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Introduction
[※ Switch back and forth between the English and Japanese pages to get a feel for the Japanese language!]
On New Year’s morning in Japan, the sound of live sports commentary fills the air. University flags flutter along the roadside, and families gather around steaming bowls of ozōni soup. For many, this familiar scene marks the true beginning of a new year.
One event has become an essential part of this seasonal ritual: the Hakone Ekiden.
Officially known as the “Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip University Ekiden Race,” this long-distance relay is held every year on January 2nd and 3rd. Ten runners from each qualifying university, all members of the Kanto Student Athletics Federation, take turns carrying a sash—called a tasuki—as they race from Tokyo’s Otemachi district to Lake Ashinoko in Hakone and back, covering a total distance of approximately 217 kilometers (135 miles).
First held in 1920, the Hakone Ekiden will celebrate its 102nd edition in 2026.
Even after more than a century, it continues to captivate the hearts of millions across Japan. But what is it about this race that draws such enduring attention?
The Hakone Ekiden is more than just a long-distance competition.
It’s a story of young athletes striving to grow, of bonds forged through shared struggle, and of the emotional weight carried in every handoff of the tasuki.
Held during the New Year holiday—a time when families and communities come together—it creates a rare moment of national unity and collective cheer.
Television broadcasts play a major role in its popularity, with annual viewership ratings exceeding 20%. Crowds line the course to cheer on the runners, creating a festive atmosphere that has earned the race its reputation as a quintessential part of the Japanese New Year.
As we look ahead to the 102nd Hakone Ekiden in 2026, what new stories will unfold?
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What the Hakone Ekiden is all about
- What makes the 102nd edition unique
- The participating universities and highlights of the course
- Why this race has become such a beloved New Year tradition
Whether you’re watching for the first time or are a longtime fan, we hope this guide helps you appreciate the depth, drama, and cultural significance of Japan’s most iconic collegiate race.
Self Lesson
Repeating the sentences out loud is the quickest way to train your Japanese brain!
2026年1月2日・3日。
January 2nd and 3rd, 2026.
この日は、箱根のコースを大学生ランナーが走る、日本伝統の「箱根駅伝」の期間に当たります。
These dates fall during the traditional Japanese Hakone Ekiden, in which university student runners run along the Hakone course.
このレースを楽しみにされている方も、大変多いのではないでしょうか。
We’re sure there are many people looking forward to this race.
「第102回箱根駅伝」は、日本中から注目を集めています。
The 102nd Hakone Ekiden is attracting attention from all over Japan.
この見逃せない大学対抗の熱戦を、想像してみてください。
Imagine this exciting inter-university race that you won’t want to miss.
１チーム10人で、大学生ランナーがタスキをつなぎ、東京から箱根までの217キロメートルの往復を駆け抜ける、ドラマチックなレースです。
It’s a dramatic race in which university runners, each consisting of 10 people, pass the sash to each other and run the 217-kilometer round trip from Tokyo to Hakone.
この大会には21チームが出場し、往路・復路の5区間、合計10区間で総合順位を競います。
21 teams will participate in the tournament, competing for overall rankings over 10 sections, five on the outbound and five on the return journey.
強豪、青山学院大学・駒澤大学・早稲田大学など、伝統校がしのぎを削るこのレースは、まさに日本の新年スポーツの代名詞と言える存在です。
This race, in which traditional schools such as Aoyama Gakuin University, Komazawa University, and Waseda University compete fiercely, is truly synonymous with New Year’s sports in Japan.
ぜひ想像してみてください。
Just imagine it.
1区の緊張感、5区の山岳での激闘、そしてタスキを繋ぐドラマ…
The tension of the first section, the fierce battle in the mountains of the fifth section, and the drama of passing the sash…
その全てが、このレースに詰まっています。
All of that is packed into this race.
新年の風物詩、第102回箱根駅伝。
A New Year’s tradition, the 102nd Hakone Ekiden.
新年の幕開けを、ランナーたちと共に感じましょう。
Let’s feel the start of the new year together with the runners.
そして朝食には、手作りのおせちです。
And for breakfast, we’ll have homemade osechi (New Year’s feast).
朝食に感謝。
Thank you for the breakfast.
応援と評価、宜しくお願い致します。
We appreciate your support and reviews.
Key Takeaways
The 102nd Hakone Ekiden is not only the pinnacle of collegiate long-distance relay racing in Japan—it’s also a powerful symbol of the country’s New Year traditions.
What makes this race so compelling goes far beyond the sheer distance.
It’s a showcase of individual determination, team strategy, and the unique spirit of ekiden—a relay race where runners pass a sash called a tasuki from one teammate to the next.
But the tasuki is more than just a piece of cloth.
It carries the hopes and efforts of each runner, a baton of willpower passed forward.
Even when a runner is pushed to their physical limit, the desire to hand off the tasuki to the next teammate keeps them going. That moment of perseverance resonates deeply with viewers.
Another defining feature of the Hakone Ekiden is that it’s a student competition.
These are not professional athletes, but university students balancing academics and athletics, striving to grow through discipline and teamwork.
Their earnest efforts often remind viewers of their own youth—or of their children and grandchildren—making it easy to cheer them on with heartfelt support.
The timing of the race also adds to its significance.
Held during the New Year holiday, when families gather at home, the Hakone Ekiden becomes a shared experience across generations.
Watching the race together has become a cherished tradition, helping to cement its place as a beloved part of Japan’s seasonal culture.
The 102nd edition promises to deliver more unforgettable moments—unexpected twists, the rise of new stars, and emotional finishes filled with both tears and triumph.
These stories stay with us, offering inspiration and hope as we step into a new year.
In the end, the Hakone Ekiden is more than a sporting event.
It is a cultural touchstone, a seasonal ritual, and a living story.
That’s why, for over a century, it has continued to capture the hearts of people across Japan.
Why the Hakone Ekiden Matters
Over a Century of History and Continuity
The origins of the Hakone Ekiden date back to 1920, when it was first held under the name “Four Major Colleges Relay Race.” Organized by the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper and spearheaded by Tokyo Higher Normal School (a predecessor of today’s University of Tsukuba), the race was created to promote the development of collegiate track and field in Japan’s Kanto region.
Despite interruptions caused by war and shifting social conditions, the event has endured and grown into one of Japan’s most iconic student sporting competitions.
What’s especially remarkable is that, for over 100 years, the Hakone Ekiden has remained a race for university students.
These are not professional athletes, but young people balancing academics and athletics—still in the process of growing, learning, and discovering their limits.
That’s precisely what makes the race so moving.
Viewers see in these runners a reflection of their own youth, or perhaps the image of their children or grandchildren.
The raw, unpolished determination of these student-athletes resonates deeply, making the Hakone Ekiden a sport that truly touches the heart.
A Race Format Unlike Any Other
The Hakone Ekiden is a two-day long-distance relay race, covering approximately 217.1 kilometers (about 135 miles) between Tokyo’s Otemachi district and Lake Ashinoko in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. The course is divided into 10 segments, or “legs,” each run by a different team member.
- Day 1 (January 2): Otemachi → Tsurumi → Totsuka → Hiratsuka → Odawara → Hakone (Lake Ashinoko)
- Day 2 (January 3): Hakone → Odawara → Hiratsuka → Totsuka → Tsurumi → Otemachi
This route, which spans from bustling city streets to mountainous terrain, is unique even by global standards.
Each leg of the race has its own distinct character and strategic importance.
For example:
- The 1st leg sets the tone for the entire race and requires careful pacing.
- The 2nd leg, known as the “Ace Section,” is the longest and features each team’s top runner.
- The 5th leg is the grueling uphill climb to Hakone, with an elevation gain of about 800 meters (2,600 feet).
- The 6th leg, a steep downhill descent, demands speed, balance, and intense concentration.
This diversity of terrain and tactics means the Hakone Ekiden is not just a test of speed, but of overall team strength, strategy, and adaptability.
It’s this intricate design that makes the race so thrilling to watch, year after year.
A New Year Tradition with Deep Cultural Meaning
There’s a reason the Hakone Ekiden is held on January 2nd and 3rd.
New Year’s is a deeply significant time in Japan—a season of rest, reflection, and family gatherings.
During this quiet holiday period, people across the country tune in to watch the race together, making it a shared national experience.
The Hakone Ekiden is more than a sporting event.
It’s a convergence of:
- Family togetherness
- The symbolic start of a new year
- The passionate efforts of young athletes
Since 1987, every leg of the race has been broadcast live nationwide by Nippon TV, allowing viewers from all corners of Japan to follow the action in real time.
This widespread coverage has helped the race become a beloved fixture of the Japanese New Year—what many call a “living room tradition.”
Each year, thousands of spectators also line the course to cheer on the runners, creating a festive and supportive atmosphere.
This culture of cheering—of showing up, waving flags, and shouting encouragement—has become an essential part of the event’s identity.
In the stillness of the New Year, the sound of pounding footsteps and heartfelt cheers echoes through the streets.
It’s not just a race—it’s a moment that speaks to the soul of Japan, etched into the memories of generations.
Highlights of the 102nd Hakone Ekiden
Who’s Competing? Seeded Teams and Qualifiers
A total of 21 teams will compete in the Hakone Ekiden: 20 university teams and one select team.
Of these, the top 10 finishers from the previous year’s race automatically earn “seeded” spots, allowing them to bypass the qualifying round.
The ten seeded teams from the 101st edition include Komazawa University, Chuo University, Aoyama Gakuin University, Kokugakuin University, Juntendo University, Waseda University, Soka University, Hosei University, Josai University, and Toyo University.
The remaining 10 spots are determined through a fiercely competitive qualifying race, typically held in mid-October in Tachikawa, Tokyo.
Universities affiliated with the Kanto Student Athletics Federation compete in this event, and only the top 10 finishers advance to the main race.
In addition, one more team—the Kanto Region Select Team—is formed from standout individual runners whose schools did not qualify.
While this team does not count toward the official rankings, its members often deliver impressive performances that energize the race.
This dynamic between the established seeded teams and the hungry qualifiers is one of the race’s most compelling narratives.
It’s a classic underdog story: challengers aiming to upset the favorites and rewrite expectations.
Course Breakdown: What to Watch for in Each Section
The Hakone Ekiden course is divided into 10 legs, each with its own terrain, distance, and strategic role. Here are some of the most notable segments:
- 1st Leg (Otemachi to Tsurumi, 21.3 km):
The race begins with high tension. This leg sets the tone for the entire competition, requiring a careful balance of aggression and control. - 2nd Leg (Tsurumi to Totsuka, 23.1 km):
Known as the “Flower Section,” this is the longest and most prestigious leg. Each team sends its ace runner, and dramatic shifts in position are common. - 5th Leg (Odawara to Hakone, 20.8 km):
The legendary uphill climb to Lake Ashinoko, with an elevation gain of about 800 meters. This grueling ascent tests both physical endurance and mental fortitude, often producing unforgettable moments. - 6th Leg (Hakone to Odawara, 20.8 km):
The reverse of the 5th leg, this downhill stretch demands speed, balance, and precise control. A single misstep can drastically alter a team’s standing. - 10th Leg (Tsurumi to Otemachi, 23.1 km):
The final leg. As runners approach the finish line, the pressure and fatigue are at their peak. It’s a dramatic conclusion filled with emotion and determination.
Each leg has its own story and significance.
Understanding the unique challenges of each section adds depth to the viewing experience and helps fans appreciate the strategy behind every move.
The Drama of the Tasuki (Sash)
What sets ekiden apart from other long-distance races is the tasuki—the cloth sash passed from one runner to the next.
Unlike marathons, which are individual events, ekiden is a team effort, and the tasuki symbolizes the connection between teammates.
It carries the hopes, hard work, and responsibility of the entire team.
Even when a runner is exhausted, the desire to pass the tasuki to the next teammate drives them forward.
This emotional handoff is one of the most powerful moments in the race.
Adding to the tension is the “staggered restart” rule.
If a runner fails to arrive within a set time limit, the next runner must start with a white sash instead of the team’s original tasuki.
While this rule ensures the race stays on schedule, it can be heartbreaking for teams and fans alike.
Yet even these moments of disappointment contribute to the race’s emotional depth.
Watching a runner fight back tears as they run with a white sash, or push through pain for the sake of their team, leaves a lasting impression.
The tasuki is more than fabric—it’s a lifeline of trust, perseverance, and hope.
What to Watch for in the 102nd Edition
In recent years, collegiate ekiden racing has evolved dramatically, with improvements in both athletic performance and team strategy. The 102nd Hakone Ekiden promises to reflect these trends, with several key storylines to follow:
- The Rise of International Runners:
Many universities now include elite student-athletes from Africa, whose speed and stamina have raised the overall level of competition. - Advances in Training Science:
Teams are increasingly adopting data-driven training methods, nutrition plans, and recovery strategies. Success now depends not just on individual talent, but on the collective strength and preparation of the entire team. - Breakout Stars:
The Hakone Ekiden is known for turning unknown runners into national heroes overnight. Who will emerge as the standout of the 102nd edition? - Unpredictable Twists:
Anything can happen in a race of this scale—falls, injuries, sudden weather changes. These unexpected moments often define the race and keep fans on the edge of their seats.
With all these elements in play, the 102nd Hakone Ekiden is poised to deliver another chapter of unforgettable stories.
Whether you’re watching from the roadside or from your living room, you’ll be part of a nationwide audience witnessing the drama, determination, and unity that define this extraordinary event.
Conclusion
The 102nd Hakone Ekiden is not only a fierce competition among university athletes—it’s also a cherished cultural tradition that embodies the spirit of the Japanese New Year.
More than just a contest of speed and rankings, the race tells stories of human connection and perseverance.
Each tasuki carries the hopes of a team.
Each runner’s unwavering trust in their teammates, and their determination to push beyond their limits, inspires courage and emotion in everyone watching.
The Hakone Ekiden is one of the few sporting events that unites families, communities, and the entire nation in collective support.
During the quiet of the New Year holiday, people gather around their televisions or line the streets to cheer on the runners.
This shared experience becomes a lasting memory—one that transcends generations and leaves a deep imprint on the heart.
What makes the Hakone Ekiden truly special is that it creates new stories every year.
Unexpected twists, the rise of unknown athletes, and moments of selfless teamwork all come together to move and uplift the audience.
The 102nd edition promises to bring more of these unforgettable moments.
As you watch, try to look beyond the rankings and records.
Pay attention to the stories behind each runner—their struggles, their dreams, their bonds.
You may find yourself seeing the race in a whole new light.
At the dawn of a new year, we once again witness young runners passing the tasuki, and in doing so, we find hope.
Perhaps that is the very reason the Hakone Ekiden has been loved for over a century.
