Japan's pickleball population is expanding rapidly. The number of players, about 3,000 in 2023, reached 5,000 in April 2024, 10,000 in December of that year, and in March 2025over 45,000was reached. That's more than 15-fold growth in a little over two years. But the reality that facility infrastructure hasn't kept up with this rapid growth is also becoming clear.
Background to the growth: driven by those experienced in beach sports and tennis
Supporting pickleball's spread in Japan are people experienced in existing racket sports such as tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Its short learning curve (you can get into a game quickly) and its community aspect where all age groups can mix and enjoy are valued. In particular, the player base of those 40 and over is thick, and the point that it's “less strain on the body than tennis” is gathering support.
Facility shortage is the biggest challenge
Against the surging number of players, dedicated courts are overwhelmingly short. Currently, most players in Japan play at borrowed gyms and tennis courts, and dedicated facilities number very few even nationwide.
Responding to this challenge,Pickleball Base Osaka, one of the largest in western Japan, opened in Sakai City on April 1. The dedicated facility with 6 international-standard courts, open year-round from 8:00 to 22:00, was long awaited by players in the Osaka and Kansai region. Also,The Picklr announced a 20-facility nationwide rollout within five years, and the birth of a dedicated-facility chain is anticipated.
The 2026 domestic tournament calendar
The Japan Pickleball Federation is advancing the development of domestic tournaments.US Open (April 11-18)andMB Hanoi CupParticipants in major overseas tournaments like these are also increasing, and Japanese players' success on the international stage continues.
The Tokyo Tower court becomes a tourist attraction
The Tokyo Tower pickleball court, developed in 2025, functions not only as a sports facility but also as a tourist spot. Cases of foreign tourists with no pickleball experience “watching and getting interested” are also increasing, drawing attention as a crossing of inbound tourism and sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where are the facilities where you can play pickleball in Tokyo?
A: Besides the Tokyo Tower court, rental courts are available at gyms and outdoor facilities across the city. You can check a facility map on the official site of the Pickleball Japan Federation.
Q: Can complete beginners enjoy it?
A: Of course. New facilities like Pickleball Base Osaka and The Picklr have enriched beginner lessons. Many facilities also offer paddle rentals.
Q: Can children and older adults enjoy it safely?
A: Pickleball is an all-ages sport. Because the court is small and the speed is easy to adjust, everyone from children to older adults can enjoy it on the same court.
Source:PickleCity: Pickleball Base Osaka opening interview / Pickleball Japan Federation: Tokyo Tower court
