Yokohama High School players marching confidently during the opening ceremony at Koshien Stadium

The 107th National High School Baseball Championship began on the 5th at Koshien Stadium in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, with all 49 participating schools attending the opening ceremony, marking the start of an 18-day fierce competition.

Due to precautions against record-breaking summer heat, the opening ceremony was held in the evening for the first time. Led by last year’s champion, Kyoto International High School, the participating teams marched from north to south in order. Yokohama High School, representing Kanagawa and making their 21st appearance after a three-year hiatus, aims for their first spring-summer consecutive championship since 1998. They entered 17th in the procession, with captain Abe Yota (third year) leading the team confidently across the field.

Yokohama will face Tsuruga Kehi High School from Fukui in the first game on the tournament’s third day (starting at 8:00 AM).

Koshien Stadium

Koshien Stadium, located in Nishinomiya, Japan, is the country’s most famous baseball stadium, opened in 1924. It is the longtime host of the National High School Baseball Championship, a beloved national event since 1915. The stadium is also the home field of the Hanshin Tigers and is renowned for its distinctive ivy-covered outfield walls.

Yokohama High School

Yokohama High School (横浜高等学校) is a prestigious public high school in Yokohama, Japan, founded in 1892 as one of the oldest secondary schools in the region. Known for its rigorous academic standards and notable alumni, it has played a significant role in Japan’s modern education system. The school emphasizes both traditional values and progressive learning, contributing to its longstanding reputation for excellence.

Kyoto International High School

Kyoto International High School is a private institution in Kyoto, Japan, known for providing a global education with an emphasis on multiculturalism and English-language instruction. Established to cater to both Japanese and international students, it offers programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), preparing students for higher education abroad. While specific founding details are limited, the school reflects Kyoto’s historical role as Japan’s cultural and educational center, blending traditional values with modern international curricula.

Tsuruga Kehi High School

Tsuruga Kehi High School is a public high school located in Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1923, it has a long history of providing education in the region and is known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. The school is part of the local community and contributes to the cultural and educational development of Tsuruga.