In Akihabara, long known for its stock of lolicon (Lolita Complex) and “little sister” movies and magazines, the number of shops advertising idol DVDs marked U-15 (under-15) has quietly increased. The neologism fell out of favor and was replaced by “junior idol,” which shifts the emphasis from childhood and links the phenomenon with legitimate up-and-coming idols. This trend began in the ’90s, when columnist Akio Nakamori coined the term 'chidol,' or child idol, to describe the sudden increase of young models. There are countless websites (such as Pure Little Sister Club) and a syndicated magazine (Moecco) catering to fans. The idol industry in Japan in general is estimated at 60 billion yen annually, and junior idols shift some 3 million photo books and DVDs per year. But the way scantily clad kids blow on flutes and lick ice cream cones in front of the camera has raised eyebrows at home and abroad.

Insofar as the models do not expose their breasts or genitals, this is not against the law. As abhorrent as it may sound, children as young as 2 who are billed as “junior idols” release photo books and DVDs. Mana is a “low teen” pursuing a career as a model. As the cameras zoom in, she strips down to her bikini, which drapes on her under-developed form. Led on by the MC, the 50 or so middle-aged men call out in unison: “Mana-chan!” After two more calls, she appears-a girl of 13, looking dazed and sheepish. The crowd in the Ishimaru Soft event space in Akihabara sits anxiously awaiting the arrival of an idol, whose most recent DVD they purchased for the right to meet her.

Candydoll Amy N Torrent