Sakurazaka46 Sets a Sakamichi First with Double-Center Announcement

Sakurazaka46, one of Japan's leading idol groups under the Sakamichi umbrella, dropped a major announcement in the early hours of May 18, 2026: the formation for 'Lonesome rabbit,' the second A-side of their 15th single. The reveal confirmed Morita Hikaru as center — meaning she will front both tracks of the double A-side release, a feat that has never happened before across any Sakamichi group. The 15th single, titled 'Lonesome rabbit / What's "KAZOKU"?'

, is itself a historic release as the first double A-side single in Sakamichi history. The formation for 'What's "KAZOKU"?' had already been announced, with Morita Hikaru named center and all 2nd- and 3rd-generation members included in the selection.

Tonight's reveal locked in the same center for the companion track, completing the unprecedented double. Equally celebrated was the news that Kojima Nagisa and Nakagawa Chihiro have earned their first-ever selection spots. Kojima Nagisa, a 3rd-generation member, had been a fan favorite waiting for this moment for roughly two years.

Reactions on X ranged from tearful congratulations to declarations of lifelong support — the kind of emotional outpouring that defines idol fandom milestones. Behind the camera, the MV for 'Lonesome rabbit' is directed by Uchiyama Misaki, with choreography by hinaco — who last collaborated with Sakurazaka46 on 'Memories of Light 100%' approximately two years ago. hinaco posted on X that the MV contains 'everything we challenged ourselves with,' raising anticipation for the full release.

What to watch next: The single's release will be accompanied by an online meet-and-greet event for fans. MV premieres for both A-sides are expected, and the full choreography from hinaco will be a key talking point when the video drops. With two historic firsts in one announcement, this single cycle is shaping up to be a landmark moment for Sakurazaka46.