"The Secrets of Shining Women" is an interview series showcasing women who excel in a variety of fields, including work and home. Our fifth installment features singer-songwriter Miliyah Kato, who will celebrate her 10th anniversary as a musician on September 8th. Her unique style, makeup, and hairstyles are so influential that she has fans nicknamed "Miliya" who admire her style. On September 3rd, she released a new single, "YOU... feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)," in collaboration with HY's Izumi Nakasone. Her artist book, "Cupido," commemorating her 10th anniversary, is scheduled for release on October 2nd. We spoke to this charismatic figure among the younger generation about the changes in her mindset from her debut to the present, her passion for her work, and her lifestyle. --Has your mindset changed since then?

When I debuted at age 16, I was so focused on what was in front of me that I never imagined I'd be able to continue my music career for 10 years. Ten years have passed since then, and I feel like I've been reborn in some ways. I've always given my all to my work. I've been blessed with staff who have allowed me to do what I wanted and supported the projects I proposed, helping me realize them. This year, I want to give back to everyone I've worked with and make it a year that the fans who've supported me enjoy.

--What sparked your interest in music in the first place?

I started writing poetry when I was 10 years old. There was no one in my family who was musical, and I didn't have anyone close to the music industry. But around that time, female artists who wrote and sang poetry were starting to gain attention. Seeing this, I thought that if I became a singer, I could communicate what I wanted to say to others. I was going through a rebellious and adolescent phase, so I started writing poetry as a way to relieve stress without causing trouble for others or my parents. After that, when I was in my first year of junior high school, I auditioned for Sony Music, the company I'm currently signed to, and that's what led me to enter the world of music.

--This year, you've experienced the nationwide tour "Loveland Tour 2014" and performed on stage at the Brazil World Cup.

I'm relieved that we were able to successfully complete 26 performances across the country. I'm very happy that we were able to achieve our goal of seeing it through to the end. During that time, I also went to Brazil for a six-day, three-night trip to perform "Fighter," the official World Cup album Asia representative song, with Mika Nakashima. That was really tough, but it made me realize how much I love performing overseas. Since Japanese and foreign audiences react differently, it was really interesting to sing in an environment where everyone was unfamiliar with me.

--You lead a very busy life, but what do you do on your days off?

I hibernate (laughs). I don't really like going out, so I usually stay at home at night. Everyone around me likes to hang out, so they often invite me out, but I don't go (laughs). I generally like to stay at home, so when I'm out, I listen to my favorite music.

--I've heard you're also good at cooking.

I love cooking! I love cooking, and I also love going out to eat delicious food. I'm particularly good at braised pork. Lately, I've been into making curry, changing the spices each time. Cooking is the most relaxing moment for me. Even when I'm taking a bath or watching someone's live performance, I can't help but think about work, but cooking is the only activity I can immerse myself in without thinking about anything. I also like to get up early and run or go to the gym to exercise. I go to the gym about three times a week, and I also do Pilates once a week.

In the second half of this article, we'll explore Miliyah's beauty and fashion.