Riku Ryu: How Japan's Pair Skaters Won Their First Gold

Last updated: June 29, 2026

The Singles Kingdom

Japan has always been a superpower in Figure Skating, but only in “Singles” (like Yuzuru Hanyu or Mao Asada). “Pairs” was traditionally a weak spot. Why? Because physically throwing a partner and the intense height difference required were difficult for Japanese skaters. But in 2026, Riku Ryu (Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara) changed history with Japan’s first pairs Gold Medal.

Riku Ryu performing their "Happy Skating" routine

The Power of “Happy”

What makes them special? It is their Smile. Figure skating is often tense and serious, but Riku and Ryu are always laughing, hugging, and genuinely enjoying the ice. Their chemistry is so natural that fans call it “Happy Skating.” This emotional connection is their secret weapon against the powerful European and Chinese teams.

Ryuichi Kihara lifting Riku Miura in pair skating

Overcoming the Size Gap

In pair skating, the male skater must be significantly larger to lift and throw the female skater. Japanese men are historically smaller, making this difficult. However, Ryuichi Kihara trained his body into a powerhouse to lift the petite Riku. Their perfect physical balance and trust allowed them to perform dangerous throws with ease.

Riku Ryu in the Kiss and Cry area after their skate

The “Kneel” Ritual

Watch the “Kiss and Cry” area after their performance. You might see Ryuichi kneeling down in exhaustion or joy, and Riku patting his head. Their relationship is not just partners; it feels like a comedy duo or a deeply bonded family. This human drama captured the hearts of the world.

A New Era for Riku Ryu and Japanese Skating

Winning Gold in Pairs proves that Japanese skating has evolved. It is no longer just about solo jumps; it is about connection, trust, and synchronization. “Riku-Ryu” didn’t just win a medal; they opened a new door for future Japanese skaters to dream of flying together.

Riku Ryu FAQ

Who are Riku Ryu?
Riku Ryu is the nickname for Japan’s pair figure skating team of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara. In 2026 they won Japan’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in the pairs event.

Why is the team called “Riku Ryu”?
The name simply combines their first names, Riku and Ryuichi (Ryu). Fans use it as an affectionate shorthand, much like how skaters are often nicknamed in Japan.

What is “Happy Skating”?
It is the nickname fans gave Riku Ryu’s style. Unlike the tense, serious mood of many programs, the two are known for smiling, laughing, and visibly enjoying their time on the ice.

Why was pair skating historically hard for Japan?
Pairs requires the male skater to lift and throw his partner, which favors larger builds. Japanese skaters are often smaller, so Japan long dominated singles while struggling in pairs, until Riku Ryu broke through.

Skating Legends & Gold Secrets (Related Articles)
Riku-Ryu captivated the world with their smiles. But Japanese figure skating has other legendary sights, and the medals themselves hide a surprising secret.

1. The Yellow Storm Before Riku-Ryu, there was Yuzuru Hanyu. When he skated, the rink turned yellow because fans threw hundreds of Winnie the Pooh dolls onto the ice. It was a “fluffy avalanche” of love.
👉 Why Pooh Bear? Check out: “Why Do Hundreds of Teddy Bears Rain Onto the Ice? (The Olympic Legend)”

Why Do Hundreds of Teddy Bears Rain Onto the Ice? (The Olympic Legend)

2. The Recycled Glory Riku-Ryu won the Gold, but did you know that in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the medals were made of garbage? Japan extracted gold from 6.2 million old mobile phones to create them.
👉 How do you turn phones into gold? Check out: “Why Were the Olympic Medals Made of Garbage? (The ‘Urban Mine’ Project)”