The 7th Chihayafuru Ogurayama Cup: A Showdown of Top Karuta Players

An exciting event is on the horizon for fans of karuta! Set to take place on February 15, 2026, at the prestigious Sagano Arashiyama Bunkakan in Kyoto, the 7th Chihayafuru Ogurayama Cup promises to be a thrilling competition featuring eight of the best players in the field. This high-stakes tournament is co-hosted by the Japan Karuta Association, the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu Cultural Foundation, and the Chihayafuru Fund, ensuring that it draws significant attention from enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Event Timeline

The doors open with a ceremony at 10:00 AM, followed by rounds beginning at:

- First Round: 10:35 AM
- Second Round: 1:00 PM
- Final and Third Place Match: 3:00 PM

The closing ceremony is projected to end by 4:40 PM, rounding off an exhilarating day.

Venue Details

The event will unfold at Sagano Arashiyama Bunkakan, located at 11 Saga Tenryuji Hōnobaba-cho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto. This site is renowned for its rich cultural significance and picturesque surroundings, making it a fitting backdrop for such a prestigious event.

Highlights & Participants

This year’s competition is particularly thrilling, as it will feature elite players, including Masayoshi Kawase, who aims for an unprecedented third consecutive victory, and Keitaro Kumehara, the only player to compete in all seven tournaments since its inception, looking to capture his first championship title. Both of these seasoned athletes are expected to face fierce competition from a talented roster of up-and-coming players eager to make their mark.

The tournament will also include an experiential event, allowing attendees to enjoy karuta alongside legends Naoki Saigo and Saki Kusunoki, who will be offering hands-on experiences throughout the day.

Notable Players

- Mitsuhiro Iwata

- Affiliation: Keio Karuta Club
- Hometown: Nara Prefecture
- Achievements: 5 annual championships

- Masayoshi Kawase

- Affiliation: Mishima Seseragi Club
- Hometown: Aichi Prefecture
- Achievements: Challenger in the 72nd Meijin title match

- Keitaro Kumehara

- Affiliation: Kyoto Ogura Karuta Club
- Hometown: Gunma Prefecture
- Achievements: 40th National Selection Champion

- Sojiro Jimi

- Affiliation: Kyushu University Karuta Club
- Hometown: Fukuoka Prefecture
- Title: 71st Meijin

- Rin Tomaru

- Affiliation: Maebashi Karuta Club
- Hometown: Gunma Prefecture
- Achievements: Champion of the 57th National Women's Tournament

- Miina Nishimaki

- Affiliation: Keio Karuta Club
- Hometown: Fukushima Prefecture
- Achievements: Challenger in the 70th Queen title match

- Akari Hara

- Affiliation: Otsu Akinotakai
- Hometown: Shiga Prefecture
- Achievements: 4-time annual champion

- Seira Yajima

- Affiliation: Keio Karuta Club
- Hometown: Tokyo
- Title: 69th Queen

Viewing Experience

For those unable to attend in person, the competition will also be streamed live on YouTube, allowing karuta enthusiasts worldwide to enjoy the action. Additionally, public viewing events with real-time commentary will be held in both Kyoto and Tokyo, providing an engaging experience for spectators.

- Public Viewing Locations:

- Kyoto: Ranzan, 2F, Goseiyu-no-Yado, 33 Saga Tenryuji Hōnobaba-cho
- Tokyo: Academy Meidaida 8F Recreative Hall A, 2-9-5 Kasuga, Bunkyo

Special Events

Moreover, a unique initiative allowing elementary and middle school students to challenge the legends Naoki Saigo and Saki Kusunoki in a one-on-one relay karuta match will be available. This event requires advance registration for match viewing and participation and will take place at the Ranzan venue.

The Chihayafuru Ogurayama Cup stands as an important fixture in the competitive karuta calendar, showcasing the passion and skill of its players while also promoting broader awareness and appreciation for this unique cultural sport. Mark your calendars for February 15, 2026, and join us in celebrating the beauty and thrill of karuta!