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Reconnecting with the Community: Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix in Yoyogi Hachiman

The Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix has recently initiated the display of their team flags in the Yoyogi Hachiman Shopping District. This partnership marks a significant moment as the flags, crafted by players themselves, aim to deepen the connection between the team and the local community. Players like Yuuna Sato and designer Aika Kishimoto are at the forefront of this initiative, representing both the team’s spirit and the warmth of the local area.

The Yoyogi Hachiman Shopping District is conveniently located near Odakyu Line's Yoyogi Hachiman Station and the Chiyoda Line's Yoyogi Koen Station. It is also close to the location where the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix held their training, emphasizing the geographical and emotional ties that bind the team to the neighborhood. In 2017, under the invitation of the shopping district president, flags were first hung on street lights, marking the official beginning of this partnership. However, the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to many local collaborations. Fortunately, with the recent resurgence of this initiative, the banners are being displayed once again, celebrating almost eight years of evolution in their relationship.

Player-Designed Symbols

The newly installed flags feature designs by the player Aika Kishimoto, who articulated her vision for the project as embodying the phoenix red, the team’s emblematic color. “I wanted to convey warmth and strength, making the locals feel that the Phoenix has returned,” said Kishimoto, emphasizing not just the aesthetic but the emotional resonance behind the symbols.

Vice President of the Yoyogi Hachiman Shopping Association, Kazumi Ito, a sponsor partner, expressed enthusiasm for this renewed collaboration. “We’ve been greatly influenced by the local activities of the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix. Creating this second collaborative flag is something we’re thrilled about,” she shared. Ito also hopes that, upon achieving the goal of winning the Japanese championship for the fourth consecutive time, a victory parade can take place through their shopping district.

Leadership Support

Yohei Shimonoya, the representative of Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix, conveyed his profound appreciation for this partnership. “We are genuinely excited to kickstart our collaboration with the Yoyogi Hachiman Shopping District for community revitalization. It is one of our missions to strengthen our bonds with local society through sports,” he stated. Shimonoya highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the area, noting the coexistence of traditional shops and new cultural elements. He expressed hopes that many more people will become aware of the area’s charm through this collaboration.

In moving forward, the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix plans to attract visitors attending their matches and events to explore the shopping district, offering them experiences that showcase both Rugby and the unique local culture.

Building a Vibrant Future Together

Through sports, the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix will continue to create opportunities that connect people with the community. This flag display represents just the beginning of a broader initiative to foster town development through collaboration with local businesses and nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Event Details

• - Date: November 1, 2025 (Saturday), 10:00 AM
• - Location: Yoyogi Hachiman Shopping District, Shibuya, Tokyo

For further information, please contact the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix Public Relations team via email at [email protected].

About Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix

The Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix women’s rugby team is committed to championing the appeal of rugby while contributing to community and economic revitalization along with various sports and cultural initiatives.

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