Overview
| Summary | “Ohhah!” is a lighthearted and energetic morning greeting popularized by Japanese comedian and TV personality Shingo Katori, a member of the idol group SMAP. The phrase became a cultural phenomenon in the late 1990s when Katori used it on the children’s morning show Sata Suma. Delivered with a playful tone and an exaggerated expression, “Ohhah!” became an instant hit among kids and families across Japan. |
| Japanese Writing | おっはー！ |
| Genre | Greeting / Variety Show Catchphrase / Pop Culture |
| Typical Age Group | Children to young adults (6–40), though nostalgic for adults |
| Audience | Fans of 1990s Japanese pop culture, variety shows, SMAP fans, and anyone interested in cheerful or nostalgic expressions. |
| Popularity | ★★★★☆ |
| Relevance | ★★★☆☆ Though its peak popularity was in the late ’90s and early 2000s, “Ohhah!” still holds nostalgic value. It occasionally resurfaces in retro-themed programs or social media posts celebrating ‘90s Japanese entertainment. The phrase also set a trend for using silly, catchy greetings in Japanese pop culture. |
| Usability | ★★★★★ |
| When to Use | Use it to greet someone in a cheerful, over-the-top way — especially in the morning or in a fun, casual setting. It’s perfect for adding a dose of humor or cuteness to your hello. |
| How to Use | Hold both fists near your face, open your eyes wide with a goofy smile, and shout: “Ohhah!” |
| Cultural Note | The word “Ohhah!” is a playful twist on Ohayou (おはよう – “Good morning” in Japanese). In 2000, it was so popular that it won the Ryukougo Taisho (Buzzword of the Year) award in Japan. It became a symbol of morning energy, youth culture, and comedic charm — and is still remembered fondly today. |
Original performance
You can hear a similar phrase at about 00:01 in this YouTube video.
“Ohhah!” is also frequently used on the children’s TV show Oha Suta.
Originally, it was a phrase used within Oha Suta, but it was Shingo Mama — a character played by Shingo Katori — who made it widely popular.
This version of “Ohhah!” is from Koichi Yamadera, the original host of Oha Suta.