Hakone Ekiden: A Viewer's Guide for the West

The Hakone Ekiden is an iconic and captivating relay race held in Japan every year on January 2nd and 3rd. This thrilling event draws tens of millions of viewers, captivating nearly half of the Japanese population. While it's a massive cultural phenomenon in Japan, it remains largely unknown in the West. This comprehensive guide aims to introduce Western audiences to this unique sporting event, providing all the necessary information to understand and appreciate the excitement of the Hakone Ekiden.

Running in Japan: A Nation Embraces the Sport

Running holds a special place in Japanese culture, with a long and rich history intertwined with tradition and values. From ancient messengers traversing the country to modern-day marathon enthusiasts, running has become deeply ingrained in the Japanese way of life.

The popularity of running in Japan can be attributed to several factors:

• Health and Fitness: Running is a widely accessible and effective way to maintain physical and mental well-being. In a health-conscious society like Japan, running has become a popular activity for people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Community and Camaraderie: Running clubs and groups are prevalent throughout Japan, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among runners. These groups provide support, motivation, and a shared passion for the sport.
• Cultural Significance: Running events like ekidens (long-distance relay races) have deep cultural roots in Japan, symbolizing teamwork, perseverance, and dedication. These events bring people together and reinforce shared values.
• Accessibility and Infrastructure: Japan boasts excellent infrastructure for running, with well-maintained parks, trails, and running tracks readily available in urban and rural areas. This accessibility encourages participation and makes running a convenient activity.

The Hakone Ekiden, with its emphasis on teamwork and endurance, exemplifies the Japanese passion for running. It's a testament to the nation's commitment to athletic excellence and its appreciation for the values embodied in this unique sporting event.

Hakone Ekiden: More Than Just a Race

The Hakone Ekiden, officially known as the Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race, is a two-day long-distance relay race between teams of 10 runners from universities in the Kanto region of Japan. The race covers a grueling 217.1 kilometers (approximately 135 miles), starting in Otemachi, Tokyo, and finishing at Lake Ashi in Hakone on the first day. On the second day, the teams retrace their steps, running back to Tokyo.

Teams of 10 runners from major Japanese universities compete for victory in this challenging race. The course is known for its steep hills, winding roads, and breathtaking views, with runners pushing themselves to the limit to pass the sash to their teammates.

The Hakone Ekiden is the longest student ekiden race globally. Ekiden races, unique to Japan, have deep cultural roots, originating from a historical relay system used to transport messages and goods during the Edo period. The first competitive ekiden was held in 1917 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tokyo becoming Japan's capital city.

The Hakone Ekiden is more than just a race; it's a cultural phenomenon deeply ingrained in Japanese society. Here's why it holds such significance:

• New Year Tradition: The race takes place during the New Year period, a time for reflection and new beginnings in Japan. Watching the Hakone Ekiden has become a cherished tradition for many families.
• Embodiment of Japanese Values: The Hakone Ekiden exemplifies the Japanese values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication. Runners push themselves to their limits, not just for individual glory, but for the success of their team. It's a powerful demonstration of the "can-do team spirit of Japan", where individual efforts contribute to a collective goal.
• National Unity: The Hakone Ekiden brings together people from all over Japan, uniting them in support of their favorite teams and runners. It's a shared experience that transcends social and cultural barriers.
• Media Spectacle: The race is broadcast nationally on Nippon Television, with extensive coverage and dramatic storytelling that captures the emotions and intensity of the event. The high quality of the TV broadcast and its production aesthetic have played a crucial role in building viewer interest and popularity. Unlike typical road race broadcasts that focus solely on the leader, the Hakone Ekiden broadcast covers the race from multiple perspectives, showcasing the individual struggles and triumphs of each runner.
• Emphasis on Teamwork: The Hakone Ekiden is a true testament to the power of teamwork. The act of passing the tasuki is not just a physical exchange but a gesture of trust and solidarity between teammates. In ekiden, if one person fails, the whole team fails. This emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility and the interdependence of team members.
• Unique Connection to Athletics: For many Japanese people, watching the Hakone Ekiden is a more significant connection to track and field events than even world record attempts. This highlights the unique cultural importance of the race and its ability to inspire and engage audiences.

A History Steeped in Tradition

The Hakone Ekiden was first held in 1920, the brainchild of Shizo Kanakuri, the "father of the Japanese marathon". Kanakuri, Japan's first Olympic marathoner, envisioned the race as a way to cultivate world-class runners. The inaugural race featured only four universities: Tokyo Higher Normal School (now the University of Tsukuba), Waseda University, Keio University, and Meiji University.

The idea for the Hakone Ekiden was sparked during a train journey in 1919. Three individuals, Shizo Kanaguri, Eiichi Sawada, and Rinjiro Deguchi, were discussing the possibility of a long-distance relay race. Their shared passion for running and their desire to promote Japanese athletics led to the creation of this iconic event.

The Hakone Ekiden has deep roots in emulating the bare-footed messengers of feudal Japan who relayed messages between stations along predetermined routes. This historical connection adds another layer of significance to the race, linking it to Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Over the years, the Hakone Ekiden has grown in popularity and prestige, becoming an integral part of Japanese New Year celebrations. The event takes place annually on the 2nd and 3rd of January, aligning with the country's New Year celebrations and symbolizing new beginnings.

Race Format: A Relay Like No Other

The Hakone Ekiden is divided into 10 stages, five on each day. Each runner covers one stage, passing a sash (tasuki) to the next runner at designated relay points. The tasuki holds symbolic importance, representing the team's collective effort and spirit. Up to four members can be substituted on each day of the race.

Day 1: Outbound

The five stages on the first day take runners from Tokyo to Hakone, covering a total of 107.5 km. The course is known for its challenging terrain, including steep hills and winding roads.

The second leg of the Hakone Ekiden is particularly noteworthy. Known as the "Leg 2 of Flowers" (花の2区), it is the longest leg of the race and often features the fastest runner in each team. This leg is crucial as it can significantly influence the overall pace of the race.

Day 2: Return

On the second day, the teams run back from Hakone to Tokyo, covering 109.6 km. The stages are reversed from the first day, with the final leg finishing at the Yomiuri Shimbun Building in Otemachi.

Teams and Runners: The Pursuit of Excellence

The Hakone Ekiden features 20 teams from universities in the Kanto region that qualify through a preliminary selection race. An additional team, the Kanto Student Union team, comprises top runners from universities that didn't qualify. Each team consists of 10 runners, with a maximum of two foreign nationals per team, only one of whom can compete.

The runners are some of the best collegiate athletes in Japan, with many having impressive personal bests in 5k, 10k, and half-marathon distances. Many of the runners have achieved remarkable half-marathon times, with some even completing the equivalent of a half-marathon during the Hakone Ekiden in under 62 minutes. This highlights the exceptional level of athleticism and endurance required to compete in this demanding race.

Main Contenders and Predictions

While predicting the outcome of the Hakone Ekiden is always a challenge, some teams consistently stand out as strong contenders. Based on recent performances and team composition, here are some of the teams to watch:

• Aoyama Gakuin University: A dominant force in recent years, Aoyama Gakuin has won the Hakone Ekiden multiple times, showcasing their depth and strategic prowess. They are always a strong contender for the top spot.
• Komazawa University: Another powerhouse in collegiate ekiden, Komazawa University boasts a strong track record and a roster of talented runners. They are expected to be a major challenger for the title.
• Tokai University: Known for their consistent performances and strong team spirit, Tokai University is always a team to watch. They have the potential to upset the favorites and claim victory.

Ones to Watch: Key Runners

The Hakone Ekiden always features a cast of talented runners, each with their own strengths and stories. Here are some of the key runners to keep an eye on this year:

• Kotaro Shinohara (Komazawa University): Known for his strong performance on the First Stage, achieving an all-time second-best record.
• Keita Sato (Komazawa University): Holds high school records in 3000m and 1500m.
• Issei Sato, Aoi Ota, and Asahi Kuroda (Aoyama Gakuin University): Key runners for the recent championship-winning team.

Race Schedule and Time Zones

To help viewers in different time zones follow the Hakone Ekiden, here's a schedule with corresponding times:

How to Watch the Hakone Ekiden in the West

While major international broadcasters don't typically show the Hakone Ekiden live, there are a few ways for Western audiences to catch the action:

• VPN and Japanese Streaming Services: The race is broadcast live on Nippon Television in Japan. With a VPN service, you can potentially access the live stream on Nippon Television's website or through TVer, a popular Japanese streaming service. You can find the live stream on TVer at this address: https://tver.jp/series/srd34zubbr.
  Live stream on this address also:  https://www.ntv.co.jp/hakone/
• Live Updates on Social Media: Japan Running News (@JRNLive on Twitter) provides comprehensive live updates and commentary on the race in English.
• Post-Race Highlights: Highlights and summaries of the race may be available on YouTube or other online platforms after the event.

Experiencing the Hakone Ekiden Spirit in the West

Even if you can't watch the Hakone Ekiden live, there are still ways to engage with the spirit of this unique race format. While the research did not identify any organized viewing parties in Western countries, you can explore local Japanese cultural centers or universities for potential informal gatherings.

Here are some other ways to experience the Hakone Ekiden spirit:

• FT Nikkei UK Ekiden: Inspired by the Hakone Ekiden, the UK Ekiden brings the competitive university team racing format to the UK. This race, held on the Thames Path, features teams of 10 runners (5 men and 5 women) from various universities and corporate sponsors.
• Local Ekiden Races: Many running clubs and organizations in Western countries organize their own ekiden races. Participating in a local ekiden can provide a taste of the teamwork and camaraderie that define this unique race format.

FAQs

What is the Hakone Ekiden?

The Hakone Ekiden is a prestigious two-day long-distance relay race held in Japan every January 2nd and 3rd, featuring teams of 10 runners from universities in the Kanto region.

Why is it so popular in Japan?

The Hakone Ekiden is more than just a race; it's a cultural phenomenon deeply ingrained in Japanese society. It embodies Japanese values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication, and is a cherished New Year tradition for many families.

How can I watch the Hakone Ekiden in the West?

While live broadcasts are limited, you can use a VPN to access Japanese streaming services like Nippon Television or TVer. You can also follow live updates on social media from sources like Japan Running News (@JRNLive on Twitter).

Are there any similar events in Western countries?

Yes, the FT Nikkei UK Ekiden brings the competitive university team racing format to the UK. Many running clubs and organizations in Western countries also organize their own ekiden races.

Conclusion: A Race Worth Watching

The Hakone Ekiden is more than just a race; it's a window into Japanese culture and a testament to the human spirit. While watching it live in the West might pose some challenges, the unique format, impressive athleticism, and rich tradition make it a truly remarkable event. The Hakone Ekiden offers Western viewers a chance to witness the captivating blend of athletic prowess and cultural significance that defines this iconic race. It's an opportunity to appreciate the Japanese values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication, and to gain a deeper understanding of a culture that celebrates collective effort and the pursuit of excellence. Whether you're a seasoned runner or simply curious about Japanese traditions, the Hakone Ekiden is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Image Credit: Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.