Japan is a country where ancient tradition and new technology coexist — and nowhere more so than in its vibrant and varied sporting life.

For sports-loving visitors, Japan has far more to see than Tokyo and Osaka.

From sacred sumo temples and ancient baseball stadiums to championship ski slopes and glittering diving pools, there’s something here for every type of enthusiast or competitor.

We’ve picked and listed five unforgettable sports destinations in Japan that every sports-loving traveler should consider adding to their itinerary. There you can definitely feel the exciting vibe of the local sports scene which you would not want to miss!

Ryogoku Kokugikan (Tokyo)

Our first choice is Ryogoku Kokugikan. Built in 1984, Kokugikan is Tokyo’s premier sumo arena and If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Japanese tradition, this is a great place to start. The arena is located in Tokyo’s historical Shitamachi area by the Sumida-Gawa River and is the heart of Japan’s national sport.

Here, you can witness the intensity of a sumo match, complete with ceremonial rituals, booming chants, and dramatic face-offs between wrestlers weighing over 300 pounds.

The arena hosts three of the six annual Grand Sumo Tournaments (in January, May, and September). Tickets range from affordable general admission seats to luxurious ringside spots—though be warned, you may get showered with salt or even a falling wrestler! You can learn about the history and tradition of the sports at Sumo Museum located nearby and even taste a speciality hotpot Chanko eaten amongst sumo wrestlers in restaurants in the area.

Tokyo Dome (Tokyo)

Also known as “The Big Egg,” Tokyo Dome is where all baseball fans should go when visiting Japan because baseball is a national obsession in Japan, and a visit to Tokyo Dome provides more than just a game—it’s a cultural event. One can also claim that Japan’s pro baseball (NPB) is one of the best, proven by Japan’s three time victory at World Baseball Classics. There are plenty of local bookmakers who offer odds for NPB if you would like to add some extra excitement.

The dome is the home to the Yomiuri Giants, Japan’s equivalent to the New York Yankees; the atmosphere is electric, fans wave balloons, sing elaborate chants, and vendors are everywhere selling bento boxes and beer. The stadium also houses the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn all about the history and passion surrounding baseball.

The dome does not offer just baseball; the surrounding Dome City entertainment complex has plenty to offer – there are amusement rides, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to spend a whole day.

Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Nishinomiya, Hyogo)

There are few sporting events in Japan that capture the national spirit quite like the National High School Baseball Championship, which is held every summer at Koshien Stadium. This stadium, which was opened in 1924, is the oldest stadium still in use in Japan and is considered a sacred ground for amateur baseball.

Koshien is also the home of the Hanshin Tigers, who boast some of the most loyal and passionate fans in Japan. Expect a carnival-like atmosphere of balloons, loud cheering, and loud chants. Watching a Tigers game at Koshien has the feel, in degree of intensity, of watching a soccer match in South America.

More than just watching a game, going to Koshien is a true experience of the heart and soul of Japanese sports culture. It will give you a true sense of what it means to be a fan in Japan.

Hakuba Happo-One (Nagano)

Japan is famous for its incredible snow, with Niseko leading the way — but it is not the only ski resort that Japan has to offer. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba Happo-One gained international fame as a venue for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Today, it remains one of Japan’s premier destinations for winter sports, offering over 200 runs across 10 different ski areas.

But Hakuba is more than just a winter spot. In the summer, the region transforms into a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and trail running, with stunning alpine views that rival those in Switzerland.

For the adventurous, there’s paragliding, river rafting, and guided backcountry tours. Hakuba is truly a four-season outdoor playground. It’s a place where you can challenge yourself physically and connect with nature in a profound way.

Ishigaki Island (Okinawa)

For those who love tropical sea and marine sports, nothing beats Ishigaki Island in Okinawa. Located in the Yaeyama archipelago, this is a divers’ paradise offering some of Japan’s best underwater environments, particularly the “Manta Scramble,” where encounters with giant manta rays are almost guaranteed. Stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and snorkeling tours are also widely available, and you’ll often find English-speaking guides.

Ishigaki is a laid-back island vibe, subtropical climate, and unique Ryukyuan culture. It’s the perfect place to escape the stress of Japan’s large cities and just unwind.

Japan’s sports landscape is strikingly diverse, reflecting the geography and culture of the nation. From snow-capped mountains to sun-kissed beaches, ancient custom to cutting-edge extreme sports, there is something for every interest. These six places truly showcase that diversity.

So, pack your gear, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable trip through Japan. Sports here are not just entertainment; they’re a part of the country’s heart and soul. You’re in for an experience that’s as enriching as it is exciting.