Japan's unique rugby fanzones

Japan is hosting the Rugby World Cup, welcoming hordes of rugby fans from across the globe.

Expecting heavy downpours, since the tournament is during typhoon season, organizers have created 16 Fanzones across Japan, ensuring fans can watch all matches in warmth and comfort. Besides visitors, Japanese fans are also flocking to Fanzones, buoyed by their team's unexpected success. In Tokyo the Fanzone is sited in a 3 storey building near Ginza's shopping district, although to enjoy the matches, a number of rules must be adhered to.

Notices outside the building inform those queuing of required behaviour, and these signs continue inside too.

Smoking is prohibited and alcohol is limited to the first floor, meaning families and children experience the world-class matches in alcohol free surroundings.

Woman: "In Japan everyone's a lot more orderly. It's not so chaotic, like Melbourne."

Man: "Everyone's good sports here, in Australia, everyone would be standing up - jumping up and down the whole time. Here everyone's very polite, the Japanese people are still clapping for Ireland scores. They're very nice and respectful people, we're really enjoying ourselves. So, yeah."

Fanzones are making a concerted effort to recycle. Visitors are guided to ensure all waste is placed in the appropriate container and are supported by plenty of volunteers who help clarify any confusion. Weniger anzeigen