#Japan #Tokyo #Nihon Kotsu #Riri Yamamoto #Surfing Prodigy

Japan's Taxi Giant Joins Forces with Young Surfing Talent

On August 24, 2026, Nihon Kotsu, a leading taxi company based in Tokyo, made headlines by signing a partnership with 12-year-old professional surfer Riri Yamamoto. This agreement allows her to join the "Team Nihon Kotsu" athlete development program, marking a significant step for both the company and young Riri, who is already making waves in the surfing world.

Riri Yamamoto: A Rising Star in Surfing

Born on November 10, 2013, in Yamagata Prefecture, Riri Yamamoto hails from a surfing family, with her father being a professional surfer and her mother a top amateur and national champion. With a natural talent that has already seen her perform Japan's youngest air reverse, Riri is poised for further success both domestically and internationally.

Key Achievements

Riri's journey in surfing has been nothing short of impressive:

• - In 2026, she became the youngest Japanese female surfer to successfully execute an air reverse at the Shizunami Surf Stadium training camp. She has also claimed multiple victories in prestigious competitions such as the North Chiba Cup and Shima City Mayor's Cup.
• - The previous year, she triumphed at the 59th All Japan Surfing Championship (SW Kids), solidifying her status as one of the best in her age group.
• - Further back in 2024, she won the 5th NAMINORI Koshien (elementary school girls) and finished second in the 58th All Japan Surfing Championship (SW Kids), showcasing her strong competitive edge.

This agreement with Nihon Kotsu highlights the company's commitment to nurturing young talent, aligning with their corporate philosophy of "leaving virtues behind." Under this partnership, the company will support Riri's surfing endeavors, while she will proudly display the "Sakura N" logo sticker on her surfboard in competitions both in Japan and abroad.

Riri's Excitement for the Future

Riri expressed her enthusiasm about joining Team Nihon Kotsu:
"I am very excited to receive support from Team Nihon Kotsu. I want to showcase my skills in aggressive surfing and see how far I can push my limits with the Sakura N sticker on my board. I aim to challenge myself continuously with new techniques, and I appreciate all the support!"

About Nihon Kotsu

Founded in 1928, Nihon Kotsu is Japan's largest taxi and hire company, with approximately 10,000 vehicles operating mainly in Tokyo and Osaka. The company has established a reputation for exceptional customer service, promoted by its motto of becoming a taxi that is chosen rather than simply a taxi that is available. Innovations like Japan's first taxi app, the unique "Labor Delivery Taxi" for pregnant women, and specialized services for kids and tourism through its Expert Driver Service (EDS) highlight its commitment to adding value to mobility.

For more information about Nihon Kotsu, visit their official website: Nihon Kotsu.

Media Contacts

For press inquiries regarding this release, please contact:
Nihon Kotsu Co., Ltd.
Public Relations Department
Tel: 03-6265-6164
E-mail: [email protected]

For inquiries related to Riri Yamamoto, please contact:
RADTAKE Co., Ltd.
Tel: 03-3373-8383
E-mail: [email protected]

Please note that the details mentioned are accurate as of the release date, and there may be changes without prior notice.