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Kana Kurashina

Japanese actress Kana Kurashina transitioned from gravure idol to a versatile performer in dramas, films, and stage, notably in NHK's 'Wel-kame', winning Miss Magazine Grand Prix.

1. Early Life and Education

Kana Kurashina was born on December 23, 1987, in Minami-ku, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. She is the eldest of five siblings, with three younger sisters and one younger brother. Her mother was 18 years old when Kurashina was born. During her time at Kumamoto Shin-ai Jogakuin High School, Kurashina took on significant responsibilities, working three part-time jobs simultaneously at a gyudon restaurant, a family restaurant, and a kaiseki restaurant to support her family and contribute to household expenses, including her younger brother's education. This period of her life instilled a desire for a more fulfilling path, leading her to consider a career in entertainment. Despite her early aspirations to become a veterinarian or animal nurse, driven by her family's background as animal breeders who owned up to 12 dogs, she ultimately pursued acting.

2. Career Beginnings

Kurashina's entry into the entertainment industry was marked by a bold and unconventional approach. In her third year of high school, driven by a sense of adventure, she applied for the "SMA Teens Audition 2005." Her initial application, a crumpled piece of paper torn from a free magazine with only her name, photo, and body measurements written on it, was initially rejected over the phone. However, her photo was later discovered by the president of Sony Music Artists, leading to a second chance and eventually securing her the Grand Prix. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tokyo to fully commit to her entertainment career.

In June 2006, Kurashina was crowned the Grand Prix winner of "Miss Magazine 2006," which launched her into gravure modeling, primarily featured in Kodansha's magazine series. From October of the same year, she began appearing on TBS's "Kaiun Ongakudo" and briefly joined the "Miss Magazine" futsal team in July. She also started her acting career, appearing in the NHK Educational and NHK World Japanese language education program "Erin ga Chosen! Nihongo Dekimasu." From April to December 2008, she served as a regular sub-MC on NHK General's "Doyo Studio Park". Her persistent efforts in auditioning for NHK's *Asadora* series, which she had pursued since "Dondo Hare", culminated in her selection as the lead actress for "Wel-kame" in 2009, a role she secured out of 1,775 applicants. This marked a significant milestone, making her the first Miss Magazine alumna to star in an NHK *Asadora* since Yuki Saito in "Hanekoma" 23 years prior. Leading up to the drama's broadcast, she participated in the Tokushima Awa Dance in August 2009 as part of the "NHK Tokushima Ren" to promote the series. Around this time, she concluded her gravure activities to focus exclusively on her acting career. In August 2010, she transitioned her blog to Ameba Blog. In August 2020, she cut 16 in (40 cm) of her hair for her role in the film "Onnatachi" (released June 2021), a decision she made without hesitation. In July 2021, she became the image character for the smartphone game "Maken Densetsu."

3. Acting Career

Kana Kurashina has built an extensive and diverse acting career across various media, showcasing her versatility and range in numerous roles.

3.1. Television Dramas

Kurashina's television drama career is marked by a series of significant roles, demonstrating her ability to portray a wide array of characters. Her breakthrough came with the lead role of Nami Hamamoto in the NHK *Asadora* "Wel-kame", which aired from September 2009 to March 2010. Following this, she appeared as Kaho Suzuhara in the critically acclaimed series "Mother" in 2010. She continued to take on diverse roles, including Hikari Maeda in "The Reason I Can't Find My Love" (2011) and the lead role of Hana Komazawa in "Hana no Zubora-Meshi" (2012), her first lead role in a commercial television drama.

Her filmography includes:

  • Nezu Sunset Cafe (2006-2007) as Kana (lead role)
  • Jigoku Shojo (2007) as Juri Honda (Episode 10)
  • Uranai-shi Tenjin (2007) as Yuki Fukuhara (Episode 6)
  • Elite Yankee Saburo (2007-2009) as Haruna Asai (heroine)
  • Merudora '08 (2008) as Yuki Fukuhara (Episode 1)
  • Kare Oyaji (2008) as Manami Hayashida (Episode 5)
  • Wel-kame (2009-2010) as Nami Hamamoto (lead role, *Asadora*)
  • Yamanaia me wa Nai (2010) as a high school girl
  • Mother (2010) as Kaho Suzuhara
  • Sazae-san (2010, 2011) as Ukie Isasaka (TV specials)
  • Ojii-chan wa 25-sai (2010) as Mai Kurihara
  • Jidan Koshonin Gota Kesu (2011) as Aiko Satomi (Episode 1)
  • Fake Kyoto Bijutsu Jiken Emaki (2011) as Sanae Kuroiwa (Episode 3)
  • Bartender (2011) as Yukari Yamagishi (Episode 2)
  • Namae wo Nakushita Megami (2011) as Mao Shindo
  • Sore demo, Ikite Yuku (2011) as Satsuki Fujimura
  • The Reason I Can't Find My Love (2011) as Hikari Maeda
  • Ousama no Ie (2011) as Haruka Minegishi
  • Shimei to Tamashii no Limit (2011) as Nozomi Manase
  • Mosō Sōsa: Kuwagata Kōichi Junkyōju no Stylish na Seikatsu (2012) as Toyo Kimura
  • Mo Ichido Kimi ni, Propose (2012) as Kei Yoshiki
  • Uta no Ie (2012) as Kurenai Nagata
  • Yaa ni Naru Hi (2012) as Sachiko Yamaoka (lead role)
  • Yoにも奇妙な物語 2012 Aki no Tokubetsuhen (2012) as Suzu Yamada (lead role, "Aiseki no Koibito")
  • Hana no Zubora-Meshi (2012) as Hana Komazawa (lead role)
  • Dinner (2013) as Saori Tatsumi
  • Ikkyu-san 2 (2013) as Tsukihime
  • Mizuki Shigeru no Gegege no Kaidan (2013) as Miyako Sonoda (lead role, "Einin no Tsubo")
  • Kagi no Nai Yume wo Miru (2013) as Miku Futagi (lead role, "Seriba Daigaku no Yume to Satsujin")
  • Yorozu Uranai-dokoro Onmyoya e Yokoso (2013) as Michiko Tadano
  • Kin'yo Prestige (2013) as Erika Tabata
  • Coffee-ya no Hitobito (2014) as Chika Minamino
  • Smoking Gun (2014) as Emiri Nagatomo
  • Kiseki no Kyoshitsu (2014) as Minamino
  • Water Polo Yankees (2014) as Mafuyu Shoji (friendship appearance)
  • First Class (2014) as Sakura Suga
  • Dark Suit (2014) as Misako Ichinose
  • Zannen na Otto (2015) as Chiri Haruno
  • Saigo no Shonin (2015) as Chihiro Kosaka
  • Tenshi no Knife (2015) as Miyuki Hayakawa
  • Seven Detectives (2015-2022) as Tamaki Mizuta (7 seasons, appeared in Season 8 Episode 1)
  • Cain to Abel (2016) as Azusa Yahagi
  • Career (2016) as Azusa Yahagi (Episode 8, cameo via drama collaboration)
  • Ubai Ai, Fuyu (2017) as Hikari Ikeuchi (lead role)
  • Kanjō 8-gōsen (2017) as Eri (lead role in Episode 2, "Hachimanyama")
  • Okusama wa, Toriatsukai Chui (2017) as Chika Minakami (Episode 1 guest)
  • Otoko no Misao (2017) as Junko Itsuki
  • Spring Has Come (2018) as Naoko Kishikawa (heroine)
  • Chiiki Hatsu Drama Attamaru Utopia (2018) as Iori Takamiya (lead role)
  • Yoにも奇妙な物語 '18 Haru no Tokubetsuhen (2018) as Haruka Okabayashi (lead role, "Shonen")
  • Seigi no Se (2018) as Misaki Tashiro (Episode 6)
  • Akuma ga Kitarite Fue wo Fuku (2018) as Kikue
  • Nikkei Drama Special Kohaku no Yume (2018) as Midori
  • Mirror Twins Season 1 & 2 (2019) as Satomi Shiraishi
  • Kinkyu Torishirabeshitsu (2019) as Nanami Shibata (Episode 6)
  • Tokusatsu GaGaGa (2019) as Hisami Yoshida
  • Poison Daughter, Holy Mother (2019) as Asumi (lead role, Episode 5)
  • Ore no Hanashi wa Nagai (2019) as Asuka Saegusa (Episodes 5-7, 9, final)
  • Company (2021) as Yui Segawa
  • Oh! My Boss! Koi wa Bessatsu de (2021) as Rio Hasumi (Episodes 4-7, 9, final)
  • Rasen no Meikyu (2021) as Runa Ranbara
  • Konin Todoke ni Han wo Oshita dake desu ga (2021) as Miharu Momose / Kana Nogami
  • Inochi no Baton (2021) as Chiharu Naruse
  • Shōjiki Fudōsan (2022) as Ryoko Hanazawa
  • Shōjiki Fudōsan Special (2024) as Ryoko Hanazawa
  • Shōjiki Fudōsan 2 (2024) as Ryoko Hanazawa
  • Shōjiki Fudōsan Minerva Special (2025) as Ryoko Hanazawa
  • Sabishii Oka de Kari wo Suru (2022) as Midori Kuwamura (lead role)
  • Jiken wa, Sono Mawari de Okiteiru (2022) as Mai Mukoda
  • Jiken wa, Sono Mawari de Okiteiru Season 2 (2024) as Mai Mukoda
  • Taiga Drama ga Umareta Hi (2023) as Midori Kusuda (TV movie)
  • Ōoku: The Inner Chambers (2023) as Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu
  • Tonari no Otoko wa Yoku Taberu (2023) as Maki Okouchi (co-lead role with Fuma Kikuchi)
  • Watashi no Ichiban Saiaku na Tomodachi (2023) as Maiko Mishima
  • Great Gift (2024) as Anri Azumi
  • Saka no Ue no Akai Yane (2024) as Sana Ogura
  • Reigen Ohatsu Torimonochō (2024) as Rie Naito / Rie Ohnoya
  • Bantoman (2024) as Hana Nezuri
  • TRUE COLORS (2025) as Misaki Tachibana (lead role)

3.2. Films

Kurashina's filmography includes a mix of critically acclaimed and commercially successful productions, showcasing her versatility on the big screen.

  • GROW Guro (2007) as Masami
  • Super Cub (2008) as Mio Kaburagi
  • Bokutachi to Chuzaisan no 700-nichi Senso (2008) as Kazumi-chan
  • Sand Chronicles (2008) as Rika Asada
  • Hanako no Nikki (2011)
  • Hikari, Sono Saki e (2010) as Kii
  • Dreams for Sale (2012) as Ayame Saeki
  • Minasan, Sayonara (2013) as Saki Ogata
  • Toku de Zutto Soba ni Iru (2013) as Sakumi Shimura (lead role)
  • Kids Return: The Reunion (2013) as Manami
  • The Extreme Sukiyaki (2013) as Kaede
  • Chinyuki (2016) as Genjo
  • March Comes in Like a Lion (2017) as Akari Kawamoto
  • March Goes out Like a Lamb (2017) as Akari Kawamoto
  • Under One Umbrella (2018) as Satsuki Takashima (lead role)
  • Hanakei 1 Meter no Kimi (2021)
  • The Women (2021) as Kaori
  • The Crescent Moon with Cats (2024) as Kanoko Misumi (co-lead role)
  • Oshi no Ko: The Final Act (2024) as Miyako Saito

3.3. Stage Productions

Kurashina has also engaged with live performance art, showcasing her talent in theatrical productions.

  • 4x4 (2008)
  • Choai ~Tairiku-hen~ (2009)
  • Rodoku-geki Watashi no Atama no Naka no Keshigomu (2010)
  • Curry Life (2011)
  • Shida no Mure (2012)
  • Sanada Juyushi (2013)
  • Gendai Nogaku-shu VIII: Dogenzaka Kitan (2015)
  • Raiō no Terrace (2016) as the Second Queen
  • Chimerica (2019)
  • Park View Life (2021)
  • Komatsuza's 139th performance Ame (2021)
  • The Glass Menagerie (2021) as Laura Wingfield
  • Osei, Danko (2022) as Osei (lead role)
  • My Boy Jack (2023) as Carrie Kipling

3.4. Web Dramas

Demonstrating her adaptability to digital media, Kurashina has participated in dramas produced for online streaming platforms.

  • Kiyoku Koishiku, Utsukushiku (2007) as Natsuko Tono
  • Boku no Totemo Wagama na Okusan (2010) as Naomi (lead role)
  • Kenshiro ni Yoroshiku (2023) as Yoshiko Hisada
  • Oshi no Ko (2024) as Miyako Saito
  • Joji to Jijou (2024) as Arisa Yuki (lead role)

3.5. Anime Voice Acting

Kurashina has lent her voice to animated series and films, contributing to the anime industry.

  • Onagawa Chū Basketball Club 5-nin no Natsu (2017)
  • Ore Tacha Yōkai Ningen (2017-2018) as Bela
  • Ore Tacha Yōkai Ningen G (2018) as Bela
  • The Seven Deadly Sins: Cursed by Light (2021) as Supreme Deity

4. Other Media Appearances

Beyond her acting roles, Kana Kurashina has maintained a significant public profile through various other media engagements.

4.1. Variety and Cultural Programs

Kurashina's appearances on television variety shows, talk shows, and cultural programs have allowed her to showcase her personality and wit to a broader audience.

  • E Musume! (2006)
  • Tenshi Ranman (2006)
  • Misumaga! (2006)
  • Kaiun Ongakudo (2006-2008)
  • Erin ga Chosen! Nihongo Dekimasu. (2006-2007)
  • Chakushin Onrei! Keitai Ogiri (2007, 2008, 2011)
  • Doubutsu Kisotengai! (2007, 2008)
  • Combat (2008)
  • Beach Angels (2008)
  • Doyo Studio Park (2008) as sub-MC
  • Chikyū Deai Tabi Vol.1: Chikyū no Hakoniwa New Zealand (2011) as traveler
  • Kurashina Kana no Mirai Narration Kiko (2012) as narrator
  • Tokyo Jokyu Date (2012)
  • Vocaburider on TV (2020-present)
  • Sustina! (2022-present) as MC
  • A-Studio+ (2022)

4.2. Commercials and Endorsements

Kurashina has an extensive portfolio as a commercial model and brand ambassador, illustrating her influence in advertising and popular culture.

  • Recruit's Zexy (2006)
  • Denroku (2006-present)
  • Shiseido's UNO Deodorant Spray (2007)
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's "2つの110番" public relations poster (2010)
  • General Insurance Association of Japan's "Automobile Compulsory Insurance Promotion" image character (2010)
  • Choya Umeshu's "Ume Honori" (2011-present)
  • Ameba Mobile (2011)
  • Tiger Corporation (electronic kettle "Wakuko" (2011), "The Takitate" rice cooker (2012), GX GRANDX campaign (2015))
  • House Foods' "Nokkete Jure" (2012)
  • SS Pharmaceutical's "Slulac" (2012)
  • Nippon Ham's "Irodori Kitchen" (2015)
  • Taisho Pharmaceutical's "Coppertone" (2015-present)
  • Autobacs Seven's "Autobacs" (2015)
  • Morinaga Milk's Miloha (2020-present)
  • Kao's Biore (2020-present)
  • Maken Densetsu (2021-present)
  • Yuraku Seika's Black Thunder (2021-present)
  • Kirin Brewery's "SPRING VALLEY Hojun <496>" (2021-present) and White Horse (2022-present)

4.3. Radio Appearances

Kurashina has also engaged with listeners through audio media, including hosting and guest appearances on radio.

  • Kurashina Kana no Kana Radi! feat. ~Eiga 'Onnatachi'~ (2021) on Nippon Hoso

5. Awards and Recognition

Kana Kurashina has received several accolades throughout her career, recognizing her talent and contributions to the Japanese entertainment industry.

  • Miss Magazine 2006 Grand Prix** (2006)
  • 29th Yomiuri Theater Award for Actress** (2022) for her performances in Ame (produced by Komatsuza) and The Glass Menagerie.

6. Personal Life

Kana Kurashina's personal life offers insights into her family relationships, interests, and notable experiences, providing a well-rounded view of her as an individual.

6.1. Family and Social Connections

Kurashina is the eldest of five siblings, with three younger sisters and one younger brother born in 2006. She stands 62 in (158 cm) tall and has O blood type. Her sister, one year her junior, and another sister, three years her junior, Nozomi Tachibana, are also involved in the entertainment industry as a gravure idol and actress. Her youngest sister, six years her junior, lived with her as of 2013. Her brother once presented her with a drawing themed "My sister, whom I am proud of," on the TBS program "A-Studio+." Due to the close birthdates of three of her sisters (December 21, 22, and 23 for Kurashina herself), their birthday celebrations were often combined with Christmas parties.

Kurashina has a deep affection for animals, stemming from her family's past as animal breeders, where they once owned 12 dogs. This background led her to consider a future as a veterinarian or animal nurse during her elementary school years. She lived with a cat named "Hajime" until its passing in 2016 and welcomed a rescue cat named "Yuki" into her family in 2017. She is also known to be close friends with artist Naka Nakamura. In March 2022, she announced that she had passed the Natori examination for the Bando-ryu school of Japanese dance.

6.2. Hobbies and Interests

Outside of her professional career, Kurashina enjoys a variety of personal hobbies and interests. She is an avid reader and practices sutra copying. She is also a sports enthusiast, with a particular fondness for basketball and tennis. Kurashina has a habit of re-watching her favorite films multiple times, often purchasing their DVDs. She is a fan of manga, citing One Piece as a particularly meaningful work that sparked her interest in various genres, which she often shared with family and friends during her student days. She greatly admires actress Takako Matsu and frequently checks for her appearances in plays, dramas, and films. In terms of food, she enjoys wagashi (Japanese confections), especially warabi mochi, which she used to make at home. She also has a fondness for tarts, gummy candy, and senbei.

A notable childhood anecdote includes her developing a trauma from Shocker combatants after being chased by them at a Kamen Rider hero show.