Roundup of amazing Japanese magicians: illusionists active in Japan and abroad
In Japan, there have been many periods known as magic booms, and each time, a variety of magicians appeared on TV to entertain us.
More recently, many magicians have emerged on social media and YouTube as well, making a big impact both at home and abroad.
In this article, we’ll introduce an impressive lineup of Japan’s amazing magicians.
From well-known faces you often see on TV and online to highly skilled performers active on the world stage, a wide range of magicians will appear—so be sure to check them out.
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Summary of Amazing Japanese Magicians: Illusionists Active in Japan and Abroad (1–10)
Princess Tenko
Princess Tenko, whose talent has been recognized with magic awards both in Japan and abroad, enjoys immense popularity—especially in the United States—under the persona of a messenger from beyond Earth.
Her shows enchant audiences with a fantastical worldview, evoking the moving sensation that real magic might exist.
The mysterious, undisclosed parts of her profile further deepen her enigma.
She is a captivating magician whose allure lies not only in her performances but also in her persona.
Once you experience a Princess Tenko show, it’s sure to leave an unforgettable impression.
Shuto Ogawa
Shuto Ogawa is a highly skilled magician recognized worldwide, having won a magic competition in the United States at the age of 17.
He specializes in close-up magic and is also active as a member of the Magic Castle.
In 2002, at age 27, he achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the youngest ever Close-Up Magician of the Year.
The magic that flows from his subtle handling astonishes and captivates audiences.
He has attracted many fans on platforms like YouTube, and his original presentations keep viewers enthralled.
Ogawa’s technique is undeniably solid—he’s truly a magician who seems to cast a spell on everyone who watches.
HIRO SAKAI (Dr. Leon)
He is a magician who also performs under the name Dr.
Leon, known for his look with white hair and sunglasses.
He is an internationally active magician and the only one to have received both the Masao Atsukawa Award and the Tenkai Ishida Award, which are given to outstanding magicians.
Roundup of amazing Japanese magicians: conjurors active in Japan and abroad (11–20)
Karakuri Doll
Known for addressing people in a drawn-out tone like “Sumi-maseeen” or “Ii desu kaaa,” then suddenly letting out strange cries, Karakuri Doll is famous as Japan’s most annoying magician.
Despite that reputation, his magic skills are outstanding—he has received the Atsukawa Masao Prize, often called the Naoki Prize of magic.
As the leader of the entertainment troupe “Karakuri Doll WORLD MAGIC,” he performs on television and at events nationwide.
Shinji Maggie
Shinji Maggie is a magician who has gained popularity for his unique style that fuses comedy and magic.
By incorporating a seemingly unsure performance, he lowers the audience’s guard and draws out bigger surprises and laughs.
Known as a leading figure among comedy-style magicians, he stands apart from traditional magicians.
He skillfully delivers one amusing, tongue-in-cheek trick after another, delighting audiences.
Active on television and YouTube, he is supported by a wide range of age groups.
Watch Shinji Maggie’s performance, and you’re sure to find yourself smiling.
Napoleons
The Napoleons are a duo of professional magicians consisting of Bona Ueki and Paruto Koishi.
They formed their partnership in the Senshu University Magic Club and debuted in 1977 as Magic Napoleons, later changing their name to the Napoleons.
Although they initially performed orthodox magic, they shifted to a gag-infused style, which boosted their popularity.
HARA
HARA, a magician from Nara Prefecture, is a highly skilled performer who, at 19, became the first Japanese winner of the Grand Prix at the world magic championships held in Las Vegas.
In 2016, his appearance on America’s Got Talent propelled him onto the global stage.
He is a versatile entertainer, adept at everything from card tricks and close-up magic using items like plastic bottles and money, to large-scale stage illusions with elaborate setups.
