Japan’s Emperor Attends World Baseball Classic Game, Signaling a Return to Tradition

Tokyo, Japan – Emperor Naruhito, accompanied by Empress Masako and Princess Aiko, attended Japan’s World Baseball Classic game against Australia at the Tokyo Dome on Sunday, March 8, 2026. This marked the first time a sitting Japanese emperor has attended a professional baseball game in nearly 60 years, a gesture highlighting the sport’s cultural significance in Japan and the royal family’s longstanding interest in the game.

A Historic Return to the Stands

The last time a Japanese emperor attended a professional baseball game was in November 1966, when Emperor Hirohito, Naruhito’s grandfather, watched an exhibition game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and a team of Japanese All-Stars. MLB.com reports that Japan won that game 11-3. Emperor Naruhito, however, is no stranger to the World Baseball Classic, having previously attended games as Crown Prince in 2006 and 2009.

Royal Support for Team Japan

The Emperor’s presence was met with enthusiasm from players and fans alike. Masataka Yoshida, outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, expressed his honor, stating, “As a citizen of Japan, it is such an honor. I am trying to do my best to make the day brighter.” Yoshida contributed to the victory with a two-run home run, helping Japan defeat Australia 4-3.

Team Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata also noted the positive impact of the royal attendance, believing it boosted team morale. “I am guessing that all my players [are] also satisfied about today’s win in front of the emperor’s family,” he said.

Game Highlights and Tournament Standing

Japan secured the win after trailing 1-0, with Yoshida’s home run in the seventh inning proving crucial. They added two insurance runs in the eighth, ultimately holding off a late rally by Australia, which saw two home runs in the ninth inning. The Associated Press reported that the royal family departed after witnessing Japan’s victory.

With this win, Japan topped Pool C and qualified for the quarterfinals. Australia will have the opportunity to advance if they defeat South Korea on Monday. Japan will conclude pool play on Tuesday against the Czech Republic.

A Nation United by Baseball

Emperor Naruhito’s attendance underscores the deep cultural connection between Japan and baseball, particularly with the rising global prominence of Japanese stars like Shohei Ohtani. National Today highlights the event as a symbol of Japan’s “golden age of baseball.”

The Emperor, who recently turned 66, has also been focusing on commemorating the 15th anniversary of the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster that struck northern Japan in 2011.