ZOZO Marine Stadium (Chiba Marine Stadium)

ZOZO Marine Stadium, officially known as Chiba Marine Stadium until its naming rights changed in 2016, stands as one of Japan's premier baseball venues in Chiba City. The stadium opened in 1990 and serves as the home ground of the Chiba Lotte Marines, a professional baseball team competing in Nippon Professional Baseball's Pacific League. With a seating capacity of approximately 30,000 spectators, the facility was designed specifically for baseball, distinguishing it from many multi-purpose stadiums in Japan.

The stadium holds particular significance as the first professional baseball facility built in the Kanto region outside Tokyo in decades. Its construction represented Chiba Prefecture's emergence as a major metropolitan center and sports destination. The Marines have cultivated an enthusiastic fan base known for their distinctive cheering styles and organized supporter groups, creating an atmosphere that makes attending games here a uniquely Japanese baseball experience. The team has won the Japan Series championship multiple times, including notable victories in 2005 and 2010.

Visitors attending games can experience the energetic crowd participation, including synchronized chants, horn sections, and choreographed cheering that differs markedly from Western baseball culture. The stadium offers various seating options from infield reserved seats to outfield standing areas, with the outfield sections known for the most passionate supporters. Non-game day stadium tours are occasionally available, allowing visitors to see behind-the-scenes areas and learn about the facility's architecture and the team's history. The surrounding Makuhari area features shopping complexes and dining options, making it convenient to combine a stadium visit with other activities.

For those driving, parking facilities are available but fill quickly on game days. Baseball game tickets typically range from ¥1,500 to ¥6,000 depending on the seat location and opponent, with tickets available through the team's official website, convenience stores, and ticket resellers. The stadium season runs from late March through October, with occasional postseason games extending into November.

The stadium is located in the Mihama Ward of Chiba City, approximately 10 kilometers from central Chiba. The most convenient access is via the JR Keiyo Line to Kaihimmakuhari Station, from which the stadium is roughly a 15-minute walk. During game days, shuttle buses often operate from the station. The venue is also accessible from Tokyo Station in about 30 to 40 minutes by train.