#Japan #Tokyo #MANHUNT JAPAN #Takuya Amagai #Best Body Award

MANHUNT JAPAN 2026: A Celebration of Excellence

On February 9, 2026, the MANHUNT JAPAN 2026 competition took place, culminating in the selection of the Grand Prix winner as Japan's representative for the renowned MANHUNT INTERNATIONAL. This contest, steeped in 33 years of history, is the world's oldest men's competition, having propelled numerous individuals to stardom across various fields, including modeling and acting.

The competition gathered 14 finalists from across Japan, each of whom underwent an intensive beauty camp lasting over two and a half months. This camp focused not only on enhancing appearances but also on fostering personal development, social skills, media literacy, and an understanding of international perspectives. A standout element of the event was the Grand Prix winner, Takuya Amagai, a former Japanese swimming record holder, whose diverse abilities and charisma made him a fitting candidate to represent Japan on such a prestigious stage.

A Night of Cultural Exchange

The competition was held under the auspices of the Embassy of Sri Lanka, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and understanding between Japan and Sri Lanka. The evening featured a speech from His Excellency V. Janak Kumara Singha, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. Additionally, the finalists showcased the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka through a performance of the traditional Kandyan dance, reflecting the spirit of international cooperation and artistry.

Impressive Styling Worth ¥270 Million

The grandeur of the event was underscored by the astonishing worth of the styling and apparel provided to the finalists, exceeding ¥270 million, thanks to collaboration with ZELE-PARIS. This high-end visual production ensured that the contestants embodied sophistication and elegance, both on and off the stage. The event served not only as a competition but also as a showcase of fashion and high culture.

Special Awards and Acknowledgements

Apart from the Grand Prix title awarded to Takuya Amagai, various categories recognized other outstanding individuals. Special awards included the Best Body Award, presented to Naruto Hiwatashi, a firefighter whose dedication to fitness and social consciousness resonated within the audience. Furthermore, the newly established Best Daddy Award went to Keisuke Hashimoto, who exemplified the values of family and responsibility, garnering acclaim on social media.

The top five finalists included:
1. Takuya Amagai (Grand Prix)
2. Hiromu Shimomoto
3. Toshiki Sasada
4. Aki Hikaru Tsuda
5. Rintaro Watanabe

These extraordinary individuals were celebrated for not just their looks but their holistic representation of the modern man, embodying qualities like intelligence, social responsibility, and expressiveness.

Looking Towards the Global Stage

As the event concluded, attention shifted toward the global competition in Sri Lanka, scheduled for May 26, 2026. With a promise to create an international platform that transcends borders in fashion, sports, business, culture, and social contribution, MANHUNT JAPAN continues to foster dialogue and growth.

Conclusion

The MANHUNT JAPAN 2026 competition was more than just a pageant; it was a poignant reminder of the power of youth, culture, and international understanding. As Japan's representative captures the spotlight at the world competition, we are confident that the values upheld at MANHUNT JAPAN will resonate worldwide, inviting everyone to appreciate not just the aesthetics but the empowering stories behind each contender's journey. Stay tuned for more on this journey as Takuya Amagai embraces his upcoming challenge on a global stage!