Why convenience stores?
Japanese convenience stores (konbini) have ticket machines that sell tickets for concerts, sports, buses, and more. For tourists who can't navigate Japanese-language team websites, convenience store machines are often the easiest way to buy same-day or next-day sports tickets. The three main chains — Lawson, 7-Eleven, and FamilyMart — each have their own system.
Lawson (Loppi machine)
Loppi is the most tourist-friendly option. Touch the screen to start. Navigate: Top menu → スポーツ (Sports) → 野球 (Baseball) → Select the league (セ・リーグ or パ・リーグ) → Select the team → Select the game date → Choose your seats → Confirm → Take the receipt to the cashier → Pay cash or card → Receive your tickets.
7-Eleven (Multi-Copy machine)
Similar process. Touch screen → チケット (Ticket) → スポーツ (Sports) → Follow the prompts. 7-Eleven machines tend to have a wider selection but the interface is slightly more complex. Payment at the register.
FamilyMart (Famiport/Multi-Copy)
Navigate: チケット → スポーツ → 野球. Same general flow. FamilyMart machines are being updated to newer models, so the interface may differ between stores.
Tips for tourists
Use Google Translate camera mode to read the Japanese screens in real-time. Screenshot the kanji for your desired team beforehand. Staff at convenience stores are usually happy to help if you look confused — just say "chiketto" (ticket) and the team name. Tickets print immediately — no waiting.
Limitations
Not all games are available at convenience stores — sold-out games won't appear. Some premium seats are only sold on team websites. Service fees of ¥100-300 per ticket may apply. Tickets are non-refundable once purchased.
Alternative: team websites
If convenience stores feel too daunting, most NPB team websites accept international credit cards. Use Google Chrome's auto-translate feature to navigate. Some teams (Giants, Hawks) have partial English interfaces.