Model and Talents agency | Chat Noir Inc. -

Chanoir Model Agency: A Boutique Agency Bridging Tokyo, Osaka, and Los Angeles

6/14/2025 / By シャノワール編集部

Who We Are

Chanoir Model Agency is a creative and multicultural modeling agency with offices in Tokyo, Osaka, and Los Angeles.
If you’re searching for a “reliable Tokyo model agency” or “unique model agency with international style,” Chanoir is your perfect match.

We specialize in fashion models, commercial talents, and international casting coordination for media and advertising industries across Japan and the U.S.

What Makes Chanoir Unique?

1. Cross-Cultural Style

We embrace a blend of Japanese elegance and Western creativity, making our agency a go-to choice for international brands, fashion weeks, and global campaigns.

2. Bilingual Talent & Staff

With models and coordinators fluent in English and Japanese, we handle international productions with ease — whether it’s for a Tokyo-based fashion shoot or a commercial in L.A.

3. Proven Track Record

Chanoir models have been featured in:

Global fashion magazines
TV commercials and advertisements
Runways and events in Japan, the U.S., and beyond

For Aspiring Models

We welcome applications from new faces and experienced models alike.
Our Tokyo and Osaka teams offer:

Test shooting sessions
Modeling workshops
Personalized career support

If you dream of working in Tokyo, Osaka, or even Los Angeles, we provide the connections and guidance to make it happen.

For International Clients

Need to cast models for your next project in Japan or L.A.?
Chanoir offers fast, curated casting services, tailored to your brand identity, audience, and project goals.

Whether you need European looks, Asian models, or diverse international faces, we deliver talent that fits your vision.

Our Philosophy

Chanoir believes in the power of beauty, diversity, and professionalism.
We act as a creative partner for brands and a guiding light for models who want to reach new heights in their careers.

If you’re seeking a unique, trustworthy model agency in Japan, Chanoir will exceed your expectations.

Chatnoir Model Agency

https://www.chatnoir.tv/en/

Uncategorized,

Elite Japan: A World-Class Modeling Agency Connecting Japan to the Global Stage

6/14/2025 / By シャノワール編集部

What is Elite Japan?

If you’re searching for terms like “top modeling agency in Tokyo” or “best model agency Japan,” look no further than Elite Japan.

Elite Japan is the Japanese division of the Elite World Group, the world’s largest network of model agencies. The Elite Group has launched the careers of global icons such as Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford. As part of this legendary network, Elite Japan offers a truly international platform for models based in Japan.

Our models are not only active across Tokyo and Osaka but are also given opportunities in Paris, Milan, London, New York, and other major fashion capitals through direct connections with our global offices.

Why Elite Japan?

1. Global-Level Model Training and Support

Elite Japan nurtures models to succeed both in Japan and abroad. From walking and posing to language and self-promotion, our comprehensive development program equips each model for success in international markets.

2. Access to Worldwide Castings

Thanks to our affiliation with 30+ Elite offices worldwide, models at Elite Japan enjoy access to international castings, fashion weeks, and high-profile global campaigns — all while based in Japan.

3. Strong Presence in Japan

We also dominate the domestic scene with appearances in:

TV commercials for major brands
Leading fashion magazines
Music videos, films, and drama series
Tokyo Collection and other high-end runway shows

Want to Join Elite Japan?

We are always scouting for the next generation of talent — both experienced models and passionate newcomers.
✅ Applications open via our online form
✅ Evaluations include document screening, interviews, walking, and camera tests
✅ Ages: Generally 13 to 28 (all genders welcome)

We also provide professional photography and profile support, so even beginners can feel confident.

For Clients

Elite Japan provides high-quality models for:

Advertising
Events & shows
Film & video production
Social media campaigns
We serve Tokyo, Osaka, and beyond — including international bookings. Our strength lies in our speed, precision, and global reach.

Our Mission

Elite Japan is more than just a modeling agency. We are a gateway to the global stage, supporting models in discovering their true potential and connecting them with the world.

If you’re looking for a modeling agency in Tokyo, or a team that can bring your vision to life on a global level, we are here for you.

elite Japan

https://www.elite.co.jp/en/

Fashion, Uncategorized,

LAFW 2024 Japanese models world debut

4/16/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

“LA Fashion Week (LAFW) 2024” was held from March 24th (local time) at The New Mart in Los Angeles, USA, where five Japanese models were hired.

The recruitment selection was handled by Japan’s leading model agency elite Japan and ChatNoir Co., Ltd., and it was a collaboration project with Kentaro Kameyama, a Japanese designer active in LA.

First up in our introduction is Sara Yagami, who won the “Discover World Runway” held in 2023. She won out of many models, and as a result got herself a ticket to the world runway, and made her grand debut as a model.

Sara Yagami

※Sara Yagami（elite Japan）

She completed her first model runway with great style, wearing white underwear and obi tied around her waist, an attractive design with a Japanese feel.

The next Japanese person is Rui Mizuna.

Rui Mizuna

※Rui Mizuna（ChatNoir model）

And Seiji Yamauchi, 55 years old and 175 cm tall, who became a hot topic on YahooNews.
His model debut being an international one means he’s certainly the type of person who will show results anywhere he goes.

Seiji Yamauchi

※Seiji Yamauchi (freelance)

Next up is Sofia, a mixed race model. She showed us some wonderful walking indeed.

Sofia

※Sofia（ChatNoir model）

And finally, KENCO, who had already made her world debut in New York, and now appeared on her second world runway in LA.

KENCO

※KENCO（elite Japan）

She has such a unique vibe.

Summing up, this five Japanese models made their mark on the world stage at this spring’s LAFW.

In addition, Miya Kuroda, the representative of elite Japan, wants to create a place where more and more Japanese people can spread their wings around the world. She wants to show and amaze the world with the goodness of Japanese models, saying she will be making more and more models make their world debut.

Both ChatNoir and elite Japan is currently recruiting models and companions.
If you are interested in becoming a model, please contact us!

Fashion, Model,

Model KIKO is receiving endless offers at this season’s Paris Fashion Week 2024

3/14/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

2024-2025 Autumn/Winter Women’s Paris Collection is held in Paris from February 26th to March 5th. Japanese model KIKO, who has become a regular model at Paris Fashion Week is drawing attention, with offers constantly coming in.

◆KIKO (Elite Japan)
The currently 26 years old, 181cm tall model KIKO, moved to Paris at the age of 19, and is a fashion model active for 7 years both in Paris and Japan. She is already flooded with offers from 8 brands at Paris Fashion Week, which is being held from February 26th to March 5th, 2024.

Japanese models who were active at Paris Fashion Week include Ai Tominaga, An, TAO, and Kiko Mizuhara. While they’re popular in Europe, they aren’t very active in Japan, and therefore aren’t very well known in their country.

“KIKO” (26) is currently attracting the most attention in Paris.
In fact, her appearance has been decided for 8 brands’ shows at the Paris Collection.
And she still keeps receiving offers from designers.

※designer： nae atelier

※designer： LUR BE YOURSELF

Other designers she works with during Paris FW:
Francini K
Chandra Keyser
Jolia
July Saint Barth
Amir Sali
Jorge Paz

At the end of last year, KIKO signed an exclusive contract with Japanese agency Elite Japan, and is now preparing to set up her own base in her home country.
We certainly look forward to working with her in the future!

KIKO (キコ) (※Affiliated with Elite Japan)

KIKO was born in Tokyo in 1997, and was scouted and debuted as a model when she was a 12-year-old middle school student. She then studied abroad in Canada, where she worked as an international model.
Later she suffered from severe anorexia and moved to Paris alone at the age of 19, where she began working as an ethical model.
She has appeared in fashion shows around the world, including Paris, London, Berlin, and New York.

Wanna know more about our models appearing in fashion weeks? Read our previous article:
https://www.chatnoir.tv/blog/en/japanese-transgender-model-sara-yagami-makes-her-world-debut/

Uncategorized,

Japanese transgender model Sara Yagami makes her world debut

3/14/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

The winner of the 1st “World Fashion Show in Japan Audition” was transgender model Sara Yagami, and she’s about to make her world debut alongside the world’s top models!

Fashion weeks are fashion festivals held around the world, including Paris, Milan, London, New York, and LA. It isn’t an exaggeration to say that the stages of these shows are a dream for the world’s top models.

The first contest to support models towards this dream was held in Japan last month, and the winner was Sara Yagami. With this, she has successfully earned her debut as an international fashion model!

The contest was sponsored by elite Japan model agency, and was held with the cooperation of Kentaro Kameyama, a successful designer in LA, known as the winner of the 16th season of the popular American reality show “Project Runway.”

Only a handful of fashion models from all over the world are able to appear at LA Fashion Week, which is one of the world’s top five fashion weeks along with Paris, Milan, and London.

The winner, Sara, will make her debut as a model at LAFW in March 2024.

With a slender figure and a height of 175cm, the sight of her standing on the same stage as the world’s top models is drawing attention.

Sara Yagami

Although she was born as a male, she struggled with gender discomfort from an early age and came out when she entered high school.

After moving to Tokyo at the age of 18, she began cosmetic surgery and hormone treatment, and in her early 20s underwent gender reassignment surgery and finally became registered as a woman.

At the age of 28, she opened and became the owner of her bar GENIE in Roppongi, started her own incorporated association, and continues to engage in a wide range of activities. She currently appears regularly on the popular YouTube program “Reiwa no Tora”.

Interested in who else from our models made their international debut? Read our previous article:
https://www.chatnoir.tv/blog/en/los-angeles-fashion-week-2023-japanese-model-debut/

Uncategorized,

LOS ANGELES FASHION WEEK 2023 Japanese Model Debut

2/9/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

Los Angeles Fashion Week, one of the world’s most spectacular fashion shows held every year, was held at THE MAJESTIC DOWNTOWN from October 19th to 22nd, 2023.

Each brand’s fashion show attracts media attention every year, with many Hollywood stars and VOGUE editors attending.

Elite management Japan is one of the agencies that sends many Japanese models to fashion shows around the world.

Elite Model is the world’s most famous model agency with its headquarters in Paris, and produces the most top models in the world.

From Elite Management Japan, four female models went to LA from Japan and made their spectacular runway debuts at LAFW.

Let’s introduce these models!

Nao Matsumura

She is an exclusive model of Elite JAPAN, and is also a model with a strong presence who has attracted attention in many media as a round girl for the boxing event “3150fight” hosted by Koki Kameda.

She has also worked as an advertising model for cosmetics brands, and with her 171cm tall slim figure and small face her popularity is likely to increase overseas as well.

Yuna Hirai

18 years old gen Z model who has attracted a lot of attention this time as well.

While attending high school in Okayama Prefecture, she worked as a model in Tokyo, and once again caught the eye of Elite Japan representative Miya Kuroda.

She has also been featured in an advertisement for a Japanese company’s hair care products in LA, and has appeared as a model on a New York Times billboard.

*October 26, 2023

She has expanded her range of activities overseas and is a major newcomer who is attracting attention.

Rima Hiragi

She has a well-balanced figure and recived very good feedbacks overseas too.

Although she is a newcomer, she has been making her presence felt in LA following NYFW, and is definitely a model to keep an eye on in the future.

Marcia

The fourth person is Marcia from Peru.
Although she has a unique character with her hair shaved and tattoos on her arms, her warm Japanese-like manners and performance that makes people smile is the secret to her popularity.

Although she made a late debut as a model, she proved at LAFW that “people can become who they want to be at any part of their lives from any part of the world.”

She showed us that it’s never too late and that with hard work and action, dreams can come true.

NYFW in 2024 is scheduled to be held in February, and LAFW in March.

Also, for next year, elite JAPAN and ChatNoir model agency are launching a project for models who want to take on the challenge overseas.

Click here for details ↓

Discover World Runway

Agency, Model, Uncategorized,

Popular Model Agencies 2024 (Tokyo)

2/9/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

Just as fashion trends come and go, a company’s growth also changes with the times.
As part of a rapdily growing comapny, I imagine that companies that can predict the future and assess the next generation of AI and state of world, will continue to grow.

We selected the top model agencies that are likely to rapidly grow in 2024.

The following is our selection of “Popular Model Agencies 2024 “
Estimated based on the company’s growth and performance in 2023.

No.1 in the rapid growth prediction ranking of popular model agencies for 2024!

#1 elite Management Japan

Elite is the world’s No.1 modeling agency with its headquarters in Paris and around 30 branch offices on 5 continents.

This agency attracts worldwide attention, producing world-famous top models, with the majority of models appearing at Paris Fashion Week, and top models appearing on the cover of VOGUE.
The Japanese branch took on a new look and was launched in 2023, training many new models and sending them around the world.

Models who want to work overseas and top models on fashion shows belong to this agency.

#2 ChatNoir model agency

The representative who founded elite Japan is also the representative of this agency.

In short, it is an affiliated company (sister company) of Elite Japan. A stable agency that has been in business for 27 years (as of 2023).

In addition to models, there are approximetely 2,000 members registered with Chat Noir, including companions, race queens, hosts, and influencers.

#3 Oscar Promotion

A long-established and stable agent with a large number of employees.
If you are not only a model but also a talent or actress, this is the place for you.

#4 Asia Promotion

Although it’s an agency with a strong focus on entertainers, including Tsubasa Wakamasu, Maryjun Takahashi, Yu Takahashi, and Kayo Sato, there are many people who are active as models.

#5 Platinum Production

Popular talents and models such as Nanao, Anne Nakamura, Reina Triendl, and Yuko Ogura belong to the group.

#6 Bon Image

Often use foreign models by invitation.

#7 Satoru Japan

Similarly, there are many foreign and half-Japanese models.

There many other model agencies in Japan from small to major companies, such as Wildflower, Watanabe Entertainment, Pearl, SOS, and NAME Management.

In addition,

the initial registration fee which includes having a professional photographer take your photo, creating a composite, and creating a book that is essential for auditions can range from 30,000 yen~100,000 yen,but if the registration fee is more than 100,000 yen, you may want to compare it with other agencies and reconsider.

However, it takes a lot of effort and self-investment to make a living as a professional model.
Models walking in fashion shows are responsible for their own walking lessons and transportation to auditions.

Still, it is a dream job.

It seems like a dream come true to have a job that everyone dreams of, and I’d be happy if this website could be helpful to such dreamer young people!

Uncategorized,

Mixed-race male models to be a big hit in 2024

2/9/2024 / By シャノワール編集部

Mixed-race (or “half”) Japanese models are often chosen because their image isn’t as strong and powerful as foreigners’ but not as soft/natural as Japanese models’.
And generally, Japanese people tend to prefer half-Japanese faces.

While using foreigner models can give a very cool and high-end image, sometimes they lack friendliness.

In such cases, mixed race models are the most likely to be used.

Also, recently Korean stars became popular not only in Japan but globally as well, so there is a growing demand for Korean-like features in the industry.

Let us introduce you some mixed-race male models who are likely to be a big hit in 2024!

Masa J Solucio

Management: elite Japan　
Age: 26
Filipino x Japanese x Spanish
183cm（Also active as a dancer）

RYU

Management: elite Japan　
Age: 22
German×Japanese×English
193cm

Akihiro Holloway

Management: elite Japan　
Age: 21
American×Japanese
183cm

Hyugo

Management: elite Japan
Age: 18
Quarter Argentine x Japanese
180cm

Models have a wide variety of jobs, including corporate advertisements, commercials, fashion shows, catalog, editorial, and many more.

There is no doubt that the demand for half-Japanese models will increase in Japan, where companies are incorporating international culture and inbound tourism is expected to accelerate.

Hostess, Model,

Most recommended event agencies (Osaka)

4/3/2023 / By シャノワール編集部

What should I do when looking for an event agency?

If you are wondering this, please read this article to the end!

Here are the most important things to consider when choosing an event agency!

In the first place, check the agency’s profile!
And check if some of the following points may be right or may have occured already:

■Suspicious activities

■Troubles with paying employees’ remuneration

■Difference between the real job and the one you were told about

Then look for some more details:

■Check the firm’s corporate history!
Some suspicious firms have already been in trouble, or have closed their doors after a court decision in the past…

■Choose a firm that has been doing this business for at least 10 years and that does not have any incident or bad reputation on the Internet!

■The firm should have a website and have the kind of work you want to do!
This is also very important.

And finally, if you think:
“I got interviewed and was accepted! But the job is not matching at all with what I thought.”
“I got the job but the management is kind of awkward and there is no following-up.”

Then, it’s probably not a good place to work at…

But finally, after making a minutious selection, you will be able to see on the list some good places to give it a shot.

So let’s introduce you to our recommended event agencies in Osaka.

Recommendation #１

Chat Noir

Founded in 1997 in Osaka, Chat Noir Inc. is an internationally active firm with its headquarters in Tokyo and branch offices in Osaka and Los Angeles.
The company has been in business for 26 years and is one of the top-ranked firms in the industry with over 1,500 employees.
The company also has English and Chinese language staff, and interpreters.
It is also recommended for those who aim to become narrators or announcers.

We interview newcomers very carefully.
First, at the interview, we explain “this is what a promotional model does”.

We also explain the job contents, hours of work, remuneration, pay system, and other important details.

Chat Noir has been established in Osaka since 1997, and has been a leader in the industry since its establishment.

With more than 1,500 talents, it is one of the top-ranked firms in the industry.
The company has strong language skills, including English, French, Chinese, and Korean talents.

In addition, the agency also focuses on modeling, so it is possible to work in a wide range of fields.

Besides, Chat Noir has a very good reputation, and the managers are very polite and kind, working hard to help all talents as much as they can.]

Lastly, the enrollment systeme is very flexible and there are no big restrictions, meaning that you can register with other offices as well!

So why don’t you use your free time and try to work with us?

We also offer narrator training, walking school, and makeup lessons for those who want to become narrators, talents or models!

And please remember that it may be dangerous to be scouted by suspicious agencies like in Umeda and Shinsaibashi.
So please check their website first.

If you are scared of taking a wrong decision, you can still contact us and try then to give it a try.

You’ll feel the difference!

Chat Noir

Uncategorized,

10 most recommended modeling agencies in Osaka in 2023

4/3/2023 / By シャノワール編集部

In Osaka, there are many modeling agencies of various sizes too.

If you’re thinking: “I want to be a model for a photo shoot, but I don’t know where to ask.”
“I want to be a model, but how do I become one?”

In a word, if you’re looking for an agent or a support, we have a list of reliable modeling agencies in Osaka.

Then, it depends on what kind of work and modeling job you are looking for, but here are some good places to start!

RECOMMENDATION #１

There are few agencies specialized in such a business. Yet, there is a model agency in Japan that has a global presence and that can support you!

Let’s mention first Chat Noir Inc.

The agency is getting pretty active in overseas expansion as you can see on Instagram.

Back in the days, the agency was founded in 1997 and was first established focusing on promotional models, event hostesses and narrators for event-related business.

RECOMMENDATION #２

SOS Model Agency
Founded in 1972, this is a stable modeling agency that has been in business for over 50 years.

RECOMMENDATION #３

Stadium Promotions
Located in Esaka and established in 1983, this is a solid modeling firm with over 40 years of experience.

RECOMMENDATION #４

Japan Model Agency

RECOMMENDATION #５

Lucent

RECOMMENDATION #６

Talent Bank

RECOMMENDATION #７

Liberta

RECOMMENDATION #８

Rotten Meier

RECOMMENDATION #９

Wild Flower

RECOMMENDATION #１０

Silhouette

That’s all of for this time! Do you think you just found the right place for you?

One of the criteria for choosing an agency is that it is not a recently established company, but one that has a proven track record of success.
A track record means the number of jobs they have done.
It is important to know how many jobs the company has done, rather than a company that makes a profit by taking lesson fees from models.

One tip: Check the linked websites to see the number of jobs they have done.
It is a good idea in order to see if there are jobs that you would like to do yourself if joining one of them…

Chat Noir, The Model Agency

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