In Japan, baseball is enjoyed by people of all ages, and professional baseball news is a common topic on TV and in newspapers. For those interested in Japanese baseball, why not enjoy a game while visiting Japan? Although it’s a bit different from the usual tourist spots, the sight of fans passionately cheering for their team and the players’ intense play will surely leave a strong impression.
This article is designed as a guide for those looking to experience a baseball game in Japan, explaining how to buy tickets, ticket prices, how to enjoy the game, and proper stadium etiquette.
1.Watch a Baseball Game on Your Trip to Japan!
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Each team in Japan’s professional baseball league has a devout fanbase.
Many Japanese players have transferred from professional baseball to MLB in the United States, where they continue to excel. Games featuring MLB teams with Japanese players are often broadcast on television in Japan.
Here, we will explain the history of how baseball spread in Japan, the different types of baseball played, and the costs associated with watching a professional baseball game at the stadium.
1-1.The History of Baseball in Japan
The history of baseball in Japan began in 1872 when American Professor Horace Wilson introduced the sport to students in Tokyo. In 1934, the president of the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper company formed an all-star baseball team, which played a significant role in popularizing the sport in Japan.
That same year, an all-star team from America, including legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, visited Japan. They played exhibition games against Japanese teams, attracting many spectators. In 1936, Japan’s professional baseball league was established.
The popularity of baseball has continued to grow, with people enjoying the sport at many levels, including youth baseball, high school baseball, amateur adult baseball, and professional baseball. Many might remember the Japanese national team, “Samurai Japan,” winning the World Baseball Classic in 2023.
1-2.Types of Baseball in Japan
Japanese baseball is broadly divided into two categories: professional and amateur. Professional baseball is split into the Central League and the Pacific League, each with six teams. Preseason games are played from late February to late March, followed by the opening of the professional baseball season. Amateur baseball is famously represented by high school baseball.
Here, we explain the main features of each.
| Pacific League (Pa League) |
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| The official name of the Pa League is the Pacific League. It was named with the hope of making professional baseball more international. The Pa League adopts the Designated Hitter (DH) system, where the DH is a player who bats in place of the pitcher without playing on defense. |
| Central League (Ce League) |
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| The official name of the Ce League is the Central League. It was named to convey the idea that it is the mainstream league. The Ce League does not adopt the DH system, meaning pitchers also take their turns at bat. This adds an extra layer of strategy regarding whether to use a pinch hitter or let the pitcher bat, which is one of the league’s highlights. |
| High School Baseball |
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| High school baseball refers to the sport played by students who are members of their high school’s baseball teams. The most famous tournament is the National High School Baseball Championship, held in the summer. Two schools each from Hokkaido and Tokyo, and one school from each of the other prefectures compete, making a total of 49 schools. The games are broadcast on television and are immensely popular. |
1-3.Costs Associated with Watching Baseball in Japan
To watch a professional baseball game, you need a ticket. Ticket prices vary depending on the stadium, seat location, and the teams playing. Prices range from around 1,500 yen for cheaper seats to around 10,000 yen for more expensive ones, though some seats can cost tens of thousands of yen in certain circumstances.
At the stadium, you can buy bento boxes, drinks, and merchandise. A bento box costs about 1,500 yen, and a uniform about 7,000-10,000 yen.
The admission fees for the National High School Baseball Championship are as follows:
- Central Reserved Seats: 4,200 yen
- 1st and 3rd Base Reserved Seats: 3,700 yen (1,200 yen for children)
- Alps Seats: 1,400 yen
- Outfield Reserved Seats: 700 yen (200 yen for children)
Tickets for the National High School Baseball Championshipare usually sold in advance, and if they sell out, you cannot purchase them on the day of the game. If any tickets remain, they can be bought at Koshien Stadium on the day of the game.
2.How to Purchase Baseball Game Tickets in Japan
There are several ways to purchase tickets for baseball games in Japan. You can even purchase tickets from outside Japan. Here, we’ll cover how to buy tickets in advance and how to purchase them on the day of the game.
2-1.How to Purchase Tickets in Advance
For advance purchases,it’s recommended to use the official website of the baseball team you’re interested in. On the team’s site, click the “Tickets” button, then enter the date of the game and the number of seats you wish to purchase. Some sites may require you to register as a member.
You can also buy tickets through ticketing websites, although purchasing from overseas may be challenging on some sites.
| Ticket Pia | After registering as a member, you can select and purchase the necessary tickets. |
|---|---|
| Lawson Ticket (Loppi) | Supports English, Chinese, and Korean. Payment options include credit card, payment at Lawson or Ministop convenience stores, and mobile carrier billing. Tickets can be picked up at Lawson stores or as e-tickets. |
| Seven Ticket | After registering on the site, you can apply for tickets. Pay at a 7-Eleven store before the payment deadline using cash, credit card, or the electronic money nanaco. You can receive your tickets at the time of payment. |
| e+ (ePlus) | After registering on the site, you can apply for tickets. Payment methods include credit card and payment at convenience store counters. Tickets can be printed at FamilyMart and 7-Eleven stores. |
2-2.How to Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Game
Even on the day of the game, you can purchase tickets using the official team website, Ticket Pia, Lawson Ticket, and other services. Additionally, same-day tickets can be bought at ticket vending machines located at the stadium where the game is being held.
Be aware that if the tickets are sold out, you won’t be able to purchase them anywhere. It’s common for advance tickets to sell out for weekend games or matches between popular teams.
3.How to Enjoy and Understand Etiquette at Baseball Games in Japan
Watching baseball in Japan offers a variety of unique experiences beyond just the game itself. There are also etiquette rules to follow to ensure everyone enjoys the game comfortably. Let’s take a look at the basics of how to enjoy the game and what manners to observe.
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3-1.How to Enjoy Watching Baseball in Japan
At the stadium, there are many ways to enjoy yourself besides watching the game. Here are some of the main activities:
■Enjoy Original Snacks and Drinks
Each stadium offers its unique selection of snacks, sweets, and beverages. Enjoying these treats while watching the game can enhance your experience. Beer is also available for purchase.
■Buy Cheer Gear Like Uniforms and Towels
Purchasing uniforms and towels of the team you’re supporting is highly recommended. These items also make great souvenirs.
■Enjoy Performances Between Innings
Between innings, you can enjoy performances by cheerleaders, quizzes, and other various events organized by the stadium.
■Special Events
Stadiums may also host special events such as fireworks, half-price beer, and handing out free snacks. The events vary by stadium and schedule.
3-2.Etiquette for Watching Baseball in Japan
When watching baseball at the stadium, it’s important to follow proper etiquette to ensure everyone enjoys the game. Here are some key manners to observe:
■Cheer while seated
During the game, you should remain seated. Standing up to cheer can obstruct the view of those behind you. If you stand up in excitement, such as after a home run, remember to sit down promptly.
■Do not throw objects onto the field
Even if you’re upset that your team is losing, never throw objects onto the field.
■Take your trash with you
Dispose of any trash from eating or drinking in designated garbage disposal areas or take it with you when you leave. Do not leave the trash at your seat.
■Do not use umbrellas in the seating area
Even on rainy days, avoid using umbrellas in the stands as they can obstruct the view or hit people around you. It’s a good idea to bring a raincoat instead.
Conclusion
In Japan, baseball is beloved by many and is one of the most popular sports. For those looking to enjoy a baseball game while visiting Japan, tickets can easily be obtained through the official team websites. Additionally, tickets can be purchased at convenience stores after arrival in Japan. However, it’s wise to buy tickets early as they may sell out.
Watching baseball in Japan offers more than just the game; you can enjoy stadium food, purchase merchandise, and more. Remember to stay seated while cheering, take your trash with you, and follow other local rules of baseball spectatorship to fully enjoy the experience.
*This article is based on information available as of March 2024.
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