The 2014 Miss International Japan pageant was held on January 25th at Yakult Hall in Shinbashi, Tokyo. The 24 candidates from across Japan, ranging from high school students to aspiring doctors and fitness instructors, were a diverse group. In the first round, each contestant wore a dazzling furisode kimono and gave a short self-introduction. In the second round, they performed a walking demonstration in a bold swimsuit. After the third round, contestants changed into white rose-motif dresses, and the 10 finalists were selected. They then gave speeches for the final round. Akemi Shimomura, president of the International Cultural Association, which organized the pageant, commented, "Since this year's world pageant will be held in Tokyo, communication skills and a spirit of hospitality are essential for Japan's host." The winner of the Miss International Japan pageant was university student Rira Hongo (21, Tokyo). Hongo, who also competed in last year's competition and this was her second time competing, said, "I will definitely win the grand prize at the world competition. I will never forget the sense of mission I felt when I was selected as a representative and will continue to work hard every day." Second place went to Tomoe Minagawa (22, Ishikawa Prefecture), whose mother is Taiwanese; third place went to Remi Osugi (23, Chiba Prefecture), who is active in volunteer activities; and fourth place went to Risa Shichino (24, Hokkaido), whose specialty is cheerleading. All four contestants will participate in various activities, including charity work, over the next year. The Miss International World Competition is scheduled to be held at the Grand Prince Hotel in Takanawa, Tokyo on November 11th.