Seibu Dome, also known as Belluna Dome and now known as Metlife Dome, is a baseball stadium in Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.
It is the home stadium of the Saitama Seibu Lions, a professional baseball team that competes in the Pacific League. The stadium has a seating capacity of 32,725, making it one of the largest baseball stadiums in Japan.
Originally opened in 1979 as Seibu Lions Stadium, the stadium underwent renovations in 1999 that included the addition of a retractable roof. The stadium was then renamed MetLife Dome, but it is still more commonly known as the Seibu Dome. The stadium is owned by Seibu Railway and operated by Seibu Lions.
It is situated in the scenic location of the Sayama Hills, surrounded by lush greenery. The stadium is unique in that it does not have outer walls and offers a unique view of the surrounding forest.
The stadium is also known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a video screen that measures 79 feet by 59 feet, one of the largest in Japan.
History
The stadium has a seating capacity of 32,725 and is home to the Saitama Seibu Lions, a professional baseball team. The stadium was opened in 1979 and was originally built without a top. It was given a facelift before the 1999 season, and unlike other domes, it does not have outer walls and has a unique view of the surrounding forest.
Seibu Dome has undergone several name changes over the years. It was known as Seibu Dome from 1979 to 2005, Goodwill Dome in 2007, Seibu Prince Dome from 2015 to 2017, and MetLife Dome from 2017 to 2022. In 2022, the stadium’s naming rights were acquired by Belluna, a Japanese mail-order company, and the stadium was renamed Belluna Dome.
The stadium has hosted several major events, including the 1982 and 2002 Japan Series, the 1998 and 2018 Nippon Professional Baseball All-Star Games, and the 2007 Asian Baseball Championship. It has also hosted concerts by several famous artists, including Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Lady Gaga.
Facilities
A state-of-the-art facility that has been renovated several times since its opening in 1979, it is the home stadium of the Saitama Seibu Lions, a professional baseball team in Japan. The stadium has a seating capacity of 32,725 and features a unique design that sets it apart from other domes.
One of the most notable features of the Seibu Dome is its retractable roof, which can be opened or closed depending on the weather conditions. This allows for games to be played in any weather, rain or shine, and gives you a comfortable atmosphere for spectators. The roof is made of a transparent material that allows natural light to filter through, giving the stadium a bright and airy feel even when the roof is closed.
The stadium also boasts a wide range of food and beverage options for fans to enjoy. There are numerous concession stands and restaurants throughout the stadium, offering everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to western-style fast food. Some of the most popular items on the menu include bento boxes, sushi, and hot dogs.
In addition to food and drink, the Seibu Dome has other amenities and facilities for fans to enjoy. There are souvenir shops selling team merchandise and memorabilia, as well as a children’s play area and arcade games. The stadium also has a first aid station and lost and found service to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
Events and Activities
It is not only home to the Saitama Seibu Lions, but it also hosts events and activities throughout the year. Here’s a few of the popular ones:
- Concerts: The dome is a popular venue for concerts, especially during the winter months when the weather is cold. Many famous Japanese and international artists have performed here, including Lady Gaga, Madonna, and BTS.
- Sports events: In addition to baseball, the dome also hosts other sports events such as basketball, American football, and professional wrestling. The venue is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, making it an ideal location for large-scale events.
- Corporate events: The dome offers corporate event packages, including private suites, catering services, and access to VIP lounges. These packages are perfect for companies looking to host events such as conferences, product launches, or team-building activities.
One of the unique features of Seibu Dome is its winter illumination event. During the holiday season, the stadium is decorated with thousands of LED lights, creating a magical and festive atmosphere. You can enjoy the light show while also taking part in various winter activities such as ice skating and snow tubing.
Overall, Seibu Dome is a versatile and exciting venue that offers Something to interest all. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or corporate event planner, this dome has got you covered.
Access and Transportation
Seibu Dome is in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Here are some ways to reach the stadium:
- Take the Seibu Sayama Line railway (a branch of the Seibu Ikebukuro Line) to Seibukyūjō-mae Station, the terminal station in front of the stadium.
- Take the Seibu Yamaguchi Line people mover to Seibukyūjō-mae Station.
If you’re coming from Tokyo, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Tokorozawa Station and transfer to the Seibu Sayama Line. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
If you’re coming from Saitama-Shintoshin Station, take the Musashino Line to Kokubunji Station and transfer to the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
If you’re driving, there are several parking lots available around the stadium. The parking fee is usually around 1,000 yen.
During large events, shuttle bus services are available to help clear the crowds. You can get on the bus at the following stations:
| Station | Line |
|---|---|
| Makomanai Station | JR Hakodate Line |
| Hiragishi Station | Sapporo City Subway Tozai Line |
| Shiroishi Station | JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line |
| Nango-juhatchome Station | Sapporo City Subway Toho Line |
The Sum Up
Overall, Seibu Dome is a unique and exciting stadium for baseball fans to visit. It’s open-air design and natural air flow provide a one-of-a-kind experience, and the Saitama Seibu Lions provide an entertaining game for spectators. If you are a baseball fan planning to visit Japan, Seibu Dome is definitely worth a visit.
