Exciting News: Top Voice Actors to Narrate Hakone Ekiden CM in Relay Format!
It’s been revealed that the talented voice actors Kamiya Hiroshi, Konishi Katsuyuki, Hanae Natsuki, Matsuoka Yoshitsugu, and Morita Masakazu will provide narration in a unique relay format for the “102nd Hakone Ekiden Original CM” New Year special version. This CM is set to air on the Nippon TV network on January 2 and 3, 2026.
A Unique Perspective: The Tasuki’s Viewpoint
This CM is created to support the 102nd Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race. The visuals are ingeniously depicted from the perspective of the “tasuki” (sash), which always stays by the athletes’ side in ekiden. Through this “tasuki viewpoint,” the CM shows various scenes like the screen swaying to the runners’ rhythm, the second runner eagerly reaching out for the tasuki handoff, the backs of rivals, and the cheering crowds on the roadside.
The story revolves around the tasuki, which directly feels the athletes’ heartbeats, sending encouraging messages to those running the Hakone Ekiden—a stage they’ve dreamed of since childhood without ever giving up.
Star-Studded Voice Cast for the Tasuki Role
For the tasuki role, five renowned voice actors with gentle yet strong voices have been cast: Kamiya Hiroshi, Konishi Katsuyuki, Hanae Natsuki, Matsuoka Yoshitsugu, and Morita Masakazu. Their voices perfectly embody the tasuki watching over the ekiden athletes.
The narration will be delivered in a relay format, starting with the poignant line, “I’ve been waiting. For the time you connect me.” This heartfelt narration by the voice actors is sure to be a highlight.
Heartfelt Music by Hitsujibungaku
The CM features the song “Hikaru Toki” by Hitsujibungaku. The lyrics were chosen for their potential to resonate with the next generation of athletes aiming for the Hakone Ekiden. This choice ensures that the CM appeals not only to those directly involved with the event but to anyone striving towards their goals.
Broadcast and Release Details
The “102nd Hakone Ekiden Original CM” New Year special version, featuring the dedicated narration by the voice actors, will be broadcast on Nippon TV network on January 2 and 3, 2026. Additionally, it will be available on Sapporo Beer’s official YouTube channel starting around 7:00 on January 2, 2026.
Staff and Cast Information
| Role | Name (Japanese Order) | Romaji |
|---|---|---|
| Narration | 神谷浩史 | Kamiya Hiroshi |
| Narration | 小西克幸 | Konishi Katsuyuki |
| Narration | 花江夏樹 | Hanae Natsuki |
| Narration | 松岡禎丞 | Matsuoka Yoshitsugu |
| Narration | 森田成一 | Morita Masakazu |
Music: “Hikaru Toki” by Hitsujibungaku
Broadcast Program: “102nd Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race (Outbound and Return)”
- January 2, 2026 (Friday): Nippon TV network, 7:00~14:05 (planned)
- January 3, 2026 (Saturday): Nippon TV network, 7:00~14:18 (planned)
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