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The Art of Karuta: A Clash of Titans

The battle for the prestigious titles of the 72nd Meijin and the 70th Queen, hosted by the All Japan Karuta Association, is fast approaching. Scheduled for January 11, 2026, at the historic Omi Shrine in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, this event promises a breathtaking display of skill and strategy as competitors strive for the zenith of the traditional Japanese card game known as 'Karuta'.

A Historic Venue

The Omi Shrine, steeped in history and cultural significance, will provide an ideal backdrop for this momentous occasion. Attendees can look forward to not only a thrilling competition but also a unique atmosphere that celebrates Japanese heritage and the art of Karuta. With the anticipation high, tickets for the event will go on sale starting December 1, 2025, at 9:00 AM.

Overview of the Championship

The title matches will see returning champions, Sujirou Jimi, the 71st Meijin, and Seira Yajima, the 69th Queen, defend their titles against formidable challengers. This year's championship will feature a best-of-five series where the first player to achieve three victories will be declared the champion.

Notable Participants

• - Sujirou Jimi (Meijin): Hailing from the Kyushu University Karuta Club, Jimi has showcased incredible skill in previous tournaments, winning the national championship six times. His strategic offensive play combined with solid defense makes him a fearsome contender.

- Current Record: 2025 All Japan Championship Winner

• - Seira Yajima (Queen): Representing Keio University, Yajima has perfected her speed and accuracy, making her a formidable opponent in the upcoming match. Her ability to maintain composure under pressure will be crucial.

- Current Record: 2025 National Tournament Winner (7 times)

• - Masayoshi Kawase (Challenger for Meijin): From the Mishima Seseragi Club in Aichi Prefecture, Kawase is known for his sharp tactics and solid defense strategy. With an impressive background that includes a victory in the Chihayafuru Ogurayama Cup, he is set to pose a serious challenge to Jimi.

• - Mina Nishimaki (Challenger for Queen): Also from the Keio Karuta Club and originating from Fukushima Prefecture, Nishimaki has demonstrated excellent focus and finesse in targeting specific cards, making her a rising star in the competitive scene.

Insights Into the Matches

This year’s Meijin title match is particularly intriguing as it represents a rematch between Jimi and Kawase, with Jimi currently leading their head-to-head record. Jimi's balanced approach of offense and defense will be key as he looks to secure his first title defense against a tenacious challenger.

Meanwhile, the Queen title match features Yajima facing off against Nishimaki in what promises to be an exciting duel of skills and strategies, particularly as both competitors are familiar with each other's techniques from their time in the same club.

Tickets and Special Programs

Tickets for the event are set at a reasonable price of 3,000 yen, with options available for spectators who wish to participate in commentary sessions. Given the event's popularity and historical significance, early ticket purchase is strongly recommended.

On January 10, 2026, a special pre-event will feature a roundtable discussion with past legendary queens and a lecture on female poets in the Hyakunin Isshu collection, providing a rich insight into the cultural context of the tournament.

Final Thoughts

With the inclusion of prominent sponsors, cultural organizations, and media partners, this year's championship is not just a sporting event but a celebration of Japan's rich cultural fabric through the lens of Karuta. As players prepare to clash for the coveted titles, spectators can look forward to an unforgettable day filled with excitement, heritage, and the spirit of competition.

For more information about tickets and the event, please visit: Karuta Championship Official Site.