Overseasidol.com — AKB48 held a six-show concert series titled “AKB48 20th Year Live Tour 2025 in Nippon Budokan ~Ano Koro, Seishun Deshita. Korekara, Seishun Desu~” from December 4 to 7 at the iconic Nippon Budokan.
During the evening performance of December 7, which was presented as “20th Anniversary Concert Part 3,” fans were treated to special video message from Miyawaki Sakura (SAKURA).
The anniversary shows featured not only current AKB48 members but also numerous ‘Original Graduate’ performers returning to celebrate the group’s 20-year legacy.
Although Sakura could not appear on stage, she shared heartfelt message through video.
사쿠라 영상 편지ㅠㅠㅠㅠ#宮脇咲良#AKBは青春ですin武道館 pic.twitter.com/mlj5qamJlH
— ʙᴇᴇɴ (@I_MIRU_YOU) December 7, 2025
Miyawaki Sakura who debuted as part of HKT48’s 1st generation in 2014, later took on concurrent activities with AKB48, and is now active as a member of LE SSERAFIM, shared an emotional message.
She said she still remembers the view from the stage on her first day as an idol, as well as the precious moments spent with fellow members and the overwhelming support from fans.
Sakura emphasized that AKB48 was the place that taught her to dream big, embrace challenges, and continue striving forward, while also extending her congratulations to the group on their 20th anniversary.
The surprise messages from these beloved former members added a touching highlight to the concert series, reminding fans of AKB48’s rich history and the lasting bonds formed throughout two decades of activity.
“Hello, this is Miyawaki Sakura.
Congratulations to AKB48 on your 20th anniversary! I couldn’t be at the concert this time due to my schedule but I’m very happy to be able to leave this video message.I can still clearly remember the view from the stage when I first debuted as an idol, the time I spent with the members, and the cheers from the fans.
To me, AKB48 was the place that taught me how to dream, how to take on challenges, and how to keep working hard. Even though I’m active somewhere else now, everything I learned in AKB hasn’t faded, it’s become an important foundation in my heart.
I believe the story of AKB48 has continued for 20 years thanks to all the members who have come this far, the OGs, the staff who supported us, and the fans who have continued to cheer us on
I hope AKB48’s future continues to shine. Once again, congratulations on the 20th anniversary of AKB48!!”
