Pickle Bible
Feb 10, 2025
Ready to dive into Japan's fastest-growing racquet sport? This comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect place to play pickleball across Japan, whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro!
Getting Started in Japan
Before we dive into specific locations, here's what you need to know about playing pickleball in Japan:
Most facilities require advance reservations
Indoor courts typically charge hourly rates (¥500-2000/hour)
Many clubs provide equipment for beginners
English-speaking staff are common at international clubs
Sport-specific shoes are usually required for indoor courts
(Photo Source: https://allpickleball.com/japan-pickleball-go-hand-hand/)
Where to Play by Region:
Tokyo Metropolitan Area
Dedicated Pickleball Venues
Tokyo Pickleball Club
Multiple locations throughout central Tokyo
Best for: All skill levels
Facilities: Indoor courts, equipment rental
Reservations: Required 48 hours in advance
Contact: Through their social media platforms
Suginami Sports Center
Professional-grade indoor courts
Regular beginner clinics available
Equipment rental on-site
Free parking available
Multi-Sport Facilities
Komazawa Olympic Park
Outdoor courts available
Best times: Weekends 9 AM - 5 PM
No reservation needed for open courts
Bring your own equipment
(Photo Source: https://www.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/6970/)
Osaka Region
Club Facilities
Osaka Pickleball Club
Indoor and outdoor courts
Beginner lessons available
Equipment provided for new players
Monthly membership options
Public Spaces
Tamagawa Park
Multiple outdoor courts
Best during spring and fall
Free play available
BYO equipment recommended
Yokohama Area
Yokohama International School
Modern indoor facilities
Weekend community programs
Regular tournaments
Pre-registration required
Kyoto Region
Kyoto City Gymnasium
Regular weekly sessions
Beginner-friendly environment
Equipment rental available
Located near major transit lines
(Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/CprKxiLP4D_/?img_index=1)
Southern Japan
Fukuoka
Fukuoka Pickleball Club
Year-round indoor play
Professional coaching available
Modern facilities
English-speaking staff
Okinawa
Okinawa Sports Park
Outdoor courts with amazing views
Year-round playing weather
Equipment rental on-site
Perfect for vacation players
Northern Japan
Sapporo
Sapporo Community Center
Indoor heated courts
Winter programs available
Equipment provided
Beginner lessons in English
(Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=554612547203926&set=pb.100079655556541.-2207520000&type=3)
Tournament Scene
Major Annual Events
Japan Pickleball Championships (Spring)
Asia Pacific Open (Summer)
Regional tournaments throughout the year
Tournament Tips
Register early - events fill quickly
Multiple skill divisions available
International players welcome
Equipment checks required
(Photo Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2024/03/15/more-sports/pickleball-slow-build-japan/)
Equipment Guide
Where to Buy
Sports Authority (Multiple locations)
Decathlon Japan
Amazon Japan
Rakuten Marketplace
Recommended Gear
Indoor court shoes (required at most venues)
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water bottle
Towel
Practical Tips
Best Times to Play
Weekday mornings: Less crowded
Weekend afternoons: Most social games
Evening sessions: Usually league play
Weather Considerations
Summer (June-August): Indoor play recommended
Spring/Fall: Perfect for outdoor courts
Winter: Heated indoor facilities available
Transportation
Most venues accessible by public transit
Parking available at suburban locations
Bike parking at most facilities
(Photo Source: https://pickleballtrips.com/about/news/)
Getting Connected
Social Media Groups
Japan Pickleball Network (Facebook)
Regional LINE groups
[Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) pickleball communities
Local Resources
City sports centers
Community bulletin boards
International associations
Cost Guide
Typical Expenses
Drop-in sessions: ¥500-2000
Monthly memberships: ¥5000-15000
Equipment rental: ¥500-1000
Tournament entry: ¥3000-8000
(Photo Source: https://www.afpickleball.org/post/yoko-taniguchi-vice-chairman-of-afp-the-japanese-pickleball-maestro-s-ikigai-and-her-influence-on)
Final Tips
Always call ahead to confirm court availability
Join social media groups for meetups
Bring indoor shoes for gym courts
Check seasonal schedules
Consider taking an intro lesson
This guide is regularly updated to reflect the latest information about pickleball in Japan. The sport continues to grow, with new venues and groups forming regularly. Remember to check with specific locations for their most current schedules and requirements!
