TOMOHISA YAMASHITA visited Thailand for two days, from September 30 to October 1, ahead of his Bangkok concert in December!

Yamapi, Thailand ‘First love’ has come back with his concert in December as a resume for music activities! +9 got a chance to join the group interview.

How does it feel to be back in Thailand this time?

For the first question Yamapi answered in English.

“I’m so very happy. I’m so excited to come back to Bangkok. I’ve been wanting to make it happen to make a concert here. It’s been a long time. Finally…I’ve made it ! So I feel very grateful.”

When you think of your Thai fans, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

“When it comes to Thai fans, my impression is that they’re incredibly warm and energetic, and they always welcome me with kindness.”

Is there any Thai food you’re determined to try or any place in Thailand you’re set on visiting during this trip?

“There are so many. Too many, in fact, that I don’t even know where to start ! I arrived in Thailand the day before, and I’ve been eating ‘Kaprow Rice’ every day. I also want to have ‘Khao Man Gai’. I really like ‘Nam Pla’ and slightly spicy chili-based condiments (Prik Nam Pla), so whenever I come to Thailand, I always buy some at the supermarket and bring back home.”

How does it feel to be returning to Thailand for a major concert after several years?

“I’m really happy. I was originally with a major company, but I went independent six years ago. Since then, I’ve been very busy with acting work, so it was difficult to make this happen. I’m really happy that I’ve finally been able to create an opportunity to make it happen this time. I’m truly looking forward to it.”

What surprises do you have in store for the Thai fans who have been waiting for you for so long?

“It’s still a secret for now. I’ve actually been given the idea of possibly wearing a traditional Thai costume!”

Could you tell us about the origin of the name, concept, or inspiration behind the upcoming “DREAMING” concert tour?

“There are several meanings behind the title. ‘DREAMING’ refers to being in a dreamlike state, where you can freely use your imagination and create all kinds of things. It expresses my desire to bring that same freedom into the real world—to keep creating all kinds of things without being bound by conventions, while incorporating my own ideas and inspirations.

It also carries the meaning of supporting each other in pursuing our own goals and dreams, and of making those dreams come true together.”

Holding two full-scale concerts in Thailand on the same day is certainly a major challenge. How have you been preparing physically and managing your energy levels for the performances?

“I basically train every day. On top of that, I’ve recently started running as well. I’ve made sure I’m fully prepared!”

Could you tell more about your upcoming album “DREAMING,” which is scheduled for release this November?

“For the concept, I intentionally focused on creating songs without providing definite answers. These days, answers seem to come so quickly, especially with things like AI. Rather than simply presenting an answer myself, I want people to use their own imagination and think together with me, wondering, “Could it be this answer? Or maybe that one?”
I believe everyone has their own unique answer, so I wanted to create a space where we could share those different perspectives together. With that in mind, I deliberately made many songs that are open to interpretation and somewhat ambiguous.”

Are you aware that Thailand is currently experiencing flooding? What would you like to say to encourage those who are affected by the floods?

“There has been a lot of news about this disaster in Japan as well. I have friends in Thailand, as well as many people who have supported me, so it’s very shocking to see what’s happening. I hope I can continue doing whatever I can in my own way. More than anything, I sincerely hope that everyone can return to their normal daily lives as soon as possible.”

For this album, you collaborated with several Korean artists, including Taehyun of TOMORROW X TOGETHER and Jungwon of ENHYPEN, as well as on the GYM project in the past. Could you share your experiences working with them?

“Collaborations always bring something unexpected in a good way, so I never know what kind of reaction will come. It was a really enjoyable experience, and I always have a great time being able to collaborate across borders.

I’d be happy if, through my work, people could feel that even when we have different languages and cultures, we can still imagine and create things together with the same feelings.”

Over the past few years, you’ve worked on many international projects. How does working on an international production differ from working on productions in Japan, and what are your goals for the future?

“Compared to the filming style in Japan, there are fewer weekends off during a production in Japan, whereas overseas productions tend to have proper weekends off, which makes it a little easier to organize my schedule. That said, I think the desire to ‘create something interesting’ and ‘make something of good, high quality’ is exactly the same in Japan and in other countries.
I’ve also filmed in Thailand before, and the catering lunch every day was absolutely delicious! I’m truly grateful for it.”

For the series “Drops of God,” in which you played a prodigious wine critic , the production came to Thailand to film for months. What are some memorable experiences from that time?

“Filming in Thailand was really challenging, but I always looked forward to the meals during filming and after we wrapped. Even when I’m in Japan, I sometimes eat Thai rice. I was able to get through the shoot thanks to the delicious food and the kindness of the staff, so I have so many great memories from the month or so I spent filming there. I also discovered so many restaurants I had never heard of or been to before, which was a really nice experience.”

So, does that mean you can handle spicy food?

“Yes, I can!”

So you’re becoming a native Thai by now!

“I’ve been feeling that way too!”

What aspects of Thai culture have you come to embrace that make you feel almost like the native Thai?

“One thing I’m personally interested in is Muay Thai. I’ve had the chance to train several times, and I’d really like to take it more seriously and train properly.
Just yesterday, my friend Golf (Golf - Pitchaya Nitipaisalkul) gave me a pair of Thai boxer shorts as a gift. I think I’m going to wear them for training.”

You got to meet some of your Thai friends, including Golf and Gulf (Kanawut Traipipattanapong). How was it seeing them again?

“I was really happy to see them. Both Golf and Gulf are very busy, but they still made time for me, and I’m truly grateful to them.”

Having visited Thailand many times, is there one particular visit that stands out as especially memorable?

“I have a great time every time I visit, so it’s hard to rank them. I’m already looking forward to the next one.”

As someone who has been in the music industry for many years and experienced many things along the way, what do you think of the music industry today?

“Over the past few years, I’ve been mainly focused on acting, and I’ve been really busy with that. But starting this year, I wanted to ‘return to my roots’ and rediscover my love for music.”

Are there any younger artists who have impressed you in particular?

“There are so many talented younger artists, and each of them has their own unique qualities, so I’m really looking forward to seeing how they grow. And even though they’re younger than me, we’re all working as professionals, so I’m simply excited to see how they continue to grow and evolve.”

If you could go back in time and talk to your younger “Yamapi,” what would you most want to tell him?

“Get a grip!”

What were you like back then?

“I was doing my best with what I could do, but I would have advised myself to study more languages.”

Many fans say they grew up with Yamapi, yet even now, when they see you, you still look as handsome and fit as ever. What are your secrets to taking care of your physical and mental health?

“I think part of it comes from enjoying my work. Also, I think it’s important to keep the desire to continue challenging myself.”

Many people say that “Yamapi was their first love.” How does that make you feel?

“I’m happy to hear that, but I wonder if everyone has gone on to have many other loves since then?
Please remember me properly.”

Are there any activities or hobbies that you’ve been particularly into lately?

“My activities are pretty much part of my everyday life. I train and go to the sauna, and also do cardio and running.”

Do you have any plans to go running at Lumphini Park?

“I brought my sneakers with me. I brought both athletic shoes and running shoes. Luckily, I’ve had so many interviews, so I haven’t had a chance to go running yet. But when I come back in December, I’d like to go for a run.”

What upcoming projects can fans look forward to?

“It’s a Japanese drama. Starting October 10, a new series about Japan’s Ekiden (a traditional Japanese long-distance multi-stage team relay race) will begin.”

Could you tell us a little about this concert and invite everyone to come and leave a message for your Thai fans who have loved and supported you for so many years?

“I’m really happy to be able to do this again and come back after such a long time. I’m very grateful to be able to hold this concert. More than anything, I hope we can create fun, unforgettable memories together, so I’d be happy everyone could just relax and come to enjoy. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity.”

Could you leave a short message in Thai for your fans?

“Rak na krab (I love you)”

He pick up his phone to see the memo “Kid tung tuk khon na krab (I miss everyone)”

“I’ll study more Thai before I come back!”

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Tomohisa Yamashita (Yamapi) will hold his concert “DREAMING TOMOHISA YAMASHITA TOUR 2026 LIVE in BANGKOK” on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at Union Hall, Union Mall in Bangkok.