Tao Tsuchiya Shows Contrast Between Graceful Filming Look and Relaxed Private Outfit

In mid-August, filming for a movie was underway at a temple in Tokyo.

Amid the many staff members in the temple grounds, the shoot itself seemed to be taking place inside the main hall. After a while, a striking figure in mourning attire emerged, accompanied by staff—it was Tao Tsuchiya (30).

Her long hair tied neatly in a single ponytail, Tsuchiya carried herself with a serene elegance that could make anyone’s heart skip a beat. Stepping outside, she initiated a conversation with staff, linking arms and discussing something earnestly—likely matters of performance. According to a nearby crew member, this was the set of a new movie.

“Tsuchiya was announced in June to be part of the October release The Sunflower on the Board. The film, adapted from Yuko Yuzuki’s bestselling novel, stars Kentaro Sakaguchi (34) as Keisuke Kamijo, a prodigy who suddenly emerges in the world of shogi.

Tsuchiya plays Natsuko, Kamijo’s former fiancée—an original character created for the film. She’s the only person closely tied to Kamijo and serves as a key to the story. However, since that shoot has already wrapped, it seems this is an entirely different, yet-to-be-announced project,” explained a film magazine writer.

Tsuchiya, who gave birth to her first child in August 2023 with husband Ryota Katayose (31) of GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE, made headlines by returning to work just three months later, jumping straight into action-heavy filming for Netflix’s hit drama Alice in Borderland Season 3. She has since kept up a packed schedule, appearing in Hakkenden and the TBS Sunday drama The Diamond Sleeping in the Sea, without pause. On this day, the Tokyo temperature reached a sweltering 35°C. Even though most scenes were shot indoors, the blazing sunlight made for an intense day on set.

Later, after wrapping the scene, Tsuchiya reappeared in a casual T-shirt, swapping her somber costume for an easygoing look. She downed the tea handed to her by staff with refreshing gulps, flashing a carefree smile—a striking contrast to her earlier appearance in mourning attire.

From drama to film, Tsuchiya continues to dazzle with her versatility. With roles spanning such wide emotional ranges, audiences can only look forward to what she will deliver next.