If you've ever seen the anime "Run with the Wind," you're probably familiar with the "Hakone Ekiden," Japan's iconic relay marathon held every New Year. The grueling race kicks off from the Yomiuri Shimbun's Tokyo headquarters, loops back from Lake Ashi in Hakone, and covers roughly 108 kilometers one way. This year's 102nd edition was, as always, a hot topic!
Now, Nippon TV has announced a new drama, "Our Hakone Ekiden," based on a novel by popular author Ikeido Jun. Starring Yo Oizumi and Tomohisa Yamashita, the series will dive into the world of the Hakone Ekiden, following both the competing teams and the behind-the-scenes drama of the TV broadcast. Mark your calendars: it's set to air in October 2026!
"Our Hakone Ekiden" is adapted from Ikeido Jun's eponymous novel, a passion project he poured over a decade into. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Japan's New Year staple, the Hakone Ekiden. On one side, it chronicles the journey of Meisei Gakuin University's track and field club, a venerable institution that's failed to qualify for the main race two years running, as they strive for a comeback. On the other, it paints a vivid picture of the broadcast team at Dainichi TV. Faced with unreasonable demands from the programming director and a cascade of unexpected incidents, they're forced into constant decision-making and responsibility, all to ensure the broadcast goes live on race day. It's a heartwarming and passionate tale!
Previously, the official announcement revealed that popular actor Yo Oizumi would play Ryo Tokushige, the chief producer of the TV station's sports department, responsible for the Hakone Ekiden live broadcast. His character is pivotal in bringing the thrill of the race to viewers, navigating a constant stream of unfolding situations.
Recently, the second star was unveiled: Tomohisa Yamashita! He'll portray Masato Kai, the new coach of the Meisei Gakuin University track and field club, returning to his alma mater. Kai has past Hakone Ekiden experience but left the track world after college to become a regular salaryman at a trading company. With zero coaching experience, his unconventional methods stir up anxiety and backlash among the club members.
Sharing his thoughts on taking on the role, Tomohisa Yamashita expressed, "I've always felt that the 'Hakone Ekiden' is a truly special stage. It showcases the preciousness of passing the sash from one runner to the next, the power of chasing dreams, and the 'miraculous moments' born from layers of hope, all unfolding right before our eyes. While I haven't personally spent a long time in the world of competitive sports, by listening to insights from those involved in ekiden and repeatedly reading the script, I hope to accurately convey the emotions and inspiration of this story to the audience."
Yamashita also urged viewers, "I believe 'Our Hakone Ekiden' will be a work that reignites the passion that might be fading in everyone's hearts, lighting a warm little lamp within them. I will give my all and pour my heart into completing this drama, so please look forward to it!"
While October is still a ways off, the early promotional push makes sense, given that the Hakone Ekiden itself takes place at the start of the year and holds significant cultural importance for the Japanese public. So far, only Yo Oizumi and Tomohisa Yamashita have been announced, but with two high-profile stars already on board, fans eager for this drama should keep an eye out for more official updates!
via： 日劇《我們的箱根驛傳》官方X