From August 29 to 30, 2026, the Japanese HADO representatives HIBANA and ColorFul traveled to Shanghai, China, to compete in the 2026 HADO International Exchange Match, held at Shanghai HADO ARENA.

The event was more than just a competition across borders. It provided a valuable opportunity for HADO players from Japan and China to deepen their connections, exchange ideas, and learn from each other’s tactics and playing styles.

Over the course of two days, the players gave everything they had in pursuit of victory while also building mutual respect and friendships that went far beyond the final results.

Japan vs. China: An Intense Battle for Four Target Cells

On August 29, the main event of the international exchange match got underway.

HIBANA and ColorFul faced six of China’s top HADO teams.

The competition featured several different formats, including 3-on-3 team battles and SOLO matches, giving players from Japan and China the opportunity to compete in a variety of ways.

Each match victory earned a team one Target Cell, and the first side to collect four Target Cells was declared the winner of the international exchange match.

Facing Chinese teams with a wide range of playing styles, the Japanese representatives showed strong focus from the very beginning.

In the 3-on-3 team battles, HIBANA and ColorFul used their quick movement, accurate attacks, and well-coordinated teamwork to search for openings in their opponents’ defenses. Through fast-paced exchanges between offense and defense, they gradually began to gain the upper hand.

The Chinese teams, however, continued to fight with determination until the very end.

Even when trailing, they adjusted their tactics and continued to attack aggressively. Many of the matches remained extremely close, keeping the outcome uncertain until the final moments.

In the SOLO matches, the competition shifted from team battles to direct tests of individual skill.

Movement, decision-making, attack timing, and split-second reactions all became crucial factors in determining the winner. Players from both Japan and China delivered high-level performances, raising the excitement inside the arena even further.

After a series of intense battles, the Japanese side became the first to collect four Target Cells, winning the international exchange match 4–1.

The victory not only gave HIBANA and ColorFul an opportunity to test their competitive strength, but also became one of the most memorable moments of their trip to China.

From Rivals to Friends

On August 30, the Japanese representatives took part in a variety of friendly matches with teams from HADO clubs across China.

In a more relaxed atmosphere than the previous day’s intense competition, the players deepened their connections while enjoying different team lineups and experimenting with new playing styles.

Off the court, players from Japan and China also exchanged ideas about training methods, tactics, and the future development of HADO, and presented each other with commemorative gifts.

On the court, they were rivals giving everything they had to win.

Once the matches were over, they were friends brought together by HADO.

HIBANA and ColorFul returned from Shanghai with far more than just a victory.

The experience gave them a new appreciation for the strength of China’s competitive HADO scene, as well as new friendships that crossed national borders.

Across the sea, we came together through our shared passion for HADO.

We gave it everything we had because of the respect we have for one another.

The 2026 HADO International Exchange Match has come to an end, but the story of HADO players from Japan and China will continue.

The event provided both sides with valuable competitive experience and an opportunity to sharpen their skills as they prepare for the HADO WORLD CUP 2026, scheduled to take place from November 20 to 22.