100 Race Queens Gather at the Foot of Mt. Fuji! — NAPAC Fuji 24-Hour Race
More than 50,000 visitors were attracted by the spectacular colors of the circuit!
100 race queens adding glamour to the event
From idol-like cute outfits to popular character cosplay Japan’s only all-night race, the “NAPAC Fuji 24-Hour Race,” was held from May 30 to June 1 at Fuji Speedway.
“Since becoming a regular event in 2018, it has grown in scale every year. This year saw the largest number of entries yet, with 64 cars across 10 categories competing in heated battles. Although there was heavy rain during the race, more than 53,000 spectators attended—matching last year’s record turnout,” said an event organizer.
What captivated the crowds wasn’t just the intense racing. Around 100 race queens from across Japan gathered at the foot of Mt. Fuji to add color to the event. Among the standouts was Miyu Hanano, who received the Executive Committee Special Award at the 2023 Japan Race Queen Awards. Dressed in a red leather jacket and white miniskirt, she drew a large crowd during the pre-race pit walk.
Also turning heads was Anyu Hirose, a former member of the idol group Tokyo Performance Doll, who wore a colorful costume reminiscent of her performing days. Others appeared in cosplay as anime characters from Evangelion, maid outfits, and even traditional oiran attire.
“There’s been a shift in the race queen scene in recent years—most notably in their outfits,” said a member of a racing team. “In 2018, the prestigious SUPER GT series strictly banned high-leg swimsuits. Since then, race queens have embraced more creative costumes that entertain without relying on skin exposure. At the 24-hour race, some even performed live—singing or playing instruments.”
Despite the poor weather, spectators were dazzled by the race queens’ dynamic performances.
From the June 20, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”
PHOTO： Takero Yui
