Rugby

Rugby is fast growing in popularity in Japan. Though the country has the fourth largest rugby playing population in the world, Japan's national team is ranked 20th in the world according to International Rugby Board ratings. The dismal performance of Japan in international matches has been imputed to the over spilling of politics in the team selection and also because of the shorter stature of the Japanese players compared to other international players.

Japan stands ahead of most rugby teams in Asia. The only other team in Asia which is capable of beating Japan is South Korea. The Japanese national team is also known as the Cherry Blossoms.

Japan has made five world cup appearances so far and has booked a berth comfortably in the World Cup 2007.

Few Rugby Stadiums in Tokyo

Chichibunomiya rugby stadium

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo shares its growing enthusiasm for Rugby. Chichibunomiya rugby stadium in Aoyama, Japan is considered to be the spiritual home of Rugby in Japan and is also the headquarters of the Japan Rugby Football Union. The stadium was inaugurated in 1947, when it was known by the name Tokyo Rugby Stadium. It was in 1953 that the stadium received its present christening.

Tokyo Stadium

Tokyo Stadium is located in Chofu, Tokyo can accommodate 45,000 spectators and has a retractable roof. The stadium is used for multiple purposes- which include sporting as well as non-sporting events like concerts and flea markets.

Some of the Top Clubs based in Tokyo

Toshiba Brave Lupus

Toshiba Brave Lupus is based in Fuchu, Tokyo. They won the Top League championship in the 2004-5 season and Microsoft Cup in 2005.

Suntory Sungoliath

Suntory Sungoliath was established in 1980. It has won the Japanese Championship on more than few occasions. Suntory Sungoliath is a local rival of Toshiba Brave Lupus. The team ended the 2005-06 season in the 6th position.

Ricoh Black Rams

Ricoh Black Rams are based in Setagaya, Tokyo. The club was founded in 1953. The club is coached by Tim Lane.

It must be admitted that Rugby in Japan has been much neglected in comparison to other sports in the country. Lacking in the physical attributes as demanded by the sport, not many youngsters show willingness to take up the sport at the professional level

Hotels in Tokyo
Nishi Shinjuku Hotel	Belmonte Hotel
Fukuoka Kaikan Hotel	Mercure Narita Hotel
International Garden Hotel	Ikebukuro Theatre Hotel