If you’re a fan of baseball and want to experience the thrill of watching a live game in Japan, you’re in for a treat. Baseball in Japan is a national obsession, with a rich history and passionate fan base. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options available for watching Japanese baseball, both within Japan and from overseas. From online streaming services to purchasing tickets, we’ll cover everything you need to know to enjoy the electrifying spectacle of Japanese baseball.
Now, let’s dive into the rich history of Japanese baseball and explore the various options for watching games both within Japan and from overseas.
The Rich History of Japanese Baseball
Introduction of Baseball to Japan
Baseball was first introduced to Japan in the late 19th century by American teachers, most notably Horace Wilson, an English professor at Kaisei School (now Tokyo University). Wilson taught a small group of students the game in the early 1870s, sparking the beginning of baseball’s journey in Japan. The first recorded baseball game in Japan took place in 1873 in Yokohama, where foreigners played against locals.
Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)
The establishment of the Japanese Baseball League (JBL) in 1936 marked a significant milestone in the development of professional baseball in Japan. The league was later renamed Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) in 1950 and has since become the largest competitive league in Japan. NPB consists of two circuits: the Pacific League and the Central League, each with six teams. The Pacific League includes teams like the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, while the Central League features renowned teams such as the Yomiuri Giants and Hanshin Tigers.
Watching Japanese Baseball: A Memorable Experience
NPB Regular Season
The NPB season typically runs from late March to October, offering ample opportunities to catch a game. Each team plays 143 regular-season games, followed by the Climax Series and the Nippon Series, which determine the grand champion. The Climax Series involves the top two teams from each circuit competing in a best-of-seven competition held in November.
Choosing the Right Game and Stadium
When planning to watch a baseball game in Japan, it’s essential to consider the city and stadium you want to visit. Tokyo, being the capital, offers two prominent stadiums for baseball enthusiasts: the Tokyo Dome and Jingu Stadium. The Tokyo Dome, home to the Yomiuri Giants, provides a vibrant atmosphere with a large and enthusiastic fan base. On the other hand, Jingu Stadium, home to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, offers a more traditional outdoor field experience.
For a truly iconic experience, consider attending a game at the historic Koshien Stadium. Located in Nishinomiya, Koshien Stadium is not only the home ground for the Hanshin Tigers but is also of great significance in Japanese high school baseball. The Summer Koshien games held in August are particularly thrilling, providing an unmatched atmosphere that rivals NPB games.
Purchasing Tickets: Online and On-site Options
Whether you’re a local or an overseas fan, there are various options for purchasing tickets to Japanese baseball games.
Buying Online in Advance
One of the most convenient ways to secure tickets is by purchasing them online in advance. Each team has its official website where you can find ticket information and make purchases. Websites like the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, Yomiuri Giants, and Hanshin Tigers offer online ticket sales, allowing you to select your preferred game and seating options.
Convenient Store Ticketing
In addition to online purchases, you can also buy tickets from the ticketing machines at convenient stores in Japan. Different teams may use different ticketing systems, so it’s important to check which convenient stores offer tickets for your desired game. While the machines are mostly in Japanese, store staff can assist you with the purchasing process.
Proxy Ticketing Services
If you encounter any difficulties with online or store purchases, another option is to use a proxy ticketing service. Japan Ball Tickets is a popular proxy service that helps fans secure tickets for baseball games. Keep in mind that proxy services may charge a service fee for each order.
On-site Ticket Purchases
If you prefer a more spontaneous approach, you can try purchasing tickets directly at the stadium on the day of the game. However, availability is not guaranteed, especially for popular games, so it’s advisable to arrive early to increase your chances of securing tickets.
Planning Your Trip: Best Time to Watch Baseball in Japan
When planning your trip to watch Japanese baseball, it’s important to consider the best time to visit. The weather, game atmosphere, and overall experience can vary depending on the season.
Weather Considerations
The NPB season spans from late March to October, covering various weather conditions. If you prefer milder temperatures and pleasant weather, consider visiting during the spring or fall months. Japanese summers, though known for their warmth and humidity, also offer a vibrant and festive atmosphere for baseball games.
Festive Atmosphere of Summer Games
One of the highlights of Japanese baseball is the Summer Koshien games held in August. These high school baseball tournaments at Koshien Stadium attract immense attention and passion from fans across the country. If you happen to be in Japan during this time, attending a Summer Koshien game will provide an unparalleled experience.
Tokyo Baseball: The Heart of Japanese Baseball
Tokyo, being the capital city, is a hub for baseball in Japan. It offers two major stadiums where you can catch exciting games and immerse yourself in the baseball culture.
Tokyo Dome: Home of the Yomiuri Giants
The Tokyo Dome, located in Bunkyo, is the home stadium of the Yomiuri Giants, one of the most successful and popular teams in Japanese baseball history. Watching a game at the Tokyo Dome guarantees a lively atmosphere, passionate fans, and top-notch baseball action.
Jingu Stadium: Tokyo Yakult Swallows’ Home Ground
For a more traditional and intimate baseball experience, head to Jingu Stadium, the home ground of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Located in Bunkyo, this outdoor stadium offers a unique ambiance and the chance to witness the Swallows’ games in an authentic setting.
Koshien Stadium: A Historic Venue
Koshien Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of Japanese baseball fans. As the home ground for the Hanshin Tigers, this iconic stadium has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in Japanese baseball history.
Significance of Koshien Stadium
Apart from hosting NPB games, Koshien Stadium holds tremendous significance in Japanese high school baseball. It is the venue for the annual Summer Koshien tournament, where high school teams from across Japan compete for the title. The tournament showcases the passion and dedication of young players, making it a must-watch event for baseball enthusiasts.
Summer Koshien Games: An Unparalleled Experience
If you have the opportunity to attend a Summer Koshien game, seize it. The atmosphere during these games is electric, with enthusiastic fans and intense competition. The cheers and chants from the crowd create an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of Japanese baseball.
Immersing Yourself in the Baseball Atmosphere
Attending a baseball game in Japan is not just about watching the action on the field; it’s about embracing the entire experience and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Choosing a Side to Support
To fully enjoy the game, it’s recommended to choose a side to support. Most stadiums have designated sections for home and visiting team supporters, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. Joining in the chants and cheers of the crowd adds to the excitement and camaraderie among fans.
Joining in the Cheering
Cheerleaders, known as “ouendan,” play a significant role in Japanese baseball games. They lead the crowd in various chants, songs, and synchronized movements. Joining in the cheering and following the lead of the cheerleaders enhances the overall experience and creates a sense of unity among fans.
Exploring the Culinary Delights
Japanese baseball stadiums offer a wide range of food and drink options to satisfy your cravings during the game. From classic stadium snacks like popcorn and hot dogs to unique Japanese treats such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to pair your food with a refreshing beverage, such as a cold beer or a soft drink.
Souvenirs and Cheering Goods
To commemorate your baseball experience, consider purchasing souvenirs or cheering goods from the stadium’s shops. Official team jerseys, caps, and other merchandise make for fantastic mementos. You can also find cheering goods like towels, flags, and noise makers to join in the lively atmosphere of the game.
Online Streaming Options for Overseas Fans
If you’re unable to attend a game in person, there are various online streaming options available for overseas fans to watch Japanese baseball.
Pacific League TV
Pacific League TV offers a subscription service that allows you to watch all Pacific League regular-season games, including farm games and interleague games. However, starting from the 2023 season, this service is no longer available from Europe. It provides comprehensive coverage of Pacific League teams, such as the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks.
Toratele
For fans of the Hanshin Tigers, Toratele offers a subscription service to watch all home games, home farm games, and road games against the Yomiuri Giants. This service provides an affordable option to catch all the Tigers’ action throughout the season.
Giants Live Stream
Giants Live Stream allows fans to watch Yomiuri Giants home games, as well as road games against the Hanshin Tigers and Yokohama DeNA Baystars. For supporters of the Giants, this streaming service provides access to their favorite team’s matches.
Rising Sun TV
Rising Sun TV is a comprehensive streaming service that offers a range of Japanese TV channels, including J-Sports cable channels. While it is not exclusively dedicated to baseball, it usually broadcasts several NPB games every day. The service offers different subscription plans, allowing fans to choose the option that best suits their viewing preferences.
NPB Games on Japanese TV
Japanese TV plays a significant role in broadcasting NPB games, providing fans with comprehensive coverage of their favorite teams.
TVer: Free Video Distribution Service
TVer is a popular free video distribution service in Japan, jointly provided by commercial TV stations. It offers programs from major Japanese TV stations, including Nippon Television, TV Asahi, TBS, TV Tokyo, and Fuji TV. While TVer does not provide live broadcasts, it offers detailed game highlights and news programs, allowing fans to stay updated on Japanese professional baseball.
Nico Nico Douga’s Professional Baseball Channel
Nico Nico Douga, a leading video sharing site in Japan, features a dedicated professional baseball channel. Accessible via VPN, this channel allows fans to watch all games hosted by the Yokohama DeNA Baystars. While some games may require a paid membership for priority access, the channel provides an alternative option for catching Baystars’ games.
Hulu: Japanese Video Distribution Service
Hulu, a popular video distribution service in Japan, offers sports content, including dramatic baseball coverage. By accessing Hulu via VPN, fans can watch games hosted by the Tokyo Yomiuri Giants. Hulu provides a two-week free trial period, allowing fans to enjoy Japanese professional baseball for free during this period.
Watching All NPB Games for a Fee
If you’re truly dedicated to watching all NPB games, several paid video distribution services offer comprehensive coverage of Japanese professional baseball.
SKY PerfecTV!: Delivering All Professional Baseball Games
SKY PerfecTV! is a comprehensive satellite broadcasting service that allows fans to watch all 12 Japanese professional baseball teams. The SKY PerfecTV! Pro Baseball Set provides access to not only official games but also open games, Climax Series, and even official farm games. This service is ideal for avid fans who want to closely follow all aspects of Japanese professional baseball.
DAZN: Sports Video Distribution Service
DAZN is a widely recognized sports video distribution service operating in over 200 countries and regions worldwide. Joining the Japanese version of DAZN allows fans to watch games of 11 NPB teams, excluding the Hiroshima Toyo Carp. Alongside baseball, DAZN offers coverage of various other sports like J-League football and tennis.
Other Viewing Methods and Notes
In addition to the aforementioned options, there are alternative ways to watch Japanese baseball. However, it’s important to note the legality and reliability of these methods.
YouTube: Unofficial Baseball Videos
YouTube is a popular platform for finding unofficial baseball videos in Japan. By searching for “#プロ野球” (Japanese for “professional baseball”), fans can discover a plethora of videos related to Japanese baseball. Channels like @dulabhai and @jsports_yakyu offer highlights from recent matches, providing an alternative way to catch up on the action.
Illegal Livestreams: Not Recommended
While there may be illegal livestreams available on the internet, it’s important to avoid supporting such activities. These unauthorized streams infringe upon copyright laws and may lead to legal consequences. To ensure a legal and reliable viewing experience, it’s best to utilize officially licensed streaming services or TV broadcasts.
VPN Connection: Accessing Japanese Content Safely
To access Japanese websites, TV broadcasts, and online streaming services from overseas, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection is often necessary. VPNs provide a secure and encrypted connection, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions and access content as if you were in Japan. It’s essential to choose a reputable VPN provider and follow their instructions to ensure a safe and reliable connection.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Thrill of Japanese Baseball
Watching a baseball game in Japan is an experience that should not be missed by any fan of the sport. The rich history, passionate fans, and electrifying atmosphere make Japanese baseball truly unique. Whether you choose to attend a game in person or utilize online streaming options, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Japanese baseball and savor every moment of the thrilling action.
From the iconic Tokyo Dome to the historic Koshien Stadium, the passion and excitement of Japanese baseball await you. So grab your tickets, join the cheers, and get ready for an unforgettable baseball experience in the Land of the Rising Sun!
