Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium — Attraction in Tokyo

If you're a first-time visitor in Japan, you have to go to a baseball game! Meiji Jingu is an open-air baseball field dating back to 1926, and is home to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Whilst the Swallows are not as competitive as other teams like the Giants and Tigers, the Swallows have a lot of heart, and an army of loyal fans. The stadium has a great vibe; with lots of unique chants, singing, games, and the 'umbrella dance'; a unique tradition with Swallows fans. It's not something you want to miss.

I saw two games. On my first game, I sat near first base. For my second game, I sat in the outfield. If you're looking for a real fan experience, I'd recommend sitting in the outfield, though the fans of both teams are separated so make sure you're sat in the right section. Otherwise the seats near first base was also good. Everyone still did the umbrella dance, and the view of the game was better. Though the seats were more expensive. Generally, I found the seats in both places were quite tight and small, so be aware that you might be shoulder to shoulder.

You can buy your tickets online via the Yakult Swallows website, though I had some issues buying my tickets via my mobile. I was also able to buy tickets directly at the ticket office outside Meiji Jingu.

The stadium has a lot of affordable food, including karaage chicken, takoyaki, ramen, hot dogs, and more. There were so many amazing vendors, there's truly something for everyone. You can buy drinks at the food vendors and at vending machines around the stadium, but you can also get draft beers, ice cream, and soda from your seats. Regularly roaming vendors will come around offering drinks. If you raise your hand, they will serve you. The roaming vendors can take contactless payments if you don't have cash.

Unlike some other baseball fields like the Tokyo Dome, Meiji Jingu does not have a roof. There are some seats that are sheltered, but most of the seats are open to the elements. If you're going to the match on a rainy day, make sure to bring a coat.

If you're looking for a fun way to spend the evening, and if you're looking to immerse yourself in local sporting culture, make sure watch a game down Meiji Jingu...

What a beautiful place with passionate fans and kind Stadium staff. It is a historic stadium and it is just perfect, but not a modern luxurious place at all. The fans love if you cheer and get into it so we bought the thunder sticks for $7 on the way in. As the players come on the field for the first they throw autographed squishy baseballs to the crowd and - crazy times - I caught one from their star 3rd baseman Murakami... while holding a spam ngiri (!) and beef Ramen in my other hand from the concession stand. Fortunately, I had already finished the beer I bought from a cute beer girl! Highly recommend sitting in the bleachers for at least a few innings. Swallows 4, Carp 2. I...

Great place to watch a baseball game. For international visitors you can order your tickets online on the home teams website and pick them up from the will call window. It was so easy. Great to watch a game of Japanese Baseball. The Swallows umbrella dance was great everytime they scored and all the locals are so friendly some even lent us their umbrellas for the dance. There are girls running around the stadium with kegs on their backs so there is no need to get up for a drink. The food is great. Japanese street food like takoyaki and sausages. All delicious and very reasonably priced. Get your self some Swallows merchandise and head over for a game. Would highly...