JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~A day of teamwork, competition, and school spirit~
Do you like exercising, Pecco?
Of course! I’m good at running!
Oh, really?
Then you might have a lot of fun if you join “Undōkai“!
“Undōkai“? What is it?
In Japan, schools hold big sports events called “Undōkai” (Sports Day), usually in spring or fall.
These events happen at all levels. (Kindergarten, elementary, junior high, and high school)
“Undōkai” is not just about students competing. It’s a major event where teachers, parents, and even the local community get involved. The goal is to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and unity among students. It’s also a chance for all students and staff to connect through friendly competition.
Wow! That sounds fun!
That sounds way more involved than what we had back home!
In Sweden, we had small sports days, but they were more casual,
nothing like a full day festival with parents and teachers joining in too.
There are many different kinds of events.
Some examples of events
Short-distance race : Students race over short distances.
Relay : Students run and pass a baton in teams usually by class or grade.
Ball toss : Students try to throw as many balls as possible into a tall basket.
Cheering competitions : Every class prepares chants, dances, and performances.
Tug-of-war : Classes and grades compete against each other to pull a tug-of-war rope between classes or grades.
Kiba-sen : One student rides on others’ backs and tries to grab a hat from another team.
Kiba-sen sounds like something from a samurai anime!
I’d love to see that in real life. I guess it’s a bit too intense for Swedish schools.
Wait… someone rides on someone else!?
Yes! It’s actually one of the highlights.
Teachers and parents also join some events like relays or dances and cheer for the kids.
It’s a full day, usually from 9:00 in the morning to around 4:00 in the afternoon.
I love how it brings everyone together.
It’s not just about winning but about bonding and celebrating as a community.
Sounds fun! I want to join the cheering team!
Summary
“Undōkai” is a unique Japanese school sports day where students, teachers, and families come together for a full day of fun competitions
