{"content_id":"10rlajxvge","slug":"japan-series-2026-game-schedule-venues","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"general","category_name":"General","title":"2026 Japan Series Schedule and Home Stadiums by Game","summary":"The 2026 Japan Series opens on October 24, with Game 7 on November 1 if needed. Games 1, 2, 6, and 7 are assigned to the Central League representative's home stadium, and Games 3 through 5 to the Pacific League representative's home stadium.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["Game 1 of the 2026 Japan Series is scheduled for Saturday, October 24.","Games 1, 2, 6, and 7 will be held at the Central League representative's home stadium.","Games 3, 4, and 5 are assigned to the Pacific League representative's home stadium.","The first team to win four games takes the title, so Game 5 and later games may not be played.","Bad weather and other factors may change the schedule, so check both the game number and the revised date."],"content_markdown":"The Japan Series 2026 (日本シリーズ2026) is scheduled to open on October 24. Games 1, 2, 6 and 7 are assigned to the Central League representative’s home stadium. Games 3 through 5 will be played at the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. Game 7 will be played on November 1 (Japan) if needed.\n\nThe game dates are based on NPB’s announcement of August 4, 2026.\n\n## Tournament overview and key information\n\nThe SMBC Japan Series 2026 determines the champion of Japanese professional baseball. The winners of the two leagues’ Climax Series face each other. The participating teams are not determined by regular-season standings alone.\n\n| Item | Information confirmed in the official announcement |\n| --- | --- |\n| Tournament name | SMBC Japan Series 2026 |\n| Organizer | Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) |\n| Special sponsor | SMBC |\n| Matchup | The Central League and Pacific League Climax Series winners |\n| Scheduled opening date | Saturday, October 24, 2026 |\n| Scheduled Game 7 date | Sunday, November 1, 2026, if needed |\n| Specific stadiums | Determined by the participating teams |\n| Game start times | Check NPB’s subsequent announcements for each game |\n\nThe matchup section of NPB’s tournament page identifies the teams by their qualifications in each league. It does not confirm specific clubs or cities. Stadium assignments are available on the [NPB tournament page](https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/).\n\n## Dates and home stadiums for Games 1 through 7\n\nThe 2026 schedule starts with two games at the Central League representative’s home stadium. Three games are then assigned to the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. If the series continues, it returns to the Central League representative’s home stadium.\n\n| Game | Scheduled date in Japan | Stadium | Condition |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Game 1 | Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Central League representative’s home stadium | Opening game |\n| Game 2 | Sunday, October 25, 2026 | Central League representative’s home stadium | Scheduled game |\n| Game 3 | Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | Pacific League representative’s home stadium | Scheduled game |\n| Game 4 | Wednesday, October 28, 2026 | Pacific League representative’s home stadium | Scheduled game |\n| Game 5 | Thursday, October 29, 2026 | Pacific League representative’s home stadium | If no champion has been decided through Game 4 |\n| Game 6 | Saturday, October 31, 2026 | Central League representative’s home stadium | If no champion has been decided through Game 5 |\n| Game 7 | Sunday, November 1, 2026 | Central League representative’s home stadium | If no champion has been decided through Game 6 |\n\nNo games are scheduled for October 26 or October 30. Both dates fall between games assigned to different home stadiums. The dates and venues by league also appear in [NPB’s 2026 annual schedule](https://npb.jp/event/2026/).\n\n## When are games after Game 4 played?\n\nThe series ends when a team reaches four wins. Not all seven games on the schedule will necessarily be played. The following table gives examples without ties.\n\n| Wins through the preceding game | What happens next |\n| --- | --- |\n| After Game 4: 4 wins to 0 | Games 5, 6 and 7 are not played |\n| After Game 4: 3 wins to 1 | Game 5 is played |\n| After Game 4: 2 wins to 2 | Games 5 and 6 must be played |\n| After Game 5: 4 wins to 1 | Games 6 and 7 are not played |\n| After Game 6: 3 wins to 3 | Game 7 is played |\n\nIf there is a tie, the number of games and the teams’ combined win total will differ. In that case, the decision must be based on the actual win totals. Check the 2026 tournament regulations for details such as additional games.\n\n## What to watch for\n\nA key point in the schedule is when the home stadium changes. After Game 2, the series moves to the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. If it reaches Game 6, play returns to the Central League representative’s home stadium.\n\n- The Central League representative plays the first two games at home.\n- The Pacific League representative is assigned Games 3 through 5 at home.\n- Games 6 and 7 are played at the Central League representative’s home stadium only if the series continues.\n- The number of home games on the schedule may differ from the number actually played.\n\nFor example, the champion could be decided in Game 4. In that case, each team will have played two home games. The four games assigned to the Central League representative should not be read as the number that will actually be held.\n\n## Comparing broadcast and in-person viewing options\n\nFor in-person attendance, check each club’s ticket sales terms. To watch on TV or online, check the tournament’s broadcast schedule. The NPB tournament page reviewed does not list schedules by broadcaster.\n\n| Viewing method | Confirmed information or details to check | Where to check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| In person | Eligibility, game number, seat prices and who can buy tickets | Official ticket announcements from NPB and the relevant club |\n| TV broadcast | Broadcaster and start time for each game | NPB’s subsequent announcements and broadcasters’ schedules |\n| Online viewing | Whether the game is available, fees and viewing regions | The official broadcaster’s tournament information |\n\nAdvance ticket sales by a club do not mean its participation has been confirmed. The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks announced a ticket lottery conditional on the team qualifying. The announcement was published on October 1, 2026.\n\nThe members’ lottery runs from October 1 at 10:00 to October 7 at 23:59 (October 7 at 23:59 in Japan and South Korea). Application times are based on Japan local time. The eligible games are Games 3, 4 and 5 if the Hawks qualify.\n\n| Seat examples in this advance lottery | Announced price per ticket |\n| --- | --- |\n| Reserved outfield seat on the third-base side | 3,900 yen, including tax |\n| B reserved seat on the third-base side | 4,900 yen, including tax |\n\nThese prices apply only to that club’s specific sales announcement. They cannot be applied to other stadiums or seats. Check the [Hawks’ official advance sales announcement](https://www.softbankhawks.co.jp/news/detail/202601097393.html) for membership eligibility and ticket issuance terms.\n\n## If the schedule changes, distinguish the date from the game number\n\nA ticket for a postponed game may be used on a date different from the original one. The Hawks’ announcement says that if a game is postponed due to bad weather, the ticket remains valid for the same game number. Do not judge when a ticket can be used by the calendar date alone.\n\nNPB’s tournament announcement of August 4, 2026, also explicitly states that changes are possible.\n\n\u003e ＊悪天候等により変更が生じる場合があります\n\nThis means changes may occur due to bad weather or other circumstances. The quoted document is [NPB’s announcement of the Japan Series 2026 special sponsor and campaign](https://npb.jp/news/detail/20260804_01.html).\n\nIf the schedule changes, check in this order:\n\n1. Check the NPB tournament page for the new date of the relevant game number.\n2. Check the host club’s announcement for the start time and entry information.\n3. Check with the ticket seller for ticket validity terms and refund information.\n\nA game that is not played because the champion has been decided is different from a rain postponement. Do not apply one club’s ticket rules to another stadium. Check flight and accommodation change terms separately with each booking provider.\n\n## Frequently asked questions\n\n### When is the opening game?\n\nGame 1 is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026 (Japan). It will be played at the Central League representative’s home stadium.\n\n### Will Game 7 definitely be played?\n\nGame 7 will be played only if needed. It will not be played if a team has won four games earlier in the series.\n\n### Is November 1 definitely the final day of the tournament?\n\nNovember 1 is the announced date for Game 7. It is not a guaranteed end date because the schedule may change due to bad weather or other circumstances.\n\n### Are games played at the regular-season champion’s stadium?\n\nGames are assigned to the Japan Series representatives’ home stadiums. The winners of each league’s Climax Series earn a place in the series.\n\n### What time do the games start?\n\nThe NPB tournament page reviewed does not give specific start times. The Hawks’ listing of night games is also provisional. Check the subsequent announcement for each game for the exact time.\n\n### Has a broadcast available in South Korea been confirmed?\n\nThe official announcements reviewed for this article do not identify a way to watch from South Korea. Check broadcasters’ schedules for the 2026 Japan Series. A regular-season broadcast package cannot be assumed to include the tournament.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eThe Japan Series 2026 (日本シリーズ2026) is scheduled to open on October 24. Games 1, 2, 6 and 7 are assigned to the Central League representative’s home stadium. Games 3 through 5 will be played at the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. Game 7 will be played on November 1 (Japan) if needed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe game dates are based on NPB’s announcement of August 4, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#tournament-overview-and-key-information\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"tournament-overview-and-key-information\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTournament overview and key information\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SMBC Japan Series 2026 determines the champion of Japanese professional baseball. The winners of the two leagues’ Climax Series face each other. The participating teams are not determined by regular-season standings alone.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eInformation confirmed in the official announcement\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eTournament name\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eSMBC Japan Series 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eOrganizer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eNippon Professional Baseball (NPB)\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eSpecial sponsor\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eSMBC\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eMatchup\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eThe Central League and Pacific League Climax Series winners\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eScheduled opening date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eSaturday, October 24, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eScheduled Game 7 date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eSunday, November 1, 2026, if needed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eSpecific stadiums\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eDetermined by the participating teams\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eGame start times\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in the official announcement\"\u003eCheck NPB’s subsequent announcements for each game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe matchup section of NPB’s tournament page identifies the teams by their qualifications in each league. It does not confirm specific clubs or cities. Stadium assignments are available on the \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/\"\u003eNPB tournament page\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#dates-and-home-stadiums-for-games-1-through-7\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"dates-and-home-stadiums-for-games-1-through-7\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDates and home stadiums for Games 1 through 7\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2026 schedule starts with two games at the Central League representative’s home stadium. Three games are then assigned to the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. If the series continues, it returns to the Central League representative’s home stadium.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGame\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eScheduled date in Japan\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStadium\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCondition\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eSaturday, October 24, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003eCentral League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eOpening game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eSunday, October 25, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003eCentral League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eScheduled game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eTuesday, October 27, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003ePacific League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eScheduled game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 4\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eWednesday, October 28, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003ePacific League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eScheduled game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 5\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eThursday, October 29, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003ePacific League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eIf no champion has been decided through Game 4\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 6\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eSaturday, October 31, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003eCentral League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eIf no champion has been decided through Game 5\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Scheduled date in Japan\"\u003eSunday, November 1, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stadium\"\u003eCentral League representative’s home stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Condition\"\u003eIf no champion has been decided through Game 6\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo games are scheduled for October 26 or October 30. Both dates fall between games assigned to different home stadiums. The dates and venues by league also appear in \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/event/2026/\"\u003eNPB’s 2026 annual schedule\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-are-games-after-game-4-played\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-are-games-after-game-4-played\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen are games after Game 4 played?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe series ends when a team reaches four wins. Not all seven games on the schedule will necessarily be played. The following table gives examples without ties.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWins through the preceding game\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat happens next\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Wins through the preceding game\"\u003eAfter Game 4: 4 wins to 0\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What happens next\"\u003eGames 5, 6 and 7 are not played\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Wins through the preceding game\"\u003eAfter Game 4: 3 wins to 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What happens next\"\u003eGame 5 is played\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Wins through the preceding game\"\u003eAfter Game 4: 2 wins to 2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What happens next\"\u003eGames 5 and 6 must be played\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Wins through the preceding game\"\u003eAfter Game 5: 4 wins to 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What happens next\"\u003eGames 6 and 7 are not played\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Wins through the preceding game\"\u003eAfter Game 6: 3 wins to 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What happens next\"\u003eGame 7 is played\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf there is a tie, the number of games and the teams’ combined win total will differ. In that case, the decision must be based on the actual win totals. Check the 2026 tournament regulations for details such as additional games.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-watch-for\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-watch-for\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to watch for\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key point in the schedule is when the home stadium changes. After Game 2, the series moves to the Pacific League representative’s home stadium. If it reaches Game 6, play returns to the Central League representative’s home stadium.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Central League representative plays the first two games at home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Pacific League representative is assigned Games 3 through 5 at home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames 6 and 7 are played at the Central League representative’s home stadium only if the series continues.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe number of home games on the schedule may differ from the number actually played.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, the champion could be decided in Game 4. In that case, each team will have played two home games. The four games assigned to the Central League representative should not be read as the number that will actually be held.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-broadcast-and-in-person-viewing-options\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-broadcast-and-in-person-viewing-options\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing broadcast and in-person viewing options\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor in-person attendance, check each club’s ticket sales terms. To watch on TV or online, check the tournament’s broadcast schedule. The NPB tournament page reviewed does not list schedules by broadcaster.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eViewing method\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eConfirmed information or details to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhere to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Viewing method\"\u003eIn person\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirmed information or details to check\"\u003eEligibility, game number, seat prices and who can buy tickets\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eOfficial ticket announcements from NPB and the relevant club\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Viewing method\"\u003eTV broadcast\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirmed information or details to check\"\u003eBroadcaster and start time for each game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eNPB’s subsequent announcements and broadcasters’ schedules\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Viewing method\"\u003eOnline viewing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirmed information or details to check\"\u003eWhether the game is available, fees and viewing regions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Where to check\"\u003eThe official broadcaster’s tournament information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdvance ticket sales by a club do not mean its participation has been confirmed. The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks announced a ticket lottery conditional on the team qualifying. The announcement was published on October 1, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe members’ lottery runs from October 1 at 10:00 to October 7 at 23:59 (October 7 at 23:59 in Japan and South Korea). Application times are based on Japan local time. The eligible games are Games 3, 4 and 5 if the Hawks qualify.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSeat examples in this advance lottery\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAnnounced price per ticket\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Seat examples in this advance lottery\"\u003eReserved outfield seat on the third-base side\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Announced price per ticket\"\u003e3,900 yen, including tax\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Seat examples in this advance lottery\"\u003eB reserved seat on the third-base side\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Announced price per ticket\"\u003e4,900 yen, including tax\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese prices apply only to that club’s specific sales announcement. They cannot be applied to other stadiums or seats. Check the \u003ca href=\"https://www.softbankhawks.co.jp/news/detail/202601097393.html\"\u003eHawks’ official advance sales announcement\u003c/a\u003e for membership eligibility and ticket issuance terms.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#if-the-schedule-changes-distinguish-the-date-from-the-game-number\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"if-the-schedule-changes-distinguish-the-date-from-the-game-number\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIf the schedule changes, distinguish the date from the game number\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA ticket for a postponed game may be used on a date different from the original one. The Hawks’ announcement says that if a game is postponed due to bad weather, the ticket remains valid for the same game number. Do not judge when a ticket can be used by the calendar date alone.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNPB’s tournament announcement of August 4, 2026, also explicitly states that changes are possible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e＊悪天候等により変更が生じる場合があります\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis means changes may occur due to bad weather or other circumstances. The quoted document is \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20260804_01.html\"\u003eNPB’s announcement of the Japan Series 2026 special sponsor and campaign\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the schedule changes, check in this order:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the NPB tournament page for the new date of the relevant game number.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the host club’s announcement for the start time and entry information.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck with the ticket seller for ticket validity terms and refund information.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA game that is not played because the champion has been decided is different from a rain postponement. Do not apply one club’s ticket rules to another stadium. Check flight and accommodation change terms separately with each booking provider.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-is-the-opening-game\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-is-the-opening-game\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen is the opening game?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGame 1 is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026 (Japan). It will be played at the Central League representative’s home stadium.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#will-game-7-definitely-be-played\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"will-game-7-definitely-be-played\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWill Game 7 definitely be played?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGame 7 will be played only if needed. It will not be played if a team has won four games earlier in the series.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-november-1-definitely-the-final-day-of-the-tournament\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-november-1-definitely-the-final-day-of-the-tournament\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs November 1 definitely the final day of the tournament?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNovember 1 is the announced date for Game 7. It is not a guaranteed end date because the schedule may change due to bad weather or other circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#are-games-played-at-the-regular-season-champions-stadium\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"are-games-played-at-the-regular-season-champions-stadium\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAre games played at the regular-season champion’s stadium?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGames are assigned to the Japan Series representatives’ home stadiums. The winners of each league’s Climax Series earn a place in the series.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-time-do-the-games-start\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-time-do-the-games-start\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat time do the games start?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe NPB tournament page reviewed does not give specific start times. The Hawks’ listing of night games is also provisional. Check the subsequent announcement for each game for the exact time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#has-a-broadcast-available-in-south-korea-been-confirmed\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"has-a-broadcast-available-in-south-korea-been-confirmed\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHas a broadcast available in South Korea been confirmed?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe official announcements reviewed for this article do not identify a way to watch from South Korea. Check broadcasters’ schedules for the 2026 Japan Series. A regular-season broadcast package cannot be assumed to include the tournament.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Sports broadcasting","Ticket Booking","Japan Series"],"faqs":[{"question":"When does the 2026 Japan Series begin?","answer":"Game 1 is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the Central League participating team's home ballpark."},{"question":"How are the home ballparks assigned for each game?","answer":"Games 1, 2, 6, and 7 are assigned to the Central League participating team's home ballpark. Games 3, 4, and 5 will be played at the Pacific League participating team's home ballpark."},{"question":"Why might Game 5 and later games not be played?","answer":"The first team to win four games becomes the champion. If the champion is decided in Game 4, Games 5, 6, and 7 will not be played."},{"question":"When is Game 7 scheduled?","answer":"Sunday, November 1, 2026. It will be played only if the champion has not been decided by Game 6. The date may change due to bad weather or other factors."},{"question":"Are there games on October 26 and October 30?","answer":"No games are assigned to either date in the announced basic 2026 schedule. If the schedule changes, check for a new notice on the NPB tournament page."},{"question":"Can the ballparks be identified before the participating teams are decided?","answer":"The home ballpark assignments by league are available. The specific ballparks will depend on the participating teams. A club's conditional ticket sales should not be taken as confirmation that it has qualified."},{"question":"If a game is postponed, can existing tickets be used?","answer":"The Hawks' 2026 advance sales announcement says that if games are postponed, tickets remain valid for the corresponding game number. For other ballparks, check the relevant sales announcement to see how this applies."},{"question":"Where can I check the broadcast channels and start times?","answer":"Check NPB's subsequent tournament announcements and the official broadcasters' schedules. For online viewing, also check whether the broadcaster offers the tournament and whether viewing is available in your region."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20260804_01.html","title":"Notice of the Selection of a Special Sponsor and Launch of a Campaign for NPB Japan Series 2026, August 4, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://npb.jp/event/2026/","title":"NPB 2026 Annual Professional Baseball Event Schedule","type":"data_point"},{"url":"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/","title":"NPB SMBC Japan Series 2026 Tournament Page","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.softbankhawks.co.jp/news/detail/202601097393.html","title":"Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks Japan Series Advance Sales Notice for Members, October 1, 2026","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1607,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjQxNjcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--eb80243efe80f2589a9314d673e37d13fe739e37/ai-4f1be66b.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"관중석이 차는 야구장을 바라보는 중년 남성, 뒤로는 가을빛 나무가 보인다.","caption":"2026년 일본시리즈 1차전은 10월 24일 센트럴리그 출전팀의 홈구장에서 열린다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"An older man looks out over a baseball field and filling stands, with autumn trees beyond.","caption":"The 2026 Japan Series opens on October 24 at the Central League team's home ballpark.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"観客が集まる野球場を見渡す年配の男性。球場の向こうには秋色の木々が見える。","caption":"2026年の日本シリーズは10月24日、セ・リーグ出場チームの本拠地で開幕する。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre mayor contempla un campo de béisbol con las gradas llenándose y árboles otoñales al fondo.","caption":"La Serie de Japón 2026 comienza el 24 de octubre en el estadio del equipo de la Liga Central.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pria lanjut usia memandang lapangan bisbol dan tribun yang mulai ramai, dengan pepohonan musim gugur di kejauhan.","caption":"Japan Series 2026 dimulai pada 24 Oktober di kandang tim peserta Liga Sentral.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem mais velho observa o campo de beisebol e as arquibancadas que começam a encher, com árvores outonais ao fundo.","caption":"A Série do Japão de 2026 começa em 24 de outubro no estádio da equipe da Liga Central.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名年長男子望向棒球場與逐漸坐滿的看台，遠處可見秋色樹林。","caption":"2026年日本大賽將於10月24日在中央聯盟出賽球隊的主場開打。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein älterer Mann blickt auf ein Baseballfeld und sich füllende Ränge, dahinter herbstlich gefärbte Bäume.","caption":"Die Japan Series 2026 beginnt am 24. Oktober im Heimstadion des Teams aus der Central League.","description":null}}},{"id":1608,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjQxNzMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--060da89310ffc5c71df5d08f8c7ef769d2af0edb/ai-12fdce0a.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"관중이 가득한 야구장에서 청록색 재킷을 입은 여성이 좌석 옆에 서 있다.","caption":"2026년 일본시리즈 3차전은 퍼시픽리그 출전팀의 홈구장에서 열린다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman in a teal jacket stands by her seat at a packed baseball stadium.","caption":"Game 3 of the 2026 Japan Series is scheduled at the Pacific League team's home stadium.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"満員の野球場で、青緑色のジャケットを着た女性が座席のそばに立っている。","caption":"2026年日本シリーズの第3戦は、パ・リーグ出場チームの本拠地で行われる。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer con chaqueta verde azulado está junto a su asiento en un estadio de béisbol lleno.","caption":"El tercer partido de la Serie de Japón 2026 se disputará en el estadio del equipo de la Liga del Pacífico.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan berjaket hijau kebiruan berdiri di dekat kursinya di stadion bisbol yang penuh penonton.","caption":"Laga ketiga Japan Series 2026 dijadwalkan di kandang tim peserta Liga Pasifik.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher de casaco verde-azulado está junto ao seu assento num estádio de beisebol lotado.","caption":"O terceiro jogo da Série do Japão de 2026 será disputado no estádio da equipe da Liga do Pacífico.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名穿著藍綠色外套的女子站在座位旁，棒球場看台坐滿觀眾。","caption":"2026年日本大賽第3戰將在太平洋聯盟參賽球隊的主場舉行。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau in türkisfarbener Jacke steht an ihrem Platz in einem voll besetzten Baseballstadion.","caption":"Spiel 3 der Japan Series 2026 findet im Heimstadion des Teams aus der Pacific League statt.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-03T06:12:07+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-03T06:12:07+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/japan-series-2026-game-schedule-venues"}