The 2026 NPB regular season runs from late March to early October across 12 teams in two leagues, with the Climax Series in October and Japan Series starting late October — 143 games per team, with most games at 18:00 weeknights.
When is baseball season in Japan?
The NPB regular season runs from late March to October, with playoffs (Climax Series) in October and the Japan Series (championship) in late October/November. Games are played almost every day of the week during the season.
Game schedule
Weekday games: Usually 18:00 start (night games). Weekend games: 14:00 or 18:00 start. Games are played Tuesday through Sunday, with Monday as the regular off day (though not always).
How to check the schedule
Visit npb.jp (the official NPB website) for the full schedule. Each team's official website also has their schedule. Google "NPB schedule 2026" for English-language resources. Schedules are released before the season starts (usually February).
Best months for tourists
April-May: Pleasant weather, cherry blossom season overlaps with opening games. September-October: Pennant race excitement, cooler weather. Avoid July-August for outdoor stadiums unless you handle heat well (or choose dome stadiums).
Planning tips
Check your travel dates against the schedule before booking. If a team is on a road trip, their home stadium will be empty. Tokyo always has games — between the Giants, Swallows, and visiting teams, there's almost always a game available.
Summary
Baseball season in Japan spans 7 months, giving tourists plenty of opportunities. Check the schedule early and build your itinerary around the games you want to see.
Stadium & Team Guides
Found the game you want to see? These guides help you make the most of your visit — from buying tickets to knowing what food to order.
- Best Japanese Baseball Stadium Food: NPB Ballpark Foodie Guide
- Hanshin Tigers at Koshien: Fan Experience Guide
- ES CON Field Hokkaido: Fighters Stadium Guide & Tickets
- Koshien Stadium Guide: Hanshin Tigers Tickets, Access & Stadium Food
- MAZDA Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima: Carp Tickets, Access & Okonomiyaki Guide
- Chiba Lotte Marines Guide: Sea Breeze, Fireworks & Fierce Fan Culture