[2024-2025] Compilation of translated interview articles with Yuzu

[yuzurujenn]

   2024.12.10

 

Source: https://encount.press/archives/717847/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDUGluohxAS/?img_index=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241213101152/https://encount.press/archives/717847/

 

 

"Hanyu-san is good at taking selfies" - "Best friend" pianist reveals backstage photo of the two of them, expressing "heartfelt gratitude"

 

Pianist Shinya Kiyozuka revealed an episode from professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu's national tour "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd - Echoes of Life - TOUR" on his Instagram on the 9th.

 

Spoiler

He revealed that Hanyu had consulted him, saying, "I was thinking of something outrageous again."

 

On the 9th, pianist Shinya Kiyozuka revealed an episode from professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu's nationwide tour "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd - Echoes of Life - TOUR" on his Instagram.

 

The tour is the third installment of Ice Story, with Hanyu both performing and serving as executive producer. Kiyozuka revealed that he was involved in the tour, saying, "Yuzu-chan contacted me and said, 'I want to consult you about classical music,' and when I asked him, he had come up with something completely outrageous...Every time we had a meeting, I thought, 'Can we really do that?' But on the first day, at Saitama Super Arena, he pulled it off."

 

He continued, "Since the tour is still ongoing, I can’t share too many details, but we recorded five full classical pieces (with some cuts). The pieces Yuzu-chan and I decided on together, and the ones he ultimately chose, had a common theme: 'fate.' Whether it was the key of C minor or the composers’ inherent strength and stoicism, he naturally chose pieces that fit the theme of fate and destiny. Yuzu-chan found it very interesting and ‘studied’ them carefully. I thought he might be in that phase, and when I saw the performance, I was convinced. I was right."

 

He further expressed, "I’m deeply grateful for the fate that allowed me to witness this performance live" and congratulated Hanyu, who turned 30 on December 7th, saying, "Yuzu-chan always spins as if he is enveloped in gravity, wrapping the threads of everyone's destiny around him. Happy birthday, Yuzu-chan, and thank you for being born."

 

In his post, Kiyozuka also shared a selfie with Hanyu from behind the scenes, adding the playful hashtag, "#YourBestFriendIsKiyochanRight?"

 

The post received comments such as, "Hanyu-san is so good at taking selfies," "Wow...he looks amazing in that T-shirt," "His sense of having fun in photos is perfect," "You both have such great chemistry," and "Thank you for sharing such a lovely photo!"

 

[yuzurujenn]

  2024.12.17

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241217-OHT1T51047.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241217133850/https://hochi.news/articles/20241217-OHT1T51047.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: "Everyone is taking on new challenges in their daily lives"... Appears on video at home appliance brand launch event

 

On the 17th, figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu made a video appearance at the "Haier Group Global Strategy and Haier Japan Market Branding Announcement" event held in Tokyo.

 

Spoiler

When Du Jingguo, Vice President of Haier, said, "I am moved by Hanyu's attitude of continuing to challenge himself without being satisfied, even after conquering the Olympics," Hanyu smiled happily and responded, "Thank you. It's truly an honor," before continuing.

 

"I don't think I'm particularly special. I believe that everyone is challenging something in their lives. It might be something big or small, visible or not, or something that gets reported in the news. I think that’s the only difference, and I’ve been thinking lately that this is what living is all about."

 

Hanyu was appointed as the brand ambassador for "Haier" and "AQUA" in November. Despite his numerous successes, his ongoing pursuit of greater heights aligns with Haier's corporate philosophy, which led to his selection. "Since I was given this opportunity, I’ve had many chances to look at Haier and AQUA products, and I was impressed by their high level of design. Each product has an unforgettable design. The eco-friendly features and energy efficiency also made me feel a strong connection as an athlete," he shared.

 

On this day, the new commercials were announced, and television broadcasts will begin on the 24th. In Haier's "Self VS Self" commercial, Hanyu wears a blue outfit and delivers a powerful performance, while in AQUA's "Never-ending Challenge" commercial, he dons a white costume and displays a graceful glide.

 

 

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241217-OHT1T51050.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241217133931/https://hochi.news/articles/20241217-OHT1T51050.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu performs quadruple toe loop in new commercial... to be aired from the 24th "Blue Hanyu" and "White Hanyu"

 

On the 17th, the home appliance brand Haier Japan Region announced a new commercial featuring Yuzuru Hanyu, a professional figure skater who is the brand ambassador for "Haier" and "AQUA". It will begin airing on television on the 24th.

 

Spoiler

In Haier's "Self VS Self" commercial, Yuzuru Hanyu wears a blue outfit and delivers a powerful performance, while in AQUA's "Endless Challenge" commercial, he dons a white costume and showcases a graceful glide.

 

In the "Self VS Self" version, Hanyu performs a quadruple toe loop, a move not originally planned, fully expressing his commitment to the performance during the shoot. He focused intensely, checking the fit of his costume and perfecting his execution, retaking the skating scenes until he was satisfied.

 

Hanyu appeared via video at the "Haier Group Global Strategy and Haier Japan Market Branding Announcement" event in Tokyo, where he shared his thoughts on the filming of the two new commercials.

 

In Haier's "Self VS Self" commercial, which features the key message "Surpass Yourself," Hanyu said, "I focused on expressing the challenge to my past self, as well as strength and speed. I repeatedly attempted the quadruple jump, and tried to express the power that I can only showcase on the ice, as well as the strong will to challenge, which only comes from truly giving my all."

 

In AQUA's "Endless Challenge" commercial, with the key message "Innovation," he commented, "I tried to express the kindness that can only come from something strong. I worked hard to express something that would warm the hearts of viewers and make them realize that their lives could become truly richer."

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.17

 

Source: https://weibo.com/1683522853/P5qvKbBn7 / https://weibo.com/1683522853/P5t8Knnqu

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu through the lens: The absolute champion as seen by a god photographer

 

PROLOGUE

That was the splendour of that moment

On October 18, 2024, in a studio on the outskirts of Sendai, after a photoshoot, when asked about his expectations as a subject for a shoot, Yuzuru Hanyu gave the following response.
 

Spoiler

“A figure skating performance is composed of "lines" formed by a series of subtle movements. However, photography captures just a single moment within those continuous actions. From this perspective, it seems somewhat harsh. Within the series of movements that make up the "line," there may be very subtle "gaps" that can be captured through a "point," revealing them in the process.”

 

However, in Hanyu’s performance, no matter which moment is captured, it is full of "performance"—it could even be said that it reaches the level of "art." This is an honest impression from the photographer who has always aimed his camera at Yuzuru Hanyu.

 

When I was publishing this book, I was fortunate enough to interview Hanyu. From this exclusive interview, I felt that through these fleeting moments, it is inevitable that mesmerizing photos of Hanyu can be captured.

 

Hanyu said: "Although figure skating performances have the beauty of 'lines,' if you take a detailed snapshot, you are left with just a momentary point. Those points are as small as particles. No matter how tiny they are, I want to express everything in a beautiful and graceful 'line.' If you think about it, the timeline is the same. What is captured is like the 'line' connecting the past and the future, but these are just continuous moments of the 'present.' With this in mind, as the subject being photographed, no matter from which point I am captured, I want to present it beautifully. That’s my ideal."

 

-As a subject facing the camera, are you mentally prepared for the shoot?

As the interviewer, I couldn't imagine that even with such a vague question, Hanyu would give such a neat answer. He said: "That would be the best state the photographer wants to capture, right?"

 

There are two photos here: one shows Hanyu, adrenaline fully flowing, posing as the absolute champion after completing his challenge. He shows a deeply serious expression, a moment where he overcame his injuries and was certain he could defend his honour. The other photo shows him from behind, challenging an unprecedented skill and ending his battle with himself, reflecting his solitary existence.

 

The background of these photos corresponds to two monumental moments: the first, after his victory in the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics where he defended his Olympic title, a feat not accomplished in 66 years; the second, when the ISU recognised him for attempting the first-ever quadruple Axel at the Beijing Olympics. The photographer of both images was Kogaito of Sponichi.

 

Whether it was the PyeongChang Olympics or the Beijing Olympics, Hanyu never missed the chance to showcase his kingly aura in front of the camera. The first moment captured was Hanyu’s joyous roar after his men’s free skate performance at the Pyeongchang Olympics: "I won!" He secured the gold medal at the Gangneung Ice Arena in South Korea, achieving the first back-to-back Olympic men's figure skating victory in 66 years. This was Japan's first gold medal, which boosted the morale of the entire Japanese team. This photograph also won the 2018 Tokyo Press Photographers Association Sports Department (Overseas) Award.

 

However, Kogaito does not focus on external evaluations or whether he has captured a photo that satisfies him, or whether he could have taken a better shot, or whether his shooting position was the best, or if the colours were appropriate. No matter the moment, according to him, he never truly felt that he captured Hanyu in his best state. Because of this, he has never been satisfied with any of his works, because he always thought the next shot would be the best one.

 

Kogaito would often arrive at the shooting location earlier than other photographers from different publishing houses, waiting for the subject with no one else around. He would examine the existing photos with a critical eye, wondering, "Can I capture something different?"

 

Hanyu fully understands the mindset that Kogaito holds, but due to various influences, I could imagine that there were things Hanyu wanted to avoid saying about any single photographer. However, Hanyu naturally spoke about Kogaito in the interview.

 

"In terms of sports photographers, Kogaito leans more toward the artistic side. I truly feel that his photos have their own distinct flavour," Hanyu said.

 

Kogaito smiled shyly beside him, clearly embarrassed.

 

Hanyu continued nonchalantly: "There are almost no photographers like him. Newspaper photographers always capture standard (sports) reportage photos, but Kogaito disregards that. I don’t know if this is the right way to say it"—his gaze turned toward Kogaito, who nodded in agreement—"He just wants to shoot for himself, capturing the scenes and moments he feels are good. He’s a photographer with strong ideas."

 

This is indeed the case. Kogaito joined Sponichi after graduating from university. In sports reporting, he did not adopt or inherit the so-called stereotypical style of photography. Instead, he reversed the conventional photography habits. As a salaryman, he was also known for being difficult to manage by his superior. In the newspaper’s photo department, all photos taken by photographers would be placed on the editor’s desk awaiting publication. What would happen if the submitted photos didn’t match the standard photo style? Kogaito, considered unconventional, had a fateful encounter.

 

That subject was none other than Yuzuru Hanyu, who continuously faces the camera. Hanyu exudes immense strength as an absolute champion, yet at times, he also shows a softer expression. His body, built through training, is not made of steel; it possesses a gentle side as well. This aligns perfectly with the impression of transparency, as he radiates an extraordinary presence that transcends the realm of competition. In figure skating, there is also a "standard" photographic style, such as jumps and spins, which highlight the obvious competitive characteristics of the sport. Regardless of the sport, readers can easily understand these visual cues. Therefore, including the skates, the entire subject being photographed must be captured, which is a requirement for "standard" photos.

 

On a figure skating photoshoot, besides photographers from various sports newspapers, there are also freelance photographers active in specialised magazines. Top-tier freelance photographers gain popularity among fans, clearly distinguishing their work from traditional reportage photos. They use their lens and shutter to freely express figure skating’s performance, and their work has gained much support.

 

Kogaito found himself at a crossroads: Is it feasible to treat figure skating photos in sports newspapers the same way as other sports photos? With Yuzuru Hanyu in the picture, should the photographers of this era merely capture "standard" photos? His next step brought about a profound change.

 

With the widespread use of smartphones and tablets, the rise of a paperless generation has only intensified. We often hear that newspapers aren’t selling anymore. However, it was the sports news on a certain day that shone brightly. The day after Hanyu, who had turned professional, unveiled his ice performance to the media, all the sports newspapers chose to dedicate special editions to him. Needless to say, the coverage was extensive, with the front pages even featuring a photo from a scene of the ice performance. Among Hanyu's fanbase, there is a notably larger number of women.

 

When it comes to sports newspapers, most of the content is dominated by professional baseball, major league baseball, soccer, golf, sumo, and public gambling events (like horse racing, car racing, boat racing, and Formula 1), which are widely followed by middle-aged and older male readers. The target audience of these newspapers does not align with that of Hanyu’s fanbase.

 

However, whenever Hanyu held a public practice, personal performances, or appeared in ice shows, the media surrounding these events would sell out at convenience stores near major stations and at the station kiosks the next day. Fans are more interested in the photos of Hanyu featured in the newspapers than the actual content of the reports. Among these, the most popular is Sponichi. The newspapers are filled with Hanyu's expressions, his beautiful body lines, and the impression of his "transparency" that captivates fans. These photos were taken by Kogaito, the photographer from Sponichi, who became known as the "exclusive photographer" for Hanyu. Kogaito, who embraced change and challenges, is revered by fans as a god, and even among the media, there is a growing recognition of him as a "god photographer”.

 

In print media, the division of labour in sports reporting consists of two main roles: the journalist who writes the article and the photographer who takes the photos. The journalist’s “pre-interview” can influence the quality of the final report. Through interviews, press conferences, and conversations with coaches or people close to the athlete, journalists aim to convey the athlete's lesser-known efforts and struggles that may not be mentioned by the athlete themselves. These "behind-the-scenes" details are often included to structure the final piece. If there are interesting anecdotes from the “pre-interviews,” they can be incorporated into the final piece, adding depth and context to the report. On the other hand, the photographer’s role is to capture the crucial moment, which can make or break the shot. While a reporter can revisit and rework an interview, a photographer cannot reshoot a particular moment. With the high pressure that comes with capturing the right moment, Kogaito—who consistently receives high praise from fans—must have his own obsession with his craft.

 

Did his encounter with Hanyu change his approach as a photographer? How did Hanyu’s own brilliance affect his approach to the camera? As I selected from the numerous photos taken, I wanted to explore the theme of "Yuzuru Hanyu as captured by the divine photographer." This was the motivation behind writing this book.

My work covering figure skating, as I wrote in my previous book The Portrait of Yuzuru Hanyu: The 4000 Days of the Absolute King as Seen by a Columnist, began in the fall of 2011 when I joined the Sankei Shimbun. At that time, Japanese figure skating coverage was dominated by female athletes. As male figure skating grew in popularity, Hanyu emerged like a comet, marking the transition from a time of many contenders to the era of the undisputed king of figure skating. During this period, mainstream media, including general newspapers and sports papers, reported mostly in "words," detailing the performance of ice skaters. Photos, in the end, were mere supplements.

 

However, when Kogaito came onto the scene, the layout of Sponichi changed dramatically. This was also thanks to the long-term, strong support from an unsung hero behind the scenes, the head of the photography department, Yutaka Nagakubo. The traditional focus was on “making it easy for readers to read and sell well,” but now, the focus shifted to "attracting people with photos and sell well." During my time at Sankei Shimbun, I even found myself a little envious of Sponichi’s strategic shift. The photos taken by Kogaito, which appeared in newspapers and on social media, perfectly captured Hanyu’s transparency and the emotions of the moment. When I met Kogaito at events, we only exchanged greetings. He wasn’t the type of person to be exceptionally charming or courteous, moving swiftly and efficiently. He was very quiet, and I don’t remember him ever chatting casually with the other reporters or photographers around us. Kogaito is also a man who is difficult to understand.

 

When I decided to write this book, I didn’t have confirmation from him. However, after I explained my idea, he quickly agreed, saying, "It’s truly an honour, please let me do my best." When I heard about Kogaito’s ambition to be a photographer, I was surprised. He was not the type to follow a traditional elite path. He had often mentioned at photoshoots: "I don’t have the talent of a photographer. I’m just stubborn and dislike following the crowd." When praised for past works, he would always want to shoot from a different angle, aiming to surpass the evaluation of those photos. He doesn’t care about how the company evaluates him; instead, his priority is whether the shot aligns 100% with his vision. From an organizational standpoint, he certainly wasn’t the easiest photographer to work with. I work for a newspaper, so I can understand this very well. As the saying goes, "That person is hard to deal with." There are journalists or photographers like that—people who can be difficult to work with. Many talented individuals may struggle to fit in with the dynamics of the workplace. If he were in a different era, Kogaito might have faced similar challenges.

 

But he met Yuzuru Hanyu, the undisputed king and darling of this era. In the world of figure skating, where sports and art merge, Hanyu surpassed the boundaries of competition and ascended to an absolute existence, becoming the "solitary skater." When Kogaito photographed Hanyu, traditional photos of figure skating simply couldn’t capture his brilliance. Kogaito's approach underwent a tremendous transformation upon encountering Hanyu.

 

"Before so many skaters and in front of Yuzuru Hanyu, who continuously challenges himself, I cannot remain confined to a fixed position," Kogaito decided. He was determined to break free from the constraints of tradition and aimed to capture photos that no one else could, becoming a solitary photographer. How Kogaito shifted from "standard templates" to the realm of being regarded as "god" is a journey filled with challenges, not only personally but also within Sponichi itself. I will delve into this journey, exploring how this dedicated sports photographer evolved.

 

 

 

Source:

https://weibo.com/1746783312/P5bA7do5T
https://weibo.com/1746783312/P5kqt88ne

https://weibo.com/1746783312/P5qnA6vJN

 

 

Excerpts about Yuzu’s sensibility as a subject of photography

 

Spoiler

The special photoshoot for Kogaito's book (written by Mitsuru Tanaka) took place on October 18, 2024, in Sendai.

 

The photographer's request for the shoot was "sculptural imagery."

 

"I've always felt that the images created by Hanyu with his body are like those classic sculptural works. With this concept in mind, I wanted to use the imagery of sculptures displayed in an art museum for this shoot."

 

Yuzuru quickly understood the photographer's intention with just the request for "sculptural imagery," and posed one after another. The photoshoot took place in a completely quiet environment and took about half an hour. During the shoot, Hanyu was playing a piano piece by Ryuichi Sakamoto in his mind (though it wasn’t specified which piece).

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

"In front of photographers who want to take life-size photos of me, I show myself in a natural state, without hiding anything in front of the camera. In a sense, it feels like peeking into Yuzuru Hanyu's private life. However, in front of photographers who want to capture Yuzuru Hanyu skating, I want them to see me immersed in the world of the program. There are also photographers who focus their lens on my inner self, or what could be considered the core of my being. Of course, this will vary depending on the shooting scenario, but basically, I adjust my state as the subject according to the photographer's goals and ideas."

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

When Yuzuru Hanyu faces the camera as a subject, the sensitivity cultivated through figure skating is vividly reflected.

 

"Both the changes in awareness and atmosphere are shared with what has been cultivated in figure skating. How to integrate and align with different music in different programs, in that sense, I think photography and figure skating are very similar."

 

On the other hand, in figure skating, as a performer, Hanyu takes an active and subjective approach to his performance, facing an audience. During his competitive era, he also had to consider the judges. So, when Hanyu, as the subject of a photograph, faces the camera, is it a proactive engagement with the lens, or a passive confrontation with the lens that is focused on him?

 

"Hmm," Hanyu paused and shared his thoughts.

 

"How should I put this? Actually, figure skating is like that too. Sometimes, I perform with the image of being objectively observed from the outside (from the perspective of the audience and judges).

 

When performing, I often think, 'What kind of feeling will I present if I look at myself from the outside?' And when I am being photographed, do I have the same feeling?"

 

"Even though figure skating is initiated by me, there is indeed a part of me that stands in the position of the receiver. Although the balance between objectivity and subjectivity, and between active and passive may vary depending on the program, in terms of capturing a moment, it still seems to be an extension of figure skating.

 

"Of course, as I said earlier, when the camera seems to be peeking into my heart, I try not to observe myself from the outside. This might sound a bit abstract, but I feel that in those moments, the photographer is capturing not just my appearance, but my soul as well. So, at those times, it might be closer to completely exposing my untamed side."

 

Unlike the photography in a studio, as a figure skater, Hanyu performs in front of countless cameras.

 

There are moments when he might want to relax. His focus might waver for a brief moment. However, Kogaito says, "Hanyu can always turn into a 'painting' at any time."

 

If that's the case, does Hanyu constantly face countless cameras with heightened awareness? His unexpected response made me nod in agreement.

 

"During a competition, I am not performing for the camera. In my competitive years, my awareness was directed towards the 10 judges. When the judges saw my body from the front, the angle from each of their positions would be around 120 degrees. I performed with the awareness that no matter from which angle they looked at me, it would look great. Now, as a professional, my awareness has become even stronger. For the people watching me, whether they are the audience or the photographers, my goal is to make sure that from any angle, 360 degrees, the performance looks great. As for photos, I believe the photographer captures a moment in a positive sense. So, I also have a feeling that I rely on the photographer’s skill while performing."

 

Although Hanyu is the subject of the photos, he understands photography quite well. During the interview, he also mentioned technical terms.

"The ISO sensitivity of the photos, the tone, and the white balance are all influenced by the photographer's preferences, which can vary. You can tell by looking at the photos. Sense is different for each person. For me, there are moments in the program where I hope to capture specific scenes. For example, in SEIMEI, it's the moment when the taiko drum beats 'boom,' and I open my arms and widen my eyes. But depending on the photographer's preferences, some might choose to capture the moment I raise my arms, or others might prefer the dynamic sense of motion. Some photographers might choose to capture the perfect stillness of the hydroblading pose, while for 'notte,' there are those who capture my reflection in the ice, which looks like a calm lake."

 

The different photographers capture a particular "moment" in the performance, which can only be seen at a specific point in time and from a certain angle along the "line" of figure skating. What I always focus on is ensuring that the performance is great from every angle, 360 degrees, no matter where it's viewed from. However, depending on the position of the observer, what they see will be different. And depending on each viewer's individual sensibility, their reception of the performance will also vary.

 

 

 

 Source: https://weibo.com/6473801248/P5CDvDUZ6

 

Excerpt about Kogaito's attention to detail
 

Spoiler

"Remembering Hanyu’s choreography and deciding in advance the shots I want to take is the 'standard practice' for photographing figure skating. However, I want to capture the spontaneous, improvisational movements of Hanyu that only happen during that specific performance. While there are iconic moves, like hydroblading, there are also many subtle differences in the choreography each time, and that’s what makes Hanyu’s performance unique. If I can capture a move that the audience has never seen before, I believe that will naturally become the most impressive photo of the day."

 

Regarding Kogaito’s attention to detail and his pursuit of capturing "the most brilliant moment of the day," Hanyu expressed his admiration:

 

"In figure skating, where the entire space — left and right, up and down, forward and backward — is used for expression, with both the X, Y, and Z axes involved, I think Kogaito is the kind of photographer who makes you feel, 'Wow, this moment is really cool.' So, it makes me happy that Kogaito is willing to capture the moments he finds 'really good' and 'amazing.'"

 

While being interviewed, Kogaito showed a nervous expression. Noticing this, Hanyu teasingly said:

 

"I've been praising you non-stop!"

 

During the interview, Hanyu described Kogaito as "a photographer who captures the inner core of a person." This statement deeply resonated with Kogaito. Throughout the interview, he seemed particularly concerned about how Hanyu viewed his photos of him. (Excerpt omitted)

 

As introduced earlier in this book, Kogaito tries to communicate with his subject, Hanyu, through his photography. Therefore, he believes Hanyu’s evaluation of his photos is everything.

 

The phrase "a photographer who captures the inner core" contains the best answer Kogaito had been searching for all along.

 

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.17

 

Source:

https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113237508720695
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113281584824326
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113353293532836
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113362285596028
https://weibo.com/7848586779/P5sqYw3fW
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113386819914480

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu through the lens: The absolute champion as seen by a god photographer

 

Chapter 1 - Excerpts

 

Spoiler

Beginning of Kogaito’s journey to photography

Kogaito's second job search began in December of his senior year in college, continuing as he kept exploring options. His goal of becoming a trainer once again fell through and was cancelled, leaving him disappointed. He no longer felt motivated to pursue that path. Despite this, he still wanted to work in the field of sports, so he started looking for job opportunities related to that. At a time when he couldn’t find a way forward, he confided in a photographer from Kodansha whom he had met online.

The other person asked, "Are you interested in becoming a photographer?"

This was a world Kogaito had never considered before. Although he was skilled in art and had an interest in it, photography suddenly sparked his interest. As a result, this friend sent him several digital cameras, including both telephoto and wide-angle lenses.

The friend said, "Once you make a name for yourself, you can pay me back for these cameras."

So, Kogaito began his travels with a camera, freely exploring both domestically and internationally, constantly pressing the shutter, especially focusing on children. He also travelled to shoot the Moai statues of Easter Island and the Sun Festival, one of the three major South American rituals. During this time, he truly felt the joy of photography. The camera became a medium for communicating with children. As communication deepened, the photos themselves began to change, expressing joy, and he started to envision how to arrange the shots. It was at that point he realized he wanted to photograph sports.

Now, being able to take such photos, Kogaito saw his roots as a photographer in those original landscapes. Immersed in the world of photography, Kogaito's goal became to combine sports and photography, aiming to become a sports photographer.

It’s common for photographers at major newspapers to have studied fine arts, with many of them active in their university's photography clubs. Kogaito didn’t have that kind of background. However, after consulting with the Kodansha photographer, he received the advice:

“For sports photography, experience doesn’t matter.”

So, he decided to use his camera to capture sports scenes, believing that a sports newspaper might be the best place to realize his dream. His father loved reading daily sports papers, and he had often seen many sports newspapers at the station's kiosk. With this in mind, he set his sights on these two companies and began his second round of job hunting.

Kogaito went for the interview.

The sports newspaper’s interview process was a comprehensive recruitment system, with journalists, photographers, personnel, and general affairs all interviewed in a shared office, with a group hiring process. Kogaito’s aspiration was to become a photographer, and he was given the internal qualification for Sponichi. Meanwhile, the daily papers gave him a reserve recruitment qualification.

At that time, the decisions made by both companies might have influenced the landscape of figure skating photo reporting in the future. 
Kogaito wanted to be a photographer who could capture different photos from others. His initial goal was to take an “independent path.” The world of sports photography has certain standard templates. For example, in figure skating photos, for male skaters, it’s essential to capture the moment of a jump, while for female skaters, the "swan pose" must be photographed. From a skater’s perspective, even if a jump is beautiful, they might not want others to photograph them while rotating. Even though there may be some criticism from readers, such photos are still quite common. Other essential elements include close-up shots of the skates, or being able to tell which jump is being performed based on the position of the hands—these are all required elements in figure skating photography.

To put it bluntly, no matter how beautiful the expression is in a photo, editors at the newspaper would make a stern remark when selecting photos for the next morning's edition: "With this photo, we have no idea what event it’s from."

Of course, sports reporting has its own unique reasons. Television broadcasts can use video footage to convey the results of a competition, but print media must use words and one or two photos to explain the story. With more and more people not reading newspapers anymore, for those who still do, the "entrance" to understanding the sports event comes from the headline and the photo. This allows readers who are interested in that sport to read the report.

Also, the headline must be attention-grabbing, and the photo should immediately tell the reader what event is being reported. The photographer’s task is simple: clear and easy to understand. A good photographer is one who can accurately capture such photos at any given scene. This standard in sports reporting is built over time—first learned from predecessors, then practiced personally, and finally passed down to the next generation.

The sports photo reporting tradition has always played a role in communicating information to a broad audience. Although it's sports news, depending on the event, the coverage might not go into much depth. For events like figure skating, sports newspapers aim to cover them in a broad and simple way, making it easy for the general public to understand.

However, sports reporting articles and photos sometimes don’t update quickly. (For example, in certain GPF events, many newspapers simply buy a photo, or use old photos)

Some might say: "For figure skating, just take photos of the jumps, the skating, or full-body shots with the skates included."

This became the standard, and no one sought change.

At the time, Department Head Nagakubo understood Kogaito’s perspective very well.

Kogaito wanted to photograph figure skating live during the time before the Nagano Olympics.

At that time, there were no digital cameras, and everyone used the same 36-frame roll of film. When athletes performed, there was no time to change the film, so everyone had to make do with those 36 frames to capture the essence of the performance.

When a performance started, the photographer would typically take 5-6 shots of the initial position, then as the skater started skating, they would carefully manage the shots. Finally, as the program ended joyfully, 5-6 shots would be taken. This meant that the actual time spent capturing the performance would be about 15 frames. Back then, Honda Takeshi was the one performing 4-revolution jumps, and the theme for the men’s events was mostly jumps, while for women, it was all about the swan pose. At that time, any failure or falls would be turned into "comics," and these would also appear in newspapers. This was what Kogaito referred to as the "standard template." Full-body vertical shots like these were considered good photos.

At the time, the internet had not yet become widespread, and there were no social media platforms. As a result, it was difficult for fans and readers to voice their opinions to the media. Therefore, the standards for photo selection were rarely influenced by outside feedback. Eventually, photos of jump sequences began to decrease due to the athletes' objections, and photos from other angles—such as those capturing the athletes' joyful expressions—began to replace them. However, these changes did not bring about any fundamental revolution.
At this moment, Yuzuru Hanyu’s arrival changed everything.

In the figure skating world, often referred to as a "women’s sport," he established the position of male figure skaters. Not only was he capable of executing difficult quadruple jumps, but he also possessed exceptional expressiveness, and even his off-ice expressions were highly captivating. He earned high praise in Japan, North America, and Europe, and gained a new fanbase in countries such as China, South Korea, and Thailand.
Fans who were drawn to Hanyu’s charm began paying attention to sports newspapers. For traditional print media, which was facing a decline in circulation and seeking to attract new readership, this was an opportunity they could not have hoped for more.

As a result, works by the photographer Kogaito gradually gained recognition, standing in sharp contrast to traditional reportage photos. He said: "I happened to be in the right place at the right time. I’ve always believed that photos catering to the masses do not spark enthusiasm. In this age of information overload, broad and shallow reporting is unlikely to capture anyone’s interest. Those photos that are designed to be easily understood by everyone might not actually touch anyone’s heart. When the true fans following Yuzuru Hanyu's charm began buying sports newspapers, if we couldn’t provide targeted photos for the core fanbase of figure skating, then sports newspapers would struggle to survive.
However, logically speaking, as a newcomer, no one in the company would agree with what I’m saying. By chance, Yuzuru Hanyu, as a rare genius skater, became the subject of my photography. The traditional ‘staged’ photos couldn’t fully capture his charm. At the same time, the fans also yearned for different photos. For this reason, even though my ideas seemed unconventional, they were accepted."

In fact, Kogaito acknowledges that the sales of sports newspapers after competitions or ice shows featuring Yuzuru Hanyu are indeed affected. For example, when an ice show was held in Sendai, the kiosks at JR Sendai Station and surrounding convenience stores would be stocked with sports newspapers, which are rarely seen on regular days.

Kogaito focused on capturing photos that deeply resonated with the core fanbase. He said: "Even if only a few times a year can attract new readers to purchase sports newspapers, that’s still a huge encouragement for me. When I see people holding Sponichi at venues near Yuzuru Hanyu’s performances, I feel immense satisfaction, and my motivation is greatly boosted. It makes me feel that my photos have truly touched people’s hearts."

Of course, the decline in young people's interest in print media is a serious issue. Even though Hanyu's coverage may temporarily boost newspaper sales, it cannot reverse the trend of declining circulation.

Against this backdrop, major newspapers began shifting their focus to new content, with one initiative being to enrich their websites with articles and photos. Sponichi, with its "divine photographer" Kogaito, chose to focus on Yuzuru Hanyu’s photography collection.

Not only featured in print, the emotionally rich photographs of the subjects have attracted a new reader base. The path to this point has been far from smooth. Kogaito’s journey hasn’t followed a fixed template, and although his work has not yet garnered completely new acclaim, his photos, once seen as unconventional in sports reporting, are now beginning to make an impact. However, this has come after more than a decade of work since joining the company.

 

 

  Source:

https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113578597650271
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113595229372539  
https://m.weibo.cn/status/5113651992201994

 

 

Chapter 2 - Excerpts

 

Spoiler

Chapter 2: Entanglements

(Many of Kogaito's job transfers, such as being assigned to the Osaka branch and being tasked with photographing other projects, are omitted. The author dedicates a significant portion of the text to Kogaito's growth journey, which is interesting for those curious about the Japanese media industry.)

 

 

Through the Rio Olympics, aiming for the role of photographer at the PyeongChang Olympics.

 

If Kogaito had stayed in Osaka, the opportunities to photograph the Olympics and World Cup would have been fewer. Therefore, Kogaito wanted to move to Tokyo to make a name for himself there. He applied for a transfer to Tokyo, but the situation didn’t change. He applied again to his superior for a transfer, and with the results of his work on other projects, he finally succeeded on October 1st of that year.

 

Upon arriving at the Tokyo headquarters, Kogaito was not initially assigned any tasks. As a member of the "freelance" team, he would be sent to locations in need of extra hands. In fact, on New Year's Eve in 2015, Kogaito got the chance to photograph Yuzuru Hanyu for the first time.

 

The NHK Red and White Song Contest, as is customary, allowed young photographers to take photos. Kogaito was assigned to photograph Yuzuru Hanyu, who was wearing a kimono and attending the event as a judge at the NHK studio.

 

“This young man is the Olympic champion,” Kogaito thought with respect, directing his camera toward Hanyu. At that moment, Hanyu probably didn’t know that he would play a major role in this photographer’s life-changing journey.

 

By January 2016, Kogaito had spent three months as a "freelance" reporter. Compared to his time in Osaka, where he only photographed Hanshin Tigers baseball games, his range of assignments greatly expanded.

 

Nagakubo chuckled and said, “Kogaito is a bit of a shrewd guy. I didn’t expect him to have such a strong personality—seems like he’s just pretending to be innocent.”

 

Olympic photography is not fair to all media outlets. Some media use capital to accumulate photographic achievements, while influential media worldwide have priority when choosing shooting positions. If you’re going to photograph the Olympics, you have to compete with global media, so you must come up with methods that cannot be achieved with money and be well-prepared in advance.

 

After the Rio Olympics, the sports media planned to reorganize their reporting teams in two years. In 2018, there was the World Cup and the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in February. After the Rio Olympics, Kogaito had more opportunities to cover football and also started photographing the World Cup.

 

There was another key decision made in January 2017.

 

Nagakubo clearly told him, "For the upcoming Winter Olympics, I want you to go and photograph it." Kogaito had long hoped to be appointed as a key photographer for the Winter Olympics, and at that moment, his wish was finally fulfilled.

 

A New Participant in the Figure Skating World of "Newspaper Photographers"

 

In February 2017, the city of Gangneung, South Korea, was surrounded by bitter cold. Located about 200 kilometres from Seoul on the country's east coast, Gangneung is a coastal city facing the Sea of Japan. This city would host the 2018 Winter Olympics, and during the Games, it was connected to Seoul by the Korean high-speed rail (KTX), a significant upgrade from the previous year when the only transport option was the express bus.

 

The Winter Olympics were to be held in the following year, and Gangneung Ice Arena would serve as a test venue for the Games, hosting the 4CC (Four Continents Championship). For the athletes, this was a great opportunity to experience the Olympic venue and familiarize themselves with the local environment. Among the top athletes was Yuzuru Hanyu, who aimed to defend his Olympic title for the first time in 66 years, leading the men’s figure skating field.

 

Kogaito was appointed to cover the PyeongChang Olympics, where his responsibilities extended beyond figure skating to include speed skating and events held on the mountain, such as skiing. Three years earlier, the Sochi Olympics had felt like a distant world to Kogaito. Now, he was fully aware of the reigning champion in figure skating.

 

After winning the gold medal at the Sochi Olympics, Hanyu continued to dominate, reaching an unprecedented level of performance. In the 2015-16 season, at the NHK Trophy, he became the first skater to complete a combination of two quadruple jumps in the short program, setting a new world record. He also set a new highest score in the free skate, showcasing an otherworldly performance. Two weeks later, he broke his own record again at the Grand Prix Final. In the following 2016-17 season, Hanyu landed the first-ever ISU-recognized quadruple loop jump and secured his fourth consecutive GPF win, making him the biggest contender for the PyeongChang Olympic gold medal. As a photographer covering the PyeongChang Olympics, Kogaito was eager to capture Hanyu, but the pressure of photographing such an outstanding athlete was immense.

 

For a long time, figure skating coverage at the Sponichi had been the domain of Nagakubo, the editor-in-chief. Nagakubo had established his position by photographing figure skating as a sport, winning the support of many figure skating fans. "The world of photographers is full of professional temperament," Kogaito reflected. "Nagakubo took care of me very well." Photographers working for newspapers are known as "newspaper photographers," and while they are professionals, they are also office workers. However, the world of photography doesn't always follow the typical office culture, and passing down such practices to the next generation is uncommon.

 

Nagakubo, however, was different.

 

The world of figure skating photography also has its "villages." There are freelance photographers, photographers belonging to photography magazines, and photographers working for publishing houses. Newspaper photographers are further divided between general newspapers and sports newspapers, with each type of media having a distinct style. In most sports reporting environments, photographers are either from newspapers or magazines. However, figure skating is unique, with many freelance photographers because the photos can be incredibly valuable. Some freelance photographers, whose skills allow them to compete for photos, can sometimes have a competitive and even hostile attitude toward "newspaper photographers," who get paid regardless of the quality of the photos.

 

Yuzuru Hanyu, as a subject, transcends the boundaries of figure skating, becoming an international superstar with a massive following both domestically and abroad. This high level of attention to his figure skating photos means that any photo he appears in receives significant scrutiny. In this world, capturing a good shot can result in valuable recognition, but a poorly taken photo can lead to an immediate drop in reputation.

 

 

 

Link to the rest:

Chapter 3 - Excerpts pt 1 

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584079

Chapter 3 - Excerpts pt 2

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584085

Chapter 3 - Excerpts pt 3

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584086

Other Excerpts pt 1 - Kogaito Blue, 2019-2021

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584087

Other Excerpts pt 2 - About 2022 Beijing Olympics

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584088

Other Excerpts pt 3 - After turning professional

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584089

Other Excerpts pt 4 - 2nd anniversary as a Professional

https://planethanyu.com/topic/2012-20241217-yuzuru-hanyu-through-the-lens-the-absolute-champion-as-seen-by-a-god-photographer/?do=findComment&comment=584090

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.20

 

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000002082.000004702.html

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241220100125/https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000002082.000004702.html

 

 

30-year-old Yuzuru Hanyu will reprise his self-homage to "The Beginning of the Blue Rose" with Mika Ninagawa! The photos will be featured in the "Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai," set to be released on March 21.

 

The "Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai" (scheduled for release on March 21, 2025), currently available for pre-order, will include newly taken photos! For Yuzuru Hanyu, who has just turned 30, Mika Ninagawa has prepared the set from their first photoshoot together, the 2018 "Blue Rose" set.

 

Spoiler

"The sets that Mika-san prepares have a mysterious power that immediately draws you into their world. Mika-san suggested recreating the blue roses, so I approached the shoot with the mindset, 'If I'm going to create a book, I want to make it something special.' I thought, 'Would it be more interesting to try to capture the facial expressions I had back then?' but as I faced Mika-san's camera, my expressions gradually shifted to reflect who I am now. I hope you enjoy the completely different photographs, even though they are set in the same situation." (Yuzuru Hanyu comment)

 

"It has been six years since I first photographed Hanyu-san. For the photobook 'Tai,' we had the opportunity for the fifth photoshoot. This time, we used the same blue rose set from when we first worked together in 2018. Because it's the same set, the photos showcase even more clearly the incredible expressiveness that Hanyu-san has developed over the past six years. I'm very excited to see how Hanyu-san's expression will evolve as he enters his thirties." (Mika Ninagawa comment)

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: The Culmination of His 20s and the Starting Line – Six Years Captured by Mika Ninagawa

The photobook Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai (scheduled for release on March 21, 2025), which contains the best of the best photos taken by photographer Mika Ninagawa of professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, will also feature newly shot images. For Hanyu-san, who has just turned 30, Ninagawa-san has prepared the same "blue rose" set from their first photoshoot together in 2018.

 

 

Editor’s Comment:

Yuzuru Hanyu turned 30 on December 7th of this year. The background behind the creation of Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai lies in Mika Ninagawa's desire to capture the expressions of Hanyu-san in his 20s in one volume.

 

During discussions about the structure of the photobook, Ninagawa-san came up with the idea, "What kind of expression would be created if the current Hanyu-san entered the same 'blue rose' set from 2018?" It was an idea we never imagined, but as soon as I heard it, I was convinced that if it came to life, it would definitely result in an incredible work of art.

 

Both Hanyu-san and Ninagawa-san are active at the top of their fields. While there was some anxiety about whether we could coordinate their busy schedules, with the support of everyone involved, the "reenactment of the blue rose" came to fruition. The hair and makeup artist, as well as the stylist, who worked with us in 2018, also participated in this project.

 

Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai contains a wealth of precious photos capturing Hanyu-san at 30. We invite you to look forward to the latest images created by these unique and irreplaceable artists.

 

 

Announcing the Ultimate Collector’s Edition Large-Format Photobook Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai (AERA Special Edition / Special Box) – Release Date: March 21, 2025!

The Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai (AERA Special Edition / Special Box), featuring the best shots taken by photographer Mika Ninagawa of professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, will be released on Friday, March 21. Hanyu-san has been photographed by Ninagawa four times, starting with a session before the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. This photobook features the best of the best selections from 18 different sessions, encompassing approximately 5,000 shots. It is a collector’s edition meant for permanent preservation.

 

This product is available for pre-order only (pre-order deadline: January 6, 2025 / extended due to popularity!).

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mika Ninagawa first met six years ago during a cover shoot for AERA. At the time, Hanyu was 23 years old. His expression, gazing intently at the camera while surrounded by the blue rose set, still showed traces of youthfulness. The AERA cover featuring this "blue rose" shot quickly sold out and became a huge hit.

 

Since Hanyu-san's declaration of turning professional in 2022, he has had sessions about once a year, each time deepening his expressions. These shoots have resulted in four previous photobooks: Yuzuru Hanyu: The Driving Force behind the Leap (2022), Yuzuru Hanyu: A Solitary Driving Force (2023), Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Shin, and Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Gi (2024).

 

This December, the fifth session took place! The photobook Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai, scheduled for release in March, will be a culmination of the six-year Yuzuru Hanyu × Mika Ninagawa collaboration, capturing the evolution of Hanyu's expressions and marking a new starting point. In addition to carefully selected shots from the four previous shoots, the book will also include unpublished images and the "reenactment of the blue rose" from the fifth shoot. This photobook will be presented as a large-format edition, measuring 297mm x 297mm, and will be packaged in a special box. The dynamic composition of the photos will allow readers to feel the energy of the shoots. Full of highlights, Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai will be available exclusively through pre-order in a special box!

 

 

[Contents of the Special Box]

■ Large-Format Photobook (Photography by Mika Ninagawa)

Presented as a large-format book, measuring 297mm x 297mm!

It includes carefully selected shots from the four previous photo sessions, along with unpublished images.

• The fifth session was captured! Yuzuru Hanyu at 30, photographed in the "Beginning of the Blue Rose" set.

■ Booklet

A reprint of the interviews that AERA has conducted with Yuzuru Hanyu!

The booklet also includes numerous off-shots taken during the photo sessions.

■ Special Calendar

A calendar starting in April 2025! Of course, the photography is by Mika Ninagawa.

The calendar's dates were handwritten by Yuzuru Hanyu.

■ Behind-the-Scenes DVD

Unpublished behind-the-scenes footage from Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Shin and Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Gi.

Includes 2 videos from Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Shin and Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Gi (already released on AERA's official YouTube).

Also includes 4 behind-the-scenes clips from Yuzuru Hanyu: The Driving Force of Solitude (already released on AERA's official YouTube).

• The behind-the-scenes footage of the fifth session will also be included!

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu Photobook Tai" (AERA Special Edition / Special Box Included)
Photobook: 144 pages (planned)

Booklet: 32 pages (planned)

Price: ¥16,500 (¥15,000 + 10% tax)

ISBN: 978-4-02-332376-6

Available on Amazon Japan

 

This product is available for pre-order only (pre-order deadline extended due to high demand! Orders close on January 6, 2025).

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.23

 

Source: AERA December 30, 2024 issue, pg 37-41

Info: https://publications.asahi.com/product/25174.html

 

 

"Guided by 'Sound'
Report on 'Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd "Echoes of Life" TOUR' 

 

The third installment of the ice story by professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu has begun.
This is a report on the first day of his Saitama performance, which took place on his 30th birthday.

Writer: Takaomi Matsubara Photo and Video Department: Takuya Matsunaga

 

Spoiler

Before the doors opened, many people had already gathered around the venue. Some were taking pictures of large posters, others were taking commemorative photos with the venue in the background. On December 7th, at the Saitama Super Arena, the "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd 'Echoes of Life' TOUR" premiered. It marked the beginning of a tour that will visit Hiroshima in January 2025 and Chiba in February. Despite the cold air, there was a palpable sense of excitement.

 

As the venue opened and the showtime approached, the murmurs of the crowd filled the space, only to gradually fall silent. The lights dimmed. A loud round of applause erupted. Images began to play on the large screen installed at the back of the skating rink.

 

The scene that unfolded before the audience resembled a near-future cityscape, with a cluster of skyscrapers in ruins—suggesting a possible future. Amidst this, the protagonist of the story, played by Hanyu as "VGH-257 'NOVA'," wakes up, unsure of his memory, and questions himself.

 

"Why am I here? Why was I born? What is life?"

 

The Theme of "Life" and "Living"

The third installment of the ice story series, following "GIFT" and "RE_PRAY," is based on the theme of "life" and "living."

 

Hanyu later revealed his intent after the performance: "I've always been interested in the philosophy of 'living,' having thought about bioethics since I was a child and studied it at university. I reflected on the thoughts and theories that had been circulating in my mind for a long time and wrote this performance with the hope of giving you all an opportunity to find your own answer to the question of what it means to live in this world and to think about philosophy."

 

Many people, regardless of how deeply they have thought about it, will have considered the theme of life at some point. Simply presenting this theme is a major challenge. Moreover, the story unfolds on the ice while incorporating visuals. How to make it work as a narrative? That's where Hanyu's idea came in.

 

It’s "sound."

 

The guide who appears in the visual narrative says: "You can experience words and letters as sound."

 

By using "sound" as a medium, the theme is embedded within the story, and through the guidance of "sound," the meaning of life and the purpose of living are explored. As it is transformed into "sound," the performance on the ice also becomes an integral part of the story.

 

Philosophy Becomes Music

 

Hanyu continues: "Originally, I thought that scenes could become colors, sounds, or emotions. For example, some people associate the color 'red' with passion, while others see it as fear. It's all about individual interpretation. However, I was the type of person who, from a young age, would hear those things as sounds. It's not that I have perfect pitch, but rather, I would hear them in a sort of melodic sense. When thinking about my own experiences, and as I was writing fiction, I considered, 'What kind of abilities should I give to this character?' I incorporated elements such as the intonation of the words I use in training, the meanings behind them, and so on, into the story. Philosophy enters the body as sound. That philosophy becomes music, and the program is created. This is the kind of story I wrote, exploring many different ideas."

 

Starting with an excellent concept, the story unfolds with mostly new programs. Each program was carefully crafted to represent the story, but the most striking part was the scene before the intermission, transitioning from "Piano Collection" to "Ballade No. 1.

 

A Stunning 10+ Minutes

 

In "Piano Collection," Hanyu skated to five songs with brief 30-second pauses in between, without ever leaving the rink.

 

"From the continuous classical piano pieces to 'Ballade No.1,' it was something I had never done before. I didn't leave the stage once. I studied classical music with pianist Kiyozuka Shinya, and had detailed discussions with choreographer Jeffrey Buttle to meticulously plan the program and create this concept."

 

A large white cloth screen, suspended in the air, and the world on the ice were accompanied by projection mapping, where musical notes flowed. Through the performance within this setting, it expressed questions and inner conflict. The overall expression was truly breathtaking.

 

"Turning 30"

 

The story continues. The protagonist, struggling, suffering, fighting, and seeking answers to his questions, eventually reaches a certain conclusion. What will the audience, who has watched the opening performance or will attend one of the shows running through February, take away from it? With a lingering emotion, the story concludes.

 

While presenting a profound theme, Hanyu not only conveyed the theme but also revealed various aspects of himself through his expressions in the visuals and on the ice, creating a truly rich narrative.

 

One of the key factors that supported this was, of course, Hanyu's ability as a skater. His sharp quadruple jumps, triple axels, various spins, and connecting movements... He truly embodied the ice story once again.

 

Hanyu reflects: "The strongest feeling I have is that it's finally started. I was really nervous, and although I spent a lot of time training every day, you can't truly know until you're performing in front of everyone. There were parts where I wasn't sure whether it was a success or failure. Honestly, I feel like 'it really started now,' and I’m just glad that I could complete the performance without injury on the first day."

 

Hanyu was all smiles after the performance. The opening day of the tour was also his 30th birthday.

 

When asked about turning 30, Hanyu responded: "I feel like, 'Wow, I’m turning 30' (laughs). When I was told, ‘You’re 30,’ I thought, ‘Oh, 30...’ but the way I imagined being in my 30s when I was younger is completely different from how I feel now, both physically and mentally. I feel like I can still do a lot. In 'Echoes,' there are questions like, 'What is the future?' or 'What is the past?' but I think the future will be even better than I imagined, and by doing my best in the present, I feel like I can welcome my 30s in a way that’s different from the time when I thought, ‘30 means you’re getting old.’

 

"I had a vague image that figure skating would deteriorate at this age, but if you think about it in terms of other sports like baseball or soccer, I feel like this is the time when my experience, my sense, and my technique will start to really come together. I want to always approach training, practice, and performances with the mindset that I have hope for my future and that I will definitely seize every opportunity."

 

On this day, he performed a total of 15 programs, including three encores. The performance lasted over 2 hours and 30 minutes. Standing alone on the ice and demonstrating an overwhelming presence, he conveyed more than anything else the powerful message of his current state at 30 years old.

 

Dedicated Effort

 

It wasn't just on the ice. There was the work of conceptualizing the story, collaborating with the staff to bring it to life, the detailed direction, filming, and daily practice—all the accumulated effort leading to this point. With unwavering dedication, he continued to move forward as a skater and refine his work as an artist, and this process culminated in a tangible result on that day.

 

And it was a moment that gave a sense that even now in his 30s, he will continue to create new worlds.

 

The number of spectators on the opening day was 14,000. Not only that, many people in Japan and abroad enjoyed the show via streaming.

 

Many more people will surely watch the performances going forward. Yuzuru Hanyu's tour continues to deliver his story to these audiences.

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.24

 

Source: https://the-ans.jp/news/491544/

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241227133058/https://the-ans.jp/news/491544/

 

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata" to be held in March next year. The ice show that delivers hope from Miyagi will be held for the third time. "I want to skate with all my heart"

 

It was announced on the 24th that "Hanyu Yuzuru Notte Stellata" will be held at Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandi 21) in Miyagi in March of next year. This will be the third time the show is held. Yuzuru Hanyu, a professional skater who has won consecutive Olympic gold medals in figure skating, will act as the host of this ice show, which will send out "hope" from Miyagi, an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. He will deliver hope together with his fellow professional skaters who are active around the world.

 

Spoiler

Professional Skaters Gather to Promote Disaster Prevention and Regional Contribution

It was announced on the 24th that "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata" will be held in March next year at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandé 21) in Miyagi. This will be the third time the event is held. The two-time Olympic champion figure skater, Yuzuru Hanyu, will serve as the host of the ice show, which aims to send "hope" from the disaster-stricken Miyagi area following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Hanyu will deliver this hope alongside fellow professional skaters who are active globally.

 

"Notte stellata" is the program that Hanyu performed in the Pyeongchang Olympics exhibition. The title is Italian for "starry night." It was named after the beautiful "starry sky" Hanyu saw during a power outage in the aftermath of the disaster in his hometown, Sendai, from which he felt a sense of hope. This ice show also works on disaster prevention and regional contribution. Merchandise sold at the venue will primarily focus on disaster preparedness items. The goal is to encourage attendees to think about disaster prevention while enjoying the ice show. Additionally, local gourmet food stalls will be set up to contribute to regional revitalization.

 

Yuzuru Hanyu's Comments

 

Regarding the upcoming "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata" show:

"As 'notte stellata' enters its third year, I’ve been reflecting on 3.11 repeatedly, searching for what I can do, and thinking about many things to get to this point. I hope we can deliver hope once again, and I want to make this a bright show that leaves everyone who sees it with a smile on their face."

 

On his performance:

"I want to skate with the hope, prayer, and wish that everyone will feel a bit brighter toward the future."

 

Regarding the cast:

"My fellow skaters (who will be performing) will be reflecting on 3.11, as well as my thoughts and feelings about the recovery from the earthquake. They will skate with emotion and in agreement with these sentiments, and I hope that the audience will be able to feel those emotions."

 

Schedule:

• March 7, 2025 (Friday) 16:00 Doors open / 17:00 Show begins (TBA)
• March 8, 2025 (Saturday) 17:30 Doors open / 18:30 Show begins (TBA)
• March 9, 2025 (Sunday) 15:00 Doors open / 16:00 Show begins (TBA)
  Each performance will last about 2 hours.

Venue: Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grandé 21), Miyagi

 

Performers: Yuzuru Hanyu and others
Cast will be announced sequentially on the official website.

 

Organizers: NTV, BS NTV, Miyagi Television
Supporters: Miyagi Prefecture
Cooperation: Miyagi Prefecture Sports Association
Sponsors: JTB and others
Advisors: CIC
Planning and Production: NTV News Every.

Ticket Sales:
E-plus Early Access (Lottery)
January 7 (Tuesday) 12:00 to January 21 (Tuesday) 12:00
For ticket details, please check the official website.

 

[yuzurujenn]

 2024.12.27

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241227-OHT1T51113.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241227131055/https://hochi.news/articles/20241227-OHT1T51113.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura to perform together for the first time in a dreamlike collaboration; special guest decided for "NOTTESTELLATA" in March next year

 

It was announced on the official X account of the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025" (to be held from March 7–9, 2025, at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in Miyagi) that the renowned kyogen performer Mansai Nomura will appear as a special guest.

 

Spoiler

Yuzuru Hanyu, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, used music from Mansai Nomura's film Onmyoji for his free program at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. The performance, titled "SEIMEI," was inspired by the traditional kariginu (hunting robes) and showcased a "Wa" (Japanese) world. Hanyu had also met with Nomura to learn about the subtleties of movements and gestures.

 

Hanyu commented, “I want to make sure that I can fully express the significance of having Mansai-san here with us.” Nomura, who will also be involved in the collaboration's choreography, expressed his excitement for their first joint performance, saying, “This is the first time, so I'm still feeling my way around what I can do and what will be effective, but I'm starting to get a feel for it as I talk with Hanyu.”

 

"Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata" will be held for the third consecutive year in 2025. In 2023, gymnast Kohei Uchimura joined as a special guest, and this year, actress Mao Daichi appeared, both showcasing exquisite collaborative performances.

 

The skaters participating in the show include Javier Fernández, Jason Brown, Shae-Lynn Bourne, Satoko Miyahara, Akiko Suzuki, Keiji Tanaka, Takahito Mura, Rika Hongo, and Violetta Afanasieva.

 

 

 

Source: https://news.ntv.co.jp/category/society/61e218a3c1fe45a2848074626e36f7cf

Archived:  https://web.archive.org/web/20241227134018/https://news.ntv.co.jp/category/society/61e218a3c1fe45a2848074626e36f7cf

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu and Mansai Nomura to collaborate for the first time in ice show next March

 

Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura will be appearing in "Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata 2025," which will be held in Miyagi next March.

 

Spoiler

Yuzuru Hanyu, who will be serving as the host, has been a big fan of Nomura since he was a child. During the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, where Hanyu achieved back-to-back victories, he performed to the theme song of the movie Onmyoji in which Nomura starred. Although the two have had a conversation together in 2015, this will be their first time collaborating on stage.

 

Hanyu, smiling about his collaboration with his idol, said, "I'm glad I worked hard to get here." He expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I want to make sure the meaning of having Mansai-san with us is clearly expressed."

 

Meanwhile, Mansai Nomura, who will also be involved in the direction for the collaboration with Hanyu, said, "Since this is a first for me, I'm still figuring out what can be done and what is effective, but as I talk with Hanyu-san, I'm starting to grasp the right feeling."

 

[yuzurujenn]

2024.12.29

 

Source: Nikkan Gendai Special Issue "New Year Special Issue 2025"

Info: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0DRFRJ6DC

 

 

Special Interview: Hanyu Yuzuru’s Challenge at 30

 

Two and a half years since turning professional.

"I’m always doing it with the mindset of trying to break my Olympic records."

 

Spoiler

On December 7, 2024, he celebrated his 30th birthday. He has reigned at the top of the world as an athlete, including becoming the first man in 66 years to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in figure skating at the 2014 Sochi and 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. In July 2022, he announced his transition to professional skating. Even though he stepped away from the competitive arena, he remains a unique figure in the world of figure skating, holding an unprecedented solo ice show as a professional skater. We took a closer look at Hanyu's current state as he continues to evolve, remaining steadfast amid major changes in his environment.

 

[Researching Basketball Movements]

 

– It's been two and a half years since you went from being an athlete to an artist. What has changed the most for you as a skater?

"When I was a competitive athlete, I had muscles focused on explosive power but lacked endurance. Now, I've started building muscles that provide the stamina to skate for longer periods of time. At the same time, I need to maintain the high level of technical skill I had when I was competing, so it’s about balancing both. I’m training to build endurance muscles while also maintaining the explosive power from my competitive days. I've been studying and researching the type of training that would benefit both aspects, and I’ve been developing my body accordingly."

 

– Did you start this research during your competitive years?

"No, I didn’t go that far. In the past, I only skated once a day, and the performance time was at most 4 minutes and 40 seconds. After the Pyeongchang Olympics, the men's free skate was shortened to 4 minutes starting in the 2018-2019 season, but I had been used to performing for 4 minutes and 40 seconds. When I was a competitive athlete, being able to complete a program that lasted four and a half minutes was sufficient, but now I have to complete the program 14 to 15 times a day. I have to consider my mental strength, technique, physical stamina, and even lung capacity. It became a necessity, but simply practicing recklessly doesn’t work, so I decided to research it. In figure skating, the scientific study of training theories and how muscles are used hasn’t really been done because it’s a minor sport. I felt that I needed to take the initiative to research and develop training methods, and I’ve been working hard on it."

 

– What kind of research?

"Of the major sports, basketball is the one that I think has movements most similar to figure skating. In basketball, players use the ball as a tool and compete against others, but there are many similarities in terms of quick turns, the need for jumping power, and not only the forward movements but also side-to-side and backward movements, as well as the need for peripheral vision. In particular, I think the defensive roll movements have a lot in common with the turning movements in figure skating."

 

– How have you changed mentally since turning professional?

"Honestly, I don’t think there’s much change. For example, in this show, I've decided to include a program that is almost exactly the same as the one I used to do in competitions. Moreover, whereas in my competitive days I only had to perform it once, I now impose on myself the requirement to 'perform a program that can win,' both as an expression and as a competitive piece. So it doesn't really matter that I'm no longer competing against an "opponent" or that I don't get any points. Now, I focus on the challenge of how much I need to practice and train to execute this program perfectly, and the joy that comes with achieving it. And because we are all creating the show together, I constantly battle the pressure that falls entirely on me, so I approach it with the mindset of trying to break my Olympic records every time."

 

– During your time as a competitor, the more results you achieved, the bigger the presence of 'Yuzuru Hanyu' became. Have you ever felt uncomfortable with the public's image of "Yuzuru Hanyu"?

"That’s true. When I was young, I watched the Olympics and thought that if I could win this competition, everyone would be happy, and the person who won this competition would be the coolest. I pushed forward with that dream, but I never expected being under this kind of attention. There were definitely times when I felt like I couldn’t breathe. Honestly, when I was little, I never imagined that I would be constantly followed by cameras from the preparation stage, like during warm-ups, and that every move I made would be watched. There are times when I feel suffocated, but there are also people who look forward to it. Even during practice, it often felt like everyone’s eyes were always on me, which scared me at times. However, the attention is also a reflection of the expectations people have. I think I've become able to work hard thinking that I have to live up to those expectations."

 

– Your shows actively incorporate technologies like projection mapping to create a unique worldview. On the other hand, there are concerns that the field of art may be threatened by AI and other such technologies.

"Indeed, I am proud that we are doing cutting-edge things in our shows. We are working hard to express the fusion of art and sports, but there are emotions you can only experience through sports. For example, watching high school baseball players giving their all at Koshien, you can't help but feel moved and excited, but they aren't trying to make you feel that way on purpose. On the other hand, the world of art expressed in a show holds a sense of sacredness and emotion precisely because it is something that has been created. I believe they can coexist, and I will continue to do my best. "

 

[yuzurujenn]

2025.01.01

 

Source: https://wedge.ismedia.jp/articles/-/36190

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250101010353/https://wedge.ismedia.jp/articles/-/36190 

 

 

＜What Yuzuru Hanyu wants to convey to the Noto Peninsula earthquake disaster area＞ The Incredible "Power of Action" and "Persistence" in Supporting the Victims.

 

It has been decided that the ice show "Hanyu Yuzuru Note Stellate," chaired by professional figure skater Hanyu Yuzuru, will be held for the third year in a row. The show will be held at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena in his hometown of Miyagi from March 7th to 9th, coinciding with the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

 

Spoiler

The third installment of his solo ice show, "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd—Echoes of Life—TOUR," will kick off with performances in Hiroshima on January 3 and 5 (Hiroshima Green Arena) and in Chiba on February 7 and 9 (Lala Arena Tokyo Bay), marking the beginning of an energetic start to the new year. Throughout all of this, his thoughts on the disaster-stricken areas remain unwaveringly strong.

 

In 2024, his third year as a professional, in addition to 'Notte Stellata' in March, he also delivered a charity performance for the Noto Peninsula earthquake reconstruction on September 15th, which was streamed live from the site. The words that connect Hanyu to the earthquake disaster are 'power of action' and 'persistence.'

 

A Performance in Ishikawa Prefecture

 

"I've heard that on that day, the local people were greatly encouraged by watching Hanyu and his team's performance on TV. In fact, we have turned the autographs from Hanyu and the others into a panel, which we have displayed above the ticket vending machine.

 

Users often say, 'Oh, Hanyu was here,' and take pictures with their smartphones, expressing how happy they are. We've even received inquiries from fans outside the prefecture asking, 'Do you have any photos? Any autographs?' and we guide them to the panel."

 

I spoke by phone at the end of last year with Yoshimasa Sankai, the director of the Kenmin Sporec Plaza in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, the venue of the 'Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Charity Performance' held on September 15th last year. Director Sankai was surprised by the size of the response.

 

In a press conference after the performance, Hanyu mentioned that he wanted to donate as much of the proceeds as possible, so he kept the costs down by minimizing equipment like lighting. However, it wasn’t just about that. According to Director Sankai, the conditions on the ice were not suitable for top skaters to perform.

 

"In September, it was still hot, and the difference in temperature between the outside and the indoor space caused condensation to form on the ceiling, which then fell onto the rink and froze into several small lumps. We did what we could to smooth the ice and used dehumidifiers, but there were limits. I felt sorry about it, but the skaters, including Hanyu, performed beautifully without complaining in those conditions.

 

As they were leaving, Hanyu even thanked us, saying, 'Thank you for allowing us to skate during a time when the ice is usually not laid down.' I knew that Hanyu, having experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake himself, has strong feelings for those affected by disasters, but I’m truly grateful for his kindness."

 

The charity performance was all driven by Hanyu’s "power of action."

 

"Is there something I can do for those affected by the Noto disaster?"

 

After the earthquake in January, Hanyu turned his empathy for the affected areas into action. In June of the previous year, he visited Wajima City, which was also affected, during a segment for the NTV program "news every." He personally went to the site and listened to the voices of the victims.

 

One of the most frightening things for disaster-stricken areas is the "fading" of public interest over time.

 

In the affected areas, the scars of the earthquake still remain. In addition to the collapse of buildings caused by the initial earthquake, one week after Hanyu's visit, there were areas that experienced flooding due to heavy rain, with rivers overflowing. Mudslides also inundated the areas surrounding community centers and temporary housing. To be self-reflective, the media reports on the devastation with many reporters and journalists in the immediate aftermath, but over time, the focus tends to shift away.

 

Despite the charity performance being a live-streamed event with no audience, Hanyu insisted on performing in Ishikawa Prefecture.

 

“Regarding 3.11, and in response to the fading of memories, it might be difficult for us to do something about it. Even so, I want to help with earthquake relief efforts,” Hanyu said in an interview after the performance.

 

Olympic Back-to-Back Victories as a Way to Remember the Affected Areas

It is said that his achievements since turning professional have surpassed those of his competitive days. In fact, standing in the professional realm and being freed from the restrictions of competitive rules, his expressive capabilities have expanded magnificently. Hanyu’s evolution as a “professional skater” also reflects his insatiable drive to continue moving forward without dwelling on the past.

 

On the other hand, there is one thing that never fades and continues to shine, no matter how much time passes: the two gold medals he won at the Olympics. Moreover, it was the first time in 66 years that someone had won two consecutive gold medals in men's figure skating. The one moment when Hanyu might rely on the prestige of his two gold medals is when he faces disaster-stricken areas.

 

"Personally, one of my big goals in wanting to win two Olympic gold medals was to start supporting the affected areas and spreading empathy from that point onwards. I’ve always worked hard, trying to be the best in my sport. Now, as a professional, I am gradually starting to think more about the disaster-stricken areas."

Despite this, Hanyu emphasized that, above all, he is a skater, and through his performances, he hopes to provide some support and emotional aid to those affected by disasters. "Not only 3.11, but also various other disasters that have happened over time," he said.

 

Having achieved the extraordinary feat of back-to-back Olympic victories, Hanyu has garnered considerable attention, and with that, comes the opportunity to do something meaningful—not just for Noto. After the Sochi Olympics, Hanyu visited Ishinomaki City in Miyagi Prefecture as part of the earthquake recovery project for Nippon Television charity program "24-Hour TV."

 

As part of the 24-Hour TV project, he also held a special ice show at "Ice Rink Sendai" in Sendai City, inviting residents of Naraha Town in Fukushima Prefecture, where he had visited before. He has also visited other disaster-stricken areas, such as those affected by the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi Earthquake.

 

His supporting efforts are diverse. He has made donations from the profits of goods sold at the “Yuzuru Hanyu Exhibition” organized by the Yomiuri Shimbun. His continued substantial donations to his training base, Ice Rink Sendai, are widely known. Above all, his unbroken "persistence" is what is most meaningful.

 

When a major disaster occurs, it is not uncommon for many people to think about what they can do. Celebrities and athletes with significant influence also turn their attention to the affected areas at the onset. They visit the site, help with support activities, and call for donations. As a journalist, I have reported on such actions of many athletes numerous times.

 

'We must not let the current situation in the disaster areas fade from people's memory.' 'It is important to continue for the next ten years.'

 

Everyone says these admirable things. However, after one year, then two, three years pass, and most people distance themselves from the affected areas. There are various reasons for this. They may be busy or unable to adjust their schedules. But Hanyu is different.

 

He took action on his own and has continued to help even as time has passed.

 

What does it mean to be close to the disaster-stricken areas? What can one do? He has thought about this, made it happen, and continued without interruption.

 

"I hope I can deliver hope again"

 

Hanyu appeared in many media outlets in 2024. Among them, two magazine features stood out.

 

The October 1st issue of Newsweek Japan featured a special titled "What Yuzuru Hanyu Wants to Convey to Noto," and the November 30th issue of Weekly Toyo Keizai had a feature titled "Commitment to Supporting the Disaster Areas."

 

The reader demographic likely doesn't overlap with his usual fan base. This shows that a different side of 'Professional Skater Yuzuru Hanyu,' which inspires businessmen, is attracting new attention.

 

Hanyu's comment about the third consecutive "Notte Stellata" was as follows:

 

"The fact that 'Notte Stellata' is now reaching its third year makes me reflect on the events of 3.11 many times and think about whether there is something else I can do. I feel like I’ve come this far after considering many things while searching for ways to help.

 

I hope I can continue to deliver hope, and I want to make this show something bright where everyone who watches it can leave with a smile."

 

[yuzurujenn]

2025.01.04

 

Source: https://www.khb-tv.co.jp/news/15566669

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250104075319/https://www.khb-tv.co.jp/news/15566669
Info: https://www.khb-tv.co.jp/sp/sportsnochikara2025/ 

 

 

KHB Exclusive Interview : Professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu turns 30 - his past and future

 

On January 4, 2025, an exclusive interview with professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu was aired on KHB Tohoku Broadcasting during the show "Making Miyagi even hotter with the power of sports! Exclusive! Yuzuru Hanyu’s 30th Birthday Resolution." Hanyu spoke about his past and future. The interviewer was Shintaro Ejiri, a former professional baseball player and fellow Sendai native.

 

Spoiler

▼ An Unexpected Connection with Shintaro Ejiri, Hailing from the Same City

Hanyu: Excuse me, hello. Nice to meet you, I’m Yuzuru Hanyu.
Ejiri: I’m Shintaro Ejiri. Nice to meet you today. I used to be a professional baseball player.
Hanyu: You’re quite tall. (jumping a little)
Ejiri: Please don’t jump like that. Don’t jump yet. I’ve seen you jump plenty already.
Ejiri: Nice to meet you again. We just had a fun conversation about Sendai.
Hanyu: It feels like home, yes.
Ejiri: Can I have a little highlight here? I heard you were using me in Power Pro earlier (*a baseball video game)
Hanyu: Yes, I was using you in Power Pro.
Ejiri: Don’t use me in Power Pro! My throws will get hit!
Hanyu: That’s not true. In Power Pro, it all depends on the player’s skill.
Ejiri: You’re so kind. (laughs)

 

▼ Yuzuru Hanyu Turns 30 - December 7, 2024

Ejiri: You turned 30 on December 7. Congratulations!
Hanyu: Thank you.
Ejiri: You said, “I used to think 30 was old, but now that I’m here, it’s completely different.”
Hanyu: I said in an interview once that when I was younger, I thought 30 would feel old, but now that I’ve reached it, I feel completely different. My body moves just fine, and it’s like a baseball player thinking, “I can still increase my pitching speed.”
Ejiri: Why are you comparing it to baseball right from the opening talk…? (laughs)
Hanyu: I love baseball! (laughs)

Ejiri: Where do you feel the gap between your expectations and reality of turning 30?

Hanyu: In figure skating, the typical career span of an athlete is about 25 years at most. The peak is usually around 21 or 22. For female athletes, it can even be earlier, with some reaching their peak at just 16. It’s a sport with a really short career span. When I imagined myself at 30, I never thought I’d still be performing at such a high level, technically speaking. I never imagined that I’d still be finding room to grow and be able to reach for that potential.

 

▼ Three Years into His Professional Career - Increasing Curiosity

Ejiri: By turning professional, did your perspective on your career change? Did you realize there was more growth potential than you thought?
Hanyu: In pursuing figure skating, I’ve been almost self-taught when it comes to ballet and dance. Some figure skaters study ballet, but I didn’t. I just followed the choreography given to me by the choreographers. Recently, I’ve started to realize how important the basics are. If I had learned the fundamentals of dance and expression from the ground up, I’d probably have developed differently. I feel there’s potential for growth in that area. Regarding training methods, muscle strength, and the athletic side of things, figure skating, while there are many who know about it in Japan, is still a relatively niche sport in terms of participation numbers. That’s undeniable. For example, in baseball, you can measure things like the spin rate of a fastball, the angle of the axis, and the optimal arm angle for a proper overhand throw. You can collect all that data. But in figure skating, we can’t really do that. Due to the nature of the sport, where you move freely across a rink that’s 30 meters by 60 meters, collecting data is very difficult. Although we can’t gather data in the same way, the reality of figure skating is that the training methods from the Showa era (1926-1989) and the early Heisei era (1989-2019) haven’t really changed much. As a minor sport that isn’t scientifically proven, figure skating is in a position where I feel if I take the initiative, I can develop more training methods and realize there are many ways to improve. These last three years have made me realize that.
Ejiri: Wow... you're going deeper than I expected today!

 

▼ On His Latest Solo Performance, “Echoes of Life”

Hanyu: When I was in university, I took a course on bioethics, and that made me start to think philosophy was fascinating. Throughout my life, there was the experience of the earthquake and the ever-changing global situation, I realized that I wanted to communicate the philosophy of how to think about life and how to face it. That's what made me want to express those themes.

Ejiri: Is it like another version of Hanyu? It’s like talking to a person who seems like Hanyu, having a conversation, asking questions about the meaning of life. Rather than providing answers, it turns the question back to you, and It makes you think again. That process really drew me in.

Hanyu: I think that's something I shouldn't give away explicitly. If I were to tell the audience exactly what the protagonist of the story is thinking, they would likely become constrained by that. So, I went back to the foundations of philosophy and made sure not to give everything away. Instead, I wanted to create time for the audience to think, by drawing from their experiences, the past, and through the music of figure skating and my performance. It became entertainment that encourages reflection.

 

▼ Two and a Half Hours of Solo Performance Requires Intense Training

Ejiri: The training you’re doing now is even harder than for the Olympics, right? Have you changed the way you’ve built your body?
Hanyu: To get very technical, I have to aim for a hybrid of the muscles of a sprinter and a marathon runner, which is quite difficult.
Ejiri: Can your body handle this training?
Hanyu: No, it can't! I actually cramped up during the performance (laughs).
Ejiri: I thought so. I was amazed you were still standing at the end of the performance. I felt how hard it was.
Hanyu: But after all, it's like putting my life on the line, and it's because I approach it with that kind of spirit that the emotion and expression come across. I believe that’s not just the emotion of art, but the unique inspiration from the combination of art and sports.

 

▼ Challenging the Olympic Short Program "Ballade No. 1" with No Breaks for 30 Minutes

Ejiri: During the Saitama performance, you made a few mistakes during “Ballade No. 1” on the first and second days.
Hanyu: It wasn’t just a small mistake. If that had happened in the Olympics, I would’ve lost.
Ejiri: Your commitment to constantly challenging yourself is incredibly impressive. You must have been disappointed.
Hanyu: It was really frustrating, but being frustrated there means I was really going all in, and that's why I felt frustrated. Then I immediately start analyzing, the reflection session begins, and I realized about what went wrong here, what happened there. And in the end, by the last day, I was able to do it without any mistakes. That performance was structured to win at the Olympics. In a competition, I would only do that 2 minutes 50 seconds once (the duration of Ballad No. 1), but now, I’m skating for about 30 minutes before performing it. Of course, it’s tough!
Ejiri: That’s true.
Hanyu: It’s like a relief pitcher maintaining their performance while being a starting pitcher at the same time.
Ejiri: That’s... incredible... and you compare everything to baseball! (laughs)
Hanyu: It’s like pitching a full game with just one day off in between (the Saitama performance had three shows with one day in between). It’s tough, right? It’s tough! (laughs) It’s like being the closer in the Japan Series. Because it’s the Olympic short program, you know. Of course, it’s tough! But while thinking that, I keep challenging myself to push beyond those limits, and that’s where the emotion is created. There’s no doubt about that.

 

▼ The Power of Sports as Experienced by Yuzuru Hanyu

Ejiri: The program title is "Using the Power of Sports to Make Miyagi Hotter," but what kind of power do you think sports has? If you had to sum it up in one sentence.

Hanyu: It’s the feeling of putting your life on the line. It’s like a life-or-death battle. Whether you win or lose, succeed or fail, in sports, the outcome is always clearly defined. How much effort you’ve put in shows in that one moment, and I think that’s what makes sports unique. And it’s through that process, or the human qualities required to seize that result, that we find ourselves moved and inspired.

Ejiri: It's amazing what you’ve been giving to others, and also how much you yourself have received from the power of sports.

Hanyu: But back in 2011, the Rakuten and Vegalta teams at that time were truly soul-stirring. I still haven’t forgotten it. During the earthquake, we were given tremendous strength. That’s the kind of presence I want to continue to embody, and it’s something that’s always at the core of who I am.

 

▼ Facing the Future: Taking on New Challenges in His 30s

Ejiri: Now that you’re 30, what kind of path do you want to take?
Hanyu: There are still so many things I can do, and so many things I haven’t done yet. I’m stepping into the unknown world right now, and there’s a lot of excitement about it. Of course, in the process of creating or showing my performance to others, there is pressure, but as long as people continue to expect that from me, I want to keep giving my life-risking performances, and I feel that’s what I want to keep doing, always.

 

[yuzurujenn]

2025.01.11

 

Source: The Japan Times Weekend - Sports, pg 14

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2025/01/11/more-sports/yuzuru-hanyu-interview/ 
Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250111100827/https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2025/01/11/more-sports/yuzuru-hanyu-interview/

 

 

YUZURU HANYU’S NEXT CHAPTER
The two-time Olympic gold medalist may no longer be skating competitively, but don’t call it a retirement

 

"You have no more than 30 minutes."

That's the stern reminder I'm given before being ushered into a room to speak with Japan's "Ice Prince."

 

Spoiler

The clock starts ticking, and the first six minutes are spent on a photo shoot in a conference room turned into a makeshift studio in his hometown of Sendai, about 350 kilometers northeast of Tokyo. 

He instantly puts on his game face and starts posing. He doesn't need instructions: Cameras and flashbulbs are part of his life.
He’s dressed in head-to-toe black athleisure wear- black hoodie, black pants and black sneakers. I’m told it’s his go-to outfit when he’s not donning glitzy costumes, which are specially created to accentuate his pencil-thin physique and enhance his performance on the ice.

When the photographer lets him go, he moves gracefully onto a sofa chair and signals with a friendly nod that he's ready for my questions. He's unintimidating and approachable, giving off boy-next-door vibes.

It’s been over two years since Yuzuru Hanyu- one of the best athletes Japan has ever produced- retired from competition, but he's not quite gone and he's far from forgotten.

 

Life after the Olympics

Hanyu hasn't exactly hung up his skates. In fact, his life has hardly slowed down since his Olympic days. In his post-competition life as a professional show skater, he still spends about 30 hours per week training – 15 hours on-ice and 15 hours off-ice – and every waking (and sleeping) moment thinking about figure skating.

 

"I'm never not thinking about figure skating" Hanyu says matter-of-factly.

 

"It's funny, in my dreams I'm still a competitor, and I'm running late, forgetting my costume or standing on the ice without my skates. I wake up from these bad dreams sometimes, but I have zero regrets about retiring because I love what I do now. I've found a new purpose in life."

 

Hanyu, who turned 30 last month, is crafting a second act as fulfilling as the first. He is relishing the chance to explore creative possibilities outside the realm of competition.

 

After winning two Olympic gold medals, two world championship titles, four Grand Prix Final victories and pretty much every honor a figure skater could win in both his senior and junior careers, Hanyu announced his retirement from competition in July 2022, shocking his legion of supporters around the globe, collectively known as “Fanyu.”

 

Now, the 172-centimeter, 57-kilogram skater produces and performs in solo ice shows – there is one stop remaining on his three-leg Ice Story tour – and he recently released a sci-fi storybook called “Echoes of Life,” designed to maximize the show-going experience.

 

He's a storyteller. He's also a Gucci brand ambassador. And a philanthropist. And so much more.

 

Safe to say, unlike many retired athletes, Hanyu didn't experience an existential crisis when he ended his competitive career.

 

"Maybe because I didn't retire into the broadcast booth like many athletes do," he says. "The butterflies are still there. "

 

He says moving on was relatively easy because, although the athlete label was something he wore proudly most of his life, he knew he had more to offer than just being an Olympic figure skater.

 

"When I retired and turned professional, (kyogen stage actor) Mansai Nomura said my name should be my job title going forward, and somehow it felt right. I want to be an artist but I'll always be an athlete because sport enriches my art. I don't want to let labels define me. I identify as Yuzuru Hanyu," he says.

 

Hanyu isn't feeling nostalgic about his glory days – at least not yet. The competitive spirit that propelled him to Olympic glory hasn’t faded: it simply has found a new arena. He says he’s under more pressure than he ever was.

 

He doesn’t keep up with figure skating news and has no plans to go to Italy for the next Winter Olympics in 2026. He doesn’t think watching competitions helps him in his career at this point because his focus is to “think outside the figure skating box.”

How ideas are born

A true artist, Hanyu is always in search of aesthetics and seems to have an invisible antenna attuned to frequencies others might miss.

 

He finds creative inspiration from art masterpieces and world-class talents in performing arts and sports, citing Royal Ballet dancers as an example. Sometimes he is surprised at what he notices and how it can inspire him.

 

"It's more about what than who. What tugs at my heartstrings," he says. "My antenna is always up. I make a mental note when I come across a body movement I like."

 

Most recently, the movements of NBA players have caught his eye and piqued his interest.

 

"Never would've guessed, right?" he says cheekily.

 

In order to refine his own tastes in art, Hanyu believes that he has to consume, experiment and learn more about what makes things beautiful.

 

For example, Picasso's drawings made no sense to him as a child, but Hanyu says he was able to find a way into the artist's work and appreciate them as he understood the deeper meanings behind the obvious.

 

Like Picasso, who redefined the boundaries of art, Hanyu is experimenting with new styles and techniques to reinvent his skating.

 

"Critics might agree that I'm making good art in the figure skating genre, but I want to impress people who are familiar with other forms of art like music, opera, dance and drama. In order to do that, I have to improve my aesthetic sense by understanding and appreciating art."

 

"Of course a seasoned skater or a knowledgeable fan will have a different viewing experience from someone who is watching my show for the first time. But my aim is to make spectators go ‘wow,’ even if they can’t tell how many times I rotated in the air or can’t name the technique."

Away from the ice

Hanyu no longer has a personal coach or trainer. He plans his own meals, sleeping rituals and workout regimens.

Weeks before a big performance, he stops snacking and drinking soda. As far as his diet goes, he eats according to his body's needs and occasionally takes supplements.

 

Even on the rare occasion that he’s playing video games and being lazy, he says he’s actively recovering to improve the quality of his training the following day.

 

When I told him that active rest sounds like an oxymoron, he threw his head back and gave a jolly laugh, right from his belly.

 

"Call me a skating geek," he says.

 

"Since my early teens, I had one goal: to become an Olympic gold medalist. My life revolved around that singular motivation that shaped my daily routines, and it's hard to live any other way. I'm scared to do anything that's unrelated to skating."

 

He says he tries to take one rest day a week, but he's never sure what to do with his time away from the rink.

He is notoriously private, especially when it comes to his family. In November 2023, he revealed on social media that he and his wife of three months were getting a divorce, citing intense scrutiny from the media and public and safety concerns as primary reasons for the separation.

 

He never signed up to have his privacy invaded, but Hanyu tells himself it's one of the costs of fame.

 

"It’s not like I don't long for an ordinary life. But the pressure of being in the spotlight is part of what allows me to create the stories and programs that I do. So I've come to terms with my reality," he says. "Sometimes I find myself seeking solitude, though, and when that happens I make sure to give myself alone time."

 

What normal thing does a man who spent career mesmerizing skating fans miss doing?

 

"I want to go to a batting cage. I really like baseball and used to go a few times a year as a kid and had the best time. I want to experience that pure joy again, but I wouldn't want someone to see me and write 'Hanyu sucks at hitting' on social media," he says with a big grin.

 

In that sense, he is aware of the pros and cons of social media use for athletes in an age when mental health is acutely in focus, but hasn’t set boundaries on how much time he spends on his phone each day.

 

"I think I'm mentally resilient," he says "Something could affect my mental health but at the end of the day skating is all I’ve got, and I know going back on the ice and hearing the audience applaud will save me. "

The big question

Hanyu has been thinking a lot about existential matters lately – the trajectory of his life and how he wants to live it. Philosophy has always fascinated him – he studied bioethics at Waseda University, one of Japan's top schools.

 

A huge event that impacted his life was the Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent tsunami, which devastated his hometown in March 2011 when he was 16. Hanyu has fundraised and donated to Sendai and the surrounding areas consistently for more than a decade, and his support continues to this day.

 

"Using skating to help communities recover from disasters has been my life's work since I was 16," he says.

 

Hanyu said the disaster, which left more than 15,000 in the Tohoku region dead, is a classic example of how people become desensitized when faced with big numbers, but it’s important to remember that behind every statistic are real life stories. In his ice shows, the value of human life remains a central theme.

 

"The world feels so unstable right now, and I feel like we should all be asking ourselves life’s big question: Why am I here?"

 

"That said, I haven’t figured out life yet. I’ve had days when I wanted to die, and days I’ve wanted nothing more than to live and skate in front of a crowd. Sometimes I think my purpose in life is to be useful, by skating and making other people happy. How I view and approach life keeps changing. But that’s what makes me flexible and open-minded."

 

When asked what recently reminded him that he was glad to be alive, Hanyu said it was his three sellout ice shows at Saitama Super Arena on Dec. 7, 9 and 11.

 

"I couldn't see every face because the seats were dark and far away, but there was a lot of screaming, crying and standing, and seeing that made all the hard work worth it," he says.

 

Hanyu's tour wraps up with two shows in Chiba next month.

 

He estimates at least 30% of his fans are foreign nationals, which is why he was keen to publish an English version of his storybook and provide audio guides in English for his shows, which combine on-screen narration with live skating performances.

 

"It was my idea," he says. "I want to make my message accessible to everyone. I also want to improve my expressive skills to speak through the movements of my body, without relying on words. I thought to myself: Why not do both?"

Apart from the upcoming shows, there is nothing on Hanyu's calendar, and he admits to not having his retirement game plan fully mapped out. No more Olympics. No more judges. No more "kiss and cry" areas. No more Winnie the Pooh dolls raining down from the stands after a gold-medal skate.

 

Hanyu said his experience at the Beijing Olympics in 2022 taught him that he thrives under pressure, when he knows there is no next time. He went into it knowing it would be his last Olympics, regardless of whether or not he would land the quadruple axel, a gravity-defying 4 1⁄2-rotation jump that had not been done successfully in competition up until that point.

 

He failed to make the podium after falling on his quad axel attempt, but he walked away a winner. Everything Hanyu does now is, in some way, built upon the life lessons of living in the moment.

 

"Who knows if I'll be doing this next year or the following year. But I think that's what allows me to pour my heart into every job." he says. "I'm trying to live each day as if it were my last. When the COVID pandemic happened, figure skating was declared non-essential. The next pandemic could strike anytime. That's why I want to ignite the fire within me and put on the best show for the fans who come to see me," Hanyu says.

 

"No more working in four-year Olympic cycles. I'm only focusing on what's in front of me."

 

Time’s up, a voice says. Hanyu smiles apologetically.

 

Our 24-minute chat comes to an end.

 

“Thank you, this was such a fun conversation,” he says, as he gets up for his next media appointment. Two down, three more to go.

 

He may have “retired,” but the spotlight follows him everywhere. Such is the life of Yuzuru Hanyu.