When it comes to sports, Japan has a rich history, and its residents are a sport-loving nation. The country is also known for hosting some of the most significant sports events; the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics is the latest feather in its cap.
The country also hosted the Rugby World Cup in 2019, Soccer World Cup in 2002, Olympics in 1972 and 1964, and Winter Olympics in 1998. The country was also set to host the FIFA World Cup 2021 but could not materialise the plan due to the pandemic.
Besides hosting various sporting events, there are various popular sports in the country. Continue reading if you want to learn about Japan’s five most popular sports.
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Baseball In Japan
Baseball may be the US national sport but is immensely popular in Japan. The sport was first introduced to Japan in 1872. The first professional baseball league was formed in 1936. Over the years, the trend of playing baseball has gained so much traction in the country that it has become the most popular sport in Japan. The league has also expanded with time and comprises a total of 12 teams today.
One interesting aspect that many people are unaware of is that Japanese baseball differs from American baseball in a few aspects. For instance, the ball used in Japan is smaller in size, and so are the strike zone and the playing field.
In a regular Japanese baseball league season, the games are limited to 12 innings, while for the playoffs, the limit is 15. In addition to the Japanese baseball league, the country also has highly competitive minor, semi-pro, and university leagues, with a huge fan base.
Soccer In Japan
Soccer (known as sakkā) is inarguably the world’s most popular sport, with billions of followers worldwide. Thus it is not surprising that the Japanese are also very fond of the sport.
Japan’s men’s football team played in the World Cup for the first time in 1998, and since then, it has participated in every World Cup and has made it to the last 16 in the previous three tournaments.
While the men have proven their mettle on numerous occasions, the women’s team is not behind either. The country’s women’s national football team won the FIFA World Cup in 2011 and became the first Asian team to have won the title. The team reached the finals in the next event but lost to the USA.
There is considerable focus on nurturing talent in the country as Japan has a strong infrastructure on the domestic front. The Professional Football League has three tiers, whereby the top-tier consists of 20 teams.
Sumo Wrestling In Japan
It’s an inconceivable notion to compile a list of the most popular sports in Japan and not mention it’s national sport, Sumo Wrestling.
The historic sport has been around since the 17th century when the first professional tournament happened in 1684 in Tokyo. While it is played professionally, it is also played extensively on a domestic level for recreational purposes.
Tennis In Japan
Next on our list is tennis. A sport that had very humble beginnings in the 1870s has now risen to become one of the most popular sports in the country.
When the Japanese began to start taking an interest in tennis in 1878, there were only five tennis courts that were originally intended for foreigners only. Initially, the locals deemed the production of tennis balls expensive and used less expensive balls, which were also softer. Tennis played with these balls was called soft tennis.
Japanese do not only like tennis as a spectator sport but also like to play it. The first Olympic tennis won by Japan was in 1920. This was followed by the establishment of the Japan Tennis Association (JTA) in 1922. Japanese top player Kei Nishikori was the first Japanese to represent an Asian in the tennis grand slam finals.
Golf In Japan
Last but not least, we have golf on the list. While the sport was first introduced to western society, it found its way to Japan during the Meiji Restoration from 1868 to 1912. The first golf club in the country was opened in 1903 at Mount Rokko and called the Kobe Gold, and what was only a 9-hole course later expanded and became 18 holes. The initial golf courses were reserved for the elite only.
In 1914, the Tokyo Golf Club was formed for the native residents. The sports continued to gain popularity, and in 1924, the Japanese Golf Association was formed when the seven existing golf clubs came together to form an alliance.
Things changed after World War II when the class system was demolished, and locals had access to the golf courses, further increasing its popularity. Today Japan is home to more than 2500 golf courses where men and women both like to play their favourite sport.
Horse Racing In Japan
Would you rather know about horse racing in Japan? – Click here for our dedicated Japan horse racing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest sport in Japan?
Japan’s love affair with baseball is unrivalled, making it arguably the most popular sport in the country. This affection extends from professional leagues to high school tournaments, culminating in the highly anticipated national tournaments at Koshien Stadium, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm nationwide.
Which Japanese most popular sport captures the essence of traditional Japanese culture?
Sumo wrestling, deeply embedded in Japan’s cultural and religious traditions, stands as the quintessential traditional sport. With a history that spans over 1,500 years, Sumo is not just a sport but a living testament to Japan’s rich heritage, enjoyed by fans in six major tournaments throughout the year.
Beyond baseball, which sports are considered Japan’s most popular?
Apart from baseball, association football and golf hold significant popularity in Japan. The J.League has seen rapid growth, drawing international stars and fostering local talent, while golf enjoys a vast landscape of over 2,000 courses, catering to enthusiasts and professionals alike.
How has football contributed to Japan’s international sporting recognition?
Football, or association football as it is known in Japan, has been a significant contributor to the country’s international sporting achievements. The Japanese national teams, both men’s and women’s, have gained international acclaim through their performances in FIFA World Cups and Olympic Games, underscoring the sport’s pivotal role in Japan’s sporting landscape.
What emerging sports are gaining popularity among the Japanese youth?
Basketball and tennis are increasingly popular sports among Japanese youth. The success of Japanese players in the NBA and major international tennis tournaments has inspired a generation of young athletes. Schools and universities across Japan actively participate in these sports, further highlighting their growing popularity.
How is Japan integrating traditional sports with modern athletic disciplines?
Japan seamlessly blends its rich tradition of martial arts, such as Judo and Karate, with modern sports disciplines, creating a unique sports culture that respects heritage while embracing global trends. Judo, in particular, has gained international recognition as an Olympic sport, reflecting Japan’s influence on the global sports stage.
Can visitors experience Japan’s most popular sports firsthand?
Visitors to Japan have numerous opportunities to experience the nation’s favourite sports, from watching a live Sumo tournament to attending a J.League football match or exploring the lush greens of a golf course. These experiences offer a deep dive into Japan’s diverse and vibrant sports culture.
