Considering a baseball game under a dome without walls? That’s the Belluna Dome for you. This unique stadium is in Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan. Belluna Dome is the home of the Saitama Seibu Lions.
Belluna Dome’s story began in 1979. It started as Seibu Lions Stadium. The Lions moved from Fukuoka that year. It was an open-air stadium then.
Between 1998 and 1999, a roof was added in two phases. The stadium was renamed Seibu Dome before the roof was even complete. The sides remained open.
Originally, the Lions wanted to build a new stadium in Odaiba. But other Tokyo teams opposed. Local fans weren’t happy with that idea. The cost was too high. So, they chose to add a roof to the existing stadium.
The naming rights changed several times over the years. In 2005, it became Invoice Seibu Dome. In 2007, it was Goodwill Dome. In 2015, it became Seibu Prince Dome. From 2017 to 2022, it was known as MetLife Dome. Since 2022, it has been Belluna Dome. Belluna is a mail-order company.
The Belluna Dome isn’t like other domed stadiums. It has a roof, but no walls. Natural air flows into the field. Home runs can actually leave the stadium.
Getting to Belluna Dome takes some effort. From JR Ikebukuro Station, walk to the Seibu Line. Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Nishi-Tokorozawa. Transfer to the Seibu Sayama Line. Get off at Seibu Kyujo-mae Station.
The Belluna Dome has a capacity of over 30,000. It features artificial turf. The outfield fence is about 3.2 to 4.37 meters high.
Traditionalists love Belluna Dome. It’s the last NPB ballpark with a live organist.
Many famous performers have played here. Queen performed here in 1982. New Japan Pro-Wrestling held an event in 2014. Lady Gaga performed sold-out shows in 2022.
So, the Belluna Dome is more than just a baseball stadium. It’s a place for sports, music, and unique experiences. Remember the open sides, the changing names, and the live organist as you leave. It is a unique place.