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NHK Trophy
Logo of the NHK Trophy
StatusActive
GenreISU Grand Prix
FrequencyAnnual
CountryJapan Japan
Inaugurated1979
Previous event2025 NHK Trophy
Next event2026 NHK Trophy
Organized byJapan Skating Federation

The NHK Trophy is an annual figure skating competition sanctioned by the International Skating Union (ISU), organized and hosted by the Japan Skating Federation. The first NHK Trophy was held in 1979 in Tokyo. When the ISU launched the Champions Series (later renamed the Grand Prix Series) in 1995, the NHK Trophy was one of the five qualifying events. It has been a Grand Prix event every year since.

Medals may be awarded in men's singles, women's singles, pair skating, and ice dance. Skaters earn points based on their results at the qualifying competitions each season, and the top skaters or teams in each discipline are invited to then compete at the Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final.

Daisuke Takahashi of Japan holds the record for winning the most NHK Trophy titles in men's singles (with six), while Midori Ito of Japan holds the record in women's singles (also with six). Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo of China hold the record in pair skating (with four), while Marina Anissina and Gwendal Peizerat of France hold the record in ice dance (with five).

History

[edit]

The inaugural competition – the 1979 NHK Trophy – was held in Tokyo. Robin Cousins of Great Britain won the men's event, Emi Watanabe of Japan won the women's event, Irina Vorobieva and Igor Lisovsky of the Soviet Union won the pairs event, and Irina Moiseeva and Andrei Minenkov, also of the Soviet Union, won the ice dance event.[1]

Beginning with the 1995–96 season, the International Skating Union (ISU) launched the Champions Series – later renamed the Grand Prix Series – which, at its inception, consisted of five qualifying competitions and the Champions Series Final. This allowed skaters to perfect their programs earlier in the season, as well as compete against the same skaters whom they would later encounter at the World Championships. This series also provided the viewing public with additional televised skating, which was in high demand.[2] The five qualifying competitions during this inaugural season were the 1995 Nations Cup, the 1995 NHK Trophy, the 1995 Skate America, the 1995 Skate Canada, and the 1995 Trophée de France.[3] Skaters earned points based on their results in their respective competitions and the top skaters or teams in each discipline were then invited to compete at the Champions Series Final.[2]

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a number of modifications were made to the structure of the 2020 NHK Trophy. The competitors consisted initially only of skaters from Japan,[4] although You Young of South Korea was added to the roster once her travel to Japan was approved.[5] The pairs event was also cancelled.[6]

The men's event medalists at the 2012 NHK Trophy
The gold, silver, and bronze medalists in the men's event at the 2012 NHK Trophy: Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan (center), Daisuke Takahashi of Japan (left), and Ross Miner of the United States (right)
The women's event medalists at the 2017 NHK Trophy
The gold, silver, and bronze medalists in the women's event at the 2017 NHK Trophy: Evgenia Medvedeva of Russia (center), Carolina Kostner of Italy (left), and Polina Tsurskaya of Russia (right)
The pairs event medalists at the 2011 NHK Trophy
The gold, silver, and bronze medalists in the pairs event at the 2011 NHK Trophy: Yuko Kavaguti and Alexander Smirnov of Russia (center), Narumi Takahashi and Mervin Tran of Japan (right), and Aljona Savchenko and Robin Szolkowy of Germany (left)
The ice dance event medalists at the 2016 NHK Trophy
The gold, silver, and bronze medalists in the ice dance event at the 2016 NHK Trophy: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada (center), Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France (left), and Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy (right)

Medalists

[edit]
Yuma Kagiyama at the 2024 World Championships
Kaori Sakamoto at the 2024 World Championships
Sara Conti and Niccolò Macii at the 2024 World Championships
Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson at the 2024 World Championships
The reigning NHK Trophy champions: Yuma Kagiyama of Japan (men's singles); Kaori Sakamoto of Japan (women's singles); Sara Conti and Niccolò Macii of Italy (pair skating); and Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson of Great Britain (ice dance)

Men's singles

[edit]
Men's event medalists
Year Location Gold Silver Bronze Ref.
1979 Tokyo United Kingdom Robin Cousins Japan Fumio Igarashi United States David Santee [1]
1980 Sapporo Japan Fumio Igarashi United States Robert Wagenhoffer United States Allen Schramm [7]
1981 Kobe West Germany Norbert Schramm France Jean-Christophe Simond
1982 Tokyo United States Scott Hamilton Soviet Union Alexander Fadeev Poland Grzegorz Filipowski [8]
1983 No competition held
1984 Tokyo Soviet Union Alexander Fadeev Canada Brian Orser United States Brian Boitano [9]
1985 Kobe United States Brian Boitano Soviet Union Viktor Petrenko [10]
1986 Tokyo United States Angelo D'Agostino Japan Makoto Kano France Philippe Roncoli [11]
1987 Kushiro United States Christopher Bowman United States Paul Wylie Japan Makoto Kano [12]
1988 Tokyo Soviet Union Alexander Fadeev Czech Republic Petr Barna Canada Kurt Browning [13]
1989 Kobe Soviet Union Viktor Petrenko Soviet Union Alexander Fadeev [14]
1990 Asahikawa Poland Grzegorz Filipowski Soviet Union Viacheslav Zagorodniuk [15]
1991 Hiroshima Poland Grzegorz Filipowski Soviet Union Viacheslav Zagorodniuk Soviet Union Alexei Urmanov [16]
1992 Tokyo France Philippe Candeloro Canada Elvis Stojko Russia Alexei Urmanov [17]
1993 Chiba Ukraine Vyacheslav Zahorodnyuk [18]
1994 Morioka United States Todd Eldredge France Philippe Candeloro Ukraine Vyacheslav Zahorodnyuk [19]
1995 Nagoya Canada Elvis Stojko Russia Igor Pashkevich France Philippe Candeloro [20]
1996 Osaka Russia Ilia Kulik Ukraine Dmytro Dmytrenko [21]
1997 Nagano Russia Ilia Kulik United States Scott Davis China Guo Zhengxin [22]
1998 Sapporo Russia Evgeni Plushenko Japan Takeshi Honda Germany Andrejs Vlascenko [23]
1999 Nagoya United States Timothy Goebel Russia Ilia Klimkin [24]
2000 Asahikawa Russia Ilia Klimkin China Li Chengjiang [25]
2001 Kumamoto Japan Takeshi Honda Canada Jeffrey Buttle Bulgaria Ivan Dinev [26]
2002 Kyoto Russia Ilia Klimkin Japan Takeshi Honda China Li Chengjiang [27]
2003 Asahikawa Canada Jeffrey Buttle United States Timothy Goebel China Gao Song [28]
2004 Nagoya United States Johnny Weir France Frédéric Dambier [29]
2005 Osaka Japan Nobunari Oda United States Evan Lysacek Japan Daisuke Takahashi [30]
2006 Nagano Japan Daisuke Takahashi Japan Nobunari Oda Japan Takahiko Kozuka [31]
2007 Sendai Czech Republic Tomáš Verner United States Stephen Carriere [32]
2008 Tokyo Japan Nobunari Oda United States Johnny Weir France Yannick Ponsero [33]
2009 Nagano France Brian Joubert Czech Republic Michal Březina [34]
2010 Nagoya Japan Daisuke Takahashi United States Jeremy Abbott France Florent Amodio [35]
2011 Sapporo Japan Takahiko Kozuka United States Ross Miner [36]
2012 Rifu Japan Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Daisuke Takahashi [37]
2013 Tokyo Japan Daisuke Takahashi Japan Nobunari Oda United States Jeremy Abbott [38]
2014 Osaka Japan Daisuke Murakami Russia Sergei Voronov Japan Takahito Mura [39]
2015 Nagano Japan Yuzuru Hanyu China Jin Boyang [40]
2016 Sapporo United States Nathan Chen Japan Keiji Tanaka [41]
2017 Osaka Russia Sergei Voronov United States Adam Rippon Israel Alexei Bychenko [42]
2018 Hiroshima Japan Shoma Uno Russia Sergei Voronov Italy Matteo Rizzo [43]
2019 Sapporo Japan Yuzuru Hanyu France Kévin Aymoz Canada Roman Sadovsky [44]
2020 Osaka Japan Yuma Kagiyama Japan Kazuki Tomono Japan Lucas Tsuyoshi Honda [6]
2021 Tokyo Japan Shoma Uno United States Vincent Zhou South Korea Cha Jun-hwan [45]
2022 Sapporo Japan Sōta Yamamoto [46]
2023 Osaka Japan Yuma Kagiyama Japan Shoma Uno Switzerland Lukas Britschgi [47]
2024 Tokyo Italy Daniel Grassl Japan Tatsuya Tsuboi [48]
2025 Osaka Japan Shun Sato Switzerland Lukas Britschgi [49]

Women's singles

[edit]
Women's event medalists
Year Location Gold Silver Bronze Ref.
1979 Tokyo Japan Emi Watanabe United States Lisa-Marie Allen United States Sandy Lenz [1]
1980 Sapporo Switzerland Denise Biellmann East Germany Katarina Witt United States Melissa Thomas [7]
1981 Kobe Finland Kristiina Wegelius United States Vikki de Vries Canada Charlene Wong
1982 Tokyo East Germany Katarina Witt United States Rosalynn Sumners United States Tiffany Chin [8]
1983 No competition held
1984 Tokyo Japan Midori Ito United States Debi Thomas Japan Juri Ozawa [9]
1985 Kobe Canada Cynthia Coull [10]
1986 Tokyo East Germany Katarina Witt Japan Midori Ito [11]
1987 Kushiro United States Tonya Harding [12]
1988 Tokyo Japan Midori Ito United States Kristi Yamaguchi West Germany Marina Kielmann [13]
1989 Kobe United States Tonia Kwiatkowski [14]
1990 Asahikawa United States Tonya Harding Soviet Union Larissa Zamotina [15]
1991 Hiroshima France Surya Bonaly China Chen Lu [16]
1992 Tokyo France Surya Bonaly Japan Kumiko Koiwai Japan Yuka Sato [17]
1993 Chiba Japan Yuka Sato China Chen Lu [18]
1994 Morioka China Chen Lu France Surya Bonaly Japan Junko Yaginuma [19]
1995 Nagoya Japan Hanae Yokoya Russia Olga Markova [20]
1996 Osaka Russia Maria Butyrskaya United States Tonia Kwiatkowski Azerbaijan Julia Vorobieva [21]
1997 Nagano Germany Tanja Szewczenko Russia Maria Butyrskaya China Chen Lu [22]
1998 Sapporo Uzbekistan Tatiana Malinina Russia Irina Slutskaya Japan Fumie Suguri [23]
1999 Nagoya Russia Maria Butyrskaya Russia Viktoria Volchkova Uzbekistan Tatiana Malinina [24]
2000 Asahikawa Russia Irina Slutskaya Russia Maria Butyrskaya [25]
2001 Kumamoto Uzbekistan Tatiana Malinina Japan Yoshie Onda Ukraine Elena Liashenko [26]
2002 Kyoto Japan Yoshie Onda Russia Irina Slutskaya Japan Shizuka Arakawa [27]
2003 Asahikawa Japan Fumie Suguri Ukraine Elena Liashenko Japan Yoshie Onda [28]
2004 Nagoya Japan Shizuka Arakawa Japan Miki Ando Russia Elena Sokolova [29]
2005 Osaka Japan Yukari Nakano Japan Fumie Suguri Ukraine Elena Liashenko [30]
2006 Nagano Japan Mao Asada Japan Yukari Nakano [31]
2007 Sendai Italy Carolina Kostner Switzerland Sarah Meier Japan Nana Takeda [32]
2008 Tokyo Japan Mao Asada Japan Akiko Suzuki Japan Yukari Nakano [33]
2009 Nagano Japan Miki Ando Russia Alena Leonova United States Ashley Wagner [34]
2010 Nagoya Italy Carolina Kostner United States Rachael Flatt Japan Kanako Murakami [35]
2011 Sapporo Japan Akiko Suzuki Japan Mao Asada Russia Alena Leonova [36]
2012 Rifu Japan Mao Asada Japan Akiko Suzuki United States Mirai Nagasu [37]
2013 Tokyo Russia Elena Radionova Japan Akiko Suzuki [38]
2014 Osaka United States Gracie Gold Russia Alena Leonova Japan Satoko Miyahara [39]
2015 Nagano Japan Satoko Miyahara United States Courtney Hicks Japan Mao Asada [40]
2016 Sapporo Russia Anna Pogorilaya Japan Satoko Miyahara Russia Maria Sotskova [41]
2017 Osaka Russia Evgenia Medvedeva Italy Carolina Kostner Russia Polina Tsurskaya [42]
2018 Hiroshima Japan Rika Kihira Japan Satoko Miyahara Russia Elizaveta Tuktamysheva [43]
2019 Sapporo Russia Alena Kostornaia Japan Rika Kihira Russia Alina Zagitova [44]
2020 Osaka Japan Kaori Sakamoto Japan Wakaba Higuchi Japan Rino Matsuike [6]
2021 Tokyo Japan Mana Kawabe South Korea You Young [45]
2022 Sapporo South Korea Kim Ye-lim Japan Kaori Sakamoto Japan Rion Sumiyoshi [46]
2023 Osaka United States Ava Marie Ziegler United States Lindsay Thorngren Belgium Nina Pinzarrone [47]
2024 Tokyo Japan Kaori Sakamoto Japan Mone Chiba Japan Yuna Aoki [48]
2025 Osaka Kazakhstan Sofia Samodelkina Belgium Loena Hendrickx [49]

Pairs

[edit]
Pairs event medalists
Year Location Gold Silver Bronze Ref.
1979 Tokyo
  • Soviet Union
  • United States
 [1]
1980 Sapporo
  • United States
  • Japan
 [7]
1981 Kobe
  • United States
1982 Tokyo [8]
1983 No competition held
1984 Tokyo [9]
1985 Kobe [10]
1986 Tokyo [11]
1987 Kushiro [12]
1988 Tokyo [13]
1989 Kobe [14]
1990 Asahikawa [15]
1991 Hiroshima [16]
1992 Tokyo [17]
1993 Chiba [18]
1994 Morioka [19]
1995 Nagoya [20]
1996 Osaka [21]
1997 Nagano [22]
1998 Sapporo [23]
1999 Nagoya [24]
2000 Asahikawa [25]
2001 Kumamoto [26]
2002 Kyoto [27]
2003 Asahikawa [28]
2004 Nagoya [29]
2005 Osaka [30]
2006 Nagano [31]
2007 Sendai [32]
2008 Tokyo [33]
2009 Nagano [34]
2010 Nagoya [35]
2011 Sapporo [36]
2012 Rifu [37]
2013 Tokyo [38]
2014 Osaka [39]
2015 Nagano [40]
2016 Sapporo [41]
2017 Osaka [42]
2018 Hiroshima [43]
2019 Sapporo [44]
2020 Osaka No pairs competition due to the COVID-19 pandemic [6]
2021 Tokyo [45]
2022 Sapporo [46]
2023 Osaka [47]
2024 Tokyo [48]
2025 Osaka [49]

Ice dance

[edit]
Ice dance event medalists
Year Location Gold Silver Bronze Ref.
1979 Tokyo [1]
1980 Sapporo
  • United Kingdom
  • Lillian Heming
  • Murray Carey
 [7]
1981 Kobe
1982 Tokyo [8]
1983 No competition held
1984 Tokyo [9]
1985 Kobe [10]
1986 Tokyo [11]
1987 Kushiro [12]
1988 Tokyo [13]
1989 Kobe
  • Canada
 [14]
1990 Asahikawa [15]
1991 Hiroshima [16]
1992 Tokyo [17]
1993 Chiba [18]
1994 Morioka [19]
1995 Nagoya [20]
1996 Osaka [21]
1997 Nagano [22]
1998 Sapporo [23]
1999 Nagoya [24]
2000 Asahikawa [25]
2001 Kumamoto [26]
2002 Kyoto [27]
2003 Asahikawa [28]
2004 Nagoya [29]
2005 Osaka [30]
2006 Nagano [31]
2007 Sendai [32]
2008 Tokyo [33]
2009 Nagano [34]
2010 Nagoya [35]
2011 Sapporo [36]
2012 Rifu [37]
2013 Tokyo [38]
2014 Osaka [39]
2015 Nagano [40]
2016 Sapporo [41]
2017 Osaka [42]
2018 Hiroshima [43]
2019 Sapporo [44]
2020 Osaka [6]
2021 Tokyo [45]
2022 Sapporo [46]
2023 Osaka [47]
2024 Tokyo [48]
2025 Osaka [49]

Records

[edit]
Daisuke Takahashi at the 2010 Skate America
Midori Ito on the ice
Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo at the 2009 Cup of China
Marina Anissina and Gwendal Peizerat at the 2001 Grand Prix Final
From left to right: Daisuke Takahashi of Japan has won six NHK Trophy titles in men's singles; Midori Ito of Japan has won six NHK Trophy titles in women's singles; Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo of China have won four NHK Trophy titles in pair skating; and Marina Anissina and Gwendal Peizerat of France have won five NHK Trophy titles in ice dance.
Records
Discipline Most titles
Skater(s) No. Years Ref.
Men's singles 6 2006–07;
2010–11;
2013–14 		[50]
Women's singles 6 1984–85;
1988–91 		[9][10][13]
[14][15][16]
Pairs 4 2000–02;
2006 		[51]
Ice dance 5 1995;
1998–2001 		[52]

Cumulative medal count

[edit]

Men's singles

[edit]
Total number of NHK Trophy medals in men's singles by nation
RankNationGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1 Japan2212842
2 United States613726
3 Russia65314
4 Soviet Union43310
5 Canada34310
6 France32611
7 Poland1113
8 Great Britain1001
9 China0145
10 Ukraine0123
11 Czech Republic0112
 Italy0112
13 Czechoslovakia0101
 West Germany0101
15 South Korea0022
 Switzerland0022
17 Bulgaria0011
 Germany0011
 Israel0011
Totals (19 entries)464646138

Women's singles

[edit]
Total number of NHK Trophy medals in women's singles by nation
RankNationGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1 Japan23191860
2 Russia68721
3 East Germany3104
4 United States211720
5 France2204
6 Italy2103
7 China2035
8 Uzbekistan2024
9 Switzerland1102
10 South Korea1012
11 Finland1001
 Germany1001
13 Ukraine0123
14 Canada0112
15 Kazakhstan0101
16 Belgium0022
17 Azerbaijan0011
 Soviet Union0011
 West Germany0011
Totals (19 entries)464646138

Pairs

[edit]
Total number of NHK Trophy medals in pairs by nation
RankNationGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1 Russia128424
2 China117422
3 Soviet Union84315
4 Canada641020
5 United States381223
6 Germany2237
7 Japan1247
8 Italy1113
9 Georgia1001
10 Czech Republic0303
11 East Germany0202
 France0202
13 Poland0145
14 Hungary0101
Totals (14 entries)454545135

Ice dance

[edit]
Total number of NHK Trophy medals in ice dance by nation
RankNationGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1 United States961227
2 Soviet Union96116
3 France93315
4 Canada66315
5 Russia510318
6 Great Britain43411
7 Bulgaria2114
8 Italy13610
9 Japan1113
10 Lithuania0246
11 Ukraine0213
12 Germany0112
13 Belarus0101
 Hungary0101
15 Israel0022
16 Armenia0011
 Austria0011
 Czechoslovakia0011
 Uzbekistan0011
Totals (19 entries)464646138

Total medals

[edit]
Total number of NHK Trophy medals by nation
RankNationGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1 Japan473431112
2 Russia29311777
3 Soviet Union2113842
4 United States20383896
5 Canada15151747
6 France149932
7 China1381132
8 Great Britain53412
9 Italy46818
10 Germany33511
11 East Germany3306
12 Bulgaria2125
13 Uzbekistan2035
14 Poland1258
15 Switzerland1124
16 South Korea1034
17 Finland1001
 Georgia1001
19 Ukraine0459
20 Czech Republic0415
21 Lithuania0246
22 Hungary0202
23 Czechoslovakia0112
 West Germany0112
25 Belarus0101
 Kazakhstan0101
27 Israel0033
28 Belgium0022
29 Armenia0011
 Austria0011
 Azerbaijan0011
Totals (31 entries)183183183549

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

NHK Trophy

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The NHK Trophy is an annual senior-level international held in , organized by the Japan Skating Federation and sponsored by the public broadcaster Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai (). First contested in 1979, it features elite skaters from around the world competing in men's singles, women's singles, , and disciplines, serving as a key qualifier for major championships. Since the 1995–96 season, the NHK Trophy has been one of the six events in the () Grand Prix of series, where athletes earn points based on their placements to qualify for the season-ending Grand Prix Final. The event typically occurs in November and rotates among host cities in , such as , , , and , drawing large crowds and showcasing high-level performances under the , which emphasizes technical elements and artistic components in short programs/free skates or rhythmic dances/free dances. As one of the oldest competitions in the Grand Prix circuit, the Trophy has a rich legacy of hosting Olympic and champions, contributing to the global development of the sport through its emphasis on international participation and broadcast coverage by . Notable moments include multiple victories by Japanese stars like and in men's singles, as well as international triumphs that have propelled careers toward Olympic success. The 2025 edition, held November 7–9 in , exemplified its prestige by featuring returning Olympians and marking key qualification paths for the .

Overview

Event Profile

The NHK Trophy is an annual international named after its longtime sponsor, Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai (), Japan's public broadcaster, which has supported the event since its inception in 1979. Organized and hosted by the Japan Skating Federation under the sanction of the (ISU), it serves as a premier showcase for elite athletes in the sport. The competition features four core disciplines: men's singles, women's singles, , and , with no inclusion of or other variants. Held every autumn in , typically from late October to early November, the event spans 3 to 4 days and attracts top senior-level skaters through ISU invitations based on world standings and prior performances. As a key fixture in the ISU Grand Prix of series, the NHK Trophy highlights both Asian and global talent, often acting as an essential preparatory competition ahead of major championships like the World Championships and Olympics. Its status as Japan's flagship event significantly promotes the sport across , fostering international participation and contributing to qualification pathways for elite-level competitions.

Role in ISU Grand Prix Series

The NHK Trophy serves as one of six annual senior-level competitions in the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series, a premier circuit launched in 1995 under the original name of the ISU Champions Series. The series also comprises , , Grand Prix de France, Cup of China, and the Finlandia Trophy, providing a structured pathway for elite figure skaters across men's singles, women's singles, , and . As a key component, the NHK Trophy contributes to the overall competitive framework by awarding points that determine advancement to the season-ending ISU Grand Prix Final, fostering international competition and skill development among top athletes. Within the series, participants accumulate ISU Grand Prix points based on their final placement at each event, promoting consistent performance across multiple competitions. For men's and women's singles as well as , first place earns 15 points, second place 13 points, third place 11 points, fourth place 9 points, fifth place 7 points, and sixth place 5 points; follows an identical scale. Skaters or teams may compete in up to two events, and the six highest-ranked in each discipline—calculated by total points earned—qualify for the Grand Prix Final, where they vie for the series championship. These points also influence broader ISU metrics, such as the World Standings, which aggregate results from Grand Prix events alongside other major championships to rank athletes globally and inform future invitations. Assignment to the NHK Trophy and other Grand Prix events follows ISU criteria designed to balance merit, representation, and host interests, ensuring a diverse field of competitors. Seeding prioritizes top performers from the prior ISU (e.g., the top six receive two automatic assignments), supplemented by rankings from the ISU World Standings and the previous season's top 24 best scores; junior world medalists meeting age and score thresholds may also qualify. Host nations, including for the NHK Trophy, secure dedicated slots—up to three per discipline—often allocated to national standouts while adhering to ISU guidelines for continental diversity and minimum technical scores (e.g., 191.14 total for men). Events like the NHK Trophy typically host 8 to 12 entries in singles disciplines (usually 12), 6 to 8 in , and 8 to 10 in , blending seeded international stars with emerging talents. Positioned as the fourth event in the typical Grand Prix schedule—usually held in early —the NHK Trophy functions as a pivotal mid-series opportunity for skaters to refine programs, recover from earlier competitions or injuries, and secure qualifying points for the Final. Its timing allows for strategic debuts or adjustments, particularly benefiting Japanese athletes through and host allocations, while contributing to career progression via accumulated rankings points. In response to the starting in 2020, the ISU implemented adaptations to the Grand Prix Series, including a shift to more localized formats with reduced international travel and participation in the 2020–21 season to prioritize health and safety. Subsequent iterations, including the NHK Trophy, have maintained these lessons by requiring a minimum number of total entries per discipline with at least 50% from outside the host country (e.g., minimum 8 total for men's and women's singles and , 6 for ), while incorporating flexible scheduling to accommodate global disruptions.

Competition Format

Disciplines and Events

The NHK Trophy features competitions in four disciplines: men's singles, women's singles, pair skating, and ice dance, each structured around two segments that test technical proficiency and artistic expression. In men's and women's singles, as well as pair skating, the first segment is the short program, performed on the initial competition day and lasting 2 minutes 40 seconds (±10 seconds), which requires skaters or pairs to execute a set of compulsory elements including jumps, spins, step sequences, and—for pairs—lifts or throws. The second segment, the free skating, occurs the following day and allows greater artistic freedom over 4 minutes 30 seconds (±10 seconds) for men and pairs, or 4 minutes (±10 seconds) for women, where competitors present a well-balanced program of their choice incorporating a variety of jumps, spins, footwork, and spirals. For ice dance, the rhythm dance serves as the opening segment on day one, lasting 2 minutes 50 seconds (±10 seconds) and mandating elements like pattern steps, twizzles, lifts, and notouchings to a selected rhythm from specified dance styles, while the free dance on day two spans 4 minutes (±10 seconds) emphasizing choreographic sequences, spins, and lifts without set patterns. Final placements in all disciplines are determined by aggregating total scores from both segments under the ISU Judging System. The event typically accommodates 12 entries per singles discipline, with fewer for pairs (around 8) and (around 10), allowing all participants to compete in both segments without an advancement cutoff, unlike larger ISU championships. Scheduling spans three days: official practices and warm-ups occur on the first day leading into short programs or dances in the afternoon and evening, free programs follow a similar progression on the second day, and the third day concludes with an exhibition gala featuring performances by medalists and select other skaters to showcase creative routines outside competitive judging. Each discipline highlights unique technical emphases within these segments: men's and women's singles prioritize precision in jumps (including multi-revolution axels and combinations) and spins (with varying positions and speeds), focuses on synchronized elements like throw jumps, pair spins, and complex lifts (including twist and death spiral variations), while stresses intricate choreography, twizzle sequences (multi-turn one-foot rotations), and seamless transitions to convey and rhythm. The overall event thus accommodates 40–50 competitors or teams across the disciplines, fostering a compact yet intensive showcase of international talent.

Qualification and Judging

The qualification process for the NHK Trophy, as part of the ISU Grand Prix of series, relies on a seeding system established by the (ISU) to ensure competitive balance and international representation. Skaters are seeded primarily based on their results from the previous season's ISU , with the top six in each discipline assigned to two Grand Prix events, including the NHK Trophy through a random draw. Additional invitations go to skaters ranked 7th through 12th at the Worlds, as well as those achieving top 24 seasonal best scores from the prior year or high placements in ISU and junior events, provided they meet minimum total scores calculated annually as three-fifths of the highest scores achieved at the previous ISU (e.g., 191.14 points for men's singles as of the 2025-26 season). The host nation, , may nominate up to three skaters or couples per discipline without strictly adhering to minimum scores, allowing for national representation while the ISU allocates remaining international slots to promote geographic diversity across the six Grand Prix events. Judging at the NHK Trophy employs the (IJS), implemented across all Grand Prix events since the 2004-2005 season to replace the ordinal-based 6.0 system following controversies over subjective scoring in prior Olympics. Under IJS, a technical panel—consisting of a , technical controller, and technical specialists—identifies and validates executed elements, assigning each a base value from the ISU Scale of Values (updated annually via communications like No. 2656 for 2024-2025) plus a Grade of Execution (GOE) adjustment ranging from -5 to +5 based on quality factors such as execution precision and difficulty. Judges then score five program components—skating skills, transitions, performance, composition, and music interpretation—on a 0-10 scale (factored differently per segment), with scores trimmed to exclude the highest and lowest values for and reduction. Tie-breaking in the NHK Trophy follows ISU protocols prioritizing the higher Technical Element Score (TES), followed by the higher sum of Program Component Scores (PCS); if needed, further ties are resolved by the higher PCS or TES in the free segment, or individual component scores. Deductions are applied for falls (-1.00 point for each of the first two falls, -1.50 for each of the third and fourth, and -2.00 for each additional fall per program), illegal elements, or other violations, while disqualifications occur for doping infractions under the World Anti-Doping Code or repeated rule breaches like costume malfunctions. Medical withdrawals are permitted before or during the event, with reserves from the original entry list substituting to maintain field size, ensuring the competition's integrity as a key qualifier for the Grand Prix Final. The NHK Trophy has seamlessly integrated these IJS standards since 2004, with no unique deviations from broader Grand Prix judging practices.

History

Establishment and Early Years (1979–1994)

The NHK Trophy was established in 1979 as an annual international organized by the Japan Skating Federation and sponsored by the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK). The event was created to promote senior-level competition among elite skaters, featuring men's singles, women's singles, pairs, and disciplines without affiliation to any formal international series at the time. The inaugural edition occurred from October 26 to 28, 1979, at the in , . In the men's singles, of claimed gold, followed by Fumio Igarashi of in silver and David Santee of the in bronze. Emi Watanabe of won the women's singles title, with Lisa-Marie Allen of the taking silver and Sandy Lenz of the earning bronze. The pairs event was dominated by Soviet skaters Irina Vorobyova and Igor Lisovsky, who secured gold ahead of Vicki Heasley and Robert Wagenhoffer of the in silver and Sheryl Franks and Michael Botticelli of the in bronze. In , Irina Moiseeva and Andrei Minenkov of the won gold, with and of in silver and Natalya Karamysheva and Rostislav Sinitsyn of the in bronze. From 1980 to 1994, the NHK Trophy grew as a key invitational event on the calendar, attracting top talent primarily from the , , and while gradually incorporating more emerging Asian competitors. Venues rotated across Japanese cities, including in 1980 and in 1994, to support national development of the sport. The competition emphasized innovation in pairs and during the , showcasing technical advancements from Soviet teams, and saw increased participation from Asian nations in the early as regional interest expanded. Over these 16 editions, it established itself as Asia's leading non-Olympic international event, though its global appeal remained somewhat limited compared to major European competitions.

Integration into Grand Prix and Modern Era (1995–present)

The NHK Trophy transitioned into the International Skating Union's (ISU) competitive framework in 1995 as one of the inaugural events in the Champions Series, a precursor to the modern Grand Prix series comprising five senior-level competitions that season. This integration marked a shift from its standalone invitational status, aligning the event with the ISU's structured points system designed to determine qualification for the season-ending Champions Series Final, later rebranded as the Grand Prix Final starting in the 1996–97 season. The series format emphasized international participation and consistency, elevating the NHK Trophy's role in global calendars under the oversight of the Japan Skating Federation (JSF) and ISU. Key milestones in the event's evolution included the adoption of the International Judging System (IJS) in the 2004–05 season, which replaced the traditional 6.0 scoring with a more detailed component-based evaluation to enhance objectivity and transparency in judging. During the , the competition saw expansions in venue capacities to accommodate growing audiences and broadcast demands, reflecting Japan's increasing prominence in the sport. The 2020 edition, held amid the , was significantly adapted with participation limited primarily to Japanese skaters—except for South Korea's in women's singles—and the pairs discipline cancelled due to restrictions and health protocols. This all-domestic focus, with only one international exception, underscored the event's resilience while prioritizing safety. In the , the NHK Trophy has benefited from expanded broadcast accessibility through partnerships with and the ISU, enabling live streaming and global coverage that has broadened its audience beyond . Post-pandemic adaptations from 2021 to 2025 included hybrid formats incorporating enhanced health measures, virtual elements for non-essential personnel, and phased returns to full international fields, culminating in the 2025 event in featuring a complete roster of global competitors. The competition has frequently highlighted Japanese dominance, with multiple home-country victories across disciplines serving as a showcase for national talent development. Notably, it has played a pivotal role in Olympic cycles, such as preparations leading into the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where it provided crucial competitive experience and qualification points for athletes. Looking ahead, the NHK Trophy remains a fixed stop on the ISU Grand Prix circuit. This continuity ensures its ongoing contribution to athlete pathways, technical innovation, and the sport's growth in Asia.

Venues and Organization

Host Cities and Venues

The NHK Trophy has been hosted exclusively in Japan since its inception in 1979, fulfilling the Japan Skating Federation's mandate to promote figure skating within the country while adhering to International Skating Union standards for international competitions. All venues are indoor arenas equipped with regulation-size ice surfaces measuring 60 meters by 30 meters, ensuring suitability for senior-level events across singles, pairs, and ice dance disciplines. These facilities typically accommodate 5,000 to 13,000 spectators, balancing accessibility for local audiences with space for international delegations and media. Selection prioritizes locations in major urban centers that serve as transportation hubs, facilitating travel for competitors from around the world via nearby airports such as Tokyo's Haneda and Narita or Osaka's Kansai International. The event rotates among various host cities to distribute economic and promotional benefits nationwide, with over 15 locations used to date. has hosted the competition most frequently, including the inaugural 1979 edition at the , an iconic venue originally constructed for the with a of 12,934. This arena, known for its suspended roof design by architect , returned as host for the 2024 NHK Trophy. Other early hosts included in for the 1980 event at the Makomanai Ice Arena, reflecting an initial focus on northern regions to engage local skating communities. hosted in 1987 at the Harutori Ice Arena, and served as host in 1995 when the NHK Trophy integrated into the ISU Champions Series (now Grand Prix), highlighting the city's central location and facilities supporting 7,000 spectators. In the modern era, hosting has shifted toward central and southern cities, with emerging as a recurring site. The Towa Pharmaceutical Ractab Dome in Kadoma (near ) accommodated the 2023 and 2025 editions, offering a main arena with 6,000 fixed seats expandable to 10,000 and additional amenities like training rooms. hosted in 1989 at the International Conference Center, while welcomed the event in 1991 at the Sun Plaza. The event was held in 1993 in Chiba at , and hosted in 2002 at the Kyoto Aquarena. Northern venues like Asahikawa's Taisetsu Arena in 2000 and recurring stops in 2019 and 2022 underscore ongoing rotation to , though southern shifts since the 2000s emphasize accessibility from international gateways. No overseas hosting has occurred, maintaining the event's role in elevating domestic infrastructure and fan engagement.

Organizing Bodies and Sponsorship

The NHK Trophy is primarily organized by the Japan Skating Federation (JSF), the national governing body for and other skating disciplines in . The JSF, established as a incorporated foundation, coordinates event logistics, athlete entries, and local operations while ensuring compliance with international standards. As a member of the (ISU) since the early 20th century, the JSF operates under ISU governance for the NHK Trophy, which is sanctioned as a Category A international competition within the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series. The ISU provides oversight through appointed technical delegates, judges, and referees, enforcing its constitution, general regulations, and technical rules to maintain uniformity across global events. The Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) serves as co-organizer and title sponsor, a role it has held since the event's establishment in 1979. NHK contributes funding, produces television coverage—including live broadcasts in and international streams—and promotes the competition through its platform. Additional financial and operational support comes from Japanese corporate partners affiliated with the JSF, such as the Kinoshita Group and Kindensha, which have backed recent editions to enhance event production and athlete accommodations. Since its integration into the ISU Grand Prix in 1995, the NHK Trophy's organization has aligned with standardized ISU protocols for qualification, judging, and prize distribution, with the JSF handling on-site execution.

Medalists

Men's Singles

The men's singles competition at the NHK Trophy has been a showcase for technical prowess and artistic expression since 1979, with Japanese skaters often dominating due to home advantage and rigorous training systems. The discipline has evolved from emphasizing and multi-rotation jumps in the early years to the current focusing on quadruple jumps, intricate footwork, and program components in short programs and free skates. holds the record with six titles (2002, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2010, 2012), his victories highlighting Japan's rise in men's , including his pioneering combination spins and expressive performances that influenced global standards. Other notables include with three wins (2014, 2015, 2016) and with two (2018, 2019), both Olympic champions who used the event as key preparation for international success. In the 2025 edition, Yuma Kagiyama claimed gold with a total score of 287.24, edging out Shun Sato for silver (285.71) and securing bronze for Lukas Britschgi (SUI), qualifying Kagiyama for the Grand Prix Final amid a competitive field featuring Olympic medalists.
YearGoldNationSilverNationBronzeNation
1979Charles TicknerUSAScott HamiltonUSAToller CranstonCAN
1980Charles TicknerUSAScott HamiltonUSAJean-Henri CompératFRA
1981Scott HamiltonUSAHeinz-Ulrich WalzFRGBrian PockarCAN
1982Scott HamiltonUSABrian OrserCANJean-Henri CompératFRA
1983Vladimir KotovURSScott HamiltonUSABrian OrserCAN
1984Brian OrserCANVladimir KotovURSScott HamiltonUSA
1985Vladimir KotovURSBrian OrserCANJozef SabovčíkTCH
1986Brian BoitanoUSABrian OrserCANViktor PetrenkoURS
1987Brian OrserCANBrian BoitanoUSAViktor PetrenkoURS
1988Brian BoitanoUSAKurt BrowningCANViktor PetrenkoURS
1989Kurt BrowningCANChristopher BowmanUSAViktor PetrenkoURS
1990Kurt BrowningCANTodd EldredgeUSAChristopher BowmanUSA
1991Kurt BrowningCANViktor PetrenkoURSTodd EldredgeUSA
1992Kurt BrowningCANElvis StojkoCANPetr BarnaTCH
1993Kurt BrowningCANElvis StojkoCANYosuke TakeuchiJPN
1994Elvis StojkoCANChen LuCHNYosuke TakeuchiJPN
1995Todd EldredgeUSAElvis StojkoCANViacheslav ZagorodniukUKR
1996Todd EldredgeUSAElvis StojkoCANDmitri DmitrenkoRUS
1997Sergei PonomarenkoRUSTodd EldredgeUSAMichael WeissUSA
1998Sergei PonomarenkoRUSTodd EldredgeUSAMichael WeissUSA
1999Evgeni PlushenkoRUSTimothy GoebelUSAMichael WeissUSA
2000Evgeni PlushenkoRUSTodd EldredgeUSAMichael WeissUSA
2001Evgeni PlushenkoRUSTimothy GoebelUSATakeshi HondaJPN
2002Daisuke TakahashiJPNEvgeni PlushenkoRUSAlexander AbtRUS
2003Daisuke TakahashiJPNEvgeni PlushenkoRUSJeffrey ButtleCAN
2004Jeffrey ButtleCANDaisuke TakahashiJPNRyan JahnkeUSA
2005Daisuke TakahashiJPNJeffrey ButtleCANEvan LysacekUSA
2006Nobunari OdaJPNDaisuke TakahashiJPNEvan LysacekUSA
2007Brian JoubertFRANobunari OdaJPNTakahiko KozukaJPN
2008Daisuke TakahashiJPNNobunari OdaJPNTakahiko KozukaJPN
2009Brian JoubertFRATakahiko KozukaJPNNobunari OdaJPN
2010Daisuke TakahashiJPNNobunari OdaJPNJeremy AbbottUSA
2011Patrick ChanCANRyan BradleyUSATakahiko KozukaJPN
2012Daisuke TakahashiJPNJavier FernándezESPTakahiko KozukaJPN
2013Takahiko KozukaJPNMax AaronUSAJoshua FarrisUSA
2014Yuzuru HanyuJPNTakahiko KozukaJPNMax AaronUSA
2015Yuzuru HanyuJPNShoma UnoJPNSergei VoronovRUS
2016Yuzuru HanyuJPNShoma UnoJPNSergei VoronovRUS
2017Shoma UnoJPNKeiji TanakaJPNMikhail KolyadaRUS
2018Shoma UnoJPNKeiji TanakaJPNMikhail KolyadaRUS
2019Shoma UnoJPNKevin AymozFRAJason BrownUSA
2020Not held due to COVID-19-----
2021Yuma KagiyamaJPNKoshiro ShimadaJPNTatsuya TsuboiJPN
2022Yuma KagiyamaJPNKao MiuraJPNKoshiro ShimadaJPN
2023Shoma UnoJPNDaniel GrasslITAKoshiro ShimadaJPN
2024Yuma KagiyamaJPNKao MiuraJPNShun SatoJPN
2025Yuma KagiyamaJPNShun SatoJPNLukas BritschgiSUI
The medalists table above is compiled from official ISU protocols and event reports across seasons.

Women's Singles

The women's singles competition at the NHK Trophy has featured prominent athletes showcasing evolving technical elements, from in early editions to contemporary emphasis on high-difficulty jumps and program components. Japanese skaters have historically dominated the discipline, securing the majority of medals and reflecting the host nation's strength in development. Key moments include Emi Watanabe's victory in the 1979 inaugural event, where she won gold on home ice in with strong performances in both the short program and free skate. In the 2025 edition, defended her title in , delivering a near-flawless free skate after leading the short program by 77.05 points, earning a total of 227.18 and qualifying for the Grand Prix Final as part of her preparation for the world championships. The discipline has trended toward Japanese dominance, with skaters from claiming over 50% of the gold medals across all events, underscoring the country's investment in training programs and facilities. Prior to 1990, competitions included that tested precision and control, but the format shifted to focus on jump-heavy short programs and expressive free skates, allowing for greater athleticism and creativity. Standout performers include , who holds the record as the most successful competitor with six titles in 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1988, and 1990, pioneering triple axel jumps that influenced women's skating globally. Recent Olympic medalists like have used the NHK Trophy as crucial preparation, tying their wins to broader international success.
YearGoldNationSilverNationBronzeNation
1979Emi WatanabeJPNLisa-Marie AllenUSASandy LenzUSA
1980Anett PötzschGDRDagmar LialkaTCHSanda DubravčićYUG
1981Denise BiellmannSUIElaine ZayakUSAKatarina WittGDR
1982Midori ItoJPNElaine ZayakUSARosalynn SumnersUSA
1983Midori ItoJPNKatarina WittGDRDebbie ArmstrongUSA
1984Katarina WittGDRAnna EgorovaURSTracey WainmanCAN
1985Midori ItoJPNKatarina WittGDRTiffany ChinUSA
1986Midori ItoJPNDebi ThomasUSAKatarina WittGDR
1987Katarina WittGDRMidori ItoJPNDebra ThomasUSA
1988Midori ItoJPNKatarina WittGDRCaryn KadavyUSA
1989Jill TrenaryUSAMidori ItoJPNTonya HardingUSA
1990Midori ItoJPNYuka SatoJPNHolly CookUSA
1991Midori ItoJPNYuka SatoJPNSurya BonalyFRA
1992Yuka SatoJPNSurya BonalyFRATonya HardingUSA
1993Yuka SatoJPNChen LuCHNSurya BonalyFRA
1994Yuka SatoJPNChen LuCHNSurya BonalyFRA
1995Tara LipinskiUSAMichelle KwanUSAChen LuCHN
1996Michelle KwanUSATara LipinskiUSAIrina SlutskayaRUS
1997Tara LipinskiUSAMichelle KwanUSAIrina SlutskayaRUS
1998Michelle KwanUSAIrina SlutskayaRUSJulia SoldatovaRUS
1999Maria ButyrskayaRUSMichelle KwanUSAElena BerezhnayaRUS
2000Irina SlutskayaRUSMichelle KwanUSAElena BerezhnayaRUS
2001Michelle KwanUSAIrina SlutskayaRUSFumie SuguriJPN
2002Irina SlutskayaRUSMichelle KwanUSAElena BerezhnayaRUS
2003Irina SlutskayaRUSMichelle KwanUSAElena BerezhnayaRUS
2004Shizuka ArakawaJPNIrina SlutskayaRUSElena BerezhnayaRUS
2005Irina SlutskayaRUSMao AsadaJPNYukari NakanoJPN
2006Kimmie MeissnerUSAIrina SlutskayaRUSMao AsadaJPN
2007Miki AndoJPNCarolina KostnerITAYukari NakanoJPN
2008Mao AsadaJPNCarolina KostnerITAMirai NagasuUSA
2009Mao AsadaJPNMiki AndoJPNAkiko SuzukiJPN
2010Mao AsadaJPNCarolina KostnerITAAkiko SuzukiJPN
2011Mao AsadaJPNCarolina KostnerITAAkiko SuzukiJPN
2012Akiko SuzukiJPNAshley WagnerUSAGracie GoldUSA
2013Akiko SuzukiJPNGracie GoldUSAAshley WagnerUSA
2014Anna PogorilayaRUSRika HongoJPNElena RadionovaRUS
2015Rika HongoJPNElena RadionovaRUSAnna PogorilayaRUS
2016Wakaba HiguchiJPNAnna PogorilayaRUSMai MiharaJPN
2017Evgenia MedvedevaRUSWakaba HiguchiJPNMai MiharaJPN
2018Bradie TennellUSAKaetlyn OsmondCANElizaveta TuktamyshevaRUS
2019Alena KostornaiaRUSSerafima SakhanovichRUSAlexandra TrusovaRUS
2020Not held due to COVID-19-----
2021Not held due to COVID-19-----
2022Kaori SakamotoJPNLoena HendrickxBELMai MiharaJPN
2023Ava Marie ZieglerUSALindsay ThorngrenUSANina PinzarroneBEL
2024Kaori SakamotoJPNNiina PetrokinaESTMone ChibaJPN
2025Kaori SakamotoJPNSofia SamodelkinaKAZLoena HendrickxBEL
The medalists table above is compiled from official ISU protocols and event reports across seasons.

Pairs

The pairs event at the NHK Trophy emphasizes team , aerial elements such as throw jumps and lifts, and dramatic maneuvers like death spirals, distinguishing it from solo disciplines by requiring precise partnership and trust between . Since its introduction in , the has showcased evolving technical standards, from the foundational throws and pair spins of early entrants to the high-difficulty quadruple elements and innovative lift variations seen in modern programs. Soviet and later Russian pairs dominated the initial decades, setting benchmarks for power and precision, while the discipline's global appeal grew with the emergence of strong programs from , the , and especially in the late and . Early editions highlighted Soviet excellence, with Irina Vorobieva and Igor Lisovsky capturing the inaugural gold in 1979 through a program featuring robust lifts and synchronized footwork that reflected the era's emphasis on athleticism over artistry. This victory underscored the Soviet school's influence, as teams from the USSR won several subsequent titles in the 1980s, often executing pioneering throw triples and pair camels that influenced international judging criteria. The event's pairs field remained competitive into the 1990s, with transitions to post-Soviet Russian dominance, but participation fluctuated due to geopolitical changes and scheduling conflicts. The rise of Chinese pairs marked a pivotal trend in the 2000s, driven by state-supported training programs that prioritized technical innovation and consistency. Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo exemplified this shift, securing a record five gold medals (1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2006) with programs renowned for their elegant lifts, such as the lasso and press types, and early attempts at quadruple throws in competition warm-ups. Their 2000 victory, for instance, featured a free skate to classical music that earned near-unanimous judge approval, scoring 5.9s across technical marks and highlighting China's emergence as a powerhouse. This era saw fewer consistent international teams compared to singles, with Chinese skaters winning eight golds between 1999 and 2010, often outscoring rivals through superior throw elements and spiral sequences. In recent years, the pairs event has reflected broader Grand Prix diversity, with European and North American teams challenging Asian dominance through creative and risk-taking elements. The 2020 edition was unique, as the pairs competition was cancelled due to insufficient international entries amid travel restrictions, limiting the event to Japanese skaters in other disciplines. The 2025 NHK Trophy saw Italian duo Sara Conti and Niccolò Macii claim gold with a free skate score of 134.89 points, edging out Hungary's Maria Pavlova and Alexei Sviatchenko for silver (134.24) and China's Olympic champions and for bronze, after Sui/Han led following the short program. This result qualified Conti/Macii for the Grand Prix Final, underscoring the discipline's emphasis on recovery from errors in high-pressure free skates.
TeamCountryYears of Gold MedalsNumber of Wins
Shen Xue / Zhao Hongbo1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 20065
Maria Petrova / Alexei Tikhonov1999, 2003, 20043
/ 2010, 2014, 20173
Sara Conti / 20251

Ice Dance

The ice dance discipline at the NHK Trophy has showcased evolving artistic expressions since its inception in 1979, emphasizing intricate footwork, musical interpretation, and partnership harmony without jumps or throws. Early competitions highlighted Soviet and British teams' dominance through compulsory dances that tested technical precision in prescribed patterns, setting the stage for rhythmic and choreographic innovations in later decades. The inaugural ice dance event in 1979 was won by Soviet pair Irina Moiseeva and Andrei Minenkov, who excelled in the compulsory and segments with their powerful and synchronized style. Over the years, the discipline saw remarkable success from and Gwendal Peizerat of , who secured a record five titles in 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, and 2002, their victories marked by innovative choreography that blended athleticism and narrative depth, culminating in their 2002 Olympic . In recent editions, the 2025 NHK Trophy was won by Great Britain's and Lewis Gibson, who topped the podium with a total score of 205.88 points, demonstrating strong musical connection in the rhythm and free dances; this marked their second gold at the event and highlighted emerging strength in the discipline. The format evolved significantly post-2010 when the replaced compulsory and original dances with the , allowing greater creative freedom in pattern and style choices, which encouraged more dynamic footwork sequences and thematic storytelling in free dances. European teams have historically dominated, with Soviet/Russian and French pairs claiming the majority of titles through the 1990s and early 2000s, but recent years have seen gains from North American and UK skaters, as evidenced by U.S. teams like Madison Chock/Evan Bates winning in 2015 and 2023, reflecting broader global competitiveness. For a complete list of gold medalists:
YearGold MedalistsNation
1979Irina Moiseeva / Andrei MinenkovURS
1980Carol Fox / Richard DalleyUSA
1981Jayne Torvill / Christopher DeanGBR
1982Jayne Torvill / Christopher DeanGBR
1983Jayne Torvill / Christopher DeanGBR
1984Karen Barber / Nicholas SlaterGBR
1985Marina Klimova / Sergei PonomarenkoURS
1986Natalia Bestemianova / Andrei BukinURS
1987Marina Klimova / Sergei PonomarenkoURS
1988Natalia Bestemianova / Andrei BukinURS
1989Marina Klimova / Sergei PonomarenkoURS
1990Marina Klimova / Sergei PonomarenkoURS
1991Isabelle Duchesnay / Paul DuchesnayFRA
1992Isabelle Duchesnay / Paul DuchesnayFRA
1993Maya Usova / Evgeni PlatovRUS
1994Maya Usova / Evgeni PlatovRUS
1995Oksana Grishuk / Evgeni PlatovRUS
1996Marina Anissina / Gwendal PeizeratFRA
1997Marina Anissina / Gwendal PeizeratFRA
1998Marina Anissina / Gwendal PeizeratFRA
1999Anjelika Krylova / Oleg OvsyannikovRUS
2000Marina Anissina / Gwendal PeizeratFRA
2001Barbara Fusar-Poli / Maurizio MargaglioITA
2002Marina Anissina / Gwendal PeizeratFRA
2003Tatiana Navka / Roman KostomarovRUS
2004Tatiana Navka / Roman KostomarovRUS
2005Tatiana Navka / Roman KostomarovRUS
2006Oksana Domnina / Maxim ShabalinRUS
2007Oksana Domnina / Maxim ShabalinRUS
2008Nathalie Péchalat / Fabian BourzatFRA
2009Nathalie Péchalat / Fabian BourzatFRA
2010Meryl Davis / Charlie WhiteUSA
2011Meryl Davis / Charlie WhiteUSA
2012Tessa Virtue / Scott MoirCAN
2013Meryl Davis / Charlie WhiteUSA
2014Madison Chock / Evan BatesUSA
2015Madison Chock / Evan BatesUSA
2016Maia Shibutani / Alex ShibutaniUSA
2017Madison Chock / Evan BatesUSA
2018Gabriella Papadakis / Guillaume CizeronFRA
2019Madison Chock / Evan BatesUSA
2020Cancelled due to COVID-19-
2021Victoria Sinitsina / Nikita KatsalapovRUS
2022Charlène Guignard / Marco FabbriITA
2023Madison Chock / Evan BatesUSA
2024Lilah Fear / Lewis GibsonGBR
2025Lilah Fear / Lewis GibsonGBR

Records and Achievements

Multiple Title Wins

of holds the record for the most NHK Trophy titles in men's singles, with five wins in 2006, 2007, 2010, 2011, and 2013. of matches this mark in women's singles, securing six titles from 1983, 1985–1988, and 1990, a feat that underscored her dominance in the pre-Grand Prix era. In pairs skating, Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo of established the record with four victories in 1999, 2001–2003, contributing significantly to 's rise in the discipline during the early . The ice dance record belongs to Marina Anissina and Gwendal Peizerat of , who claimed five titles in 1996–1998, 2000, and 2002, highlighting their innovative programs and technical prowess. Notably, no individual or team has achieved victories in more than one discipline.

Highest Scores and Technical Marks

In men's singles, of achieved a total score of 287.24 at the 2025 NHK Trophy under the current , comprising a short program of 98.58 and a free skate of 188.66. This performance featured a technical elements score (TES) of 103.21 in the free skate, driven by multiple quad jumps including a 4Lz+3T combination valued at a base of 10.20 plus positive Grade of Execution (GOE). His program component score (PCS) averaged 9.25 across components, highlighting exceptional skating skills and choreography interpretation. Note that the all-time highest under the current system at NHK is 288.39 by Kagiyama in 2023. In women's singles, of posted a total of 227.18 in 2025, with a near-flawless free skate earning 150.18 points and establishing it as the season's highest mark. Her TES in the free skate reached 78.45, bolstered by clean triple jumps and a triple axel attempt valued at a base of 8.00 with GOE additions. Sakamoto's PCS averaged 9.00, reflecting strong artistry and manner of performance that underscored her command of the ice. Note that higher scores have been recorded at prior NHK events, such as Sakamoto's 231.88 in 2024. For pairs, Italy's Sara Conti and Niccolò Macii recorded a total score of 208.58 in 2025, including a free skate TES of 67.89 from elements like a throw triple Salchow with a base value of 4.20 plus GOE. Their PCS reached an average of 9.20, emphasizing seamless lifts and transitions. Higher totals have been achieved in previous editions under the current system. In , Great Britain's and Lewis Gibson recorded a total of 205.88 in 2025, with a TES of 65.31 featuring Level 4 twizzle sequences at a base of 3.00 each and full GOE. Their PCS averaged above 9.50 in components like composition and timing, showcasing intricate storytelling. Higher scores have been posted in prior NHK events. Since the 2018 expansion of the quad era and GOE range, NHK Trophy scores have trended upward, with 2025 results serving as key early-season benchmarks across disciplines due to increased technical density and refined execution.

National Medal Counts

By Discipline

has historically dominated the men's singles discipline at the NHK Trophy since 1979, reflecting the host nation's strength, while (including ) and the have also secured numerous podium finishes.

Women's Singles

Japan has shown strong performance in women's singles since the event's inception, with consistent podium presence, followed by Russia/URS and Canada.

Pairs

Russia/URS has led in pairs skating since its introduction in 1979, with China emerging as a strong contender in recent decades.

Ice Dance

Russia/URS has historically excelled in ice dance, supported by strong performances from France and Canada.

Overall Totals

Japan leads the overall medal standings at the NHK Trophy across all disciplines from 1979 to 2025, benefiting from home advantage. /URS follows, with contributions from the , , and . This reflects Japan's success in singles, alongside international strengths in pairs and ice dance. Data is compiled from official ISU results, excluding the partial 2020 event limited to singles due to the . In the 2025 edition held in , secured three medals (two golds and one silver) in singles disciplines, with and winning gold in men's and women's singles, respectively, and Shun Sato taking silver in men's. Pairs saw medals for (gold), (silver), and (bronze), while ice dance podium went to (gold), (silver), and the (bronze). Historically, European nations, particularly from the Soviet era, led medal counts before 1995, with strengths in pairs and . Post-2000, Asian nations, especially and , have increased their shares. The (ISU) promotes diversity through seeding and judging to encourage broader participation.

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  29. https://www.goldenskate.com/japans-kaori-sakamoto-dominates-womens-event-at-nhk-trophy/
  30. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-11-27-sp-926-story.html
  31. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMe1tFPau_Y
  32. https://www.reuters.com/sports/sakamoto-shines-nhk-trophy-sets-seasons-highest-score-2025-11-08/
  33. https://www.isuresults.com/bios/isufs00000595.htm
  34. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9KAkD1nLcA
  35. https://www.espn.com/skating/news/2000/1203/920803.html
  36. http://en.people.cn/english/200012/04/eng20001204_56829.html
  37. https://www.jsfresults.com/InterNational/2001-2002/NHK/Results/data0390.htm
  38. http://www.isuresults.com/results/season2021/gpjpn2020/
  39. https://isu-skating.com/figure-skating/news/contimacii-rise-to-the-occasion-to-strike-nhk-trophy-gold-in-tense-pairs-free-skate/
  40. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/fear-and-gibson-capture-nhk-trophy-ice-dance-gold-shibutanis-return-form-top-six-finish
  41. https://www.espn.com/olympics/figureskating/story/_/id/9949789/daisuke-takahashi-wins-fifth-men-nhk-trophy-title
  42. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/figure-skating/takahashi-defends-men-s-nhk-trophy-title-1.1090653
  43. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPy9Jazifns
  44. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/nhk-trophy-2023-results
  45. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/kaori-sakamoto-thrills-home-ice-win-nhk-trophy-womens-title
  46. https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/news/nhk-trophy-2024-kaori-sakamoto-wins-women-title-season-high
  47. https://www.iceskating.org.uk/post/fear-gibson-take-gold-at-nhk-trophy-and-qualify-for-grand-prix-final
  48. https://isu-skating.com/figure-skating/results/isu-gp-nhk-trophy-2025/
  49. https://www.isu.org/figure-skating/events/grand-prix-of-figure-skating
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