Last week, former Japanese girl group Keyakizaka46 member, Manaka Shida, 23, surprised fans when she announced on Instagram that she has switched careers to become a hostess at a bar in Ginza.

The singer-turned-model said that while the decision might seem unexpected, it’s a job that she’s always wanted to try.

“I never pursued it ‘cos it was unrelated to my profession [as a singer], but after speaking to a lot of people, they encouraged me to go for it. I feel you only live once, so I decided to give it a try and do what I love!” she wrote.

She's the bar's September cover girl

Manaka admitted that she is excited and anxious about her new job as she has no experience in the line, but it’s a challenge she’s looking forward to.

She also welcomed fans to visit her at the bar, even the ladies.

Unsurprisingly, fans were shocked by her announcement, but most were very supportive of her decision and said they would patronise her.

There were also netizens who warned her to be careful and not get involved with the staff there.

Manaka is one of Keyakizaka46's original members

Manaka made her showbiz debut with Keyakizaka46 in 2015 and is known for her cool demeanour.

In 2017, she collapsed while performing on stage and went on a hiatus. 

During her break, she was photographed holding hands with a guy in her hometown of Niigata. The news marred her career as idol singers are strictly forbidden from dating. She was also rumoured to be pregnant.

Though she never responded to the rumours, she left the group a few months later and became a model.

Photos: Manaka Shida/Instagram