Sports

Sumo Ozeki Kotozakura talks of joy of clinching first Emperor's Cup

Nov 26 (NHK) - Ozeki Champion Kotozakura has expressed his joy at winning his first career title at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament that ended on Sunday. He said he hopes to "catch up" to his late grandfather, former Yokozuna Grand Champion Kotozakura.

At a news conference on Monday, the Ozeki said he was happy when he received the Emperor's Cup, and was congratulated by everyone around him after returning to the warm-up room.

He said he had dreamed of winning the title since he was a child, so it was a very happy moment.

Kotozakura beat fellow Ozeki Hoshoryu on the final day of the 15-day tournament, clinching the championship with 14 wins and one loss. Hoshoryu ended with 13 wins and two losses.

Kotozakura said he just charged ahead with all his might and was calm but able to move well.

He said he was able to keep a level head throughout the tournament and focused on each bout.

The Ozeki said since he entered the sumo world, his goal has been to catch up with his Yokozuna grandfather.

Kotozakura may now be promoted to the highest rank of Yokozuna, depending on the results of the next grand tournament in January.

He said now that he has come close to his goal, he will do his best so he has no regrets.

Record Snowfall in Aomori

A powerful cold wave has brought heavy snowfall across Japan's Sea of Japan side, with record-breaking accumulations in several areas. In Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, snowfall reached 160 cm on Sunday morning, marking the highest accumulation in 12 years and setting a new record.

Sea Creatures Celebrate Hinamatsuri in Wakayama

As March 3rd's Hinamatsuri approaches, 'Ebitokanino (Shrimp & Crab) Aquarium' in Susami is displaying a collection of unique marine creatures representing the arrival of spring. Among them is the vibrant pink goldie (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), resembling delicate peach blossoms, and the hishigani crab, whose folded claws resemble the layered colors of traditional Hishimochi rice cakes.

Nara’s Leading Sock Maker Supplies 10,000 Pairs for Expo

Socks from a leading manufacturer in Nara Prefecture, Japan’s top producer, have been chosen for the official uniforms of staff at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. On February 21st, 10,000 pairs were shipped to Osaka.

Year-End Moving Costs Soar: What's Behind the Price Hike?

As the end of the fiscal year approaches, demand for moving services is surging, driving costs to unprecedented levels. Estimates from moving companies suggest that fees, currently around 200,000 yen, could double to 400,000 yen by late March.

New 'M10' Maglev Car Begins Testing

JR Central announced on Thursday the introduction of a new test car, the 'M10,' for the maglev test track in Yamanashi Prefecture.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Sports NEWS

Runners Brave Tough Course in 30th Okinawa Marathon

The 2025 Okinawa Marathon kicked off at 9 a.m. on Sunday, with runners dashing through central Okinawa. Known as one of the most grueling courses in the country due to its steep inclines, the marathon challenged runners to push forward at their own pace toward the finish line.

Formula E Returns to Tokyo in May, PR Event Held at City Hall

A promotional event for Season 11 of the Formula E world series, an all-electric vehicle (EV) racing championship, was held at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building ahead of the Tokyo race, scheduled to take place in Ariake on May 17th and 18th.

Dodgers' Ohtani Begins Spring Training, Aims for Two-Way Comeback

The Los Angeles Dodgers, aiming for their second consecutive World Series title, will begin spring training for battery players on February 11th (February 12th Japan time) in Glendale, Arizona.

Experts Discuss the Future of Japan’s Professional Baseball

A discussion on the future of Japanese professional baseball was held with three prominent business figures: Kohei Takashima, Yozo Tachibana, and Takafumi Horie.

Can eSports Save Sapporo's Struggling Dome?

A major international eSports tournament has kicked off in Sapporo, drawing significant attention as a potential economic boost for the city. The five-day event, held at the Daiwa House Plemist Dome in Toyohira Ward, is expected to attract around 30,000 spectators.

Sumo wrestler Hoshoryu becomes yokozuna grand champion

Mongolian-born sumo wrestler Hoshoryu has been promoted to the sport's top rank of yokozuna grand champion. He became the first newly promoted grand champion in three and a half years. (NHK)

Kobayashi Shines at Osaka International Women's Marathon

A new heroine was born at the 2025 Osaka International Women's Marathon, as Kana Kobayashi made a stunning performance in the final 800 meters. Kobayashi overtook Yuka Suzuki, who placed sixth at the Paris Olympics, to claim the title of top Japanese finisher.

Holographic Replays: A Game-Changer in Sports Analysis

The world of sports has always needed new ideas to develop their services and transactions, and one of the most progressive technologies today is holographic replaying.

< 2 3 4 5 >