KIINA. – Illuminating Human Rights for All Through Their Inspiring Voice and Melodies.

The popular Japanese singer Kiyoshi Hikawa has made a profound impact on Japan’s entertainment industry and society as a whole. Born in Fukuoka in 1977, the performer (who prefers the pronouns ‘they’ and ‘their’) is celebrated for their contributions to the traditional Japanese music genre of enka, and in fact has often been called the “Prince of Enka.”

Despite the genre’s waning popularity, they have been instrumental in its revival, especially
among younger audiences.

Known for a dynamic stage presence and for displaying versatility in other popular music genres, such as rock and anime theme songs (for example, the second opening theme for the popular anime Dragon Ball Super), Mx. Hikawa’s career is marked by numerous accolades. Honors include achieving the number-one spot in Japan’s domestic music rankings and the prestigious Japan Record Award. Their ability to blend traditional and modern elements in their music and personal style has made them a unique and influential figure in Japan’s cultural landscape.

But Mx. Hikawa’s influence has importantly reached beyond music.

Having faced years of bullying and internal struggle over issues of sexual identity, in 2020, they made headlines by embracing a “genderless” identity, challenging traditional gender norms in Japan. This move was well-received by fans and celebrated as a step toward greater acceptance and diversity in Japanese society, and it has given birth to a new performing identity called “KIINA.”.

Before emerging under this new name, they took nearly two years off to reflect upon and refresh their life and artistic vision, to connect with people far and wide and engage in dialogue, to reconnect with nature, and, importantly, to continue creating new music. And then, on August 17, fans enthusiastically welcomed KIINA. to the stage at the Garden Theater, in Tokyo’s Koto Ward.

Appearing with a short-bobbed haircut and a black glittery tailcoat, KIINA. performed “Limit Break x Survivor” in skinny pants and heels, as well as “Kiyoshi no Zundoko Bushi” in a white tailcoat, the performer commented, “I’m not sealing away the Hikawa Kiyoshi I’ve been until now, nor am I reborn as KIINA., it’s all me.”

From September, the performer will embark on a national theater concert tour. During the 20-month break, they created a production called KIIZNA (Bond) and traveled internationally, enjoying everyday life and meeting people all over, including London, and such U.S. locations as California, Nevada, and Florida. In Guam, KIINA. so inspired audiences that the Governor, Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero, wrote to thank the performer “for all you do as a symbol of diversity, hope and imagination to many people in Japan and throughout the world.”

While visiting Los Angeles last year, KIINA. met several times with jazz maestro, and ICAP president, Herbie Hancock. The two spoke frankly about KIINA.’s career and life story, and Mr. Hancock told the performer,

“I read about your experiences and was deeply moved. You’ve shown great courage in your fight for human rights and the eradication of injustice. Your mission is to inspire everyone through the power of the melodies your voice and humanity create, including for those who are forgotten and suffering.”

KIINA. expressed a passionate determination to embody Herbie Hancock’s encouragement and continue to inspire others, as evidenced by the performer’s opening remarks upon returning to the stage at the Garden Theater. (The concert had been postponed for one day because of a typhoon.):

“This important day marks a new start in life. While it is sad that we had to reschedule yesterday’s concert, I believe it has happened for a meaningful reason . . . I am filled with
deep gratitude. It is because of the heartfelt support of each and every one of you that the curtain here at the Garden Theater opened safely. We are truly connected by an eternal, deep bond.”

Here are two songs from this show (with permission of KIINA.).

Walk — KIINA.

Limit Break X Survivor — KIINA.