Takuma Tani is a 47-year-old Japanese singer and father of two who believes that wearing feminine clothing brings a softer, more expressive quality to his music.
With over 20,000 followers on social media, Tani is open about his identity. His Instagram bio states that he identifies as a man, and he has made appearances on major Japanese TV networks including Fuji TV and TV Asahi.
Lolita fashion, which Tani is known for, is a Japanese subculture that emerged in the 1990s. The style draws inspiration from Victorian and Rococo aesthetics and often features frilly dresses, lace, and elaborate accessories.
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From Rock Singer to Lolita Icon at Age 34
Tani began learning piano at the age of three and later studied vocal performance in Liverpool, England. After returning to Japan, he worked as a vocal coach and in 2005, became the lead singer, songwriter, and composer of the Tokyo-based band Jikkendai Marmot.
At age 34, while working part-time as a model, Tani was asked to step in for a female model who had cancelled a photoshoot. Initially hesitant, he eventually agreed despite feeling it was inappropriate for a man and father.
The outcome was unexpected: staff told him he looked “even better on camera than a female model.” According to Japanese media, Tani had always felt insecure about his petite build and wished to appear more masculine. But it was this moment that changed his perspective.
“My petite body, delicate features, and soft temperament all became my greatest strengths,” he said.
A Softer Sound and Online Fame
Originally rooted in traditional rock, Tani’s music evolved after adopting Lolita fashion. “I found it easier to write songs about emotions, to express love and gentleness,” he said.
One of his anime music covers has surpassed 50,000 views on social media. A YouTube feature by Japan’s Abema News titled “This is not AI!”—referring to his doll-like appearance—has garnered over 500,000 views.
The segment highlighted that Tani, who insists he is a real bishojo (a term for cute female characters in Japanese pop culture), is also a dad.
Fans have praised both his appearance and falsetto vocals. One commented, “Even though I can tell it’s falsetto, your singing is still powerful and moving.” Another wrote, “I envy your kids. They have the cutest Lolita father in the world.”
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Beauty Tips, Family Support, and Public Reactions
Tani regularly shares beauty advice online. In one Instagram post titled “Father’s injection recipe,” he revealed his no-makeup look and cosmetic procedures, including chin Botox and stem cell injections under the eyes.
In another post, he demonstrated how to use highlighter to make one eye appear larger.
His mother supports his lifestyle and often helps him choose outfits. “Do whatever you want,” she told him.
Still, Tani’s appearance has led to challenges. He was once sexually harassed on the subway by someone who mistook him for a girl. To prevent such misunderstandings, he now prefers using multi-gender restrooms.
Some netizens have criticised him, claiming he doesn’t look like a father and warning his daughters might face bullying. Tani has made his boundaries clear:
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“If my daughter ever said she could not accept it, I would stop wearing dresses immediately,” he said.
Staying True to Himself
Despite criticism, Tani continues to receive overwhelming support from fans. Comments range from “Wow! I want that makeup” to “You’re the cutest dad in the world.” One fan even asked what brand of contact lenses he wears.
An online supporter summed it up best: “A dad in a Lolita dress is no less than a dad in a suit. Real courage is being true to yourself and living with pride.”
Tani’s national ID even features a photo of him with pigtails—a fitting symbol of his unique identity.
Would you be jailed for being half-naked in public? Well, the answer will shock you. Seriously. Watch this to the end and you'll understand:
