Every January 2nd and 3rd, Japan is gripped by the Hakone Ekiden, a two-day university relay race that transcends mere athletic competition.
Spanning over 200 kilometres between Tokyo and Hakone, this iconic event tests the endurance, teamwork, and strategy of young athletes as they race through challenging terrain, all while carrying the pride of their universities.
More than just a sporting event, the Hakone Ekiden is a cultural phenomenon that unites the nation.
Families and communities gather to cheer for their teams, celebrating stories of resilience and triumph that unfold with each leg of the race.
It’s a showcase of tradition, drama, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—a perfect way to kick off the New Year in Japan! 🎌
The Ancient Lore Of Hakone Ekiden
Hakone Ekiden has a rich history dating back to 1920, making it one of the oldest and most celebrated relay races in the world.
It was created by three passionate athletes, Shizo Kanaguri, Eiichi Sawada, and Rinjiro Deguchi, who were inspired by the ancient Japanese practice of “ekiden,” a relay system used to transport official communications and goods during the Edo period.
Initially conceived as a “transcontinental marathon relay race across America,” the route was eventually changed to the Tokyo-Hakone course.
The first Hakone Ekiden was held on February 14, 1920, with four universities participating, and since then, the event has grown in popularity and scale.
200Km?! A Mountain?! What Kind Of Race Is Hakone Ekiden?
The Hakone Ekiden course spans a challenging 217.1 kilometres, starting in Otemachi, Tokyo, and concluding on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, with the same route running back to Tokyo on the following day.
It is divided into 10 sections, with each section presenting unique challenges, including steep mountain ascents and descents.
Due to the large difference in temperature between the top and the bottom of the mountain, athletes must adapt quickly to avoid dehydration and hypothermia.
Hakone Ekiden demands a high level of physical and mental endurance, as well as strategic teamwork and coordination.
Hakone Ekiden: Kicking Off the Year On The Right Foot
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Hakone Ekiden is deeply ingrained in Japan’s culture, aligning with the country’s New Year celebrations.
The race exemplifies values such as determination, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
With a nationwide broadcast, it draws millions of viewers, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Celebrating Japan’s rich heritage and sporting tradition, it stands tall among the world’s most iconic races.
Its unique history, intense competition, and cultural importance make it truly one of a kind.
Why Hakone Ekiden May Soon Become The Asian March Madness
Hakone Ekiden has inspired the creation of similar events across Japan, such as the Ekiden Relay in Chiba, which features university and corporate teams.
Despite this, its historical significance, larger scale, and unique course make it a standout event on the global stage.
Such is the profound legacy that it even led to the creation of a dedicated museum.
Nestled on the banks of Lake Ashi in Hakone, the Hakone Ekiden Museum is a must-visit for fans and enthusiasts.
Here, visitors can explore the history and significance of the event, gaining a unique insight into Japan’s sporting culture.
Another reason for the race’s popularity is its status as a pure student sporting event.
In other races, many of the runners run for corporate teams.
These races also have a much stronger advertising flavour for the athletes’ sponsors, which can detract from the spirit of competition.
Hence, it is far easier to cheer wholeheartedly for the young amateurs representing their colleges.
Hakone Ekiden: Drama And Emotions That Rivals A Soap Opera
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Ekiden races hold a special place in Japanese culture, and none is more revered than the Hakone Ekiden.
Unlike individual races, this event is a team effort, with 10 runners combining their strength and endurance to carry the Tasuki across the finish line.
Representing the team’s shared spirit, trust, and responsibility, the Tasuki is passed between runners, symbolizing their interconnectedness.
Over the years, the Hakone Ekiden has witnessed record-breaking performances that have left fans in awe.
In 2025, Aoyama Gakuin University shattered the course record, completing the grueling 217.9-kilometer race in an astonishing 10 hours, 41 minutes, and 19 seconds.
Drama is another hallmark of the Hakone Ekiden, with its finishes often becoming the stuff of legend.
Taking The Wrong Turn And Dropping From 8th to 10th
Teams finishing in the top 10 at the Hakone Ekiden earn a coveted seeded spot for next year’s race, making the battle for 10th place as intense as the fight for victory.
Natsuki Terada of Kokugakuin University experienced this pressure firsthand.
During the final stage of the Ekiden, after 216.9 kilometres and two gruelling days, Terada’s team was sitting in 8th place.
But a wrong turn just one block from the finish dropped them to the brink of elimination.
In a stunning comeback, the freshman rallied, overtook a competitor, and secured 10th place, clinching the last automatic qualification.
This humorous mishap led to the infamous intersection being named after him as “Terada Intersection.”
Controversy Behind International Students Participating In Hakone Ekiden
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The growing participation of international students in the Hakone Ekiden has sparked debate over its impact on the race’s traditional focus on Japanese university athletes.
Performances like Richard Etieri’s record-breaking run, where he overtook 12 competitors this year, highlight the influence of foreign talent.
This has raised concerns about how foreign talent would overshadow local competitors.
Critics argue that universities may prioritize recruiting foreign runners to boost rankings, risking the event’s cultural integrity.
Supporters, however, believe their inclusion elevates competition and benefits Japanese athletes.
Some propose stricter criteria, such as cultural and language assessments, to balance preserving tradition with embracing global talent.
The First One Up The Mountain And Back Represents Japan!
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This year’s Hakone Ekiden will serve as a selection race for the 2026 World Cross-Country Championships, with the top teams earning spots on the Japanese national team.
It adds an extra layer of excitement to the event, with athletes knowing that a strong performance could lead to international recognition.
The Ekiden has a long history of producing top cross-country runners, with many past winners going on to represent Japan at the World Championships.
2026’s event is likely to be no exception, with top athletes from across the country battling it out for a spot on the national team.
Ultimately, the Hakone Ekiden is an event that embodies the spirit of athleticism, cultural significance, and drama.
With its rich history, challenging course, and cultural resonance, it has become one of Japan’s most popular sporting events, captivating millions of viewers and inspiring a new generation of athletes. 🏃♂️
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