Hello everyone, and a very warm welcome to Tokyo! If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience during your stay, you’ve picked the perfect time to be here.
The Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers have arrived in town for a special MLB Japan Series at Tokyo Dome.
Whether you’re a die-hard baseball enthusiast or just curious about the sport, this event offers an incredible chance to see top-tier American baseball played right here in Japan’s capital city.
- Tokyo Dome: Where Baseball Meets Japanese Culture
- Shohei Ohtani: The Two-Way Phenomenon Taking the Field
- ITO EN: The Taste of Authentic Japanese Tea
- KOSE: Where Beauty Meets Bold Innovation
- SEIKO: Japanese Timekeeping at Its Finest
- JAL: Soaring High with Japan Airlines
- More to Explore: Tokyo’s Allure Beyond the Ballpark
- A Grand Slam Finale: Embrace the Spirit of Baseball and Japanese Innovation
Tokyo Dome: Where Baseball Meets Japanese Culture
Let’s begin with the venue itself: Tokyo Dome. Opened in 1988 and affectionately nicknamed “The Big Egg,” it’s not just a baseball stadium but also a cultural and entertainment hotspot.
On game days, you can feel the energy surging through the crowds.
Fans often participate in spirited chants, waving towels and banners while bands in the stands keep the rhythm going.
It’s a sight that mixes the passion of American baseball with a uniquely Japanese flair.
If you get the chance to walk around the stadium before the game, you’ll discover Tokyo Dome City, which features an amusement park, shopping areas, and restaurants.
This lively environment makes the area worth exploring even if you don’t have tickets. Try some local street snacks or pick up exclusive team merchandise.
You might also find limited-edition souvenirs celebrating the Cubs, the Dodgers, and this unique moment in MLB’s history.
Shohei Ohtani: The Two-Way Phenomenon Taking the Field
Now, let’s talk about the man of the hour: Shohei Ohtani.
This incredibly talented player, who will be on the field with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has captured global attention with his rare ability to dominate both as a pitcher and a hitter.
Sometimes called the “Japanese Babe Ruth,” Ohtani has redefined what’s possible in modern baseball. Yet, what endears him even more to fans is his humble, team-first attitude.
He embodies the spirit of perseverance, staying focused on constant improvement even as the world marvels at his athletic feats.
Here in Tokyo, you’ll see Ohtani’s face everywhere—on posters, train ads, and television commercials.
He’s far more than a sports figure; he’s become a symbol of ambition and possibility in Japan.
Major Japanese companies are lining up to have him represent their brands, aiming to capture the electrifying sense of wonder that surrounds any mention of his name.
It’s no exaggeration to say that when Ohtani steps out onto the field in Tokyo Dome, he’s carrying the hopes and pride of an entire nation on his shoulders.
ITO EN: The Taste of Authentic Japanese Tea
One of the most iconic endorsements for Shohei Ohtani is with ITO EN, a brand synonymous with Japanese tea. Their flagship product, “O-i Ocha,” is something you will likely encounter at every corner of Tokyo, from convenience stores to vending machines.
The brand name loosely translates to “Hey, tea!” and captures the friendly, laid-back nature of tea-drinking in Japan.
ITO EN revolutionized how people enjoy green tea by popularizing bottled, ready-to-drink options.
Today, they also produce barley tea, fruit-infused teas, and various seasonal or region-specific blends.
In recent commercials featuring Ohtani, the message centers around vitality, wellness, and making healthy choices that fit an active lifestyle.
The ads often show him in fun or surprising scenarios—sometimes even juggling a soccer ball—to highlight the product’s refreshing qualities.
If you’re in Tokyo for the MLB Japan Series, picking up a bottle of ITO EN’s tea is more than just quenching your thirst; it’s a little taste of everyday Japanese life.
From unsweetened matcha blends to limited-edition regional flavors, there’s a wide variety to try.
You might find yourself becoming a fan, just like many local residents who reach for ITO EN products as part of their daily routine.
KOSE: Where Beauty Meets Bold Innovation
Moving on from tea to the beauty industry may seem like a big leap, but Shohei Ohtani is all about breaking boundaries, and that’s exactly why KOSE chose him as a brand ambassador.
KOSE is one of Japan’s leading cosmetics and skincare companies, known for blending cutting-edge science with the meticulous craftsmanship that Japanese brands excel at.
Their product lines span from luxurious offerings like “Cosme Decorté,” often praised for advanced moisturizing formulas and elegant packaging, to more widely accessible brands that target younger consumers.
Ohtani’s appearance in KOSE advertisements is a statement in itself. In a world where athletes traditionally endorse sports gear or energy drinks, seeing a baseball star talk about skincare sparks curiosity and sends a clear message: everyone deserves to look and feel their best, regardless of age, gender, or occupation.
This inclusive approach resonates with a growing audience both in Japan and worldwide. If you want to explore KOSE products during your Tokyo visit, you can head to major department stores like Isetan or Mitsukoshi.
Even local drugstores carry a selection of KOSE’s skincare and makeup items. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite product that reminds you of this extraordinary crossover between beauty and baseball.
SEIKO: Japanese Timekeeping at Its Finest
No conversation about iconic Japanese brands would be complete without mentioning SEIKO. Renowned for its precision and innovation, SEIKO has a rich history dating back to 1881 and is credited with major technological milestones in watchmaking.
From the world’s first quartz watch to its celebrated luxury line Grand Seiko, the brand’s commitment to excellence mirrors Ohtani’s own quest for continuous improvement.
SEIKO’s current campaigns featuring Ohtani often focus on themes of timing, discipline, and the pursuit of perfection—an ideal reflection of a player who can handle intense pressure on the mound one moment and smash a home run in the next.
For visitors to Tokyo, exploring SEIKO watches can be an adventure in itself.
You can visit official SEIKO boutiques or watch specialty shops in districts like Ginza, Shinjuku, or Akihabara.
Whether you’re browsing everyday models or admiring the craftsmanship of the higher-end collections, you’ll notice an emphasis on fine details and a history of innovation that the brand takes pride in.
Taking home a SEIKO timepiece could become a lasting keepsake of this trip, especially if you connect it with the memory of watching Ohtani shine at Tokyo Dome.
JAL: Soaring High with Japan Airlines
When you think of traveling to new horizons, it’s hard not to think of an airline.
Japan Airlines, better known as JAL, has also enlisted Shohei Ohtani to represent its commitment to reaching lofty goals.
JAL is one of Japan’s two major carriers, the other being ANA, and it has earned a reputation for exceptional service and reliability.
Its partnership with Ohtani highlights a spirit of ambition and the determination to continually strive for better—values that resonate with many Japanese baseball fans.
JAL’s in-flight experience often features top-notch dining options and an attentive cabin crew known for their hospitality.
If you’re traveling around Japan or heading back home, choosing JAL can be a way to extend the magic of the MLB Japan Series.
You might even spot a video featuring Ohtani during your flight, reminding you of the incredible week when American and Japanese baseball came together in Tokyo.
The airline also invests in sustainability, including the development of more efficient engines and the introduction of sustainable aviation fuel, so flying with JAL can feel like part of a bigger commitment to innovation.
More to Explore: Tokyo’s Allure Beyond the Ballpark
Of course, even a thrilling MLB series isn’t the only reason to explore Tokyo. While you’re here, take the time to wander through iconic districts like Shibuya, where the scramble crossing is alive with neon lights and crowds of trendy shoppers.
Enjoy the historical charm of Asakusa and its Senso-ji Temple, a delightful area to taste local snacks like freshly grilled senbei or sweet red bean taiyaki. If you’re a fan of electronics or anime,
Akihabara is a must-visit for its electric stores and unique pop culture vibe. For those in search of luxury shopping or more refined entertainment, Ginza and Marunouchi boast upscale boutiques, galleries, and fine-dining restaurants.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed either.
Tokyo is known for its diverse culinary scene, from affordable ramen and conveyor-belt sushi spots to Michelin-starred establishments that serve meticulously crafted kaiseki meals.
Each neighborhood has its own unique flavor, both literally and figuratively, so be sure to explore beyond the ballpark to truly appreciate the city’s dynamic character.
A Grand Slam Finale: Embrace the Spirit of Baseball and Japanese Innovation
As you watch the Cubs and Dodgers face off under the bright lights of Tokyo Dome, take a moment to appreciate the extraordinary blend of American pastime and Japanese passion.
Shohei Ohtani’s presence in this series for the Los Angeles Dodgers amplifies that sense of global connection and mutual admiration between fans on both sides of the Pacific.
It’s not just about the home runs and strikeouts; it’s about cultural exchange, shared excitement, and the idea that baseball can bring people together from all walks of life.
Meanwhile, the Japanese brands Ohtani endorses—ITO EN, KOSE, SEIKO, and JAL—offer a glimpse into the country’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer care. Sampling their products or experiencing their services isn’t just a consumer act; it’s a way to connect with the ethos that drives modern Japan forward, much like Ohtani’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Whether you sip on a refreshing bottle of green tea, indulge in top-tier skincare, pick out a meticulous timepiece, or take to the skies on a JAL flight, you’ll carry a piece of that tradition and ambition with you.
Thank you so much for joining me on this journey through Tokyo’s baseball festivities and iconic Japanese brands.
May your time here be full of excitement, discovery, and new experiences that stay with you long after you’ve departed.
Enjoy the games, soak up the city, and let the energy of Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable feats inspire you to aim for your own home runs in life. Safe travels, and play ball!
