Ayaka Kishimoto wins Beauty Japan 2026 Bay Area Grand Prix

Former rugby player Ayaka Kishimoto has been awarded the Grand Prix at the Beauty Japan 2026 Bay Area competition. Kishimoto, who previously played for the Tokyo Sankyu Phoenix, has transitioned into a career as a designer and the representative of the apparel brand Maresta.

Following her victory, Kishimoto will compete in the national Beauty Japan competition scheduled for November 12, 2026, at Yokohama BUNTAI. The contest focuses on “inner beauty,” emphasizing women's careers, social contributions, and sense of mission rather than physical appearance alone.

Kishimoto has also been active in promoting rugby through workshops in Kagoshima and Niigata. She is currently conducting a crowdfunding campaign to support her participation in the upcoming national competition, aiming to serve as a role model for female athletes pursuing second careers.