Images: Tracing the Footsteps of Hanyū Yuzuru in a Sendai Pilgrimage

Hanyū gave a medal-winning performance at the Pyeongchang Olympics despite suffering from an injury to his right ankle. (© Jiji)

JR Sendai Station is about 90 minutes from Tokyo on the Tōhoku Shinkansen. (© Nippon.com)

The Figure Skating Monument outside of Sendai International Center Station. (© Nippon.com)

Hanyū, at left, and Arakawa appeared together at the April 2017 monument unveiling. (© Jiji)

In 2019, a new monument was added to celebrate Hanyū’s second Olympic victory. (© Nippon.com)

The handprints of the two athletes seem slightly worn, perhaps from fans placing their hands on the images. (© Nippon.com)

The pond Goshiki-numa is a 15-minute walk from the ruins of Sendai Castle. Alongside it stands a sculpture depicting a pair figure skating. (© Nippon.com)

The information panel features a black and white photograph from the Taishō era (1912–26) of students practicing figure skating on the pond. (© Nippon.com)

The main building of Ōsaki Hachimangū, a Momoyama-style shrine designated as a national treasure (© Sentia)

Sendai Pageant of Starlight has been a popular event since it began in 1986. (© Sentia)

The “Yuzu-Zakura” tree in Nanakita Park. (© Nippon.com)

A plaque alongside the tree includes a photo of Hanyū in the park. (© Nippon.com)

Ice Rink Sendai is open year-round. (© Nippon.com)

The rink where Hanyū and Arakawa spent countless hours training. (© Ice Rink Sendai)

Hanyū’s first training session at Ice Rink Sendai after turning professional was open for public viewing on August 10, 2022. (© Jiji)