When a businessperson in Japan’s apple capital, rural Aomori Prefecture, announced that he was putting together a performing group to promote local agriculture, people scoffed. Now, 20 years later, this group of “idols” have made their mark beyond their hometown, gaining popularity across Japan. But they haven’t abandoned their local roots. And in the midst of the pandemic, they’re launching new initiatives, hoping to stay connected with their fans and make a difference in their hometown.