1. Overview
Kyōko Saitō is a prominent Japanese actress, singer, model, and television presenter. Born in Tokyo on September 5, 1997, she began her career in 2016 as a first-generation member of the idol group Hiragana Keyakizaka46, which later became Hinatazaka46. Saitō is known for her distinctive low-pitched voice, which has earned her the nickname "Diva of Hinatazaka46," and her versatile talents across various entertainment fields. Her career highlights include serving as the center for several group songs, releasing a successful solo photobook, and establishing herself as a regular model for *ar* magazine. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Saitō is celebrated for her enthusiastic engagement with fans, her deep passion for ramen, and her unique, naturally quirky personality, which has made her a popular figure in variety shows. After graduating from Hinatazaka46 in April 2024, she transferred to Toho Entertainment, signaling her intent to further pursue acting.
2. Early Life and Background
Kyōko Saitō's early life laid the foundation for her multifaceted career, driven by a childhood aspiration to become a singer and a series of dedicated efforts to enter the entertainment industry.
2.1. Birth and Childhood
Kyōko Saitō was born on September 5, 1997, in Tokyo, Japan. Her given name, Kyōko, is said to be derived from the city of Kyoto, symbolizing politeness and Japanese culture. Her family background and specific details about her childhood environment are not widely publicized, but her early life was marked by a clear ambition to enter the world of music.
2.2. Education and Early Activities
Saitō harbored a dream of becoming a singer since her middle school years. To pursue this ambition, she underwent vocal training, including sessions at Sony. She participated in multiple singing auditions, but initially, none of these attempts resulted in a successful outcome. Her path to the entertainment industry eventually took a turn when she learned that Yui Imaizumi, whom she had met at a previous audition, had become a member of Keyakizaka46. This discovery prompted Saitō to audition for Hiragana Keyakizaka46, a subgroup of Keyakizaka46. Beyond her vocal pursuits, Saitō also trained in dance, studying from her first year of elementary school until her second year of middle school.
3. Career
Kyōko Saitō's professional journey spans various fields, most notably her career as an idol, followed by significant activities in music, acting, modeling, and other unique ventures.
3.1. Idol Activities
Saitō's idol career is primarily defined by her tenure with Hiragana Keyakizaka46 and its subsequent renaming to Hinatazaka46, during which she rose to prominence through her vocal prowess and fan engagement.
3.1.1. Hiragana Keyakizaka46 Era
Saitō's idol career officially began on May 11, 2016, when she successfully passed the auditions for Hiragana Keyakizaka46. These auditions were notably held on the streaming platform Showroom. She joined ten other successful candidates along with Neru Nagahama as part of the "first generation" of Hiragana Keyakizaka46. Her debut live performance took place on October 28, 2016, at Akasaka Blitz during the group's first solo event, "Hiragana Omotenashikai." At this concert, she performed songs by the main Keyakizaka46 group, such as "Silent Majority" and "Sekai ni wa Ai Shika Nai," as well as Hiragana Keyakizaka46's own song, "Hiragana Keyaki." Throughout her time with Hiragana Keyakizaka46, Saitō participated in every single released by Keyakizaka46, from "Sekai ni wa Ai Shika Nai" to "Kuroi Hitsuji". She notably served as the center (lead performer) for "Soredemo Aruiteru," a B-side track on Keyakizaka46's fifth single "Kaze ni Fukarete mo", released in 2017. She also performed a solo song titled "Igokochiwaruku Otona ni natta" (居心地悪く大人になったIgokochiwaruku Otona ni nattaJapanese) on the group's first album, Hashiridasu Shunkan.
3.1.2. Hinatazaka46 Era
On February 11, 2019, Hiragana Keyakizaka46 underwent a significant transformation, being renamed to Hinatazaka46. Saitō continued her active participation in all singles and albums released by the group until her graduation. In June 2020, Saitō officially announced the name of her fandom as "Kyonkois" (きょんこいずKyonkoizuJapanese), a portmanteau of her nickname "Kyonko" and the Japanese word for "love," *koi*.
A significant milestone occurred on September 10, 2022, during the opening performance of Hinatazaka46's "Happy Smile Tour 2022" at Aichi Sky Expo. It was revealed that Saitō would be the center for the group's eighth single, "Tsuki to Hoshi ga Odoru Midnight," which was subsequently released on October 26, 2022. This marked her first time as the center for a title song and her first center position in five years, since "Soredemo Aruiteru" in 2017.
On January 11, 2024, Saitō announced her departure from Hinatazaka46. Her graduation concert was held on April 5, 2024, at Yokohama Stadium, marking the final day of her idol activities. Her last musical participation as a Hinatazaka46 member was as the center for the B-side track "Boku ni Tsuzuke" (僕に続けBoku ni Tsuzuke (Follow Me)Japanese) on the group's 11th single, "Kimi wa Honeydew".
3.2. Music Activities
Beyond her group activities, Saitō has pursued various musical endeavors, showcasing her vocal capabilities in solo and unit performances.
On May 18, 2022, Saitō made a notable solo appearance on the YouTube channel The First Take, performing the Hinatazaka46 song "Boku Nanka." This was a landmark moment as it marked the first solo performance by a Hinatazaka46 member on the popular channel, with the song rearranged with piano and strings to highlight her voice. Saitō expressed that she channeled her own insecurities into the performance.
Saitō is also part of the unit Kyoccorohee, alongside comedienne Hiccorohee, with whom she co-hosts the talk show of the same name. Under this unit name, they released their debut digital single, "After You!", on January 1, 2024, followed by a physical release on February 14. The main song was written by Yasushi Akimoto, a renowned lyricist for Hinatazaka46, and was first performed live on Music Station Superlive 2023 on December 22, 2023. Saitō also contributed by writing the lyrics for her solo B-side song on the single. The music video for "After You!" was released on Hinatazaka46's official YouTube channel, making it the first song on the channel to feature a non-member.
In 2019, Saitō collaborated with members of AKB48 Group and Sakamichi Series in a special unit called Sakamichi AKB, performing the song "Hatsukoi Door" as a B-side for the single "Jiwaru Days".
Saitō has also held solo concerts. On June 5, 2022, she performed for "MTV Live Sessions: Kyoko Saito from Hinatazaka46", which was broadcast only. A year later, on May 21, 2023, she held her first solo concert with a live audience titled "MTV Unplugged Presents: Kyoko Saito from Hinatazaka46" at Pia Arena MM, which she described as a long-awaited dream.
3.3. Acting Activities
Saitō has expanded her career into acting, appearing in television dramas, films, stage plays, and voice dubbing roles.
She made her acting debut in 2017 with the Hiragana Keyakizaka46 television drama Re:Mind. She later co-starred in the Hinatazaka46 drama Dasada in 2020. In 2021, Saitō participated in Borderless, a television drama adaptation of the Tetsuya Honda novel, which was a pioneering collaboration featuring selected members from Nogizaka46, Sakurazaka46, and Hinatazaka46. She reprised her role as Kiri Katayama in its 2023 sequel, Actress.
In 2023, Saitō took on her first solo leading role in the television drama adaptation of the manga Nukarumi no Shokutaku (泥濘の食卓Nukarumi no ShokutakuJapanese), where she played Mia Nejiki. The same year, she made her debut in feature film voice dubbing, lending her voice to April O'Neil in the Japanese version of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. She continued this role in the 2024 animated series, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. In 2024, she appeared as Akane Mugita in the Fuji TV drama `Renai Senryaku Kaigi`. She also voiced a Bard in the 2024 `Doraemon Birthday Special: Nobita and the Greek Cake Legend`.
On stage, Saitō played the role of Wakame Isono in the stage adaptation of the manga Sazae-san in 2019, a role she shared with Manatsu Akimoto of Nogizaka46. She also appeared in `Ayumi` (2018), `Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Gaiden` (2018) as Kyoko Sakura, and `Zambi` (2018) as Karen Motomiya.
Following her graduation from Hinatazaka46 in May 2024, Saitō signed with Toho Entertainment, an agency known for its strong presence in the acting industry. This move signals her intention to focus more on her acting career. She is slated to appear in the 2025 film `Iwilltellyouthetruth` as an acquaintance of Kiriyama. In 2025, she will take on another lead role as Mao Koshiba in the NTV drama `Sudden Marriage` (いきなり婚Ikinari KonJapanese), and as Tanaka in the second episode of the ABC TV drama `Tokyo Camouflage Hour`.
3.4. Modeling Activities
Saitō has established herself in the fashion industry as a regular model for a popular magazine and through the release of her successful photobook.
From 2019 to 2024, Kyōko Saitō was a regular model for the fashion magazine ar.
Her first solo photobook, titled Totteoki no Koibito (とっておきの恋人Totteoki no Koibito (Special Lover)Japanese), was released on January 19, 2021. The photobook was produced by the editorial team of ar magazine and conceptualized around "dating at various locations in Tokyo." The initial print run for the photobook was 115.00 K counts, and an additional 40.00 K counts copies were reprinted within its release week, demonstrating strong demand. The book quickly topped Oricon's photobook sales ranking for its release week, selling an estimated 84.00 K counts copies. By the end of 2021, it ranked third in the annual photobook sales, with 135.12 K counts copies sold, contributing to Hinatazaka46's dominance in the top three ranks alongside Nao Kosaka's photobook and the group's Hinasatsu Vol. 01.
3.5. Other Ventures
Kyōko Saitō's career extends beyond traditional entertainment, encompassing distinctive roles as a television personality and a notable figure in the ramen world, alongside her unique skills and personal anecdotes.
3.5.1. Entertainment and Hosting Activities
Saitō has made a name for herself in Japanese variety television. Since April 1, 2021, she has co-hosted the late-night dance talk show Kyoccorohee (キョコロヒーKyoccoroheeJapanese) on TV Asahi, alongside comedienne Hiccorohee. The show's appeal, according to Saitō, lies in the long, winding conversations between two women who are "not on the same wavelength." The show has also hosted successful live events, including at EX Theater Roppongi in 2022 and Tokyo International Forum, Hall A, in 2023.
Saitō also held regular positions on radio shows. From January 3, 2019, to May 6, 2020, she was a regular on MBS Radio's Imadoki. She then moved to Appare Yattemasu! on MBS Radio, where she was a regular from April 26, 2020, to April 4, 2024, initially on Saturdays and then on Thursdays from October 7, 2021.
3.5.3. Other Skills and Episodes
Saitō is recognized for several unique skills and has been involved in various memorable episodes that highlight her personality.
She is proficient in "babigo" (バビ語babigoJapanese), a Japanese language game, and has even written blog posts entirely in it. She often demonstrated this skill on variety shows, with fellow member Kumi Sasaki sometimes acting as an "interpreter." Saitō is also skilled at puzzle-solving, even taking a "puzzle-solving certification" exam in 2021 and achieving a rank equivalent to 6th grade. Other reported skills include touch typing, the card game Daifugo, and stopping a clock precisely on time.
Despite these talents, Saitō has also displayed a charmingly clumsy or "silly" side. She once mistook the "National Honor Award" for "National Nutrition Award" and has given amusingly incorrect answers on academic tests during group variety shows.
Her cooking abilities have also been a subject of memorable anecdotes. In a 2018 segment on the group's show Hiragana Oshi, titled "3-minute Relay Cooking," Saitō's unconventional cooking methods led to such a chaotic and disastrous result that the broadcast had to resort to a still-image digest. The segment, which included bizarre actions like adding ramen to a dish despite promising not to, was so chaotic that fellow member Manamo Miyata exclaimed, "Kyōko-san, what are you doing?!" The show's MC, Masayasu Wakabayashi of Audrey, commented that "Kyōko Saitō finished everything." This unedited footage was later included in the Blu-ray release "Kyonko-san, Nani Shiten Desu Ka Hen." However, after practicing at home, Saitō has shown significant improvement. In a 2021 cooking segment on Kyoccorohee, even though her methods were still somewhat unconventional, her dish received high praise for its taste from Chef Hiroshi Modegi.
4. Personal Profile
Kyōko Saitō's personal profile encompasses her distinct physical and personality traits, a wide array of tastes and interests, and her close relationships with colleagues.
4.1. Personal Characteristics
Kyōko Saitō stands at 61 in (155.5 cm). Her nicknames include "Kyōko," "Kyonko," and "Okyon," though she is often referred to by her full name, Kyōko Saitō. Her blood type is A. Saitō has black hair and black eyes.
A defining characteristic is her distinctive low voice, which has been described as a "weapon" in her idol career and has earned her the moniker "Diva of Hinatazaka46." She has also expressed that this voice, which was once a complex for her, has become a source of confidence. Her personality is often noted for the contrast between her calm, articulate speaking style and a natural, quirky, or even clumsy demeanor, making her a popular figure on variety shows.
4.2. Tastes and Interests
Saitō's personal preferences are diverse and often reveal her unique personality.
She describes ramen as her "life" and considers it her favorite food. Her preferred ramen features extra-thick noodles, and her ultimate favorite is tantanmen. She also considers Hidakaya's Jjigae Miso Ramen her ideal ramen. Beyond ramen, she enjoys macarons, macaroni, cheese rolls, egg miso soup, pineapple, and Korean cuisine. She states that she generally prefers drinks over food. Conversely, her disliked foods include green peas, boiled eggs, and quail eggs, while she dislikes coffee.
Her favorite animals are rabbits and dolphins, and she owns a male rabbit named "Rabiko." She is fond of Winnie the Pooh and has even created her own original characters, "Niimaru" and "Muyukun." Her preferred colors are white, black, and pink, and her favorite season is autumn. She likes the number "1" and her favorite flower is the carnation. She also enjoys the scents of rose and citrus.
Musically, Saitō looks up to Akina Nakamori, who inspired her to pursue a singing career. She also admires Momoe Yamaguchi, Ms.OOJA, and back number, with favorite back number songs including "Heroine," "Takane no Hanako-san," and "Hanataba." She also likes Miyuki Nakajima's "Jidai." Her highest karaoke score is 98 points, and her go-to songs include Every Little Thing's "fragile," Ken Hirai's "Hitomi wo Tojite," Miho Nakayama's "Tada Nakitaku Naru No," Akina Nakamori's "Shojo A," JUJU's "Yasashisa de Afureru Yo ni," and Koda Kumi's "Moon Crying." Her signature song is Misia's "Everything."
Saitō enjoys comedy dramas and films. Her love for ramen originated from watching the drama Ms. Koizumi Loves Ramen Noodles. She also lists the film Initiation Love as a favorite.
Among her other interests, Saitō enjoys going home, watching variety shows (especially those featuring the comedy duo Saraba Seishun no Hikari), watching YouTube videos, playing card games like Daifugo and Werewolf, and having small conversations with a few people. She also particularly enjoys having her hair brushed or touched, and finds listening to rain sounds relaxing, often searching for strong rain sounds online to fall asleep to. While initially uninterested in baseball, she developed a passion for it after watching the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. However, a baseball-related segment on her group's show caused muscle inflammation from her neck to her right elbow, requiring pain medication and taping for concerts.
She dislikes being tickled and struggles with Oogiri (improvisational comedy), to the point of nearly crying during recordings.
4.3. Relationships
Kyōko Saitō is known for her ability to build strong connections with her colleagues, both within and outside her group, cultivating deep friendships and positive interactions with seniors and juniors.
Within Hinatazaka46, Mao Iguchi, a first-generation member who has since graduated, is considered a close friend. Saitō also shares a particularly strong bond with second-generation member Hiyori Hamagishi, whom they refer to as "Mabudachi" (best buddies). Saitō describes Hamagishi as her "source of smiles" and a "power spot," expressing that she cried with happiness when told that Hamagishi truly cherished her. They even lived together for a period.
Saitō has actively communicated with her seniors, including Manaka Shida and Miyu Suzumoto, whom she addressed by their nicknames and shared private time with during their time in Keyakizaka46. While she once claimed to be shy with younger members and juniors, she has since developed strong relationships with them. Besides Hamagishi, she is notably close with third-generation members Hinano Kamimura, Mikuni Takahashi, Mari Morimoto, and Haruyo Yamaguchi. They often spend time together privately, leading to instances where Saitō has even been mistaken for a third-generation member herself, showcasing the strong rapport she built with them.
5. Works
Kyōko Saitō's extensive body of work encompasses her musical contributions as an idol, her various acting roles across different media, and her presence in the literary world through photobooks and magazine features.
5.1. Music Works
This section lists Kyōko Saitō's musical contributions, categorized by her group affiliations and special unit or collaboration projects.
5.1.1. Keyakizaka46 and Hiragana Keyakizaka46 Era
During her time with Keyakizaka46 and Hiragana Keyakizaka46, Saitō participated in numerous singles and album tracks.
| Year | Song | Single or album | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | "Hiragana Keyaki" (ひらがなけやきHiragana KeyakiJapanese) | "Sekai ni wa Ai Shika Nai" | |
| "Dare Yori mo Takaku Tobe!" (誰よりも高く跳べ!Dare Yori mo Takaku Tobe!Japanese) | "Futari Saison" | ||
| 2017 | "W-KEYAKIZAKA no Uta" (W-KEYAKIZAKAの詩W-KEYAKIZAKA no UtaJapanese) | "Fukyōwaon" | |
| "Bokutachi wa Tsukiatteiru" (僕たちは付き合っているBokutachi wa TsukiatteiruJapanese) | |||
| "Soredemo Aruiteru" ("それでも歩いてる""Soredemo Aruiteru"Japanese) | "Kaze ni Fukarete mo" | Center | |
| "No War in the Future" | Center | ||
| "Chinmoku Shita Koibito yo" (沈黙した恋人よChinmoku Shita Koibito yoJapanese) | Masshiro na Mono wa Yogoshitaku naru | ||
| "Eien no Hakusen" (永遠の白線Eien no HakusenJapanese) | |||
| "Taiyou wa Miageru Hito o Erabanai" (太陽は見上げる人を選ばないTaiyou wa Miageru Hito o ErabanaiJapanese) | |||
| 2018 | "Ima ni Mite Iro" (イマニミテイロ!Ima ni Mite Iro!Japanese) | "Glass wo Ware!" | |
| "Happy Aura" (ハッピーオーラHappy AuraJapanese) | "Ambivalent" | ||
| 2019 | "Kimi ni Hanashite Okitai Koto" (君に話しておきたいことKimi ni Hanashite Okitai KotoJapanese) | "Kuroi Hitsuji" | |
| "Dakishimete Yaru" (抱きしめてやるDakishimete YaruJapanese) |
The songs listed below are from the Hiragana Keyakizaka46 album and were not included in any of the above singles:
| Year | Album | Song | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Hashiridasu Shunkan | "Kitai Shitenai Jibun" (期待していない自分Kitai Shitenai JibunJapanese) | |
| "Halloween no Kabocha ga Wareta" (ハロウィンのカボチャが割れたHalloween no Kabocha ga WaretaJapanese) | |||
| "Oide Natsu no Kyoukaisen" (おいで夏の境界線Oide Natsu no KyoukaisenJapanese) | |||
| "Yakusoku no Tamago" (約束の卵Yakusoku no TamagoJapanese) | |||
| "Sharin ga Kishimu you ni Kimi ga Naku" (車輪が軋むように君が泣くSharin ga Kishimu you ni Kimi ga NakuJapanese) | |||
| "Konna Seiretsu o Dare ga Saseru no ka?" (こんな整列を誰がさせるのか？Konna Seiretsu o Dare ga Saseru no ka?Japanese) | |||
| "Igokochiwaruku Otona ni Natta" (居心地悪く大人になったIgokochiwaruku Otona ni NattaJapanese) | Solo | ||
| "Hiragana de Koishitai" (ひらがなで恋したいHiragana de KoishitaiJapanese) |
5.1.2. Hinatazaka46 Era
Saitō's participation in singles and albums after the group's renaming to Hinatazaka46.
| Year | Single | Song | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | "Kyun" | "Kyun" (キュンKyunJapanese) | |
| "Joyful Love" | |||
| "Mimi ni Ochiru Namida" (耳に落ちる涙Mimi ni Ochiru NamidaJapanese) | |||
| "Tokimeki Sō" (ときめき草Tokimeki SōJapanese) | |||
| "Do Re Mi Sol La Si Do" | "Do Re Mi Sol La Si Do" (ドレミソラシドDo Re Mi Sol La Si DoJapanese) | ||
| "Kitsune" (キツネKitsuneJapanese) | |||
| "My God" | |||
| "Konna ni Suki ni Natchatte Ii no?" | "Konna ni Suki ni Natchatte Ii no?" (こんなに好きになっちゃっていいの?Konna ni Suki ni Natchatte Ii no?Japanese) | ||
| "Honto no Jikan" (ホントの時間Honto no JikanJapanese) | |||
| "Mama no Dress" (ママのドレスMama no DressJapanese) | |||
| "Kawa wa Nagareru" (川は流れるKawa wa NagareruJapanese) | |||
| 2020 | "Sonna Koto Nai yo" | "Sonna Koto Nai Yo" (ソンナコトナイヨSonna Koto Nai YoJapanese) | |
| "Seishun no Uma" (青春の馬Seishun no UmaJapanese) | |||
| "Suki to Iu Koto wa..." (好きということは...Suki to Iu Koto wa...Japanese) | |||
| "Mado o Hirakenakute mo" (窓を開けなくてもMado o Hirakenakute moJapanese) | |||
| 2021 | "Kimi Shika Katan" | "Kimi Shika Katan" (君しか勝たんKimi Shika KatanJapanese) | |
| "Koe no Ashiato" (声の足跡Koe no AshiatoJapanese) | |||
| "Dōsuru? Dōsuru? Dōsuru?" (どうする?どうする?どうする?Dōsuru? Dōsuru? Dōsuru?Japanese) | |||
| "Bōdai na Yume ni Oshi Tsubusarete" (膨大な夢に押し潰されてBōdai na Yume ni Oshi TsubusareteJapanese) | |||
| "Tteka" | "Tteka" (ってかTtekaJapanese) | ||
| "Nando de mo Nando de mo" (何度でも何度でもNando de mo Nando de moJapanese) | |||
| "Omoigakenai Double Rainbow" (思いがけないダブルレインボーOmoigakenai Double RainbowJapanese) | |||
| "Additional Time" (アディショナルタイムAdditional TimeJapanese) | |||
| 2022 | "Boku Nanka" | "Boku Nanka" (僕なんかBoku NankaJapanese) | |
| "Hikōkigumo ga Dekiru Riyū" (飛行機雲ができる理由Hikōkigumo ga Dekiru RiyūJapanese) | |||
| "Mayonaka no Zange Taikai" (真夜中の懺悔大会Mayonaka no Zange TaikaiJapanese) | |||
| "Shiranai Uchi ni Aisareteita" (知らないうちに愛されていたShiranai Uchi ni AisareteitaJapanese) | |||
| "Tsuki to Hoshi ga Odoru Midnight" | "Tsuki to Hoshi ga Odoru Midnight" (月と星が踊るMidnightTsuki to Hoshi ga Odoru MidnightJapanese) | Center | |
| "Hey! Ohisama!" (HEY!OHISAMA!Hey! Ohisama!Japanese) | Center | ||
| "Kodoku na Shunkan" (孤独な瞬間Kodoku na ShunkanJapanese) | Solo | ||
| "Isshōichido no Natsu" (一生一度の夏Isshōichido no NatsuJapanese) | Center | ||
| 2023 | "One Choice" | "One Choice" | |
| "Koi wa Nigeashi ga Hayai" (恋は逃げ足が早いKoi wa Nigeashi ga HayaiJapanese) | |||
| "Tomo yo Ichiban Boshi da" (友よ 一番星だTomo yo Ichiban Boshi daJapanese) | |||
| "Ai wa Kocchi no Mono da" (愛はこっちのものだAi wa Kocchi no Mono daJapanese) | |||
| "Am I Ready?" | "Am I Ready?" | ||
| "Sesshoku to Kanjō" (接触と感情Sesshoku to KanjōJapanese) | |||
| "Glass Mado ga Yogoreteru" (ガラス窓が汚れてるGlass Mado ga YogoreteruJapanese) | |||
| "Honegumi Darake no Natsuyasumi" (骨組みだらけの夏休みHonegumi Darake no NatsuyasumiJapanese) |
The songs listed below are from Hinatazaka46 albums and were not included in any of the above singles:
| Year | Album | Song | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Hinatazaka | "Azato Kawaii" (アザトカワイイAzato KawaiiJapanese) | |
| "Dare Yori mo Takaku Tobe! 2020" (誰よりも高く跳べ! 2020Dare Yori mo Takaku Tobe! 2020Japanese) | |||
| "Hinatazaka" (ひなたざかHinatazakaJapanese) | |||
| "NO WAR in the future 2020" | Center | ||
| "Tada Gamushara ni" (ただがむしゃらにTada Gamushara niJapanese) | |||
| "Dōshite Ame da to Ittan Darō?" (どうして雨だと言ったんだろう?Dōshite Ame da to Ittan Darō?Japanese) | |||
| "My Fans" | |||
| "Yakusoku no Tamago 2020" (約束の卵 2020Yakusoku no Tamago 2020Japanese) | |||
| 2023 | Myaku Utsu Kanjō | "Kimi wa 0 kara 1 ni Nare" (君は0から1になれKimi wa 0 kara 1 ni NareJapanese) | |
| "Saisho no Byakuya" (最初の白夜Saisho no ByakuyaJapanese) |
Saitō has also appeared in various video albums featuring Hinatazaka46's live performances and music videos. These include:
- Hinatazaka46 3rd Anniversary Memorial Live in Tokyo Dome (日向坂46 3周年記念MEMORIAL LIVE ~3回目のひな誕祭~ in 東京ドームHinatazaka46 3-Shunen Kinen Memorial Live ~3-kai-me no Hinatansai~ in Tokyo DomeJapanese) (2022)
- Keyakizaka46 (2016)
- Kyoko Saito / Ayaka Takamoto (2017)
- Group Hattan Kigan no Tabi ~Gunma-hen~ (グループ発展祈願の旅 ~群馬編~Group Hattan Kigan no Tabi ~Gunma-hen~Japanese) (2017)
- Hiragana Keyakizaka46 1st Generation Bonus Footage (けやき坂46 1期生特典映像Hiragana Keyakizaka46 1st Generation Tokuten EizoJapanese) (2018)
- Hiragana Budokan ~Day3 Special Selection~ (ひらがな武道館 ~Day3 Special Selection~Hiragana Budokan ~Day3 Special Selection~Japanese) (2018)
- Hiragana Nationwide Tour 2017 Live & Documentary (ひらがな全国ツアー2017 Live&DocumentaryHiragana Zenkoku Tour 2017 Live&DocumentaryJapanese) (2018)
- KEYABINGO!3 (2018)
- Re:Mind (2018)
- Yui Imaizumi × Kyoko Saito Self-shot TV (今泉佑唯×齊藤京子 自撮りTVImaizumi Yui × Saito Kyoko Jidori TVJapanese) (2018)
- KEYABINGO!4 Hiragana Keyaki tte Nani? (KEYABINGO!4 ひらがなけやきって何?KEYABINGO!4 Hiragana Keyaki tte Nani?Japanese) (2018)
- Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Gaiden (2019)
- Keyakizaka46 Story ~Towards Hinata~ (けやき坂46ストーリー ~ひなたのほうへ~Keyakizaka46 Story ~Hinata no Hou e~Japanese) (2019)
- Stage Zambi (舞台「ザンビ」Butai "Zambi"Japanese) (2019)
- First Time Trying to Freeze Everything and Eat It (はじめて全部凍らせて食べてみたHajimete Zenbu Korasete Tabete MitaJapanese) (2019)
- Hinata no Kyujitsu (ひなたの休日Hinata no KyujitsuJapanese) (2019)
- HINABINGO! (2019)
- HINABINGO!2 (2020)
- Hinatazaka46 Millionaire No.1 Decisive Battle (日向坂46 大富豪No.1決定戦Hinatazaka46 Daifugo No.1 KetteisenJapanese) (2020)
- DASADA (2020)
- Hinatazaka46 Debut Countdown Live!! in Yokohama Arena ~Keyakizaka46 LAST LIVE~ (日向坂46デビューカウントダウンライブ!! in 横浜アリーナ ~けやき坂46 LAST LIVE~Hinatazaka46 Debut Countdown Live!! in Yokohama Arena ~Keyakizaka46 LAST LIVE~Japanese) (2020)
- Hinatazaka46 Debut Countdown Live!! in Yokohama Arena ~Hinatazaka46 FIRST LIVE~ (日向坂46デビューカウントダウンライブ!! in 横浜アリーナ ~日向坂46 FIRST LIVE~Hinatazaka46 Debut Countdown Live!! in Yokohama Arena ~Hinatazaka46 FIRST LIVE~Japanese) (2020)
- 3rd Year Debut (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ "Toshichan to Yukai na Nakamatachi-hen" (~ひらがな推し~「としちゃんと愉快な仲間たち編」~Hiragana Oshi~ "Toshichan to Yukai na Nakamatachi-hen"Japanese) (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ "Kyonko-san, Nani Shiten Desu Ka Hen" (~ひらがな推し~「京子さん、何してんですか編」~Hiragana Oshi~ "Kyonko-san, Nani Shiten Desu Ka Hen"Japanese) (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ "Hinata no Variety Queen Tanjo-hen" (~ひらがな推し~「日向のバラエティ女王誕生編」~Hiragana Oshi~ "Hinata no Variety Queen Tanjo-hen"Japanese) (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ "Pan no Teppo wo Uchimasu yo Hen" (~ひらがな推し~「パンの鉄砲を撃ちますよ編」~Hiragana Oshi~ "Pan no Teppo wo Uchimasu yo Hen"Japanese) (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ "Adana ga Otake ni Narimashita Hen" (~ひらがな推し~「あだ名がおたけになりました編」~Hiragana Oshi~ "Adana ga Otake ni Narimashita Hen"Japanese) (2021)
- Shinjau Kurai, Dakishimete. (死んじゃうくらい、抱きしめて。Shinjau Kurai, Dakishimete.Japanese) (2021)
- Hinata no Natsuyasumi (ひなたの夏休みHinata no NatsuyasumiJapanese) (2021)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ Hatsugatsuo wo Osu Shika Nai Hen (~ひらがな推し~初ガツオを推すしかない編~Hiragana Oshi~ Hatsugatsuo wo Osu Shika Nai HenJapanese) (2022)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ Suki na Hito Iru no? Nibu Da yo Hen (~ひらがな推し~好きな人いるの?ニブだよ編~Hiragana Oshi~ Suki na Hito Iru no? Nibu Da yo HenJapanese) (2022)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ Heavy Little Toos Tanjo Hen (~ひらがな推し~ヘビーリトルトゥース誕生編~Hiragana Oshi~ Heavy Little Toos Tanjo HenJapanese) (2022)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ Saitama to Kasuga ga Unda Dotou no Kibakuzai Hen (~ひらがな推し~埼玉と春日が生んだ怒涛の起爆剤編~Hiragana Oshi~ Saitama to Kasuga ga Unda Dotou no Kibakuzai HenJapanese) (2022)
- ~Hiragana Oshi~ Itsu Demo Doko Demo Henkaku Hen (~ひらがな推し~いつでもどこでも変化球編~Hiragana Oshi~ Itsu Demo Doko Demo Henkaku HenJapanese) (2022)
- Hinata no Bus Trip (ひなたのバス旅Hinata no Bus TripJapanese) (2022)
- Miho Watanabe Graduation Ceremony (渡邉美穂 卒業セレモニーWatanabe Miho Sotsugyo CeremonyJapanese) (2022)
- Hope and Despair (希望と絶望Kibo to ZetsuboJapanese) (2022)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Shiho Kato's BBQ Meetup (~日向坂で会いましょう~加藤史帆のバーベキューで会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kato Shiho no BBQ de AimashoJapanese) (2023)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kumi Sasaki's Baseball Meetup (~日向坂で会いましょう~佐々木久美の野球で会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Sasaki Kumi no Yakyu de AimashoJapanese) (2023)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Miku Kanemura's Audrey Meetup (~日向坂で会いましょう~金村美玖のオードリーに会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kanemura Miku no Audrey ni AimashoJapanese) (2023)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Nao Kosaka's Hit Campaign Meetup (~日向坂で会いましょう~小坂菜緒のヒットキャンペーンで会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kosaka Nao no Hit Campaign de AimashoJapanese) (2023)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Akari Nibu's Team Match Meetup (~日向坂で会いましょう~丹生明里の団体戦で会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Nibu Akari no Dantai-sen de AimashoJapanese) (2023)
- Happy Smile Tour 2022 (2023)
- W-KEYAKI FES. 2022 (2023)
- Hinatazaka46 4th Anniversary Memorial Live ~4th Hinatansai~ in Yokohama Stadium (日向坂46 4周年記念MEMORIAL LIVE ~4回目のひな誕祭~ in 横浜スタジアムHinatazaka46 4-Shunen Kinen Memorial Live ~4-kai-me no Hinatansai~ in Yokohama SutajiamuJapanese) (2023)
- Hinatazaka46 "Happy Train Tour 2023" in Osaka-jo Hall (日向坂46「Happy Train Tour 2023」in 大阪城ホールHinatazaka46 "Happy Train Tour 2023" in Osaka-jo HallJapanese) (2023)
- Hiragana Christmas 2018 & Hinakuri 2019~2022 Complete Box (ひらがなくりすます2018 & ひなくり2019~2022 Complete BoxHiragana Christmas 2018 & Hinakuri 2019~2022 Complete BoxJapanese) (2023)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kyoko Saito's Let's Like Baseball (~日向坂で会いましょう~齊藤京子の野球を好きになりましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Saito Kyoko no Yakyu wo Suki ni NarimashoJapanese) (2024)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Mirei Sasaki's Let's Fish for Ohisama (~日向坂で会いましょう~佐々木美玲のおひさまたちを釣りましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Sasaki Mirei no Ohisama-tachi wo TsurimashoJapanese) (2024)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Hina Kawata's Let's Meet in Autumn (~日向坂で会いましょう~河田陽菜の秋頃に会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kawata Hina no Aki-goro ni AimashoJapanese) (2024)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Konoka Matsuda's Let's Become Little Toos (~日向坂で会いましょう~松田好花のリトルトゥースになりましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Matsuda Konoka no Little Toos ni NarimashoJapanese) (2024)
- ~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Hinano Kamimura's Let's Meet 3rd Generation (~日向坂で会いましょう~上村ひなのの三期生に出会いましょう~Hinatazaka de Aimasho~ Kamimura Hinano no San-kisei ni DeaimashoJapanese) (2024)
5.1.3. Unit and Collaboration Works
Saitō has been part of several musical units and collaborations:
| Year | Single | Song |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | "After You!" |
Saitō also participated in Sakamichi AKB, a special unit featuring members from AKB48 Group and Sakamichi Series.
| Year | Single | Song |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | "Jiwaru Days" | "Hatsukoi Door" (初恋ドアHatsukoi DoorJapanese) |
Beyond these, Saitō has been part of the following units within her group:
- Rimachanchik:** A unit composed of Kyōko Saitō, Sarina Ushio, Shiho Kato, Kumi Sasaki, and Ayaka Takamoto.
- Kizunazu:** A unit featuring Kyōko Saitō, Shiho Kato, and Mirei Sasaki.
- ToshiKyon:** A duo consisting of Kyōko Saitō and Shiho Kato, often referred to as a "strongest combination" and the "backbone of the group" for their role in leading Hinatazaka46.
5.2. Filmography
This section lists Kyōko Saitō's appearances in visual media, including television dramas, films, and variety shows.
5.2.1. Television Series
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Re:Mind | Kyōko Saitō | |
| 2020 | Dasada | Makoto Ogasawara | |
| 2021 | Borderless (ボーダレスBorderlessJapanese) | Kiri Katayama | |
| 2023 | Actress (アクトレスActressJapanese) | Kiri Katayama | |
| Nukarumi no Shokutaku (泥濘の食卓Nukarumi no ShokutakuJapanese) | Mia Nejiki | Lead role | |
| 2024 | Renai Senryaku Kaigi (恋愛戦略会議Renai Senryaku KaigiJapanese) | Akane Mugita | |
| Doraemon Birthday Special: Nobita and the Greek Cake Legend (ドラえもん誕生日スペシャル「のび太とギリシャのケーキ伝説」Doraemon Tanjōbi Special: Nobita to Girisha no Keiki DensetsuJapanese) | Bard | Voice role | |
| Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles | April O'Neil | Japanese dub | |
| 2025 | Sudden Marriage (いきなり婚Ikinari KonJapanese) | Mao Koshiba | Lead role |
| Tokyo Camouflage Hour (トーキョーカモフラージュアワーTokyo Camouflage HourJapanese) | Tanaka | Episode 2 |
5.2.2. Film
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem | April O'Neil | Japanese dub |
| 2025 | #Iwilltellyouthetruth (#真相をお話しします#Shinso wo OhanashishimasuJapanese) | An acquaintance of Kiriyama |
5.2.3. Variety Shows
| Year | Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Keyakizaka46 Ramen Daisuki, Saitō Kyōko Desu (けやき坂46 ラーメン大好き！齊藤京子ですKeyakizaka46 Ramen Daisuki! Saito Kyoko DesuJapanese) | |
| 2021-present | Kyoccorohee (キョコロヒーKyoccoroheeJapanese) | Co-host with Hiccorohee |
5.2.4. Radio Shows
- Imadoki (イマドキッImadokiJapanese) (2019-2020)
- Appare Yattemasu! (アッパレやってまーす!Appare Yattemasu!Japanese) (2020-2024)
5.2.5. Stage
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Ayumi (あゆみAyumiJapanese) | Team Harmonica | |
| 2018 | Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Gaiden (マギアレコード 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ外伝Magia Record: Maho Shojo Madoka Magika GaidenJapanese) | Kyoko Sakura | |
| 2018 | Zambi (ザンビZambiJapanese) | Karen Motomiya | Team "RED" |
| 2019 | Sazae-san (サザエさんSazae-sanJapanese) | Wakame Isono | Shared role with Manatsu Akimoto |
5.3. Bibliography
Kyōko Saitō has released a solo photobook and has been a regular feature in a fashion magazine.
| Title | Release Date | Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| Totteoki no Koibito (とっておきの恋人Totteoki no Koibito (Special Lover)Japanese, photobook) | January 19, 2021 | Shufu to Seikatsu Sha |
Saitō was a regular model for the fashion magazine ar from June 12, 2019, onwards.
6. Solo Concerts and Events
Kyōko Saitō has performed in various solo concerts and participated in significant events throughout her career.
- MTV Live Sessions: Kyoko Saito from Hinatazaka46 (broadcast only, June 5, 2022)
- MTV Unplugged Presents: Kyoko Saito from Hinatazaka46 (Pia Arena MM, May 21, 2023)
- "TOKYO Traffic Safety Campaign" Playball Event (November 30, 2017, Roppongi Hills Arena)
- Tokyo Girls Collection
- 28th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2019 SPRING / SUMMER (March 30, 2019, Yokohama Arena)
- TGC KITAKYUSHU 2019 by TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION (October 5, 2019, West Japan General Exhibition Center New Wing)
- SDGs Promotion TGC Shizuoka 2020 by TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION (January 11, 2020, Twin Messe Shizuoka) - DASADA Stage
- 30th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2020 SPRING / SUMMER (February 29, 2020, Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium)
- 31st Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2020 AUTUMN / WINTER ONLINE (September 5, 2020, online distribution)
- 32nd Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2021 SPRING / SUMMER (February 28, 2021, online distribution)
- 33rd Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2021 AUTUMN / WINTER (September 4, 2021, online distribution)
- 34th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2022 SPRING / SUMMER (March 21, 2022, Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium)
- 35th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2022 AUTUMN / WINTER (September 3, 2022, Saitama Super Arena)
- SDGs Promotion TGC Shizuoka 2023 by TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION (January 14, 2023, Twin Messe Shizuoka)
- 36th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2023 SPRING / SUMMER (March 4, 2023, Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium)
- Ramen Girls Expo in Shizuoka 2019 Opening Ceremony (April 20, 2019, Shizuoka PARCO special area)
- GirlsAward
- Rakuten Girls Award 2019 SPRING / SUMMER (May 18, 2019, Makuhari Messe)
- Rakuten Girls Award 2022 SPRING / SUMMER (May 14, 2022, Makuhari Messe)
- Zambi THE ROOM Last Choice (July 31 - August 11, 2019, Shibuya Hikarie Hikarie Hall)
- Live Kyoccorohee! 2022 Early Summer ~Roppongi Kurumin no Tsudoi~ (May 24, 2022, EX THEATER ROPPONGI)
- Cho Party 2022 (October 15, 2022, Saitama Super Arena)
7. Critical Reception and Impact
Kyōko Saitō has garnered significant attention and positive reception throughout her career, recognized for her diverse talents and engaging public persona.
7.1. Positive Reception
Saitō has received widespread positive evaluations for her versatility as a singer, actress, and model. Her distinct low-pitched voice is often highlighted as a unique asset, earning her the title "Diva of Hinatazaka46." She is praised for her engaging communication with fans, actively responding to requests and sharing diverse content on her official message app and blog. Her dedication to fan service, including sending numerous voice messages and videos, has cultivated a strong and loyal following known as "Kyonkois." Her solo photobook, Totteoki no Koibito, achieved remarkable commercial success, topping Oricon's sales charts and cementing her popularity in the modeling industry. Furthermore, her natural and quirky personality, coupled with her clear speaking style, has made her a highly valued and entertaining presence in variety shows, leading to her co-hosting her own successful program, Kyoccorohee.
7.2. Criticisms and Controversies
While generally well-received, some aspects of Saitō's public persona and early career experiences have been noted for their humorous or challenging nature. She has been described as having a "silly" or "clumsy" side, exemplified by her comical errors in academic tests on variety shows, such as her misunderstanding of the "National Honor Award." Her early attempts at cooking on television were famously disastrous, leading to a memorable on-air chaos that required heavy editing and became a popular blooper, contrasting with her later culinary improvements. Additionally, she has openly expressed her struggle with Oogiri (improvisational comedy), admitting to feeling overwhelmed to the point of nearly crying during such segments. These instances, while not controversies in a serious sense, highlight her human and relatable struggles, often adding to her charm and appeal among fans.
8. External Links
- [https://www.toho-ent.co.jp/actor/96610 Kyōko Saitō profile at Toho Entertainment]
- [https://www.hinatazaka46.com/s/official/artist/6 Kyōko Saitō official blog at Hinatazaka46]
- [https://www.instagram.com/saitokyoko_official/ Kyōko Saitō official Instagram] (2022-present)
- [https://ar-mag.jp/list/talent/%E9%BD%8A%E8%97%A4%E4%BA%AC%E5%AD%90 Kyōko Saitō profile at arweb]
- [https://www.hinatazaka46.com/s/official/page/kyoko1st Hinatazaka46 Kyōko Saitō 1st Photobook "Totteoki no Koibito" official website]
- [https://twitter.com/saito_kyoko95 Kyōko Saitō & Manager official Twitter] (2024-present)
- [https://www.instagram.com/kyoko1st/ Kyōko Saitō 1st Photobook "Totteoki no Koibito" official Instagram] (2020-present)
- [https://twitter.com/kyoko1st Kyōko Saitō 1st Photobook "Totteoki no Koibito" official Twitter] (2020-present)
- [https://www.showroom-live.com/46_KYOKO_SAITO Kyōko Saitō (Hinatazaka46) Showroom]