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| “Game Set”: Kawakami Chihiro Announces Graduation from NMB48 |
It’s the end of an era, fam — Kawakami Chihiro, better known to the fans as Chihhii (ちっひー), has officially announced her graduation from NMB48. The news dropped during Team N’s Nship stage on 6 June, where she stood centre stage and calmly delivered her farewell speech. With that trademark Kansai sparkle in her voice and a touch of cheeky grace, Chihhii said she’s ready to call “game set” on her idol journey.
A Proper Osaka OG
Chihiro joined the group way back in December 2012 as a fresh-faced 14-year-old kenkyuusei, part of NMB48’s 4th Generation. Since then, she’s moved around teams like a seasoned pro — Team BII, Team M, and most recently back to Team N in 2023. Oh, and let’s not forget she served as Captain of Team N from 2019 until the role got sunsetted in 2021. Big shoes, and she wore ‘em well.
At 26, she’s spent literally half her life as an idol. That’s not just dedication — that’s legacy material.
“I’ve Done It All as NMB48’s Chihhii”
In her speech, Chihhii opened up about the ups and downs of her 13-year career, the moments where she thought about leaving, and the dreams that kept her going. But now, she reckons she’s ticked every box she ever had as an NMB48 member.
“There were times I thought about graduating, but every time, I felt like I could go even further — because of all of you. I’ve seen so many incredible views over these 13 years, together.”
She added that she now feels she’s “done it all” as Chihhii from NMB48, and it’s time to move forward with her next dream — acting.
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What’s Next?
Don’t worry, this ain’t goodbye just yet. Chihhii said she plans to stick around until the end of 2025, giving fans one last round of memories to cherish. She’s also fully committed to attending all Chuu Strike! events — meaning there’s still plenty of chances to cheer her on before the final curtain call.
After graduation, she’s planning to focus on acting and multi-faceted entertainment work. Basically, she’s not disappearing — just changing lanes.
The 4th Gen Legend
If you’ve followed NMB48 through the years, you know Chihhii’s been one of the most solid, quietly iconic members around. While she never ranked in the big AKB48 elections (save for a sneaky #113 spot in the 10th), she was crowned #1 in NMB48’s own senbatsu election — a proper nod from the hometown crowd.
She’s also known for her cheeky love for Hanshin Tigers 🐯, her deep Kansai vibes, and her ability to hold her own on variety shows without ever needing to shout. A true “実況虫” (live-comment bug) in her own right — fans even borrowed her iconic “好きだ虫” line in tribute.
So here’s to you, Chihhii. From 14-year-old kenkyuusei to the top of Team N, you’ve done Osaka proud. One last half-year to go — let’s make it count.