People travel for a myriad of reasons, from cultural experiences to culinary adventures, natural wonders, and increasingly, sport. For many, following their favorite teams or witnessing major international competitions is just as compelling as sightseeing. According to new research highlighted by Forbes, Tokyo is emerging as a top destination for sports-focused tourism, landing in third place globally.
The research was conducted by Stasher, a global luggage storage network, and their analysis considered factors such as major events, sports-related attractions, safety, and the overall fan experience. The study reveals that sports tourism now accounts for roughly 10% of global travel spending, with nearly one in three people saying they have traveled (or would travel) specifically for a sporting event.
Tokyo earned an impressive overall score of 6.5, standing out for its busy international sporting calendar and surprisingly affordable day-to-day costs. The city offers some of the lowest prices on meals, drinks, and transit among the top-ranked destinations, making it accessible for both casual fans and dedicated sports tourists. Tokyo also boasts the highest number of sports-related attractions among the cities surveyed (for example, stadium tours and sports museums), providing plenty to explore off the field.
Throughout the year, Tokyo hosts a wide range of events that appeal to global visitors. From the Tokyo Marathon and major baseball games at iconic stadiums to international tennis tournaments and iconic sumo matches, there's always a sporting spectacle to catch.
