Dodgers Games In Tokyo: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey baseball fanatics! Are you a die-hard Los Angeles Dodgers fan planning a trip to the amazing city of Tokyo? Awesome! You're probably wondering, "Where can I watch Dodgers games in Tokyo?" Don't worry, I've got you covered. Watching your favorite team play while you're thousands of miles away can be a challenge, but it's totally doable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from finding the right bars and restaurants to figuring out the best times to catch the games. Get ready to cheer on the Boys in Blue, even when you're surrounded by the vibrant culture of Tokyo! Let's dive in and make sure you don't miss a single pitch, hit, or home run.

Finding the Perfect Spot: Sports Bars and Restaurants

Finding a place to watch the Dodgers in Tokyo is all about knowing where to look. Tokyo is a massive city, and thankfully, it boasts a thriving international community, which means there are plenty of spots catering to sports fans. Your best bet is to focus on areas known for their international atmosphere, particularly those with a good selection of sports bars and restaurants. These places often have multiple screens, showing a variety of games from around the world. Imagine yourself, guys, surrounded by fellow baseball enthusiasts, the roar of the crowd mingling with the sounds of Japanese and English chatter – pure bliss! Sports bars and restaurants are your go-to places, and some of these places even have websites or social media accounts where you can confirm game schedules, check for special events, and see what kind of food and drink specials they are offering. So, to ensure you have a spot for the game, look into making reservations, especially if the Dodgers are playing a big rival like the Giants or the Padres. A little bit of planning goes a long way in guaranteeing you a great viewing experience. When choosing a bar, check if they have multiple TVs and if they are showing the MLB games, specifically the Dodgers. Sometimes they might be showing the Japanese baseball games. Also, consider the atmosphere; are you looking for a loud, rowdy crowd, or a more relaxed setting? Some places are known for their great food, while others focus on their impressive selection of beers or cocktails. No matter your preference, with a bit of research, you'll be able to find the perfect spot to enjoy the game. Remember, these bars usually stay open late, which is perfect for catching those late-night games.

Many of these sports bars and restaurants cater to an international crowd, so you can often find menus in English, and the staff is accustomed to dealing with non-Japanese speakers. This makes the whole experience much easier and more enjoyable. The staff is usually really friendly and helpful, too. If you're lucky, you might even strike up a conversation with other Dodgers fans and share your love of the game. Also, look out for themed nights or special events that the bars might be hosting. Some places might offer special deals on food and drinks during the games, making the experience even more fun and affordable. And hey, don't be shy about asking the staff if they can put the Dodgers game on for you. They're usually pretty accommodating, especially if you're a regular. Also, since you are in Japan, it's also a great opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine. Many sports bars offer a fusion of both American and Japanese food, so you can enjoy things like burgers and fries along with sushi and ramen. It's a win-win!

Popular Spots to Catch the Game

Several bars and restaurants in Tokyo are known for showing a variety of international sports, including MLB games. Here's a list of potential spots to watch the Dodgers game. Keep in mind that schedules can change, so always double-check with the venue beforehand.

• The Aldgate: Located in Shibuya, this British-style pub is known for showing a wide range of sports. It's a popular spot for expats and tourists alike, so you're likely to find a lively crowd. Check their schedule in advance to see if they're showing the Dodgers game.
• Hobgoblin: With multiple locations around Tokyo (like Roppongi and Shibuya), Hobgoblin is a reliable choice for sports fans. These pubs typically have multiple screens and a good selection of beers. It's best to call ahead or check their website to confirm the game schedule.
• The Pink Cow: This restaurant and bar chain often shows sports events. They usually have a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of food. Check their location listings and call ahead to confirm.
• Sports Bar & Grill - Rafters: In Roppongi, Rafters is a great choice for sports fans. This bar has a big screen and shows many different sporting events, including American football and baseball.
• Legends Sports Bar: This is another sports bar in Roppongi, known for showing a variety of international sports. They have multiple screens, a good selection of drinks, and often a lively atmosphere. Always check their schedule in advance.

Before you head out, I suggest you look them up on the internet or on social media. Check recent reviews to see what other people are saying about the experience. Some of these spots may have happy hours, special food deals, or even Dodgers-themed promotions. This can really enhance the experience and make it even more memorable. It is also good to have a backup plan. In the event that your chosen bar is not showing the game, or it is too crowded, have another option in mind. You could try another bar in the area or look for a different sports bar altogether. This way, you don't have to miss out on the game.

Navigating Time Zones: Game Times and Schedules

Ah, the classic problem – time zones! When you're in Tokyo and wanting to watch a Dodgers game, you're dealing with a pretty significant time difference. Tokyo is 16 hours ahead of Los Angeles during the standard time, which means that a 7:00 PM game in LA starts at 11:00 AM the next day in Tokyo. During daylight saving time, the difference is only 15 hours.

This means that a lot of games will be played in the morning or early afternoon in Japan. This can be perfect for those who want to watch the game while enjoying a late breakfast or a leisurely lunch. Some games will be at a more awkward time, like the late-night or early-morning hours. But hey, it's all part of the experience, right? The Dodgers' regular season typically runs from late March or early April through to the end of September or early October. If the Dodgers make it to the playoffs, games will continue well into October, with the World Series potentially running into early November. Always check the official MLB schedule or a reliable sports website to confirm game times. These schedules often get updated, especially during the playoffs. Make sure you know whether it is the regular season or the playoffs, as game times and days can vary. Also, remember that some games may be televised nationally or on specific regional sports networks. You may need to check the local listings to see if the game is available for viewing. When you’re planning your day, factor in the travel time to the sports bar, and also the time it might take to find the right channel. Being prepared can make the experience so much smoother. If you’re planning on watching a game in a bar, and they have multiple TVs, make sure the bar knows you are there for the Dodgers game. If you're watching at home, you’ll have complete control over the viewing situation, and you can easily switch between games if you want. It's up to you!

Streaming and Online Options

If you're not in the mood to go out, or if there isn't a convenient sports bar nearby, you have plenty of streaming and online options to catch the game. You can always watch the Dodgers games online from your hotel room or your apartment.

• MLB.TV: MLB.TV is the official streaming service of Major League Baseball. It offers live and on-demand streaming of every regular season game. This is a fantastic option if you're a dedicated fan who wants to watch every game, no matter where you are in the world.
• Sports Streaming Services: Services such as ESPN+ and other sports-focused platforms may carry MLB games, depending on your location and the specific broadcasting rights.
• VPNs: If you are trying to access MLB.TV, or other streaming services, you might encounter geographical restrictions. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help you bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as if you're located in a different country. This is a useful tool for accessing content that might not be available in Japan.
• Local Cable or Satellite: Some hotels and apartments in Tokyo may have cable or satellite TV packages that include sports channels, and these channels may carry MLB games.

When using streaming services, keep a few things in mind. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection. Streaming can consume a lot of data, especially for live games, so it is a good idea to connect to a Wi-Fi network to avoid racking up hefty data charges. Some streaming services may require a subscription, so make sure you are prepared to pay for the service before the game starts. Check the MLB website, to find out the most up-to-date information on streaming options and which services are available in Japan. Also, consider the language of the commentary. MLB.TV generally offers both English and Spanish commentary options, but some local channels may have commentary in Japanese. If you have some friends with you, why not watch the game together? You can set up your own viewing party, order some food, and enjoy the game together. A little planning goes a long way. So, with a little preparation, you can enjoy all the Dodgers games from the comfort of your hotel room.

Connecting with Other Dodgers Fans in Tokyo

One of the best parts of watching a game is sharing the experience with other fans. In Tokyo, you're not alone. There is a great community of baseball fans. The Dodgers have a strong following around the world, and you can easily connect with other fans while in Tokyo.

• Social Media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit are amazing tools for connecting with fellow fans. Search for local groups or hashtags related to the Dodgers or baseball in Tokyo. You can find out about meetups, watch parties, and share your enthusiasm for the game.
• Online Forums: Online forums like the Dodgers' official website forum or other baseball fan forums can be great places to connect with people. You can discuss the latest news, share your predictions, and even coordinate watch parties.
• Meetup Groups: Websites like Meetup.com often host gatherings and events for people with shared interests. Search for baseball or sports-related groups in Tokyo, and you might find a group of Dodgers fans ready to welcome you.

Remember to be respectful and friendly when interacting with others online or in person. Join in the discussions, share your thoughts, and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with other fans at the bar. You can meet some great people and enhance your overall experience. Being a fan is so much more fun when you share it with others. Don't be shy. Say hello! Let others know you're a Dodgers fan, and you'll find that there is a great community ready to welcome you.

Enjoying the Game and Beyond

Watching a Dodgers game in Tokyo is a unique experience. While watching the game is the main reason to go to a sports bar, you can also consider other entertainment options. Tokyo offers amazing entertainment and cultural experiences, and they can make your trip even more memorable.

• Embrace the Local Culture: While you are in Tokyo, make an effort to explore the local culture. Visit temples, shrines, and traditional gardens. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the city. Make sure to visit the famous Shibuya crossing, visit the Ghibli Museum, or take a day trip to Hakone. This is the perfect chance to sample traditional Japanese cuisine, from sushi and ramen to tempura and okonomiyaki. The food is simply amazing.
• Shopping and Nightlife: Tokyo is renowned for its shopping and nightlife. Explore the trendy shops in Harajuku, the electronics district of Akihabara, and the upscale boutiques of Ginza. Tokyo's nightlife scene is also vibrant. From karaoke bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges, you're sure to find something to suit your taste.
• Explore Beyond Tokyo: Consider day trips from Tokyo. You can visit Mount Fuji, go to the historic city of Kyoto, or relax on the beaches of the Izu Peninsula. This will give you a chance to see more of Japan and make your trip even more memorable.

Remember that travel is all about enjoying the experience. Don't stress too much about the small details. Be flexible, be open-minded, and embrace the adventure. So get ready to cheer on the Dodgers. Enjoy the game, the food, and the company of your fellow fans. And most of all, have an amazing time in Tokyo. Go Dodgers!