The winner will compete in Universe 2009
Miss Universe Japan national director Ines Ligron of France (front row 2nd R) and 2006 Miss Universe winner Riyo Mori (front row 2nd L) attend the official announcement of finalists for the 2009 Miss Universe Japan in Tokyo on December 10, 2008. Miss Universe Japan will be chosen from twenty-six finalists on May 11, 2009. AFP PHOTO / Kazuhiro NOGI (Photo credit should read KAZUHIRO NOGI/AFP/Getty Images)