Tsubaki Factory
Tsubaki Factory (つばきファクトリー) is a Japanese pop girl group, managed by Up-Front Promotion and part of Hello! Project.
Members
- Ogata Risa (小片リサ)
- Yamagishi Riko (山岸理子)
- Niinuma Kisora (新沼希空)
- Tanimoto Ami (谷本安美)
- Kishimoto Yumeno (岸本ゆめの)
- Asakura Kiki (浅倉樹々)
History
Tsubaki Factory was unveiled on April 28, 2015 through various news articles, and later a special page on the official Hello! Project website. It was revealed that former Berryz Kobo member and Captain, Shimizu Saki, helped in the choosing of both the members and the name of the group while acting in her new role as Hello! Project Advisor. The lineup was announced consisting of only Hello! Pro Kenshuusei trainees, including Ogata Risa, Yamagishi Riko, Niinuma Kisora, Tanimoto Ami, Kishimoto Yumeno, and Asakura Kiki.
The name Tsubaki Factory holds several meanings, most of which surround the Camellia tree blossom. The name originates from three kanji used in the past; Tsu (強; strong), Ba (葉; leaves), Ki (木; tree), while in floriography the blossom also holds the meanings of pride, gentleness, and charm. Historically it was believed that the Tsubaki was a holy plant, as it seemed the leaves continued to grow greener during the winter while most other plants withered away for the season. "Factory", similar to fellow Hello! Project group Kobushi Factory, represents the carrying on of the spirit of senior group Berryz Kobo after entering their indefinite hiatus. Following these various meanings the hope is for them to grow into a group that emobides nobility, elegance, and evergreen.
