Why Japanese Baseball Cities & Teams Itinerary What's Included Why Travel With Us Pricing FAQs

The Home Run Travel Club is excited to announce our next big adventure to one of the most passionate baseball nations on the planet: Japan.

Japanese baseball has always been world-class, and in recent years it’s had even more eyes on it thanks to the rise of its MLB stars and the country’s recent triumph in the World Baseball Classic. The atmosphere is unreal – full-voice chanting, organised cheering sections, drums, banners, and food that’s genuinely part of the experience. A game in Japan feels completely different to anything in the States.

This isn't a standard package holiday. It's a fully hosted tour, planned and led in person by a fellow British baseball fan who wants to share the very best of Japan with you. To see exactly how our tours work, take a look at the write-ups from our past adventures on the Home Run Travel blog.

Beyond the baseball, Japan delivers the full package – iconic culture, historic temples, neon city nights, incredible food, and the best rail system in the world. Every stop brings a totally different vibe, which is exactly what makes this tour so special.

The tour is still in the early stages but we expect it to run from mid May to early June 2027. Our provisional route includes Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima, with indirect flights, handpicked hotels, rail travel between cities and multiple games included.

Please note: we do not yet know which teams or ballparks will feature, but the aim is to include a minimum of 5 games across the trip.

Book Your Spot on the Japan Tour 2027

Why Japanese Baseball Is Unlike Anything Else

If you've only ever watched baseball in the United States, prepare for something completely different.

Japanese baseball combines incredible skill on the field with traditions and atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world. Every game feels like an event, with organised cheering sections, brass bands, unique stadium food and passionate supporters creating an unforgettable experience from first pitch to last.

Throughout the tour you'll experience many of the things that make NPB so special, including:

Organised Cheering Sections

Every team has its own Ōendan – organised cheering squads who lead coordinated chants with trumpets and taiko drums. Home and away fans respectfully take turns cheering throughout the game, creating one of the most unique atmospheres in world baseball.

Future Stars

Japanese baseball has produced stars including Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto. You could be watching the next Japanese superstar before the rest of the baseball world discovers them.

Incredible Stadium Food

Forget hot dogs and nachos. Japanese ballparks are famous for their incredible food, from regional specialities to player bento boxes inspired by your favourite stars and their hometowns. Eating at the game is an experience in itself.

Unique Baseball Traditions

From the Swallows' famous umbrella celebrations to the colourful jet balloon releases seen at many Japanese ballparks, NPB is full of traditions you simply won't experience anywhere else. Every club has its own unique customs, making every game a memorable experience.

Ride the Shinkansen

Travel between cities aboard Japan's world-famous bullet trains, reaching speeds of up to 200mph while enjoying one of the most efficient rail networks on Earth.

Baseball & Beyond

This isn't just a baseball trip. Between games you'll explore some of Japan's most fascinating cities, visiting famous temples, castles, historic districts, incredible food markets and unforgettable cultural landmarks.

A Glimpse of What Awaits in Japan

Explore the four cities we are building into our Japan tour – culture, food, atmosphere and some of the most passionate baseball scenes in the world.

*We are still waiting on the NPB schedule to be released but we have provided information on the teams we could possibly see on our route.

Tokyo Region

Tokyo is the beating heart of modern Japan with neon nights, world-class food and two of the loudest, most energetic baseball atmospheres anywhere. From the streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya to the temples of Asakusa, the city blends old and new in a way that always feels exciting.

Teams in Tokyo Region

Yomiuri Giants • Tokyo Dome

The Giants are Japan's most successful club, with a record 22 Japan Series titles. Their iconic home, the Tokyo Dome, is affectionately nicknamed "The Big Egg" and is expected to be replaced in the coming years. The stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments, including Shohei Ohtani famously hitting a ball through the roof during an international game.

Tokyo Yakult Swallows • Meiji Jingu Stadium

The Swallows have won six Japan Series titles and call historic Meiji Jingu Stadium home, one of Japan's most iconic ballparks. The club is famous for its colourful umbrella celebrations during the 7th inning, while superstar Munetaka Murakami became one of Japan's greatest sluggers before making the move to the White Sox.

Yokohama DeNA BayStars • Yokohama Stadium

Nestled in the heart of Yokohama, just moments from the waterfront and vibrant Chinatown, Yokohama Stadium is one of Japan's most scenic ballparks. The BayStars have won two Japan Series titles, while legendary closer Kazuhiro Sasaki later became an MLB star with the Seattle Mariners, winning AL Rookie of the Year in 2000.

Chiba Lotte Marines • ZOZO Marine Stadium

Home to four-time Japan Series champions the Chiba Lotte Marines, ZOZO Marine Stadium is best known internationally as the former home of pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, who threw a perfect game in 2022 before later making the move to MLB. Its bayside location also makes it one of Japan's most unique ballparks.

Saitama Seibu Lions • Belluna Dome

The Lions are one of Japan's most successful clubs with 13 Japan Series titles, most of them coming during a dominant run through the 1980s and 90s. Daisuke Matsuzaka and Kazuo Matsui both moved from Seibu to MLB, starring for the Red Sox and Mets respectively.

Tokyo skyline
Kyoto

Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. With ancient temples, peaceful gardens, tea houses and narrow lanes, it offers a slower pace and a very different feel to the big cities on the tour. Fushimi Inari's torii gates and the old streets of Gion are the kind of places that stick in the memory long after you get home.

Kyoto temple
Osaka

Osaka is bold, lively and full of character. Known for its food scene, bright lights and busy nightlife, it is the perfect final stop on the tour. Dotonbori's canal, street food and bars give the city a real end of tour feel before we head home.

Teams in Osaka

Orix Buffaloes • Kyocera Dome Osaka

The Buffaloes are five-time Japan Series champions and have produced some of Japan's greatest talent. Ichiro Suzuki launched his legendary career in Osaka, while Yoshinobu Yamamoto dominated the NPB before making the move to the Dodgers.

Hanshin Tigers • Koshien Stadium

The Tigers are one of Japan's most famous clubs with a huge nationwide following, despite only having won 2 Japan Series titles. They play at Koshien Stadium, the oldest ballpark in Japan and a historic venue that once hosted the touring All American team featuring Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Koshien is also home to Japan’s iconic high school baseball tournaments, which attract massive crowds and national attention every year.

Osaka canal at night
Hiroshima

Hiroshima blends moving history with a warm, friendly local feel. The riverside walks and Peace Memorial Park give the city a reflective side, while nearby Miyajima Island is one of the most scenic spots in Japan. On game days, the whole city seems to turn red.

Team in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Toyo Carp • MAZDA Zoom Zoom Stadium Hiroshima

The Carp have won three Japan Series titles and are renowned for having some of the most passionate and loyal supporters in Japanese baseball. MLB fans will recognise the names of Kenta Maeda and Seiya Suzuki, who both began their careers in Hiroshima before making successful moves to the major leagues.

Hiroshima stadium

Your Japan Itinerary

A provisional day-by-day look at the tour – final game dates and matchups will be confirmed once the official 2027 NPB schedule is released.

Day 1
Flight from London to Tokyo
Day 2
Arrive in Tokyo (5-night stay)
Day 3
Free time – Game 1, NPB game in Tokyo Region
Day 4
Game 2, NPB game in Tokyo Region
Day 5
Free day to explore Tokyo
Day 6
Game 3, NPB game in Tokyo Region
Day 7
Bullet train to Kyoto (2-night stay)
Day 8
Free day to explore Kyoto
Day 9
Train to Osaka (2-night stay)
Day 10
Game 4, NPB game in Osaka Region
Day 11
Train to Hiroshima (2-night stay)
Day 12
Game 5, NPB game in Hiroshima
Day 13
Train back to Tokyo (1-night stay)
Day 14
Return flight to London

This itinerary is provisional and will be finalised once the official 2027 NPB schedule is released. Final travel dates are expected to fall between mid-May and the first week of June 2027. Game dates, times and matchups will be confirmed once fixtures are published. Free time is included in each city to explore independently. The advertised tour price is guaranteed for confirmed bookings made before the NPB schedule is released – any remaining places may be repriced afterwards, based on the flight and accommodation costs available at that time.

View the Full Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Flight to Tokyo

Our Japan adventure begins with our international flight from London to Tokyo. Sit back, relax, and get ready for two unforgettable weeks of baseball, culture, and exploration across Japan.

Day 2 – Arrive in Tokyo (5-night stay)

On arrival in Tokyo, we'll transfer into the city and check into our hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure, giving you time to stretch your legs, explore the neighbourhood, or simply take in the buzz of one of the world's great cities.

Day 3 – Tokyo & Game 1

Today includes a guided tour of the historic Asakusa district, one of Tokyo's most traditional neighbourhoods. Highlights include Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Street, and the surrounding old-town streets that showcase a different side of the city. In the evening, we attend Game 1, our first taste of Japanese professional baseball. Expect organised chanting, passionate fans, and a truly unique ballpark atmosphere.

Day 4 – Tokyo & Game 2

Another day to enjoy Tokyo, with endless options including shopping in Shibuya, exploring Asakusa, or visiting one of the city's many museums. Later, we return to the ballpark for Game 2, allowing you to see a different matchup or experience the same stadium from a new perspective.

Day 5 – Tokyo Free Day

A full free day to explore Tokyo in more depth. This is the perfect opportunity for sightseeing, day trips, or simply soaking up everyday life in Japan. Optional group activities and recommendations will be provided.

Day 6 – Tokyo & Game 3

Our final day in Tokyo includes Game 3 of the tour, rounding off our time in the capital with another unforgettable night of baseball before we move on to the cultural heart of Japan.

Day 7 – Bullet Train to Kyoto (2-night stay)

This morning we board the iconic Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. After checking into our hotel, the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Suggested areas include Gion, Higashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market, offering a blend of traditional streets, historic sites, and local food culture.

Day 8 – Kyoto Free Day

A full day at leisure to explore Kyoto. You may wish to visit iconic sights such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, or Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This is your chance to experience Kyoto at your own pace, with plenty of recommendations provided throughout the trip.

Day 9 – Train to Osaka (2-night stay)

We travel by train to Osaka, a city known for its food scene, nightlife, and baseball passion. After arrival, you will have free time to explore areas such as Umeda, Dotonbori, and Osaka Castle.

Day 10 – Osaka & Game 4

A free day to explore Osaka or venture further afield. Optional day trips include Nara Deer Park or Kobe, both easily accessible by train. We return in time for Game 4 in the evening.

Day 11 – Train to Hiroshima (2-night stay)

We travel to Hiroshima and check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city at your own pace, including the Peace Memorial Park and surrounding areas.

Day 12 – Hiroshima & Game 5

A full day to explore Hiroshima and its surroundings. You may wish to visit Miyajima Island and the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating Torii Gate, as well as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Later, we attend Game 5 at the Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium, home of the Carp, rounding off our on-the-ground baseball experiences in Japan.

Day 13 – Train to Tokyo (1-night stay)

We return to Tokyo by bullet train for our final night in Japan, bringing our on-the-ground baseball experiences to a close before the journey home.

Day 14 – Return Flight to London

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flight to the UK, bringing an extraordinary Japan baseball adventure to a close.

What's Included

Included in your package

Return international flights from the UK in Economy Class (23kg baggage included)

Centrally located hotel accommodation throughout, minimum 4-star standard, room only

Five Japanese professional baseball game tickets

Guided sightseeing tours, including a Tokyo city tour of the historic Asakusa area

Airport transfers on arrival and departure

Rail travel between all cities, including bullet train journeys

Public Transportation Card (ICOCA), including 9,500 JPY pre-loaded travel credit and a 500 JPY non-consumable card deposit per person

On-site UK tour host throughout the trip

Free time in each city to explore at your own pace

ABTA and ATOL protection for complete peace of mind

Not included

- Daily meals

- Hotel resort or city taxes, where applicable

- Travel insurance or expenses of a personal nature (minibar, phone calls, laundry, etc.)

- Drinks, personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities

Optional extras

- Flight upgrades to Premium Economy, Business, or First Class

- Regional flight connections within the UK

- Pre-tour or post-tour extensions, including additional nights or destinations

Meet Your Host

Harry, director of Home Run Travel

Harry – Founder & Director, Home Run Travel

Hi, I'm Harry - the man behind Home Run Travel.

Six years ago I set up my travel agency, Travelstylers. A couple of years later, I combined my passion for travel with my love of baseball by creating the kind of tour I'd always wanted to experience myself - visiting multiple ballparks, exploring incredible cities and travelling with fellow baseball fans from across the UK.

That idea became Home Run Travel.

Since our first East Coast tour in 2023, we've taken groups to the West Coast, the Midwest, Toronto and Houston for the World Baseball Classic, sharing unforgettable games and iconic ballparks along the way.

Japan feels like the natural next step and, if I'm honest, it's the tour I've been most excited to plan. I hope you'll join us.

Why Travel With Home Run Travel?

Our tours are designed by baseball fans, for baseball fans.

Unlike travelling independently, everything has been carefully planned so you can simply enjoy the experience while we take care of the logistics.

Your tour includes:

On-site Home Run Travel host throughout the trip

Handpicked hotels in excellent city-centre locations

Rail travel between cities, including the Shinkansen and an ICOCA transit card

Guaranteed baseball tickets for every game

Carefully planned sightseeing alongside the baseball

A friendly group of fellow baseball fans from across the UK

Expert local knowledge and recommendations throughout the trip

ATOL & ABTA protection through Travelstylers

A few moments from our past Home Run Travel tours:

Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo Home Run Travel tour photo

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Want to see what our tours are really like? Read the full stories from our past adventures on the Home Run Travel blog.

What Our Travellers Say

Real feedback from UK baseball fans who've travelled with Home Run Travel.

“Home Run Travel are specialists in USA and baseball travel, and the attention to detail shows every time. Harry is a passionate tour leader who's there with us right through the trip. I'd recommend these trips to anyone from the UK wanting to try baseball in the USA – accessible, fun and brilliantly organised.”

John, Cheshire

5 tours with Home Run Travel

“I'm a Canadian living in the UK and didn't think anyone here was into baseball – until Home Run Travel appeared on my phone one day. The experience is something I cherish, and I've met friends for life along the way.”

Cameron, Glasgow

4 tours with Home Run Travel

“As a first-time customer, what I experienced was beyond my wildest dreams. Seamless travel between cities, solo exploring, group outings, great food and drink, local culture and fantastic baseball action. All I had to do was turn up at the airport. Can't wait to use them again.”

John, Surrey

1 tour with Home Run Travel

“Very well organised, with great hotel locations and the time and freedom to explore between games. Normally a solo traveller, it was refreshing to join a fun group of UK baseball fans. Highlights included seeing Ohtani smash two home runs against the Yankees at Dodger Stadium – I'll be joining another tour for sure!”

Ben, Essex

2 tours with Home Run Travel

“The 'Rust Belt' tour offered the chance to visit ballparks in cities that aren't typically on the tourist agenda – Cincinnati, Detroit, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Great hotels, seamless transport between cities and excellent support throughout. I'd absolutely recommend other baseball fans get on board.”

Chris, West Midlands

2 tours with Home Run Travel

“The freedom you get with these tours is excellent – if you don't want to do something the group's doing, you don't have to, you can go off and do your own thing and meet back up later. If you want baseball, sightseeing and good laughs, Harry and Home Run Travel is the place to go.”

Lianne, Kent

2 tours with Home Run Travel

“If you think baseball tours are only for young sports fanatics, think again. As a 76-year-old recently widowed, I had a blast. We managed eight games in nine days and still had plenty of time for sightseeing. If you're aged 20 to 80 and love baseball, Home Run Travel is the company for you.”

Ian, Yorkshire

1 tour with Home Run Travel

“One of the best adventures of my life – eight games of baseball, organised exceptionally well and executed to absolute perfection. I highly recommend it if you're a baseball fan from the UK or Ireland. Five stars, I'd give more if I could!”

Michael, West Midlands

1 tour with Home Run Travel

“Harry does a fantastic job choosing great hotels near the stadiums, and fills the time with no-pressure, awesome sightseeing spots. A definite recommendation for both the travel and sports enthusiast.”

Julian, Chicago

1 tour with Home Run Travel

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Tour Price & Booking

12 NIGHTS • 4 CITIES • MULTIPLE GAMES

TOKYO • KYOTO • OSAKA • HIROSHIMA
Flights, hotels, rail and game tickets will be included

Estimated Dates: Mid May – Early June 2027

Per Person Sharing
£4,695
Single Occupancy
£5,495

Deposit: £500 per person

✔ Secure your place on the tour

✔ Lock in today's advertised tour price

✔ Fully refundable if the confirmed travel dates don't work for you

Places are strictly limited, and prices for any remaining spaces may increase once the official NPB schedule is released

FAQs – Is This Tour Right For Me?

I've never been to Japan before.

Perfect! Japan is one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world. We'll be with you throughout the tour, helping with transport, navigating stations and making sure you get the very best from your visit.

How much walking is involved?

Expect around 10,000-15,000 steps each day. Japan is an incredibly walkable country, and while we'll use trains extensively, you'll also be exploring neighbourhoods, attractions and stadiums on foot.

Do I need to speak Japanese?

Not at all. We'll be there throughout the tour, and many signs, train stations and attractions also include English.

What standard of hotels do you use?

We stay in carefully selected 3 and 4-star hotels, all chosen for their comfort, cleanliness and excellent locations close to public transport.

Is this tour suitable if I'm travelling on my own?

Absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and group tours are a fantastic way to meet like-minded baseball fans.

Book Your Spot on the Japan Tour 2027

We would love to help plan the perfect Baseball holiday for you and your travelling party.

Working with an extensive range of suppliers enables us to tailor the holiday to your needs.

Complete the below details to get your journey started

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