In Japanese showbiz, the boundary between J-pop idols and the adult video (AV) industry is not always clear-cut. Several Japanese entertainers—singers, models, and television actors—have chosen to shift their careers into adult films. Their decisions have sparked both controversy and fascination from audiences.
Below are some of the most notable names—former idols who later became AV stars—who once had a presence in mainstream entertainment before stepping into the JAV industry.
Inoue Rikako
Inoue Rikako (born 1996) was a former member of the idol group Fairies, debuting in 2011 under Avex. With her bright looks, radiant smile, and 165 cm height, she served as the group’s main vocalist and often stood at the center.
During her time as an idol, Rikako frequently appeared on major television programs such as Music Japan (NHK), Hey! Hey! Hey! Music Champ (Fuji TV), Music Dragon (NTV), and year-end specials on TV Asahi and TBS.
After Fairies disbanded, Rikako made a surprising return in 2025 under the stage name Yotsuha Kominato, officially joining the Japanese adult video industry. Her career path exemplifies the trend of Japanese idols transitioning into AV after leaving the idol scene.
Mihiro
Mihiro (Japanese: 谷口みひろ, Hepburn: Taniguchi Mihiro, real name: Hiromi Yamase 山瀬ひろみ) (born 1982) began her AV career in 2005 with Alice Japan. Standing 155 cm tall, she gained popularity for her youthful appearance, fresh charm, and approachable aura.
Mihiro’s career, however, was not limited to adult films. She appeared in several mainstream dramas, including Tokumei Kakarichō Tadano Hitoshi (TV Asahi) and 2nd House (TV Tokyo), and was a regular guest on popular variety shows like London Hearts and Quiz! Hexagon II.
She represents a clear example of crossover between mainstream Japanese entertainment and the adult industry, showing how diverse career paths can be for Japanese actresses.
Yua Mikami
Yua Mikami (real name Kito Momona, born 1993) is one of the most prominent AV actresses of the modern era. Before her debut in adult films in 2015, she was a member of the idol group SKE48, under Avex.
As an idol, Yua regularly appeared on major music programs such as Music Japan (NHK), Music Station (TV Asahi), and other idol-focused shows.
After shifting into adult entertainment, she quickly rose to stardom, becoming one of the most recognizable faces of the new generation of JAV actresses. Yua Mikami is often cited as the prime example of a J-pop idol transitioning into AV.
Akiho Yoshizawa
Akiho Yoshizawa (born 1984) started her career as a gravure model in 2002. With her 161 cm height, balanced figure, and a gentle yet alluring look, she soon gained attention.
In 2003, Akiho entered the adult video industry, becoming one of the most prominent AV actresses of her time. She later joined the TV idol group Ebisu Muscats (2008–2013), frequently appearing on TV Tokyo’s program Onegai! Muscat.
Yoshizawa managed to bridge both worlds—working as a television idol while simultaneously being a leading name in AV, participating in singing, variety shows, and adult films.
Other Idols
Several other former idols from AKB48 and related groups also transitioned into the AV industry, such as Kito Momona, Yonezawa Rumi, and Nakanishi Rina. All of them once performed on music stages and appeared regularly on television before choosing new paths in adult entertainment.
These artists highlight a distinctive aspect of the Japanese entertainment industry: the fluid movement between mainstream television and the adult film industry. There are also JAV actresses who have transitioned into other artistic fields such as music, acting, or media, and although often controversial, this crossover has left a lasting impact, illustrating how AV has become an inseparable part of Japan’s broader pop culture landscape.
