Sayaka Akimoto, Ayaka Umeda Joined Sakura Lighting Up Event in Yokohama

  March 31, 2012

On 30th Mar, the opening ceremony for this year’s Sakura Lighting Up was held in Sakura Street, Yokohama city.

The ceremony had special guests, Sayaka Akimoto, Ayaka Umeda from AKB48, both were in beautiful Sakura-themed Kimono. They played a important role of turning on the switch of lights after chants of Countdown.

Asked again about her thought on Atsuko Maeda, Sayaka Umeda said, “Warm cheers from fans stick with my mind.” “Some day, when I graduate, I hope I could have such cheer.”

Sayaka Akimoto, who are seen to have potential to be one of main figures of the group, said “I want to support her gently.” “It’s not that AKB48 will end as Atsuko leaves. We have to work hard. Also, I am really looking forward to seeing new talents coming up.”

After someone said she can be a center, Akimoto reacted “Me!!?? If there’s a chance, I take it anytime!” “But does that change the image of AKB48??” In the end, as a member of AKB, she knows the proper balance between competitiveness and teamwork.

photo: Nikkan Sports