Takeru Kobayashi, born on November 15, 1978, in Nagano, Japan, began his competitive eating career in 2000. Initially, he was a college student studying engineering, but his life took an unexpected turn when he entered and won his first hot dog eating contest at the age of 22.

Kobayashi’s victory at the 2000 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, New York, was just the beginning. He went on to set multiple world records and dominate the competitive eating scene for over a decade. Known for his unique eating style and incredible speed, Kobayashi quickly became a global sensation, earning the nickname “Tsunami.”

Takeru Kobayashi’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Takeru Kobayashi’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This figure reflects his successful career as a competitive eater and his various entrepreneurial ventures.

Career

Takeru Kobayashi is a legendary competitive eater, best known for his record-breaking performances at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. He won the event six times consecutively from 2001 to 2006, setting a record of 53.5 hot dogs in 12 minutes. Kobayashi’s career also includes wins at other major eating competitions and a brief stint in professional wrestling.

Other Ventures

Beyond competitive eating, Kobayashi has ventured into various businesses. He has opened his own restaurant, “Kobayashi’s Steakhouse,” in Japan. He has also released a cookbook, “The Kobayashi Way,” and a documentary, “The Gyoza King,” about his life and career. Additionally, he has endorsed products like Pepsi Max and Doritos.

Assets

Kobayashi’s assets include his restaurant in Japan, his cookbook royalties, and his earnings from endorsements and appearances. He also owns properties in Japan, including his primary residence in Tokyo. Kobayashi’s most valuable asset, however, is likely his name and reputation in the competitive eating world, which has opened numerous opportunities for him.

Annual Income

Kobayashi’s annual income fluctuates due to the nature of his career. His primary earnings come from competition prizes, appearance fees, and endorsements. In a typical year, he can earn hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, his income can be lower in years when he doesn’t compete as frequently or when endorsement deals expire. Despite this variability, Kobayashi’s annual income has consistently placed him among the highest-earning competitive eaters in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Takeru Kobayashi

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s net worth?

Takeru Kobayashi’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.

How old is Takeru Kobayashi?

Takeru Kobayashi was born on March 15, 1978, making him 44 years old.

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s height and weight?

Takeru Kobayashi is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall and weighs around 143 lbs (65 kg).

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s record for eating hot dogs?

Takeru Kobayashi’s record for eating hot dogs in 10 minutes is 69 hot dogs, set at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2006.

What other foods has Takeru Kobayashi eaten competitively?

Takeru Kobayashi has competed in various eating competitions, including those involving pizza, hamburgers, and even spaghetti.

Is Takeru Kobayashi married?

Takeru Kobayashi is not married. He has kept his personal life relatively private.

Does Takeru Kobayashi have any siblings?

Yes, Takeru Kobayashi has an older brother named Yoshihiro Kobayashi.

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s nationality?

Takeru Kobayashi is Japanese. He was born and raised in Nagano, Japan.

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s Instagram handle?

Takeru Kobayashi’s Instagram handle is @kobayasai.

What is Takeru Kobayashi’s most famous quote?

One of Takeru Kobayashi’s most famous quotes is, “I don’t eat to live, I live to eat.”