Japan Women’s XVs have again been crowned champions of Asia, completing a perfect campaign at the 2025 Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Championship 2025 with a dominant 63-5 victory over Hong Kong China in the final match in Fukuoka, Japan. The result sealed Japan’s fourth consecutive title and their eighth overall, underlining their position as the leading women’s rugby team in the region.
Japan began their campaign with a commanding 90-0 win over Kazakhstan, followed by the title-clinching triumph over Hong Kong China. The Sakura 15s displayed exceptional skill, depth and discipline across both fixtures, scoring a combined total of 153 points while conceding only 5.
The final saw debutant winger Natsuki Ouchida light up the scoreboard with four tries, earning her the Emirates Player of the Match award and finishing as the top point scorer of the tournament.
Asia Rugby CEO Benjamin Van Rooyen presented the Emirates Player of the Match award to Natsuki Ouchida (Japan), the winner of the prize for the final match:
• Game 1: Sakurako Korai (Japan) – led her team with exceptional defensive work and breakdown control.
• Game 2: Shanna Forrest (Hong Kong China) – a relentless forward performance, including a try and a series of dominant carries.
• Game 3: Natsuki Ouchida (Japan) – an electrifying debut featuring four tries and tireless wing play.
“These athletes exemplify the spirit, talent, and professionalism of women’s rugby in Asia,” said Van Rooyen, CEO of Asia Rugby. “Their performance inspired fans across the continent and showcased the rising standard of the game. All are well-deserved winners of the Emirates Player of the Match award.”
Related New:
Emirates Match Officials Announced for the Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Championship 2025
Japan Set to Host Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Championship in Fukuoka
Female Referee Panel Lead the Way
Each of the three matches were officiated by a highly respected female referee, a significant milestone for gender equity in elite officiating:
• Game 1: Sunny Lee (Hong Kong China Rugby)
• Game 2: Ano Kuwai (Japan Rugby Football Union)
• Game 3: Christabelle Lim (Singapore Rugby Union)
Asia Rugby is proud to support and elevate female match officials and remains committed to providing international opportunities to women referees across the region.
Final Standings – 2025 Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Championship
| Position | Team | Wins | Losses | Points |
 |
 |
2 | 0 | 10 |
 |
 |
2 | 1 | 5 |
 |
 |
2 | 0 | 0 |
Looking Forward: World Cup Preparations
The Sakura 15s now shift focus to preparations for the Rugby World Cup 2025. Japan will host Spain in a two-test series at home on July 19 and July 26. The two sides will meet again later this year in the Rugby World Cup, facing off in a highly anticipated pool match on September 7 in England.
“We are extremely proud of all three teams. This tournament showcased strength, growth, and the exciting future of women’s 15s rugby in Asia,” said Asia Rugby Deputy President Terrence Khoo. “We extend our congratulations to Japan, and also commend the efforts of Hong Kong China and Kazakhstan, both of whom have brought energy and development to the regional game.”
