Sports in Fukuoka
Fukuoka is home to national-level teams in a variety of sports, and was a contender to host the 2016 Olympic Games! For those who want to get involved, there are community groups for almost any sport in the vicinity of the school.
Fukuoka’s Hawks baseball team regularly wins national championships, and their giant stadium with retractable roof is one of the most amazing in Japan – well worth a visit! The local football team, Avispa, currently plays in division 2 but are looking to move back to division 1, so will be happy for your support. For basketball, the newly formed Rizing Fukuoka play in Japan’s relatively young professional league.
For more traditionally Japanese sports, Fukuoka hosts one of the biggest sumo tournaments, the Kyushu Basho, every November. Tickets aren’t too pricey, and it’s a great chance to see all your favourite wrestlers in the flesh!
Fukuoka also has some famous marathons, including the International Open Marathon Championships, every December, and the Kyushu Ekiden, the world’s longest relay race.
Sports – Our Favourites
- Enjoy watching…
1. Baseball: Softbank Hawks
2. Football: Avispa
5. Fukuoka International Open Marathon
- Or get involved…
6. Various youth sports groups
7. Go swimming
8. Play futsal
