29th November 2025 – (Shanghai) Ayumi Hamasaki’s concert scheduled for 29th November at the Shanghai Oriental Sports Center was abruptly cancelled the night before by the organiser, citing “force majeure”. The large‑scale stage, which took five days to assemble and involved more than a hundred crew, was reportedly on the cusp of completion when work was halted. Many fans who had already arrived in Shanghai expressed deep disappointment.
Following the announcement, the stage and equipment began to be dismantled. Social media, however, buzzed with claims that Hamasaki would still take to the stage behind closed doors, prompting widespread discussion. Without an audience or the spectacle of lights, the singer proceeded to perform a full set in what was neither a public show nor a media event, but rather, in her words, a concert that “had to be completed” for herself and for her fans. Admirers online described the gesture as the “purest expression of a singer’s love for the stage”. It is understood she recorded the entire performance and has pledged to release it for those who travelled but could not attend.
After filming concluded, Hamasaki posted on Instagram to thank her Japanese and Chinese teams for “standing shoulder to shoulder to the end”, stressing that no one should feel blame or lingering regret as everyone had done their utmost. She added a reflective message: “No matter how small, anything that makes your heart feel fuller is a positive force worth cherishing. Find what protects you, and guard yourself well.” Reaffirming her credo that “entertainment is a bridge connecting people,” she said she intends always to stand on the side that builds that bridge—and that even before an empty arena, she will perform so long as someone is waiting afar.
