Comedian Ryuji Akiyama of the trio Robert appeared at a promotional event for the Toge-Nuri Ginza Onsen in Shinagawa, Tokyo, on Friday [1].

The appearance highlights the intersection of celebrity performance and experiential marketing in Tokyo's bathhouse culture. By utilizing his personal brand of eccentricism, Akiyama drew significant media attention to the limited-time opening of the facility [1].

Akiyama, 47 [1], arrived at the media experience day covered in camellia oil to achieve a high-gloss look. He said he applies the oil approximately three times a day: morning, noon, and night [1]. This routine is intended to maintain his tan and ensure he remains "oil-glistening" as part of his lifestyle [1].

During the event, Akiyama demonstrated a specific "pyu" trick involving the use of body shampoo. He said that he aims the soap from a high shelf toward his feet with a sharp movement [1]. Akiyama said the trick is made possible by his experience with a hernia, which allows him to hit the target with a success rate he describes as 100 percent [1].

The comedian also expressed joy during the "Nuri-arai" experience, specifically when the areas of his back that are usually neglected were washed [1]. The event served as a promotional launch for the temporary Toge-Nuri Ginza Onsen, emphasizing the tactile and visual nature of the "painting" or "coating" theme of the venue [1].

Throughout the presentation, Akiyama maintained his persona of a man obsessed with water-related environments. He said he attended the event with his "usual oil content" to fit the atmosphere of the celebration [1].

“"I apply camellia oil about three times a day."”

This event exemplifies the Japanese 'variety' approach to promotion, where comedians use physical comedy and personal quirks to generate viral interest for local businesses. By framing a medical condition like a hernia as a 'divine skill' for a bathhouse trick, Akiyama converts a personal limitation into a marketing asset, ensuring the temporary venue gains visibility through social media and news clips.