Meiji Jingu Stadium Tokyo
Experience the electric atmosphere of Japanese baseball at the historic Meiji Jingu Stadium, home of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the summer heat
Meiji Jingu Stadium Tokyo
Best Time
Escape the summer heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the electric atmosphere of Japanese baseball at the historic Meiji Jingu Stadium, home of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.
"The vibe sure is different. Will definitely come back!"
🎯 Grab Outfield Seats
Outfield seats offer a great view and often shade, especially for evening games.
☔ Be Ready for Rain
Games can be cancelled due to heavy rain, so check the forecast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 7th Inning Stretch
Throughout the stadium
Join the crowd in a unified cheer and dance during the 7th inning. It's a quintessential Japanese baseball experience!
Yakult Swallows Game
Meiji Jingu Stadium
Experience the passion of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, one of Japan's oldest baseball teams.
Outfield Seating
Outfield sections
Enjoy a more relaxed vibe and potential shade, especially for evening games. A great spot for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Baseball Vibe
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab Outfield Seats
Outfield seats offer a great view and often shade, especially for evening games.
☔ Be Ready for Rain
Games can be cancelled due to heavy rain, so check the forecast.
🍻 Cheap Beer & Snacks
Enjoy affordable drinks and food options throughout the stadium.
🎶 Join the Cheers
Don't be shy! Participate in the organized cheers and dances, especially during the 7th inning.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab Outfield Seats
Outfield seats offer a great view and often shade, especially for evening games.
☔ Be Ready for Rain
Games can be cancelled due to heavy rain, so check the forecast.
🍻 Cheap Beer & Snacks
Enjoy affordable drinks and food options throughout the stadium.
🎶 Join the Cheers
Don't be shy! Participate in the organized cheers and dances, especially during the 7th inning.
☂️ Bring Your Umbrella
Use your umbrella for cheering when the Swallows score a run!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the energetic atmosphere and unique cultural experience of attending a baseball game at Meiji Jingu Stadium. The affordable food and drinks, along with the communal cheering traditions, are major highlights. Some note that the stadium's older amenities, like cramped seating, are a trade-off for its historic charm and vibrant vibe.
"Had an incredible time here despite it being a day game and sitting through 92 degree Fahrenheit and direct sun exposure 🥵 splurged for the best seats, but am convinced there’s not a bad seat in the house. Inexpensive and plentiful food and drink options. Highly recommend!"
Hayley Diamond
"We had a great time! Outfield seats were comfy and in the shade by the 2nd inning (left field, 6pm game). Food smelled amazing. Midgame fireworks for no reason were a fun surprise!"
Azizah Mathly
"I'd say this stadium has a very different feel with Tokyo Dome. Watching a baseball game here was fun and a new experience for me since I'm usually at the Tokyo Dome, which is a closed stadium.
Anyway, the vibe sure is different.
I'm just thankful that the weather on the day we watched the game was fine. I heard games can be cancelled when the rain gets harsh.
Will definitely come back 🤙🏽🤙🏽"
Kat Sabio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meiji Jingu Stadium is easily accessible via public transport. The closest stations are JR Harajuku Station (Yamanote Line) and Meiji-jingumae 'Harajuku' Station (Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines). From these stations, it's a short walk to the stadium.
Yes, the stadium is located near popular spots like Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku's Takeshita Street, and Omotesando. You can easily combine a baseball game with visits to these areas.
While it's a bit of a walk, you can reach Meiji Jingu Stadium from Shibuya. It's approximately a 20-30 minute walk, offering a chance to see more of the city.
Taking the train to Harajuku Station is highly recommended to avoid traffic and parking hassles. It's a direct and convenient route for most visitors.
Parking is generally limited and not recommended due to the stadium's central location and accessibility via public transport. It's best to rely on trains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the seat location, but they are generally considered inexpensive. Outfield seats are particularly affordable, and even premium seats are reasonably priced compared to other major league stadiums.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance, at convenience stores in Japan, or at the stadium on game day. Buying in advance is recommended for popular games.
Yes, there are various seating options, including outfield seats, infield seats, and premium 'SS' seats. The 'SS' seats offer a close-up view but might not provide the best overall match viewing angle.
Stadium hours are typically tied to game schedules. Gates usually open 1-2 hours before the game starts. It's best to check the official Tokyo Yakult Swallows schedule for specific timings.
Yes, you can usually enter the stadium even if you arrive late, but you might miss some of the game. It's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before the game starts to soak in the atmosphere.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is incredibly energetic and family-friendly. Expect enthusiastic cheering, organized fan chants, and a vibrant community feel, especially during the 7th inning stretch.
You'll find a variety of food and drink options, including classic stadium fare and Japanese specialties. Beers are known to be cheap and plentiful.
Absolutely! The experience is about more than just the game. The energy, the food, the communal cheering, and the unique Japanese baseball culture make it a memorable event for everyone.
Consider bringing an umbrella for cheering, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for day games. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.
A notable tradition is the coordinated cheering and dancing during the 7th inning stretch, often involving team-specific songs and props like umbrellas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant stadium atmosphere, the passionate fans, and the action on the field. The outfield offers a good vantage point for wide shots, while closer seats let you get shots of the players.
Yes, phone cameras and other personal recording devices are generally allowed for non-commercial use. Be mindful of other spectators and avoid obstructing views.
While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the stadium's official policy if you plan on extensive filming.
Focus on capturing the energy of the crowd, the unique cheering traditions, the players in action, and the overall stadium architecture. The contrast between the historic stadium and modern baseball is also a great subject.
Yes, the stadium's atmosphere and the surrounding areas like Meiji Jingu Shrine offer great opportunities for cinematic travel content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the game, the proximity to Meiji Jingu Shrine and Harajuku provides opportunities for family-friendly exploration before or after the match. The sheer excitement of the crowd and the unique Japanese baseball traditions will create lasting memories for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your stadium visit with free attractions nearby, such as exploring the grounds of Meiji Jingu Shrine or people-watching in Harajuku. Utilizing Tokyo's efficient public transport system, like the JR Yamanote Line, is also cost-effective for getting to and from the stadium.
✈️ Day-Trippers
Consider purchasing tickets in advance if your visit is during peak season or for a popular matchup to ensure you get good seats. The stadium's accessibility via public transport means you won't waste precious time navigating traffic. It's a perfect way to experience local Tokyo life and create a memorable highlight for your trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Charm of Meiji Jingu Stadium
Despite its age, the stadium remains the home of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, a professional baseball team founded in 1950. The team's connection to the stadium is deep, and attending a Swallows game is a quintessential Tokyo experience. The stadium's open-air nature means games can be subject to weather cancellations, adding a touch of unpredictability to the experience.
Visitors often note the stadium's unique vibe, which is a blend of tradition and modern baseball fandom. While some amenities might feel dated, like cramped hallways and smaller seats, the overall atmosphere and the passion of the fans more than compensate. It's a place where history meets the thrill of contemporary Japanese baseball.
Experiencing Japanese Baseball Culture
The 7th inning stretch is a highlight, where the entire stadium often erupts in a unified song and dance, a tradition that captivates both locals and tourists. Fans are encouraged to participate, making it a truly communal experience. Bringing an umbrella to wave when the home team scores is another fun tradition.
Food and drink are also a big part of the experience. You can find a variety of snacks and beverages, with beers being notably affordable. The overall atmosphere is family-friendly and celebratory, making it a fantastic way to spend an evening or afternoon in Tokyo, even for those new to baseball.
Beyond the Game: Nearby Attractions
Harajuku, famous for its unique street style and Takeshita Street, is also within easy reach. Here, you can explore quirky shops, indulge in colorful street food like candied strawberries, and experience Tokyo's youth culture. The upscale shopping district of Omotesando, often referred to as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, is another nearby option for those interested in fashion and architecture.
For those looking for a different kind of evening entertainment, the lively Kabukicho district in Shinjuku, known for its entertainment, dining, and nightlife, is also accessible. This proximity allows visitors to craft a diverse itinerary, blending cultural exploration, shopping, and the excitement of a live baseball game.
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