On May 27th, former Morning Musume leader Niigaki Risa attended a release event for her photo book, 'ASCENSION', at a bookstore in Tokyo.

As this marked her first public appearance after graduating from the group on May 18th, Niigaki said, "Yaguchi-san got married and she looked very happy. So I also hope to get married like my senpais someday." She then continued, "By performing as the solo Niigaki Risa, I hope to deliver messages to people. I want to take a step forward while taking jobs one by one."

Niigaki also expressed, "Recently, I spend a lot of my time alone, so I do have some feeling of loneliness. Morning Musume is challenging new things, so I keep my eye out for them."

When commenting on the photo book, Niigaki showed confidence saying, "Since this was my last [as a Morning Musume member], I was able to take pictures while indulging myself in memories over the past 11 years. I give it over 100 points."

'ASCENSION' is Niigaki's last photo book that compiles her 11 years in Morning Musume. It was shot in Okinawa, and features a variety of photos from swimsuits to cosplay.

Check out pictures from the event below!

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Source & Photos: Mantan Web