Would you like to run an idol café? 3 (2022)

Would you like to run an idol café? 3 is a visual novel that follows the journey of Yokoyama Naoya, an ordinary guy who seeks a peaceful life after putting his turbulent past behind him. He works at a small café by the beach, accompanied by his two charming colleagues—Mayuki, a serious young woman, and Kuu, an enigmatic and quirky girl. The trio enjoys a serene existence until they face the unfortunate news that the café's revenue is rapidly declining, putting the establishment on the brink of closure.

Faced with this impending crisis, Naoya decides to consult with his childhood friend, Ichigo. Ichigo proposes a bold idea to help revitalize the café: she suggests that they form an idol group using Mayuki and Kuu as members to promote the café. Though initially skeptical about the idea, both Mayuki and Kuu eventually agree to give it a try, and thus, Sweet Shoreline, an amateur idol group, is born.

Sweet Shoreline's debut music video becomes a viral sensation, gaining them widespread attention and a solid fanbase. This unexpected success catapults the group to the spotlight, and soon they are invited to participate in a major idol competition in Tokyo. This competition will pit Sweet Shoreline against other up-and-coming idol groups, offering them a chance to prove their worth. While Ichigo is ecstatic about the opportunity, Mayuki, the shy and reserved member, is filled with doubts and anxiety.

As Sweet Shoreline's members prepare for the competition, tensions begin to rise within the group. Their unity is further challenged when they discover that their primary rival, Honey Devil, has also received an invitation to the same competition. Will Sweet Shoreline be able to outperform their rivals and secure a victory, despite being the underdogs? Or will Honey Devil's cunning and experience overshadow them? The future of both the idol group and the Seaside Café rests in the hands of Naoya, who must navigate the challenges and dilemmas facing his friends and the café.

Main Characters

Suzuki Ichigo

Ichigo is Naoya’s childhood friend and a key character in the story. Cheerful, kind-hearted, and always optimistic, Ichigo has an infectious personality that helps keep the group together, even during tough times. Though she may come across as somewhat airheaded, Ichigo is a diligent worker and a passionate idol fan. With a deep understanding of the idol industry, she becomes Sweet Shoreline’s leader, providing support and encouragement for everyone, especially when the team faces uncertainty.

Shinonome Mayuki

Mayuki is the serious and often aloof girl of the group. Once a class president in high school, she carries herself with an air of authority. Beneath her stern exterior, however, Mayuki is a shy and self-conscious young woman with a desire to improve herself. She’s not naturally skilled at singing or dancing, but she is committed to working hard and developing her abilities. As Sweet Shoreline’s most reserved member, Mayuki's journey involves overcoming her inner struggles and insecurities as the competition approaches.

Yamashiro Kuina (Kuu)

Kuu, with her eccentric personality, is often found with her head in the clouds. Fascinated by the occult and fortune-telling, she is a quirky character whose predictions are often dark and filled with misfortune. Despite her lack of emotional expression during performances, Kuu is a surprisingly good singer, though her dancing leaves much to be desired. Despite her lack of coordination, Kuu’s unique charm makes her an endearing member of Sweet Shoreline.

Enoshima Rina

Rina is a member of the idol group Honey Devil and a rival to Sweet Shoreline. Appearing poised and elegant on the outside, Rina hides a cunning and malicious nature. She is fiercely determined to beat Sweet Shoreline and has no qualms about using underhanded tactics, including seduction, to achieve her goals. Her aggressive pursuit of victory makes her a formidable adversary in the competition.

Ebihara Hasaki

Hasaki is the second member of Honey Devil and is known for her eccentric and dramatic persona. She dresses in extravagant, frilly dresses and often speaks about the impending apocalypse, convinced that she has been granted powers by a mysterious “dark lord.” While Hasaki’s behavior may be seen as delusional, her unique image has earned her a large fanbase, and she proves to be a skilled idol in her own right.

Hoshizora Shiori

Hoshizora Shiori is one of Japan’s top idols, widely admired for her maturity and elegance. She has built a massive following and maintains a sophisticated public image. Despite her popularity, Shiori keeps her personal life private, which only adds to her mystique. However, her interest in Naoya may soon bring a shift in her private world, opening new possibilities for the future of Sweet Shoreline.

Conclusion

The fate of Sweet Shoreline and the Seaside Café hangs in the balance as the girls face off in the idol competition. With each member of the group having their own unique strengths, weaknesses, and personalities, they must overcome their doubts and rivals if they are to succeed. As Naoya watches over them, he must navigate not only the challenges of being the café’s last hope but also the complex relationships and tensions within the group. Will Sweet Shoreline rise to the occasion, or will Honey Devil’s scheming tear them apart?