Japanese rock icons ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION have kept their momentum soaring, releasing the Fujieda EP and the powerful single “Skins” in quick succession. The four-track EP, captured within the historic walls of MUSIC inn Fujieda—a 130-year-old converted storehouse—showcases the band’s sonic versatility and highlights the unique acoustic warmth of their new recording sanctuary.

“Skins,” which serves as the opening theme for Dr. STONE: SCIENCE FUTURE, mirrors the series’ themes of rebirth and resilience. Frontman Masafumi Gotoh describes the track as a meditation on shedding societal expectations to reveal our fundamental humanity. We sat down with the band to discuss the creative process behind the EP, the deeper meaning of their latest single, and their excitement as they prepare for a milestone 30th-anniversary tour.

The Vision Behind MUSIC inn Fujieda

Masafumi Gotoh: For young musicians in Tokyo, the cost of studio time is a massive hurdle. I wanted to build a space that was accessible, allowing artists the luxury of time to experiment. We funded it through community support, and I asked the band to be our first test subjects.

Kensuke Kita: The attention to detail is remarkable. Despite the compact footprint, the high ceilings provide a sense of scale. The drum acoustics are world-class—the space was clearly designed with a high level of sonic intentionality.

Kiyoshi Ijichi: It’s incredibly rare to see this level of historic preservation in Japan. Renovating a storehouse is far more complex than building anew, but the result is a space that breathes. It feels like a true contribution to the local culture.

The Philosophy of “Skins”

Gotoh: “Skins” is a song born from a period of reflection on conflict and the fragility of modern values. When we talk about ‘skin,’ we are talking about our raw, unadorned selves—what remains when everything else is stripped away. The connection to Dr. STONE felt natural; it’s a story about human survival and starting over from scratch.

Music as a Bridge

Gotoh: Music shouldn’t be a catalyst for division. Regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, we can share a beat and a moment of connection. My goal is to foster an environment where everyone feels permitted to simply exist and be heard. That is the essence of my work.

Reflecting on the 30th Anniversary

Gotoh: Sharing the stage with Oasis at the Tokyo Dome was a surreal milestone. After 30 years, we’ve learned that the true reward is in the connection with the audience. As we look ahead to our international shows in Indonesia and Latin America, our mission remains the same: to deliver performances that honor our fans’ support.

Takahiro Yamada: There are people waiting for us all over the world. Our upcoming performances are a thank you to those who have sustained us for three decades. We intend to give every show everything we have.