Twelve Notable Japanese Athletes You Should Familiarize Yourself With

Miho Shimizu, a freelance writer residing in Shizuoka with her spouse and two rabbits, has fascination with travel dating back to her teenage years. Throughout her vacations, she has explored numerous captivating locations within Japan. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, art, and reading novels while savoring a cup of green tea.

Japan is known worldwide for its exceptional array of acclaimed athletes who captivate sports enthusiasts with their stellar skills and talent. Numerous players consistently rank among the best globally, claiming numerous international competitions and championships, while several have donned the colors of Japan's national team in prestigious sporting events. Here is a selection of some of Japan's most prominent athletes and their respective sports:

Ohtani Shohei (大谷翔平) - This celebrated Japanese baseball star, recognized by his nickname "Shotime," boasts exceptional abilities as a dual-talented player, excelling in both pitching and hitting. Initiating his career with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan, Ohtani proceeded to MLB in 2018, where he was named Rookie of the Year with the Los Angeles Angels. His landmark feats include two unanimous MVP awards, setting records as a dominant force in both pitching and hitting, and becoming the first player to lead the league in home runs while maintaining top-notch pitching performance (2023). In 2024, he inked a record-breaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, further cementing his status as one of baseball's all-time greats.
Hachimura Rui (八村塁) - This groundbreaking Japanese basketball player now plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Hachimura made a name for himself by leading Meisei High School to three consecutive All-Japan High School Tournament titles and representing Japan in FIBA youth competitions. In 2019, he was the ninth overall pick by the Washington Wizards, marking the first time a Japanese player ever made a first-round selection. As a member of the Lakers since 2023, he has been instrumental in the team's achievements, including their inaugural NBA Cup victory in 2023.
Osaka Naomi (大阪なおみ) - This visionary Japanese tennis player and social activist has ascended to global acclaim as the world's first Asian player to achieve the No. 1 ranking in singles. A four-time Grand Slam champion, she clinched titles at the Australian Open and US Open. Osaka is known for her powerful serve and relentless baseline play, setting notable milestones, such as becoming the first Japanese player to win a major singles title. Beyond her professional success, she is an ardent advocate for mental health and social justice, using her platform to address issues such as racial inequality and anti-Asian hate.
Nishikori Kei (錦織圭) - Known for his exceptional skills on the tennis court, this other renowned Japanese tennis player is from Matsue, capital of Shimane prefecture. Nishikori started to demonstrate his tennis talents during his elementary school years. Certified as a professional player in 2007, he soon claimed his debut ATP Tour title, setting the stage for a prolific career. Ranking among the world's highest-paid tennis players, he has earnt over $23 million in prize money. Based in Florida, USA, he continues to compete in an array of international tournaments.
Hanyu Yuzuru (羽生結弦) - Born in Miyagi prefecture, this unforgettable figure skater and Japanese cultural icon is celebrated for his exceptional skating techniques and mesmerizing performances across the world stage. Hanyu achieved Olympic gold in men's single figure skating at both the Sochi Winter Olympics and Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Recently, he expressed his ambition to execute the elusive quadruple axel jump as the pinnacle of his career. In 2022, he attempted this historic jump during his free skating program at the Beijing Winter Olympics, albeit unsuccessfully. Nonetheless, his sheer perseverance garnered applause from both fans and viewers worldwide.
Matsuyama Hideki (松山英樹) - A world-class Japanese golfer, Matsuyama was born and raised in Matsuyama, Ehime prefecture. He began golfing at the tender age of four under the tutelage of his father, himself an amateur golfer. In 2010, at the age of a university student, Matsuyama etched his name in history by winning the Asian Amateur Championship, the first Japanese golfer to achieve this feat. Transitioning to the professional ranks in 2013, he rapidly garnered recognition, capturing multiple domestic titles in Japan. In 2021, he reached a career milestone by becoming the first Japanese golfer to win the prestigious Masters Tournament, despite narrowly missing a medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, finishing in fourth place.
Matsuzaka Daisuke (松坂大輔) - Originally from Aomori prefecture, this retired professional baseball player played for both Japanese and US teams from 2007 to 2014. Starting his baseball journey at the age of five through kendo, a traditional Japanese martial art, Matsuzaka began to play baseball in the third grade of elementary school. His senior year in high school, his team won the esteemed National High School Baseball Tournament, the most famous high school baseball tournament in Japan. Throughout his years playing in the MLB, he represented both the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets. In 2021, he announced his retirement after finishing the season.
Suzuki Ichiro (鈴木一朗) - Regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Ichiro excelled in both Japan and the United States over an impressive 28-season professional career. Born in Nagoya, Aichi prefecture, he spent his first nine years on the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) scene before embarking on his MLB journey. In the U.S., Ichiro shined as the Seattle Mariners' standout player, earning Rookie of the Year honors, an AL MVP award, and 10 Gold Gloves. Retiring in 2019 with the Mariners, Ichiro remains an iconic figure worldwide.
Hakuhou Shou (白鵬翔) - Born Mönkhbatyn Davaajargal on March 11, 1985, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Hakuhou Sho ranks among the most celebrated sumo wrestlers in history. Starting his sumo career in March 2001, Hakuhou ascended rapidly to the highest rank of yokozuna at age 22. Over a 20-year career, he amassed 45 makuuchi championships, an unparalleled record in sumo history. Known for his flawless technique and adaptability, he achieved 1187 victories, leaving an indelible imprint on the sport.
Kaoru Mitoma (三笘薫) - Born on May 20, 1997, in Hita, Ōita, Mitoma has ascended to prominence as one of Japan's brightest football stars, wowing fans globally with his dazzling dribbling and top-notch playmaking ability. Currently a left winger for Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion and a fixture on the Japanese national team, Mitoma's journey is as inspiring as his on-field endeavors. From developing his skills at the University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki prefecture, to captivating audiences with striking goals and near-perfect assists, Mitoma has pushed boundaries while gracing the pitch.
Ayumu Hirano (平野歩夢) - Born on November 29, 1998, Ayumu Hirano stands apart as a Japanese trailblazer in snowboarding and skateboarding. Lauded for his daring and artistic skills on the halfpipe, he astounded the world as a 14-year-old, becoming the youngest medalist in Winter X Games history. In 2022, Hirano won the Olympic gold medal in halfpipe snowboarding at the Beijing Winter Olympics, becoming the first snowboarder to land the unprecedented double cork 1440, also clinching a bronze medal in skateboarding at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. With his relentless pursuit of perfection and groundbreaking accomplishments, Hirano continues to inspire as one of Japan's most celebrated athletes.
Kasumi Ishikawa - Born on February 23, 1993, Ishikawa is a retired Japanese table tennis legend. A three-time Olympic medalist, she won silver medals in team events at the 2012 and 2020 Olympics, and a bronze in team events at the 2016 Games. Known for her speedy top-spin offensive play, Ishikawa's rise began with top performances in Japan's national championships and came to embody one of Japan's top-ranked female players. Internationally, she clinched Japan's first mixed doubles gold at the World Championships in over four decades. Fluent in Mandarin and popular in both Japan and China, Ishikawa's legacy encompasses more than her table tennis prowess.

Playing sports offers life-enriching experiences, and professional athletes remind us of the importance of resilience and determination. Sports also possess a distinct power in uniting people, transcending borders and language barriers. If given the opportunity to witness one of these famous Japanese athletes in action, be sure to cheer for their ongoing success!

For an unforgettable travel experience, our agency offers guided tours throughout Japan. From personalized walking tours to immersive Food and Drink tours, our knowledgeable English-speaking guides will help you delve deeper into the history and background of the areas you visit, while unearthing hidden gems that may be overlooked without a guide. For assistance with your Japan travel plans, feel free to contact us!

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour - Discover the lively ambiance and popular street foods of the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo with one of our friendly and well-informed English-speaking guides.

▶ Tokyo 1-Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) - See Tokyo from a local's perspective by joining our expert guides on a private walking tour, uncovering the history and backstories that make each area a memorable experience.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo - Explore the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and its surrounding highlights with our guided bus tour, departing from Shinjuku in the heart of Tokyo.

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Miho Shimizu could also appreciate Japan's rich sports culture by attending a sumo tournament, witnessing a yokozuna like Hakuhou Sho in action.
If she's a fan of tennis, she might enjoy watching a match featuring Naomi Osaka, the world's first Asian player to achieve the No. 1 ranking in singles.
In baseball, she could cheer for Ohtani Shohei, the renowned Japanese baseball star known as "Shotime," who plays in the MLB.
For basketball enthusiasts, Rui Hachimura, a groundbreaking Japanese player now with the Los Angeles Lakers, could be a star to follow.
Foodies might enjoy a tour showcasing various Japanese dishes, much like the Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour offered by our agency.
As a football fan, she could catch a match featuring Ayumu Hirano, a Japanese trailblazer in snowboarding and football, currently playing for Brighton & Hove Albion.