Footsteps of
Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Hanazono Rugby Stadium opened in November 1929 as Hanazono Sports Ground. The idea of building Japan's first stadium exclusively for rugby is said to have come as both a surprise and major event for the relevant authorities. The project was motivated by Prince Chichibu and the newspapers reported widely on the "Construction of the Asia's first deicated rugby stadium."

Hanazono Rugby Stadium
at the time of its opening

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Chichibu, and a commemorative match between an old-timers' team and a students' team was held. On the same day, Rugby Ground Station (the present Higashi-hanazono Station) was newly opened. At that time it served as a temporary station that was open only on match days.

The initial official name of Hanazono Rugby Stadium was "Hanazono Rugby Stadium of the Japan Rugby Football Association and the Western Rugby Football Association." As the stadium name indicates, it was associated with the Japan Rugby Football Association, which serves to promote rugby in Japan.

As World War II intensified, the metalic roof of the main stands was surrendered to the authorities on June 25, 1943 in accordance with the Metal Recovery Act of 1941.

Hanazono Rugby Stadium during the New Year's period (Asahi Sports, January 15, 1935)

The History of Rugby

1928 - 1948

1928

Osaka Electric Orbit Co., Ltd. decided to build a rugby stadium at the suggestion of HIH Prince Chichibu.

1929

Hanazono Rugby Stadium was constructed on a former racecourse as the largest dedicated rugby stadium in Asia.

1932

The first international match between Canada and Doshisha University was played at Hanazono Stadium.

1933

Japan's first night game took place at Totsuka Stadium.

1934

Edward B. Clarke died.

1939

Rugby balls were rationed.

1943

Rugby terms were changed to Japanese terms. During the war, the stadium changed its name to Hanazono Training Field and was utilized as a primary training facility for pilots. The stadium's metal roof was surrendered and utilized for military supplies.

1945

The stadium was taken over by the General Headquarters of the Allied Powers.

1946

The 1st National Sports Festival was held and included rugby football.
Tokyo Rugby Stadium was constructed.

1947

HIH Prince Chichibu became the President of the Japan Rugby Association.
The 1st match of the East-West Student Tournament took place.