Kumi Koda: Around $3.5 million or approximately ¥507.8 million
Koda Kumi, the iconic diva of the Heisei era, is a well-known name across Japan. Admired for her bold fashion and captivating stage presence, she continues to be a trendsetter among the youth. Her sexy outfits and dynamic performances constantly draw attention, while many teenagers look up to her unique style.
The colored contact lenses she produces have become a long-standing hit, remaining popular for nearly a decade. Though now married with children and not as active as she once was, she still stays in the spotlight. In her song "My Fun," her kids join in the chorus, revealing a more personal and heartwarming side of the artist.
Yoshihiro Akiyama: Estimated at $4 million or approximately ¥580 million
Sung Hoon Akiyama has become Asia's most recognized mixed martial artist. Originally a judo athlete, he continues to compete in ONE Championship even at 45 years old. Known for his strong personality, Akiyama has expanded his career into entertainment.
He began acting in 2010 with a role in the Korean drama Athena: Goddess of War and has since appeared in films and music videos. Now, he's part of a celebrity family alongside his wife, SHIHO, and their daughter, Sarang.
Ayumi Hamasaki: Estimated at $70 million or approximately ¥10.15 billion
In the late '90s, Ayumi Hamasaki was a powerful icon for high school girls, and her influence remains strong today with over 1.35 million Instagram followers. Known for being open about her relationships and maintaining a distinct personal style, Ayu continues to be a standout figure.
Despite currently expecting her second child, she still gives energetic live performances, inspiring loyal support from fans. Now in her 40s, she's showing no signs of slowing down and appears to be steadily moving toward her goal of becoming the “Madonna” she has long aspired to be.
Momoe Yamaguchi: Estimated at $8 million or approximately ¥1.16 billion
Momoe Yamaguchi stepped away from the spotlight after marrying Tomokazu Miura, her co-star in numerous films, dramas, and commercials during the 1970s, where they were known as a golden couple. Even though she retired gracefully over 40 years ago, her name remains well-known.
This lasting recognition may be due to many artists continuing to cover her songs. While Momoe herself prefers to keep a low profile away from the entertainment world, her talent and appeal clearly remain unforgettable to the public.
Toru Furuya: Earnings range in the tens of millions
Toru Furuya has been a leading voice actor for more than five decades, beginning with his role as Hikaru Hoshi in the 1968 anime Star of the Giants. Though he is now a grandfather in his personal life, he remains active in the industry, taking on numerous roles.
In 2021, he voiced the character Aus in the Saudi Arabia-Japan co-produced anime film Journey. Beyond voice acting, he also works as a narrator for various shows and commercials. Fans look forward to enjoying his distinctive voice for many years ahead.
Hiroshi Tamaki: Earnings exceeding several million dollars
Hiroshi Tamaki is a charming actor renowned for his exceptional performances in dramas. Since his breakout role in Water Boys two decades ago, he has grown into a widely popular actor, starring in numerous films and TV series.
He’s also been a familiar face in commercials, serving as the longtime advertising ambassador for Nagatanien for 19 years—so much so that when people think of ochazuke, he immediately comes to mind. Tamaki has appeared in both historical and contemporary dramas, and in 2021, he portrayed Kitagawa Utamaro in the film HOKUSAI.
Kana Nishino: Estimated at around $20 million, which is approximately ¥2 billion
Kana Nishino is widely regarded as a voice for today’s youth. She pens most of her own lyrics, capturing the emotions of young girls and the small moments of daily life, resonating deeply with her audience. Her appeal goes beyond Japan, with her live concerts even streamed in movie theaters across Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Though she is currently on a break, many look forward to experiencing her music from a fresh perspective once she gets married and becomes a mother.
Satomi Ishihara: Approximately $8 million or approximately ¥1.16 billion
Satomi Ishihara, a recipient of multiple awards including the Japan Academy Prize, stands as one of Japan’s top actresses today. While her playful expressions in dramas and commercials are endearing, she is equally respected for her powerful performances in films and stage plays.
A passionate traveler, Ishihara’s genuine personality shines through in the popular series Suppon Tabi, where she journeys across Africa and Europe. She married at the end of 2020, leaving fans feeling a bit of a “Satomi loss,” but there’s no doubt she will continue to reveal new sides of herself in the years ahead.
Yu Darvish: Estimated at $70 million or approximately ¥10.15 billion
Yu Darvish is a standout talent in Major League Baseball and frequently draws attention online for both his outspoken comments and luxurious lifestyle. Off the field, he is a father to six children—two sons with his ex-wife Saeko, one son from a previous relationship with Seiko, and two sons and a daughter with Saeko.
With this being his first daughter, it’s easy to imagine how affectionate he’ll be. In late 2020, he was traded to the San Diego Padres, and fans are eager to see what he'll achieve in this next chapter of his career.
Haruma Miura: Eestimated between $2.5 million and $5 million, or approximately ¥250 million to ¥500 million
Haruma Miura’s sudden passing still feels unreal to many. He began his acting journey at just seven years old in the morning drama Aguri, quickly making a name for himself as a gifted child actor. From that point on, he remained at the forefront of film, television, and theater.
Known for his dedication, Miura tackled each role with full commitment—whether performing wire stunts without a double or physically transforming himself to portray a drag queen on stage. His passion and talent left a lasting impact, and he will forever be remembered in our hearts.
Shinichi Hatori: Estimated to have earned several million dollars
Shinichi Hatori is a freelance announcer who gained widespread attention after leaving Nippon Television in 2011 and quickly becoming the face of TV Asahi’s morning news. It was highly unusual at the time for a newly independent announcer to transition so seamlessly to a rival network, highlighting both his strong skills and popularity.
His main show, Morning Bird, has become a staple in morning television, consistently earning the top ratings in its time slot.
Yusaku Maezawa: Estimated wealth of $1.5 billion or approximately ¥217.5 billion
Yusaku Maezawa is the driving force behind Japan's largest online fashion retailer and has quickly risen as a pioneer of a new generation in business. By May 2020, his wealth had reportedly surpassed 319 billion yen—a staggering figure.
Although he reportedly lost 4.4 billion yen in the stock market during the COVID-19 pandemic, it likely had little impact on his overall fortune. Maezawa is also recognized for his philanthropy, having received the prestigious Dark Blue Ribbon Medal multiple times, an honor awarded to individuals who donate over 5 million yen.
Yasushi Akimoto: $9 million or approximately ¥1.3 billion.
Yasushi Akimoto is more than just an idol producer—he's a trendsetter whose influence has sparked social phenomena. His remarkable success has made the role of "idol producer" so influential that it even inspired its own game genre.
The AKB48 franchise, which he created, has grown into a global sensation, achieving major success in places like Thailand, Indonesia, Shanghai, Taiwan, and beyond. Hearing “Koi Suru Fortune Cookie” performed in different languages adds an extra layer of fun to his international impact.
Yoko Minamino: Estimated net worth of around $5 million, or approximately ¥790 million
Yoko Minamino began her acting career in the 1985 stage production of Little Women. She quickly became a favorite among high school boys as a magazine model. Her fame extended beyond Japan, even inspiring a commemorative stamp in Granada.
Her acclaimed role in the 1992 film Winter Camellia earned her the Japan Academy Award. Since then, she has built a strong reputation as a leading actress, known especially for her convincing portrayals of career women.
Yuki Saito: Estimated net worth $18 million or approximately ¥2.61 billion
Yuki Saito is also praised for her comedic talent. While she often starred as the lead in youth dramas early in her career, she now takes on roles such as grandmothers, bringing warmth and charm to these parts. In 2021, she portrayed the mother of the main character in the film Kodomo wa Wakara Agenai.
Alongside acting, she remains active as a singer, marking her 35th anniversary since debut with a special album release and a live tour in 2021.
Dean Fujioka: Estimated net worth of about $2 million or approximately ¥290.14 million
Dean Fujioka is known for his captivating, melancholic gaze. He is one of the few actors to gain popularity first in Hong Kong and Taiwan before making a name for himself in Japan.
Beyond acting, he works as a rapper, DJ, and singer-songwriter, gaining international recognition—especially for performing the globally acclaimed opening theme of the anime Yuri!!! on Ice. In 2021, he ventured into voice acting for the first time in the anime film Fura Fura Dance.
Masato Sakai: Worth several million dollars
Though Masato Sakai usually wears a warm smile and has a gentle nature, he frequently portrays intense, serious characters. He perfectly captures how a kind person can become frightening when angered.
His charming smile makes him a favorite for many commercials. Now married to Miho Kanno and a father of two, he also attracts attention for being a devoted parent.
Naoko Kawai: Estimated net worth of around $1.2 million or approximately ¥174.13 million
Naoko Kawai now resides in Australia with her husband, a hair and makeup artist, and their daughter. Although she stepped away from the entertainment industry in 1997, her popularity endures.
A photobook originally released during her idol days has been reprinted in recent years and has now reached its seventh edition. Kawai still writes music and lyrics, so once her parenting duties ease, we may once again get to see her graceful presence and hear her beautiful voice.
Toshihiko Tahara: Estimated at $2.4 million or approximately ¥348.2 million
Toshihiko Tahara was easily the standout star of the Tanokin Trio, winning over girls across Japan with his good looks and slick dance moves. A true icon of the Showa era, he even carried the torch at the Los Angeles Olympics and was dubbed the “Japanese Michael Jackson.”
It’s hard to say if today’s generation fully grasps how remarkable he was. Even now, his popularity hasn’t faded—his concert tickets still sell out in no time.
Yoshio Nomura: $2 million or approximately ¥290.18 million
Yoshio Nomura is recognized as one of Japan’s top guitarists. He’s well-known for performing in the backing bands of artists like Kyoko Koizumi and Ayumi Hamasaki. In addition to supporting others, he actively performs in bands and live shows with a variety of musicians.
He had a long musical partnership with his childhood friend Hideki Watanabe, forming groups such as Mikiya Nomura Motor's Band and Minohime—bands he still plays in even after Watanabe’s passing. Nomura has also authored numerous books on guitars and is widely respected in the music world.
ROLLY (Rory Teranishi): Estimated net worth of around $9 million or approximately ¥1.31 billion
ROLLY is a true all-around entertainer, working as a musician, producer, and actor. While his flamboyant appearance often grabs attention, he’s a multi-talented performer who also sings chanson and jazz and even does storytelling under his real name, Kazuo Teranishi.
He has appeared without makeup in popular dramas like Prescription Police and Kaseifu no Mitazono, making him almost unrecognizable to those who don’t already know it’s him.
Shizuka Kudo: Estimated net worth of about $4 million or ¥580 million
Shizuka Kudo is now widely recognized as the wife of Kimutaku and mother of Koki and Cocomi. She often shares glimpses of her close-knit family and homemade meals on Instagram, which regularly draws attention.
In addition to her role at home, she has launched her own accessory brand and even opened an online store focused on organic foods, continuing to impress and inspire fans. Many are eager to see more of her not just as a mother and wife, but also in her role as an artist.
Fumiya Fujii: Estimated $5 million or approximately ¥725 million
Fumiya Fujii has been a driving force in the J-pop world since the 1980s. It’s remarkable to think he’s now a grandfather, especially considering he once starred as an idol and his eldest son, announcer Hiroki, is married.
While he no longer drops singles as frequently as before, he still releases albums and performs major concerts at venues like the International Forum. For over 25 years, he has also performed alongside his younger brother Naoyuki as part of the duo FBLOOD.
Koyuki: Estimated net worth of $15 million or approximately ¥2.18 billion
In Snow White, Koyuki lent her voice to the Japanese version of Ravenna, demonstrating her talents beyond her appearance. She gained international recognition as the first Japanese actress to represent a jeans brand.
Married to Kenichi Matsuyama, she has three children and is currently pausing on long movie shoots, but continues to showcase her elegant presence in television dramas.
Masakazu Morita: Approximately $10 million or ¥1.45 billion
Masakazu Morita began his career as an anime voice actor in 2002 with The Prince of Tennis, gradually taking on supporting roles.
Since voicing Kurosaki in BLEACH, he has mostly portrayed lead characters. In 2021, he left his agency to become a freelancer and is now starring in the sequel and complete edition of the hit anime SHAMAN KING, signaling a new phase in his career.
Song Hye-kyo has an estimated net worth of $20 million or approximately ¥2.9 billion
Actress Song Hye-kyo is celebrated as a goddess of the Korean Wave, with fame that reaches Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan. Her role in That Winter, the Wind Blows, a Korean remake of the Japanese drama I Don't Need Love, Summer, quickly boosted her popularity in Japan.
Renowned for her beauty, she was the first Korean woman to grace the cover of VOGUE and continues to be known as a queen of commercials.
Lee Byung-hun: Estimated at $20 million or approximately ¥2.9 billion
Lee Byung-hun is a globally recognized actor who has made a mark in Hollywood as well. His dramas are so popular that they air during prime time in Japan.
Recently, his family residence was featured on a variety show, sparking buzz over its luxury. The home includes resort-level amenities like a theater room and a golf simulator, leaving many to wonder just how impressive his current house must be.
Shinichi Takeda: Estimated in the millions of yen
Shinichi Takeda is well-known for his warm smile and clear announcing style. As NHK’s top anchor, he leads numerous programs, making the often formal news feel more approachable and friendly.
Being a prominent figure at NHK, he likely earns a substantial salary. In 2021, he was reassigned to Osaka, where he took on roles including hosting "Kin 5ji" and "Retto News."
Terumoto Goto: Estimated net worth in the millions of dollars
Terumoto Goto of Football Hour hosts numerous TV programs and is frequently cited as a role model by emerging comedians. His sharp tsukkomi lines are those everyone wants to hear. He also leads THE W, the all-women comedy competition, delivering smooth, laughter-filled hosting.
Beyond manzai, he's known for guitar skits and portraying the comedy trope of having no athletic ability—clearly, he’s still got plenty of opportunities ahead of him.
Shinya Ueda: Estimated at estimated net worth of ¥1 billion or approximately $7 million USD
Cream Stew’s Ueda Shinya is often called the busiest celebrity today, with 15 regular programs, including "Oshareism," alongside his comedy duo.
Few may remember that he once performed as a sharp-tongued comedian under the name Umisari Suigyo. Now, he’s recognized as a top-tier host, skillfully drawing out stories from guests across all kinds of shows. Ranked second among quick-witted hosts, his presence continues to grow.
Koji Higashino: Estimated at $5 million or approximately ¥725 million
Higashino Koji recently earned praise for stepping in as a substitute host on Gutto Luck!. With 12 regular shows to his name, he’s a well-established comedian.
Despite his veteran status, he’s admired for not putting on airs and for shining a light on up-and-coming comedians. As a host and presenter, his steady presence helps unify any program he’s on, making him a reliable figure in any setting.
Suzu Hirose: Estimated at $5 million is approximately ¥725 million
Hirose Suzu truly earned the title of commercial queen, with 14 companies hiring her in 2020 alone. What's remarkable is that from 2015 to 2019, she consistently ranked second, working with 12 to 15 brands each year.
This level of demand is unheard of, especially during an economic downturn, showing just how much faith companies place in her to drive sales. In 2021, she took on her first historical drama role in Okehazama, marking another step forward in her rising career.
Yuko Takeuchi: Estimated net worth is in the millions of dollars
Yuko Takeuchi was an actress known for her gentle presence, yet she convincingly portrayed sharp characters like lawyers and detectives, with a standout performance in the drama Strawberry Night. Her soft voice suited narration work as well, and she lent it to programs like Kagaku no Sato.
She was a familiar face in advertising, appearing in commercials for Premium Malt's and the JOMO Group for many years. After welcoming her second son and with much still ahead in both her personal and professional life, her sudden passing in October 2020 was a profound loss.
Tatsuya Yamaguchi: Estimated at $4.7 million or approximately ¥740 million
Former Johnny's idol Yamaguchi Tatsuya has taken on the role of MC for various shows in recent years, often acting as a supportive big brother figure to younger talents.
After three decades in the spotlight, it's no surprise he resides in a spacious six-story home and enjoys hobbies like riding motorbikes and collecting luxury cars. Beyond entertainment, he also has professional-level carpentry skills, farms rice, and cooks well. Attention now turns to whether he’ll join TOKIO, the company established by fellow TOKIO members.
Kimura Takuya: Estimated at millions of dollars
Takuya Kimura drew attention when he replaced Eikichi Yazawa in Nissan’s iconic “Yacchae!” commercial.
Having previously appeared in a Toyota ad, it’s considered rare in the advertising world for someone to feature in campaigns for rival companies, even after time has passed. In 2020, he starred in BG: Personal Guardian: Chapter 2 and also lent his voice to the Doraemon movie. Kimura’s enduring popularity shows no signs of fading.
Tsuyoshi Kusanagi: Estimated at $8.17 million USD or approximately ¥1.3 billion
Tsuyoshi Kusanagi made news in 2020 with his marriage to a non-celebrity. Though there was uncertainty after he left Johnny’s following nearly 30 years, he has been thriving in recent years.
Always respected for his acting, he’s now receiving even more praise for his ability to handle diverse roles. He’s also active in Korea under the name Chonan Kang, where he enjoys strong popularity.
Irene (Red Velvet): Estimated at $4 million or approximately ¥580 million
Irene is part of the K-POP girl group Red Velvet, which has a strong following in Japan as well. Standing 157cm tall with a youthful face, she doesn’t appear to be the oldest member of the group.
Known for her dedication, she trained for five years before debuting and was reportedly popular even before her official debut. Irene has also been selected as a brand ambassador for several international brands like Eider, making her influential both in Korea and abroad. Her future looks very promising.
Takashi Sorimachi: Estimated at over $1 million or approximately ¥145 million
Takashi Sorimachi perfectly embodies the role of a big brother figure, as seen in the drama Hotman. He and his wife, Nanako Matsushima, frequently appear in the media as a beautiful couple.
Known as a devoted husband and father to their two daughters, he is also an avid fisherman and skilled in the sport. Sorimachi often appears on variety and fishing shows and is widely recognized for his commercials promoting House Java Curry and Suntory Magnum Dry.
Toru Nakamura: Estimated at over $1 million or approximately ¥145 million
Nakamura Toru, known for showcasing his well-toned physique in the drama Fire Force and the film Tsurugi Jou, excels in action scenes. Lately, he has taken on many serious roles such as doctors and government officials.
Since his debut as the lead in Be-Bop High School, he has remained active across dramas, films, and stage performances. In 2021, he will tackle the challenging role of a psychiatrist struggling with lingering feelings for his late wife and unable to separate reality from illusion in the movie A Look of Love.
Erika Toda: Estimated at $2 million or approximately ¥290.28 million
Erika Toda, once labeled a "co-star killer," made waves with her surprise marriage announcement to Tori Matsuzaka. The beloved series Code Blue: Doctor Heli Emergency Lifesaving highlighted her development as both a character and actress over five seasons.
In 2021, she stars as the lead in the popular comedy drama My House Story, penned by Kankuro Kudo. Additionally, she’s set to headline a new drama starting in July, signaling great momentum in both her personal and professional life.
Kenzo Takada: Estimated at $100 million or approximately ¥14.5 billion
Kenzo Takada, founder of KENZO, famous for its bold and vibrant designs, turned the brand into a global success with sales exceeding 100 billion yen during the 1970s and 1980s.
His last home was an apartment in Saint-Germain, decorated to reflect the world-renowned KENZO style, including a 1st-century Chinese wooden horse and a renowned painting by Jean Cocteau. He passed away in October 2020 at age 79 after contracting COVID-19.
Addison Rae Easterling: Estimated at $3 million or approximately ¥435.18 million
For Generation Z, idols aren’t traditional celebrities—they’re TikTok stars. Addison Rae began her TikTok journey at 19 and has since become one of the most influential social media figures, boasting 41 million TikTok followers, 17 million on Instagram, and 2 million on YouTube.
In just one year, she earned an impressive 500 million yen. Today, leveraging her influence, she collaborates with brands and creates her own cosmetics line, proving to be a formidable 21-year-old powerhouse.
Ryo Ishikawa: Estimated at $9.6 million or approximately ¥1.38 billion
Ryo Ishikawa is a record-breaking professional golfer who has drawn significant attention to the sport with his presence, frequently featured on television and in magazines. After spending five years in the U.S. starting in 2013, he returned to compete on the domestic tour.
In 2018, at just 27, he became chairman of the domestic tour organization. By 28, he surpassed 1 billion yen in career prize money in a record-setting 82 days, firmly establishing himself as a major figure in the current golf scene.
Masami Nagasawa: Estimated at millions of dollars or approximately billions of yen
Masami Nagasawa is one of Japan’s leading actresses, consistently earning top honors each year, including the Japan Academy Prize for both lead and supporting roles. She has many admirers within the entertainment world.
In 2021, she appeared in the Chinese film Detective Chinatown 3 (Japanese title: I'm a Detective in Chinatown 3). She also enjoys strong popularity in Chinese-speaking regions, having starred in the Taiwanese drama Chocolat.
Kaho Minami: $10 million or approximately ¥1.45 billion
Minami Kaho is an actress who has taken on numerous roles in both television and film. With her youthful features and gentle way of speaking, she’s especially well-suited for tragic or sorrowful characters. More recently, she’s become known for portraying cheerful mother figures.
Her talent has caught the attention of directors not only in Japan but also internationally—in Hollywood, Denmark, and the Philippines—leading to roles in overseas productions. In 2020, she delivered a powerful performance as Fukayoshino, the wife of Saito Dosan and mother of Yoshitatsu, in the taiga drama Kirin ga Kuru.
Koshi Inaba: $40 million or approximately ¥5.8 billion
Koshi Inaba, known as the vocalist of B'z and also for his solo work, showcases different sides of his artistry through each. His signature powerful shouts in B’z contrast with the darker, more introspective tone of his solo music.
He’s also well-known for his intense dedication as a vocalist. His well-toned physique is reportedly the result of strict training to maintain his stamina during live shows. Even more than 30 years after his debut, his large-scale annual tours continue to draw crowds, appealing even to casual listeners.