I had the good luck of getting invited to a Yomiuri Giants v Chunichi Dragons game a couple of weeks ago at the Tokyo Dome. As an Australian my understanding of baseball is limited to say the least, other than yelling “swing batter batter” I wasn’t too sure what I was expected to do.

Australia has fairly strict controls on the service and consumption of alcohol at sporting events, and it should be noted that these controls are well deserved; with pitch invasions (or “rushing the field” as it is called in the US) by well lubricated and over-zealous fans becoming a national sport during the 90’s.

Japan on the other hand has no such restriction, and I soon figured out I was expected to drink a fair quantity of alcohol and for the most part ignore the play on the field; chatting with my companions was the order of the day. This pretty much describes a day at a cricket game in Australia, with the attention of the patrons being focused more on themselves than the game (who’s got the beach balls?).

My attention quickly went to the service attendants walking around with kegs on their backs. Could this be what heaven looks like?! I beckoned the nearest one over, but after the first sip I realized to my dismay that it was Suntory Premium (not one of my favorites).

After seeing my reaction one of my companions laughed and pointed out you could get any beer you wanted as each attendant carried a different brew. I found the Asahi Dry girl and became fast friends until the bottom of the seventh, when alcohol service stops at games in Japan.

Japanese fans play a game called “Seat Chess,” where they move around the arena trying to improve their position. Three different groups of people occupied the chairs in front of us throughout the game, and they were very nonchalant about moving when the patrons with their official tickets showed back up.

I thought my colleagues were baseball aficionados, but this image was quickly shattered as my questions about the rules of the game were met with blank stares and a shuffling of play guides. It should be pointed out that what Australians lack in knowledge is more than made up for in both lung capacity and good cheer. I surprised my Japanese hosts by loudly supporting both teams over the ebb and flow of the game. I consider myself more “A Fan of Good Play,” rather than a fan of any one team.

Overall I had a blast and barring ostracism stemming from any social faux pas that I may have unknowingly committed this time I am ready and eager to experience the next event; Sumo anyone??

Written By: Chris O'Halloran