BASEBALL

In Japan baseball is a very popular sport that many people love to attend, play, and watch on television.

The season starts in February with spring training and runs through October with games. The sport was first imported to Japan by United States early in the Meiji Period.

There are two conferences within the professional baseball league. The Central League and the Pacific League. The winner of each conference plays each other in the championship game.

THE PACIFIC LEAGUE

• Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters
• Yomiuri Giants
• Chiba Lotte Marines
• Saitama Seibu Lions
• Orix Buffaloes & Fukuoka Softbank Hawks

THE CENTRAL LEAGUE

• Tokyo Yakult Swallows
• Chunichi Dragons
• Yokohama DeNa Baystars
• Hiroshima Toyo Carp
• Hanshin Tigers & Tohoko Rahuken Golden Eagles