Mazda Stadium
As one zips past on the local train towards Hiroshima station, just as you’re pulling in you can see the iconic figure of Mazda “zoom zoom” stadium. It stands as both an icon of Hiroshima’s most famous company and of the Hiroshima Carp baseball team, both of which are synonymous with the ‘never give up’ spirit of Hiroshima.
As you approach the stadium, you’re filled with the feeling of anticipation, as the streets are paved with Carp fans, selling their wares and also just cheering on their beloved team. Everyone is decked out in their red Carp uniforms, cheerfully making their way towards Mazda stadium, which will soon be overflowing with thousands upon thousands of excited fans. Your excitement builds as you view the streets covered in artwork depicting the fans and their beloved baseball team with numerous Carp theme songs playing in the background. The notoriously reserved Japanese people often are singing along to the music in conjunction with their apparent enthusiasm for baseball and their team.
You enter the stadium, and a sense of awe just washes over you with the picturesque views of the mountains surrounding Mazda stadium. There’s a steady thrum that the stadium holds, as if the stadium itself is preparing for the battle. You forget you’re in the heart of the city and once you’ve reached your seat, you’re transported to the battle of baseball.