Figure skating – SU CS Kinoshita Group Cup 2025 in Osaka: Sakamoto Kaori and Bradie Tennell headline the action – full schedule and how to watch live
And so it begins for Japanese figure skating’s best and brightest who have their eyes on Milano Cortina 2026. Several of Japan’s top skaters will launch their Olympic season this week in Osaka with the inaugural 5-7 September Kinoshita Group Cup, the first-ever ISU Challenger Series event to be held in the country.
Previously, Japanese skaters had to make the trip abroad to kick-start their campaign, but now—with the newly minted competition—they are able to save time and energy preparing for the grind in the comfort of their home rinks. The buzz is palpable as fans await thrilling performances from some of the world’s best talents.
Gold-medal hopes in women’s singles and pairs at the upcoming Games lead the charge, with world champions Sakamoto Kaori and the dynamic duo of Miura Riku/Kihara Ryuichi highlighted as key competitors. Alongside them, we’re witnessing an exciting lineup, including world bronze medallist Chiba Mone and Beijing Olympian Higuchi Wakaba, both eager to leave their mark.
Not to be outdone, from Japan’s neighboring Republic of Korea, world silver medallists Cha Junhwan and Lee Haein will compete, along with Olympic team bronze medallist Bradie Tennell from the United States, adding international flair to the event.
The competition promises to provide unprecedented excitement, as fans follow their favorite skaters performing their segments at the renowned Kanku Ice Arena. Detailed below is the full schedule:
Kinoshita Group Cup 2025: Full Schedule
All times Japan Standard Time (UTC+9)
Friday, 5 September
15:15-17:22 – Women’s short program
18:00-20:00 – Men’s short program
Saturday, 6 September
15:00-16:03 – Ice dance rhythm dance
16:35-17:25 – Pairs short program
18:00-20:30 – Women’s free skating
Sunday, 7 September
12:45-13:59 – Ice dance free dance
14:30-15:29 – Pairs free skating
16:30-18:52 – Men’s free skating
Kinoshita Group Cup 2025: How to Watch Live
In Japan, the event will be broadcast live on CS TV Asahi Channel 2. For those outside Japan, ISU’s broadcast partners are on board to showcase the event. Should you find it unavailable in your territory, a livestream will be provided on the ISU YouTube Channel.
As the excitement unfolds, audience anticipation is at an all-time high for an exhilarating season ahead.
