A new permanent tourist entertainment facility has opened in Nagoya's Sakae district. WORLD IDOL REPUBLIC in NAGOYA SAKAE, operated by NDP Co., Ltd. (Representative Director: Seiji Taniguchi), held its grand opening on August 8, 2026. The opening performance featured an approximately 60-minute stage blending illusion, traditional performing arts, and live music, and introduced the facility's main character, Sakura, alongside the cast, drawing big applause. From today, August 11 (Tuesday, holiday) through August 16 (Sunday), the venue is holding its "Obon Special Performance," with two performances a day.
Opening Report
The roughly 60-minute spectacle stage, built around the concept of "a place to experience a dream, not just watch one," combined a dramatic illusion show, colorful traditional performing arts, and a live segment that brought the whole venue together. The performances drew loud applause and cheers from the audience.
The biggest cheers came during the climax of an aerial-levitation illusion, in which a performer appeared to float in mid-air. The show has drawn a wide range of visitors — from local Nagoya residents to guests from outside the prefecture and families — as an indoor tourism entertainment option. The stage also featured dance in traditional Japanese dress, performances with fans, and powerful taiko drumming, presenting the appeal of Japanese culture through a contemporary show.
Stage Highlights
A stage where traditional performing arts and live performance come together in a way not seen elsewhere.
Main Character Debut
The opening performance also marked the debut of Sakura, the main character of WORLD IDOL REPUBLIC. Dressed in a pink costume inspired by cherry blossoms and featuring large ears, Sakura appeared on stage alongside the cast, drawing attention from children and fans and adding to the excitement.
Sakura will continue to serve as the main character of WORLD IDOL REPUBLIC, conveying the appeal of the facility and its stage shows. As a new symbol connecting the cast and visitors, Sakura will help deliver dreams and excitement from Nagoya Sakae going forward.
Comments
At the venue, parents and children could be seen reacting with surprise to the illusions, and audiences stayed focused throughout the roughly 60-minute show. After the performance, visitors gathered to take commemorative photos with Sakura and the cast.
Comment from Representative Director Taniguchi
"Our goal isn't simply to open a facility — it's to build a cycle in which our cast and young performers can take on challenges, and our guests can leave with energy and a sense of being moved. My role is to work behind the scenes to help people shine, and to build an environment where the next stars and a new culture can grow from this place. Taking the applause from the opening performance as a new starting point, and with the phrase 'Sightseeing by day, moved by night' as our motto, we will work with the local community to send an entertainment culture that lasts 100 years from Nagoya out into the world."
Comment from a Cast Representative
"Standing on stage for the opening performance and feeling the audience's smiles, cheers, and warm applause up close made me truly happy. This show, which brings together illusion, traditional performing arts, and live performance, is a new challenge for us every time as well. From children to adults, we want to keep refining a stage where the audience doesn't just watch, but gets to be surprised, laugh, and feel moved together with us. We'll give our all to deliver these 60 minutes, which you can only experience here, at the Obon Special Performance starting August 11. Please come experience this dream with us in Nagoya Sakae!"
Event Information
"Obon Special Performance," August 11–16
Carrying the energy of the opening performance forward, WORLD IDOL REPUBLIC is holding its "Obon Special Performance" from today, August 11 (Tuesday, holiday), through August 16 (Sunday). The roughly 60-minute show combines illusion, traditional performing arts, and live performance, giving those who missed the opening a chance to experience it.
Visitors are invited to enjoy this "more than just watching" entertainment experience with family and friends in Nagoya Sakae.
Facility and Ticket Information
Tickets and details: https://livepocket.jp/p/zqei-
