2016: The Winning Words

Hiroshima’s Suzuki Seiya hits his second home run in as many at-bats in a September 10 game against the Tokyo Yomiuri Giants. (© Jiji)

“Godlike” Hiroshima Carp outfielder Suzuki Seiya accepts the award for Kamitteru.

A Shūkan Bunshun (文春) reporter dons a mask of the magazine’s mascot Fumiharu to hide his identity when accepting the award. The publication used stakeouts and other methods to expose several high-profile infidelities.

Tourists gather at the track crossing near Kamakura Kōkō Mae station on the Enoshima Electric Railway in Kamakura, Kanagawa. The location became a popular destination after appearing in the manga and anime versions of the basketball-themed Slam Dunk. (© Yomiuri Shimbun/Aflo)

Democratic Party member Yamao Shiori caused a stir when she brought up the blog during a Diet debate. Here she accepts the award on behalf of the anonymous author and 27,000 mothers who signed a petition asking the government to build more daycares.

Actress Taira Airi blushed as she talked about her relationship with her superstar boyfriend.

The newly built fish market at Toyosu in Tokyo Bay, photographed on October 12. The planned move to the new facility from the old Tsukiji market has been postponed due to soil contamination and other concerns. (© Jiji)

Jiyū Kokumin Sha awarded special recognition to 復興城主 (Fukkōjyōshu). The fundraising program was established to support restoration of historic Kumamoto Castle following a series of devastating earthquakes in April. Kumamoto Mayor Ōnishi Kazufumi and city mascot Higomaru were on hand to accept the award.

Representatives of the winning words for 2016 and members of the selection committee gather for a final group photo.