Why MLB is Capturing Hearts in Japan: The Shohei Ohtani Effect and Beyond
Imagine waking up on a crisp Tokyo morning, the city buzzing with the hum of rush-hour trains, only to find your social media feed flooded with clips of a home run soaring into the night sky over Dodger Stadium. That’s the scene for millions of Japanese fans right now. Major League Baseball (MLB), America’s pastime, isn’t just a distant curiosity anymore—it’s a full-blown phenomenon in Japan. From sold-out watch parties in Akihabara to grandmothers tuning in at dawn for live games, MLB’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. But why? In this post, we’ll dive into the roots of this surge, explore the cultural ties that make it so resonant, and unpack what it means for baseball lovers worldwide. If you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about global sports trends, stick around as we break down the factors driving MLB’s rise in Japan, including the unstoppable force that is Shohei Ohtani.
(tv-tokyo)
Baseball has long been woven into the fabric of Japanese society, often called “yakyu” there, which literally means “field ball.” Introduced in the 1870s by American educators like Horace Wilson during the Meiji Restoration, the sport quickly took root as a symbol of modernization and Western influence. By the early 20th century, it had evolved into a national obsession, emphasizing values like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—core elements of Japanese culture. High school tournaments, such as the iconic Summer Koshien, draw massive crowds and national TV audiences, turning teenage players into household names. It’s not uncommon for entire families to gather around the screen, cheering with synchronized chants and songs, creating an atmosphere that’s part carnival, part ritual.
But while Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), Japan’s domestic league, remains king—averaging more fans per game than MLB in some pre-pandemic years—the allure of MLB has grown exponentially since the 2010s. This shift isn’t accidental. MLB has invested heavily in international outreach, hosting exhibition games and series in Japan dating back to Babe Ruth’s barnstorming tours in the 1930s. These efforts built bridges, but the real turning point came with the success of Japanese players crossing the Pacific. Stars like Hideo Nomo in the 1990s paved the way, proving that NPB talent could thrive in the majors. Ichiro Suzuki’s record-breaking hits with the Seattle Mariners in the 2000s turned him into a legend, inspiring a generation to look westward.
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Fast forward to today, and the 2025 season has been a banner year for MLB in Japan. The Tokyo Series, featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs, shattered records with an average of over 24 million viewers across the two games—making it the most-watched MLB event in Japanese history. That’s roughly one in five Japanese people tuning in, a testament to the sport’s grip on the nation. Merchandise sales surged by 183% year-over-year, and sponsorship revenue jumped 114%, highlighting how MLB’s strategic push into Asia is paying dividends. Events like these aren’t just games; they’re cultural exchanges that blend American flair with Japanese passion, drawing massive crowds to the Tokyo Dome and boosting global fan engagement.
At the heart of this boom is Shohei Ohtani, the two-way phenom who’s redefining what’s possible in baseball. Often called a “unicorn” for his rare ability to excel as both a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers in 2024 sent shockwaves through Japan. His games have become must-see TV, with viewership spiking 22% on NHK channels in 2025, averaging 2.7 million fans per broadcast. Japanese fans describe him as more than an athlete—he’s a national treasure, embodying humility, hard work, and excellence. One X user captured the sentiment perfectly: “As a Japanese, we tend to keep it inside, but the pride we feel because of Shohei Ohtani is beyond words. Dude is just incredible.” Another noted how Ohtani’s ads blanket Tokyo, from billboards to TV commercials, turning the city into a shrine for the star.
Ohtani’s impact extends beyond stats. He’s boosted tourism, with Japanese travel agencies booking hundreds of clients for every Dodgers home game in Los Angeles. Fans flock to Dodger Stadium, creating a sea of blue jerseys and chants that echo back home. Even elderly viewers, particularly grandmothers, have joined the frenzy—morning broadcasts align perfectly with their routines, leading to a demographic surge in ratings. As one fan shared, “Elderly people in Japan love Ohtani. It’s my mother. And all my mother’s friends.” This intergenerational appeal has broadened MLB’s reach, making it a family affair rather than just a young person’s game.
Japanese perspectives on this surge reveal a mix of pride and nostalgia. Many see MLB’s popularity as a natural extension of their love for baseball, but with a global twist. On platforms like X, users express joy in Ohtani’s success abroad, noting how it brings happiness to both Japanese and American audiences. One commenter said, “We are happy Shohei brings America as much joy as he brings Japan,” highlighting a sense of shared celebration rather than rivalry. However, there’s also a subtle undercurrent of concern. The exodus of top talent to MLB has strained NPB, with some fans worrying it dilutes the domestic league’s quality. Pitching stars transfer well, but hitters sometimes struggle, leading to debates about whether Japan’s batting is on par with AAA levels. Still, the overall reaction is positive—victories like Japan’s 2023 World Baseball Classic win over the U.S. fuel national pride and draw more eyes to MLB, where many NPB alumni shine.
Culturally, MLB’s rise respects Japan’s unique baseball ethos. While American games emphasize individual heroics, Japanese play stresses harmony and group effort, as explored in books like Robert Whiting’s The Chrysanthemum and the Bat. MLB has adapted by highlighting these differences, fostering mutual respect. For instance, the posting system allows NPB players to join MLB after negotiations, ensuring a fair pipeline that benefits both leagues. This sensitivity helps avoid cultural clashes, making the sport’s growth feel organic rather than imposed.
Beyond Ohtani, other Japanese players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Shota Imanaga have amplified the appeal. The Dodgers, with their star-studded Japanese lineup, have become Japan’s de facto MLB team, but MLB aims to spread the love. As league officials note, the goal is to get fans rooting for all teams, not just those with Japanese stars. Streaming services and social media make games accessible, with live broadcasts bridging the time difference. Add in the economic boost—MLB’s Japan investments have generated billions in potential revenue—and it’s clear why the league keeps returning.
Media plays a huge role too. Japanese networks like NHK and Fuji TV air MLB games prominently, often with Japanese commentary that adds a familiar touch. Social media buzz, especially on X, amplifies reactions, from ecstatic posts about Ohtani’s homers to discussions on how he’s “like a God” in public. This digital connectivity keeps the conversation alive, drawing in younger fans who might otherwise stick to NPB.
As MLB continues to expand globally, Japan’s enthusiasm offers a blueprint. The sport’s blend of tradition and innovation resonates deeply, proving baseball isn’t just American—it’s universal. Whether it’s the thrill of a no-hitter or the camaraderie of fan chants, MLB’s surge in Japan reminds us how sports can unite cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is baseball so popular in Japan overall?
Baseball was introduced in the late 19th century and quickly aligned with Japanese values like discipline and teamwork. Events like Koshien tournaments and NPB games foster massive community involvement, making it the country’s top sport.
How has Shohei Ohtani influenced MLB’s popularity in Japan?
Ohtani’s dual-threat skills and humble persona have made him a national icon, boosting viewership and merchandise sales. His games draw millions, including unexpected demographics like grandmothers, and his ads dominate Japanese media.
What do Japanese people think about the talent drain to MLB?
Many express pride in stars succeeding abroad, but there’s concern it weakens NPB. Fans appreciate the global exposure, seeing it as a win for Japanese baseball’s reputation, though some debate the quality gap.
Will MLB continue to grow in Japan beyond Ohtani?
Absolutely. Initiatives like the Tokyo Series and the World Baseball Classic build lasting interest. MLB’s focus on diverse teams and cultural exchanges ensures sustained appeal, even as new players emerge.
In wrapping up, MLB’s popularity in Japan isn’t a fleeting trend—it’s the result of decades of cultural exchange, superstar talent, and smart marketing. As Ohtani and his peers continue to dazzle, expect this love affair to deepen, inspiring fans from Tokyo to Los Angeles. If you’ve experienced a game in Japan or caught the bug yourself, share your thoughts in the comments. Who knows? The next big star might be warming up right now in a high school diamond across the sea.
