpose entertainment complex that opened in Ariake, Tokyo, in March 2026. It has quickly become a popular new spot for live performances, theater, exhibitions, and more, attracting visitors of all ages. From March to the end of September 2026, the park is hosting "100% Doraemon & Friends in Tokyo." The event features over 100 Doraemon figures, as well as exhibits and exclusive merchandise that let visitors experience the worlds of the manga, anime, and movies. The venue is bustling with visitors, and there are high expectations for future events as well.
Survey Overview
- Survey Target: Trepo girls (1,000 women aged teens to early 30s)
- Survey Period: May 11, 2026 ~ June 26, 2026
- Conducted by: Trepo Editorial Team
About Trend Media "Trepo"
Trepo is a trend media outlet delivering the latest in trends and "kawaii" culture for girls. In addition to original features by the editorial team, Trepo provides a wide range of useful information on entertainment, beauty, fashion, gourmet, lifestyle, and outing spots.
- Trepo WEB:https://trepo.jp/
- Official Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/trepo.jp/
- Official X:https://x.com/trepo_jp
- Official X Beauty Account:https://x.com/Trepo_Beauty
- Official TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@trepo.jp
Company Overview
- Company Name: Creative Group Inc.
- Address: 3F/4F, Sanbancho Sekino Building, 22-7 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Representative: President and CEO Kazuma Nakahara
- Business Activities: PR services, word-of-mouth promotion, entertainment and production, influencer and talent casting, social media management, advertising, media operations, creative production, food and beverage services, and more
Source: PRTIMES
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