Introduction
Rei Jonishi (上西怜) is a Japanese gravure model, fashion model, singer, and former idol widely recognized for her activities in the popular J-pop idol group NMB48. Emerging as one of the group’s most prominent visual members during the late 2010s and early 2020s, she built a strong reputation both as a performer and as a magazine-featured gravure model.
Born in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, Jonishi entered the entertainment industry as a teenager after passing the competitive NMB48 5th Generation audition in 2016. Her debut marked the beginning of a steady rise within the Japanese idol industry, where she quickly gained popularity for her energetic personality, stage presence, and approachable charm.
Beyond her idol activities, Jonishi became especially known for her gravure work, appearing in numerous Japanese magazines and releasing bestselling photobooks. Her combination of petite proportions, expressive visuals, and confident modeling style made her a favorite among fans and editors alike.
Over the years, she expanded her activities into fashion modeling, television appearances, stage productions, and radio hosting. In 2025, Jonishi officially graduated from NMB48, closing a significant chapter of her idol career while opening new opportunities in modeling, media, and entertainment.
Today, she continues to attract attention as a versatile Japanese media personality whose career bridges idol culture, fashion, and contemporary entertainment.
Profile
Full Name : Rei Jonishi
Native Name : 上西怜 (じょうにし れい)
Also Known As (AKA) : Re-chan, Iida
Nationality : Japanese
Profession : Gravure Model, Fashion Model, Singer, Actress, Former Idol
Industry Category : J-Pop, Japanese Idol Industry, Gravure & Editorial Modeling, Television & Stage Entertainment
Years Active : 2016 – Present
Basic Information : Japanese gravure model and former NMB48 idol recognized for magazine covers, successful photobooks, and fashion modeling activities.
Date of Birth : May 28, 2001
Age : 24 (as of 2026)
Birthplace : Konan, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Current Residence : Tokyo, Japan
Height : 154.5 cm
Measurements : Unknown
Zodiac Sign : Gemini
Blood Type : A
Latest News
Rei Jonishi released her second photobook “Watashi Rashisa” in March 2025 and held her graduation concert from NMB48 the same month. Following her graduation from the group in April 2025, she has continued expanding her career in fashion modeling, gravure publishing, and television appearances.
Career
Rei Jonishi’s professional career began in 2016 when she successfully passed the NMB48 5th Generation audition. She was introduced to fans as a research student before quickly gaining attention for her natural stage charisma and fan-friendly personality.
In 2017, she was promoted to an official member of Team BII, marking an important milestone in her early career. Shortly after, she began appearing in NMB48’s major singles and performances, including the hit single “Warota People.” These activities helped establish her presence within the group’s growing fanbase.
Jonishi also participated in the AKB48 Group’s major events, including the 2018 AKB48 World Senbatsu General Election, where she ranked within the commemorative selection group. This recognition further expanded her visibility among fans of the broader AKB48 idol network.
Her career took another major step forward when she began gravure modeling in 2019. Her magazine appearances quickly gained popularity, and she became known as one of NMB48’s “gravure aces.” Her photobook Mizu no Ondo (2020) became a significant success, further establishing her reputation in the modeling world.
In addition to music and modeling, Jonishi also explored acting and media activities. She appeared in television dramas such as Idol Shikkaku and participated in stage productions and radio programs. She also became a regular model for the Japanese fashion magazine S Cawaii! in 2022.
In October 2024, Jonishi announced her graduation from NMB48. Her farewell concert, held in March 2025, celebrated nearly a decade of activities as an idol and performer.
Career & Achievements
Agency / Management : Showtitle (Yoshimoto Group)
Debut : 2016 – NMB48 5th Generation Member Introduction
Notable Works : NMB48 Singles “Warota People”, “Shidare Yanagi”, “Koi to Ai no Sono Aida ni wa”, “Kore ga Ai na no ka?”, Solo Song “Yuhi wa Doko e Iku?”, Photobooks “Mizu no Ondo” (2020), “Watashi Rashisa” (2025)
Brand Collaborations : Shueisha, Shufunotomo, SPA!, Osaka Evessa Ambassador
Magazine Features : Weekly Playboy, Weekly Young Magazine, S Cawaii!, ENTAME, SPA!
TV / Media Appearances : NHK Utacon, BS Shochiku Tokyu “Idol Shikkaku”, Kansai television programs, FM Shiga radio host
Awards & Recognition : All Japan Gravure Award 2020 – Idol Category
Career Highlights : First solo photobook released in 2020, Double Center for NMB48 single “Koi to Ai no Sono Aida ni wa,” Graduation Concert “Kimi Dake no Idol” (2025)
Style & Public Image
Fashion Style : Feminine Japanese fashion blending idol styling with modern casual and gravure aesthetics
Visual Signature : Petite frame, expressive eyes, youthful smile, balanced proportions
Public Image : Friendly and energetic idol known for strong fan interaction and bright stage personality
Cultural Influence : Represents the modern Japanese idol-to-model career path combining music performance, magazine publishing, and digital fan engagement
Education & Personal Interests
Languages : Japanese
Hobbies : Shopping, listening to music, watching stage performances
Special Skills : Handspring, unicycle riding, snowboarding, basketball
Personal Interests : Fashion styling, character goods collection, fitness
Fun Facts
Fun facts : She is the younger sister of actress and former NMB48 member Kei Jonishi.
Behind-the-secenes notes : Her nickname “Iida” originated from her older brother mispronouncing her name during childhood.
Lesser-known details : She became one of the few idol siblings in AKB48 Group history to both release solo photobooks.
SNS
Official Website : https://www.nmb48.com
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/jonishi_rei
X (Twitter) : https://x.com/jonishi_rei
TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@jonishi_rei
YouTube : NMB48 Official Channel
Other Platforms : NMB48 Official Blog (Ameba), Photobook Official X (@rechan_first)
Image Source : SNS