The Day of the Aoyama Gakuin Comeback

On January 2, Japanese editorial priority focused on the dramatic opening leg of the Hakone Ekiden. Throughout the morning and early afternoon, news desks tracked the real-time shifts in the race, initially focusing on Kokugakuin University’s early lead before pivoting to Aoyama Gakuin University’s decisive victory. Editors highlighted Kuroda Asahi’s record-breaking performance in the fifth stage, which saw him overcome a three-minute deficit to secure the school’s third consecutive first-day title. Simultaneously, major outlets prioritized the Imperial Palace’s New Year greetings, specifically emphasizing Prince Hisahito’s first appearance at the event. By late afternoon, the focus shifted toward high-level diplomacy. Editors across the political spectrum reported on a scheduled phone call between Prime Minister Takaichi and U.S. President Trump. These reports detailed an agreement to coordinate on China and Taiwan policy and to arrange Takaichi’s first official visit to Washington this spring.