Japanese cinema has always been fertile ground for nurturing top-tier talent. Alongside established veterans, a new wave of young male actors is making a splash, bringing fresh energy, striking looks, nuanced acting skills, and explosive creativity. These are the “golden boys” of Japanese cinema in 2025, steadily making their mark not only domestically but also on the international stage.
1. Arata Mackenyu
Arata Mackenyu (新田 真剣佑, born 1996) stands out among Japan’s new generation of actors. Born in Los Angeles, USA, he is the son of martial arts legend Sonny Chiba. Exposed to both the arts and martial arts from a young age, Mackenyu quickly made a name for himself in action films like Chihayafuru, Rurouni Kenshin: The Final, Pacific Rim Uprising, and especially as Zoro in Netflix’s live-action One Piece. Not only does he possess striking looks, but Mackenyu also impresses with his versatile acting and spectacular action sequences.
He continues to maintain his momentum with a role in the series House of the Owl (2024), appearances at major international events, and a confirmed return for One Piece season 2 on Netflix. Mackenyu also features in global campaigns such as Polo Ralph Lauren and the MLB World Tour event in Tokyo, demonstrating his appeal beyond the film industry.
2. Yoshizawa Ryo
Yoshizawa Ryo (吉沢 亮, born 1994) is known for his scholarly appearance, deep eyes, and subtle acting. He began his career at age 15 and broke through with his role in Gintama. Other notable works include River’s Edge, Natsuzora, and Ano Ko no, Toriko. Frequently listed among Japan’s most popular male idols, Yoshizawa Ryo is loved for both his looks and talent.
In 2024–2025, Yoshizawa Ryo takes on leading roles in major films such as Kingdom 4: Return of the Great General (2024), Living in Two Worlds (2024), and especially Kokuho (2025)-one of the most anticipated films of 2025. He continues to solidify his status as a top star with prestigious awards and frequent appearances on the big screen.
3. Yokohama Ryusei
Yokohama Ryusei (横浜 流星, born 1996) was once a karate athlete before turning to acting. He gained fame with roles in Your Eyes Tell, Super Sentai, and Hajimete Koi wo Shita Hi ni Yomu Hanashi. Ryusei boasts an ideal height, handsome features, and a radiant smile, consistently ranking among Japan’s most attractive men.
Ryusei makes his mark with new projects such as Shotai (2024), Mimi (2024), The Parades (2024), and notably, a role in Kokuho (2025) alongside Yoshizawa Ryo. He also stars in Kataomoi Sekai (2025), continuing to be a key figure in major film projects and is expected to explode in popularity in 2025.
4. Yamazaki Kento
Dubbed the “live-action prince,” Yamazaki Kento (山﨑 賢人, born 1994) is famous for starring in manga adaptations such as Orange, Your Lie in April, Death Note, and Alice in Borderland. Kento is hugely popular among Asian youth thanks to his idol-worthy looks, emotive acting, and versatile style.
He continues to shine with lead roles in Golden Kamuy (2024)-a box office hit in Japan-and other notable films like KINGDOM 4: Return of The Great General (2024), Onmyoji 0 (2024), and the upcoming Under Ninja (2025). He also made international waves as the first Japanese actor to win the “Best from the East” award at the New York Asian Film Festival 2024 and serves as a global ambassador for major brands like Saint Laurent and HUBLOT. Alice in Borderland season 3 is also in production, promising another Netflix sensation.
5. Maeda Gordon
Maeda Gordon (前田 ゴードン, born 2000) is a rising young actor known for his student roles in films like Drifting Dragons and 12 Suicidal Teens. With striking mixed-race features and a youthful, energetic style, he is a promising face in Japanese cinema. In 2024, he took on a pivotal role as Mizuno Haruto in the Fuji TV drama series 366 Nichi, a moving romance inspired by the hit song “366 Days,” further showcasing his versatility on television.
Maeda Gordon also takes center stage in the live-action adaptation of Blue Period-the acclaimed manga and anime about art-set for release on August 9, 2024. This project is expected to become a new phenomenon, propelling Gordon into the ranks of the most sought-after young actors of 2025.
6. Taishi Nakagawa
Taishi Nakagawa (中川 大志, born 1998) is beloved for his “school prince” image, having starred in Your Lie in April, Kira’s Today, and Minami-kun no Koibito. He boasts a bright appearance, gentle smile, and versatile acting skills spanning school dramas to psychological films.
7. Hagiwara Riku
Hagiwara Riku (萩原 利久, born 1999) is a talented young actor known for roles in Mr. Hiiragi’s Homeroom, 12 Suicidal Teens, and Every Precious Moment – a drama that achieved an impressive rating of 9.0/2,272 on Viki. He is highly regarded for his natural, emotional acting and likable appearance. Hagiwara Riku continues to solidify his status as a promising young actor by taking the lead role in the film She Taught Me Serendipity, set for release in April 2025.
8. Takeuchi Ryoma
Takeuchi Ryoma (竹内 涼真, born 1993) rose to fame with the lead role in Kamen Rider Drive, featuring a masculine face, ideal height, and radiant smile. He has also appeared in many popular TV dramas and is a familiar face in fashion magazines.
9. Sota Fukushi
Sota Fukushi (福士 蒼汰, born 1993) is known for his roles in Kamen Rider Fourze, Strobe Edge, and Bleach. With handsome looks and a youthful aura, he is one of Japan’s most beloved male actors.
10. Sakaguchi Kentaro
Sakaguchi Kentaro (坂口 健太郎, born 1991) began as a model before transitioning to acting, succeeding in films like Your Eyes Tell and Heroine Shikkaku. He has a romantic, cool yet approachable appearance and is the ideal type for many female fans.
These 10 faces not only possess outstanding looks but also genuine acting talent, contributing to the appeal of modern Japanese cinema. They are exemplary representatives of the young generation of actors, constantly innovating and inspiring audiences both at home and abroad.
