Miyoshi Ayaka / INSIDE ME

A cold and different face from Japanese female stars, breaking free from the gentle and elegant ethnic norms, Ayaka Miyoshi not only punches and kicks in “The Island of Suffering”, but also breaks the smile that skincare product endorsement female stars should have, achieving another kind of cold beauty. Under the rare snow warning in Tokyo for a hundred years, the interview and shooting with Ayaka Miyoshi took place in an art gallery in Shibuya. Under a series of gorgeous clothes, her figure still accelerates heartbeats like before, various female symbols are not content with playing the role of a vase, the contradictory inner nature, enjoying wearing men’s clothing, and always challenging action movies is Ayaka Miyoshi.

M: After 20 years in the industry, as a model and actress, what aspects have brought you satisfaction?

Z: These 20 years have really passed by without me realizing it. Whether in the role of a model or an actress, every opportunity to bring works to the audience, or to truly meet everyone, has made me feel a sense of accomplishment.

Z= STYLEZ M=Miyoshi Ayaka

Z: What changes has Ayaka Miyoshi undergone since her debut?

M: It changes almost every year! The works I participate in change every year, and as I grow, whether as an actor or personally, the ideas I want to convey to the outside world also change.

Z: In the latest movie “Boxing Girl” that you starred in, it tells the story of boxer “Ju Lan” (played by Ayaka Miyoshi) embarking on a journey to uncover the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. What challenges did you face in portraying a female boxer character?

M: In order to prepare for the role of a female boxer this time, I needed to participate in a series of high-intensity physical and boxing training half a year before filming started. Even though I have been in action movies before, the physical training and demands this time are truly unprecedented. But at the same time, being able to train both physically and mentally has ultimately benefited me greatly.

Additionally, I have very few similarities with the character “Ju Lan” in the play. Before the performance, I conducted many interviews and consultations with various aspects to prepare, and also had many discussions with the director about the character, which allowed me to fully grasp the character’s personality.

Z: In addition to being a model and actress, in 2021 you also tried to become a director and released the short film “Inside You.” What prompted you to consider becoming a director?

M: This is a project created by “MIRRORLIAR FILMS”, inviting actors, directors, and writers of all types to create short films based on a theme. Looking back, I was involved in the filming of another movie at the time. In that movie, I not only acted but also participated in the production. I mentioned to the creative team that I had thoughts of directing, and they introduced me to the “MIRRORLIAR FILMS” project. In the end, I participated in my first directing job.

Z: What aspect of directing do you find most challenging?

M: Although the short film is only 13 minutes long, after this experience, I truly understand how difficult it is to be a director! Generally speaking, as an actor, I discuss with other actors and the director of the work what kind of role I should play, and think about how to shape the character into a wonderful work. But of course, the director has to consider the overall integrity of the work: how to convey the key points of the character to the actors in a suitable way; how to help the actors bring out their best; even down to how to decorate a room. I feel that the director’s work requires me to work twice as hard as others.

Z: “Inside You” describes a female protagonist who is lost in life, but by chance meets a ballet dancer, rekindling the innermost core of her passion and emotions. When you face obstacles in life or work, how do you overcome them?

M: I always feel that life is filled with difficult parts. What may be a small matter to others can be a significant issue for some people. As we age, we probably have more goals in mind, and the walls to overcome become higher. Despite this, even when facing such high walls, I will try to discover my own strengths in difficult situations. Although I wouldn’t say I enjoy the difficult process, for some reason… I would rather have a life embellished with challenges than those days without any hardships.

Z: What is your impression of Hong Kong movies?

When it comes to Hong Kong cinema, I will always think of director Wong Kar Wai first. Unfortunately, I can only watch his movies from different platforms, always missing the chance to watch them in theaters. The use of color and street depiction in his lens is always so unique, which is why I have a strong affection for Hong Kong cinema.

Z: Which parts of Hong Kong are the most beautiful?

M: When I first came to Hong Kong last year, I was immediately drawn to the delicious food here. Besides that, Hong Kong is vibrant day and night.

Z: On your 20th birthday, you cut off a long hair to welcome a brand new milestone in life. Was there any special reason for you to always tie up short hair?

M: In fact, there is no special reason for me to keep my hair short all the time. If I had to say, it’s probably because I’m afraid of the hassle! Occasionally I think about growing my hair long, but I don’t have the energy to take care of it.

Z: How did you start to fall in love with fashion?

M: During my time as an exclusive model for fashion magazines, I had many opportunities to try various types of clothing. Eventually, I found that cute, girly clothing seemed to clash with my personality, and instead, some cool designs, such as oversized coats with masculine elements, or structural designs, became my fashion style. Until now, the first thing I do every morning is decide what to wear for the day. I believe that clothing or accessories can set the mood for the day, and indeed, fashion is very important in my life.

Z: What type of art creation do you prefer?

M: During this photo shoot, I was able to interact more deeply with the artwork, and I am also very fond of pottery. I often visit exhibitions or pottery shops. The unique thing about pottery is that it can be used as both a vessel and a decorative item, which is very intriguing.

Z: What image do you hope to portray when you turn 30?

M: In 2 to 3 years, I will enter another stage of life, and I hope to go through it in a healthy manner. Looking back at the first half of my twenties, I worked hard towards my goals to do the work I wanted and become the person I wanted to be. As time passed, I noticed a decrease in my physical and mental recovery abilities, and an increase in the time I needed for sleep. I have to admit that if I want to create better work, and use my body as an investment, I need to take care of my health.

Z: What projects do you hope to try in filming or performing in the future?

M: I still want to continue to further challenge myself in the action movie category, and to embody the image of a cool woman in my work.

Ayaka Sankichi’s Profile

Born in 1996, debuted as a child star, and later became an exclusive model for the magazine “Seventeen.” In 2012, she began to develop her acting career, appearing in “Confession,” “BG: Personal Bodyguard,” “The Crossing,” and more. She gained popularity in the Chinese-speaking entertainment industry after starring as the female lead in Jay Chou’s music video “Won’t Cry.”

^{Executive Producer: Angus Mok
Photographer: Jimmy Ming Shum
Art Direction: Mimi Kong & Jimmy Ming Shum
Styling: Yoshi Miyamasu assisted by Maiko Karima
Video & Video Edit: Kason Tam
Makeup & Hair: Yudai Makino
Interview: Ms. A
Jewelry: Tiffany & Co.
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Wardrobe: Burberry,Issey Miyake, Valentino, Tom Ford, Rick Owens, Sacai,
Special thanks JPS Gallery Tokyo for the wonderful location}