The 47th National High School Judo Championship Tournament opened on March 19, 2025, at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, marking a significant event in the high school sports calendar of Japan. This prestigious tournament showcases the talents of young judo athletes from across the nation as they compete in various weight classes.
On the first day of competition, finals were held in five weight classes for both men and women. In the women's 52kg class, Okamoto Haruka from Saga Sho triumphed, securing the championship title. "Okamoto Haruka from Saga Sho won the women's 52kg class," reported the tournament coverage.
In a strong performance that highlighted the skill of young female competitors, Fukushima Hajima, also from Saga Sho, clinched the women's 57kg title, adding to the school's impressive showing this year. "Fukushima Hajima from Saga Sho clinched the women's 57kg title," the coverage noted.
The men's competitions also saw remarkable performances, with Kiyomu Mitsuki from Chiba's Kisarazu Sogo School achieving an extraordinary feat by winning the open weight class for the second consecutive time. Commentators praised his skill and determination throughout the match. "Kiyomu Mitsuki from Chiba/Kisarazu Sogo achieved a second consecutive victory in the men's open weight class," remarked the tournament insight.
Other notable winners of the day included Raiki Ikenouchi from Tochigi's Hakohoku Ashikaga winning the men's 60kg class, and Kanji Kaburagi from Tokyo's Adachi Gakuen taking home the men's 66kg class championship. Fans erupted in applause as Yusuke Yokoo from Tokyo’s Shudoku and Mitsuteru Sato from Kokushikan clinched victories in their respective classes, the 73kg and 81kg. The excitement of these wins set a positive tone for the tournament.
The women's categories continued to impress, with Aina Inoue from Tokushima's Seiko Gakuen winning her second consecutive title in the women's 48kg class. "Aina Inoue from Tokushima/Seiko Gakuen won her second consecutive title in the women's 48kg class," the tournament coverage emphasized. Following her victory, Miku Ita from Saitama Sakae showcased her abilities by winning the women's 63kg class. Lastly, Nanai Takahashi from Fukuoka's Ooto clinched the top spot in the women's open weight class, further enriching the competitive spirit of the day.
This year’s championship is not just about competition; it embodies the essence of sportsmanship, dedication, and the realization of dreams for many young athletes. These judo matches represent years of hard work and commitment, culminating in this revered stage. The hope among fans and participants alike is that these young champions will not only perform well but inspire future generations to take up the sport.
As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming matches which promise more intense rivalries and outstanding displays of skill among the competitors.
With the legacy of judo in Japan and the spirit of determination it nurtures among the youth, the 47th National High School Judo Championship is sure to become a memorable chapter in the annals of high school sports.
