As the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the World Series victory, fans across Japan celebrated with fervor, leading to record television ratings and a spirited morning at local bars.
Japanese Fans Flock to Watch Ohtani's World Series Triumph
Japanese Fans Flock to Watch Ohtani's World Series Triumph
The World Series captured the hearts of millions in Japan, thanks largely to Shohei Ohtani's stellar performance for the Dodgers.
In the bustling atmosphere of Jun Mizuno's bar in Toyama, Japan, the excitement was palpable as locals gathered to celebrate a momentous event: Shohei Ohtani's first World Series victory with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The bar, which once opened its doors at 5 p.m., began welcoming patrons as early as 8 a.m. this season, facilitating the phenomenon of fans soaking up Ohtani's remarkable journey over breakfast drinks and snacks.
Thursday morning was particularly festive as Ohtani and his team faced off against the New York Yankees in Game 5, resulting in a nail-biting 7-6 victory for the Dodgers. "The entire country is thrilled," Mizuno exclaimed, showcasing a massive banner of Ohtani that set the tone for the morning’s excitement.
Baseball has long been a beloved sport in Japan, but Ohtani's presence on the world stage alongside his fellow countryman and teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto has skyrocketed interest in the World Series. Recent figures reveal that an average of 15.2 million viewers tuned in for the first two games in Japan—surpassing the 14.5 million viewers in the United States.
Games aired at 9 a.m. local time allowed fans to relish the action during breakfast or even amidst their workdays. Otoko Bar Mizuno Sake Store curated a special morning menu for the occasion, delighting customers with eggs, bacon, cheese toast, and coffee as they cheered for their baseball idol.
With Ohtani's continuous rise in fame, his achievements resonate beyond the field, inspiring a wave of support and admiration across Japan, enriching the nation’s deep-rooted connection to the sport. As the Dodgers celebrate their hard-fought victory, the impact of this moment extends well into the hearts of fans worldwide, and especially in Japan, where baseball is not merely a game but a cherished cultural celebration.
