Ex-JAV Star Tsubomi Sells Used Underwear as a Cosplayer

 

Former top JAV performer Tsubomi debuted in 2006 at age 18, rapidly becoming one of the most prolific figures in Japan's adult entertainment industry. Known for her early Lolita-style image, she appeared in over 1,000 releases by 2012 before officially retiring in late 2022 after a exceptionally long career.

Post-retirement, Japanese adult video stars often face social prejudice and employment challenges. Today, Tsubomi operates as a cosplayer using the alias Tanpopo, building a multi-faceted revenue model to support herself within Japan’s niche idol economy.

She generates income through online auctions on DMM/Fanza via COS×Project, selling nominally worn underwear and bras that fetch up to ¥35,000 per item. Additionally, she monetizes her image by selling branded merchandise and photo-session access at events like Tokyo’s Comiket alongside fellow cosplayer Sayoyon. Leveraging her enduring international popularity across Asia, Tsubomi also hosts live overseas fan meetings, including recent appearances in Taiwan. Through these combined efforts, she successfully converts her legacy fanbase into a sustainable post-AV career.