Guide
The Japan National Stadium is a massive, modern stadium built on the site of the former National Stadium to serve as the main venue for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the stadium follows the concept of a "Forest Stadium," designed to harmonize with the surrounding greenery of the Meiji Jingu Gaien area. The hybrid structure, combining steel and wood, creates a design that is "open to nature," allowing the stadium to blend seamlessly into its environment.
The history of this site dates back to the original National Stadium from the Taisho era. The current stadium was developed as a complete reconstruction project to replace the aging original structure. While the design underwent various changes through the competition process, the final result is a state-of-the-art facility featuring a retractable roof and a natural grass pitch. The site also preserves its historical significance, with monuments such as the "Shu-jin Gakuto So-ko-chi" stone marking its place in history.
A standout architectural feature is the use of wood in the large roof structure and the three-layered eaves inspired by the Horyu-ji Five-Story Pagoda. The stadium seats utilize five different "earth colors" intended to mimic sunlight filtering through trees, ensuring the stadium looks natural even from a distance. The pitch features high-quality natural grass, meeting international standards for athletics. Equipped with massive digital signage and advanced lighting, it serves as a premier hub for modern sports entertainment.
To get the most out of your visit, time your trip with the schedule of major events such as track and field, rugby, or music concerts. During the daytime, the bright light is perfect for observing the architectural beauty and the way the wooden structures interact with the surrounding greenery. At night, the stadium's dynamic lighting and massive scale create a spectacular atmosphere for live events. Regardless of the season, the stadium is filled with vibrant energy whenever a major event is underway.
The stadium regularly hosts world-class sporting competitions and large-scale music performances. Major content includes international rugby matches, Japanese national team games, athletics championships, and concerts by famous artists. Attending these events offers a direct and immersive way to experience Japan's contemporary sports and entertainment culture.
Located in the Kasumigaoka area of Shinjuku, the stadium is surrounded by the lush greenery of Meiji Jingu Gaien. The neighborhood is a hub for sports and wellness, situated near other major facilities like the Yoyogi National Stadium and the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. There are also various cafes and restaurants nearby, making it a great place to relax before or after an event.
As the stadium grounds are quite extensive, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the event, advanced ticket purchase or reservations may be required. Regarding payments, credit cards and transportation IC cards (like Suica/Pasmo) are widely accepted at most facility shops and food areas, though some smaller vendors may require cash. While English support is available via signage and staff, it is best to check the official website for specific event details. Please also follow all photography regulations specific to your event.