Made in Japan (Ayumi Hamasaki album)
Made in Japan is the seventeenth studio album by Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki, released on June 29, 2016, through Avex Trax. It was released in commemoration of Hamasaki's 18th anniversary as a recording artist.
The album features a blend of J-pop and electronic dance music styles, a return to the more electronic sound present in some of her earlier works. Made in Japan incorporates themes of resilience, independence, and personal reflection, often touching upon Hamasaki's experiences within the entertainment industry.
The album was released in several physical formats, including a CD-only version, a CD+DVD version featuring music videos and behind-the-scenes footage, and a CD+Blu-ray version offering high-definition video content. The album was promoted through the release of several singles, including "Mad World," "Winter Diary," and "Flower."
Made in Japan charted in several territories, reaching the top spot on the Oricon Weekly Albums Chart in Japan. Its reception was generally positive, with critics praising its production quality, Hamasaki's vocal performance, and the overall thematic coherence of the album. It continues to be recognized as one of Hamasaki's later studio albums, marking a significant point in her extensive discography.