[For Beginners] B-Corsairs Spectator Guide – How to Enjoy Yokohama International Pool to the Fullest

Are you excited to watch a live Yokohama B-Corsairs basketball game for the first time? This guide is designed to help you get the most out of your visit to the B-Corsairs’ home arena, the Yokohama International Pool. We’ll cover everything from buying tickets and getting to the arena, to what to bring, where to find the best food, and how to join the Japanese fans in cheering. Whether you’re a foreign tourist, an expat in Japan, or simply a B.League fan visiting Yokohama, here’s how to enjoy the experience 120%!

About the Yokohama B-Corsairs and Yokohama International Pool

The Yokohama B-Corsairs are a professional basketball team in Japan’s B.League (Division B1, the top tier). The team represents Yokohama City in Kanagawa Prefecture. Fans often refer to the team as “Bee-Cor” (from the Japanese pronunciation “Bii-Koru”), so don’t be surprised if you hear that nickname. The name “B-Corsairs” reflects Yokohama’s maritime history – “B” stands for things like Blue (the color of the ocean and team’s spirit), Basketball, and Bay, while Corsairs means “pirates,” symbolizing bravery and adventure. Fittingly, the team’s mascot “Corse” is a pirate boy, and the logo features a pirate theme. The team’s colors are navy blue, red, white, and gold, representing the port city and strong spirit of Yokohama.

The home arena for the B-Corsairs is the Yokohama International Pool, locally nicknamed the “Water Arena.” It’s a unique multi-purpose sports venue located in Tsuzuki Ward of Yokohama. As the name suggests, this facility was originally built as an international swimming pool complex (opened in 1998) and still functions as one in the summer. However, each autumn it undergoes a transformation: the pool is covered and converted into a sports arena for the B.League season (which runs roughly from October to April). This means the arena has some distinctive features that set it apart from typical basketball gyms. For one, it has a high ceiling with skylights that let in natural sunlight. If you attend a daytime game on a sunny day, the interior will be bright with natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The arena can accommodate around 5,000 spectators in basketball configuration (about 1,000 on the floor level and 4,000 in the upper stands). It’s not huge compared to NBA arenas, but it gets loud and passionate with Yokohama’s fans filling the seats.

Because of its swimming pool origins, you might notice some interesting quirks: a diving platform looming at one end of the arena, or even a faint smell of chlorine near certain areas – little reminders of the pool beneath the court! The skylights also mean the arena cannot be completely darkened, so the pre-game light shows or lasers are toned down. But what it lacks in fancy light effects, it makes up for in close-up excitement and a family-friendly vibe. If the B-Corsairs win a game, keep an eye out for special touches like a giant Yokohama city flag or unique victory celebrations that give this arena its own character.

Buying Tickets and Choosing Your Seats

Getting your ticket in advance is highly recommended for B-Corsairs games. Big weekend games or matchups against top teams can sell out. Tickets are available on the official Yokohama B-Corsairs website (ticket section) or the B.League ticketing website. These sites are primarily in Japanese, but they are fairly straightforward with a bit of translation help. You can also purchase tickets via convenience store kiosks in Japan (like 7-Eleven’s ticket machines) if you’re already in the country. If you have trouble with Japanese, you might consider asking a Japanese friend or using a ticket broker service that caters to foreigners. It’s rare to find on-site English ticket sales, so plan ahead.

Tickets come as either e-tickets (displayed on your smartphone) or physical paper tickets you print or pick up at a convenience store. Prices vary depending on the seating category and the game, as B.League uses dynamic pricing. Generally, expect to pay around ¥2,000-¥3,000 for upper-level seats and up to ¥7,000-¥8,000 (or more) for premium courtside seats. Children’s tickets (usually for elementary school age and under) are often available at a discounted rate. One nice thing: if you have a toddler or infant who will sit on your lap, they can enter for free (no ticket needed). If they need their own seat, you’ll have to purchase a child ticket for them. So, families with little ones are definitely welcome.

Now, let’s talk about seating choices. The Yokohama International Pool offers a mix of floor-level seating around the court (1st floor) and elevated stands (2nd floor). Here’s a breakdown:

• Court-side / Floor Seats (1F): These are closest to the action. You’ll be almost at eye level with the players. The sideline seats along the team benches or opposite side give you a great view of player interactions and fast-paced drives. There are also seats behind each basket (called “end seats”). Being this close is thrilling – you can hear the squeak of sneakers and shouts of players. However, these seats are pricier and limited in number. If you’re a basketball die-hard who wants an immersive experience, it’s worth it. Just be aware that in some sections, the seating is on temporary risers with only a small height difference between rows, so if a tall person is in front of you it might obstruct your view a bit.
• Upper Stands (2F): The majority of fans sit here. The 2nd-floor seats ring the court and offer an excellent panoramic view. If you’re a beginner, sitting near midcourt in the upper stand (especially on the side opposite the team benches, often called “Center” section) is a fantastic choice because you can see plays develop on both ends. It’s also easier to follow all the action if you’re not used to the quick back-and-forth of basketball. These seats are more affordable, and you’ll be among passionate home fans.
• Reserved vs Free Seating: Some games or sections might be designated as “自由席” (general admission) – this means the ticket guarantees you entry but you choose any open seat in a certain area (first-come, first-served). Other sections are reserved seats (with assigned row and number). Make sure to check your ticket. If you have a general admission ticket, plan to arrive early when doors open to claim a good spot, especially for popular games. If you have a reserved seat, you can be a bit more relaxed time-wise since your spot is secured.
• Family considerations: If you are bringing kids, you might appreciate seats where they can easily see and enjoy. The 2F seats, being higher, ensure even smaller fans can get a clear view over adults in front. Also, sitting near the aisle can be helpful for quick bathroom breaks (kids often need them!). The atmosphere is energetic but still kid-friendly, and you’ll see many families around.

For purchasing, if you plan to attend multiple games or want early access to big game tickets, note that B-Corsairs have an official fan club. Members get perks like priority ticket sales and sometimes discounts. It might not be worth it for a one-off visit, but for locals or long-term fans, it’s something to consider.

Getting to Yokohama International Pool (Access)

Yokohama International Pool is located in northern Yokohama City. Here’s how to get there:

• By Train/Subway: The nearest station is Kitayamada Station on the Yokohama Municipal Subway Green Line. From Kitayamada Station, the arena is about a 5-minute walk. The route is well-marked (often you’ll see other fans heading the same way). Do note, the walk involves going up a rather long and steep staircase to reach the arena entrance. Locals jokingly call it the “Heartbreak Stairs” because it’s quite a climb – so give yourself time, especially if you aren’t used to it or have mobility issues. If you need an alternative to stairs (for example, wheelchair users or strollers), unfortunately the direct path is stair-only. In such cases, one option is to take a bus from a nearby station (explained below) that drops off at the arena without needing to climb. To reach Kitayamada Station: if you’re coming from Yokohama Station, you can take the Blue Line (subway) to Center-Kita (センター北) Station and transfer to the Green Line one stop to Kitayamada. That’s about 30 minutes ride plus transfer time. From Shibuya/Tokyo areas, you can take the Tokyu Toyoko Line (which through-runs into the Minatomirai Line) to Hiyoshi Station, then transfer to the Green Line to Kitayamada (from Hiyoshi it’s around 15 minutes to Kitayamada). If you’re coming via Shin-Yokohama Station (Shinkansen bullet train stop), take the Blue Line subway from Shin-Yokohama toward Azamino and get off at Center-Kita, then Green Line to Kitayamada. This also takes roughly 20-30 minutes. From Haneda Airport, one convenient way is to ride the Keikyu Line to Yokohama Station (about 30 minutes), then follow the Yokohama→Center-Kita→Kitayamada route. It sounds like a lot of transfers, but it’s fairly straightforward and trains are frequent (every 10 minutes or so on the subways).
• By Bus: As mentioned, there’s a bus option that can drop you closer without the big stairs. From Center-Kita Station (which is one stop before Kitayamada on the Green Line, and also on the Blue Line), you can take a Tokyu Bus (routes “北31” or “南31”) from bus stop #3. It’s about a 10-minute ride and you should get off at “Kokusai Pool Seimon-mae” (which means “International Pool Main Gate”). That stop is right in front of the arena. This is helpful for those who prefer not to walk too much or want to avoid the stairs. Also, from the Tōkyū Den-en-toshi Line’s Saginuma Station, there are buses (though a bit less direct) that can take you near the pool if you happen to be coming from that area.
• By Car: It’s possible to drive, but be cautious. The arena is about 10 minutes from the Daisan Keihin Expressway’s Tsuzuki IC exit or 15 minutes from the Tōmei Expressway’s Yokohama-Aoba IC. The address is 7-3-1 Kitayamada, Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama, if you’re using GPS. Parking, however, is very limited – only around 270 spaces at the venue. On game days, these lots fill up extremely quickly (often hours before tipoff). Street parking is virtually nonexistent, and you should not park in nearby shopping centers or residential areas (police and security will be on patrol). If the main lot is full, you’d have to search for a coin parking lot in the vicinity, but those are few and may also be full on event days. Moreover, traffic can be congested after the game when everyone leaves at once. The bottom line: if you can avoid driving, do so. Public transport is the much less stressful option. If you must drive, arrive very early to snag a spot and prepare for a wait when leaving.

A final tip: after the game, Kitayamada Station can get very crowded with all the fans going home. Sometimes, for crowd control, staff may direct people down an alternate route (different from the big staircase) which takes a bit longer to walk to the station but helps avoid bottlenecks. If you want to avoid the crush entirely, you could walk to the next station, Center-Kita, which is about a 15-minute walk along surface roads. Center-Kita is a larger station with more trains and also has shopping malls (if you fancy grabbing dinner or a coffee post-game). I’ve done this after a sold-out game and found it a pleasant way to let the crowds thin out.

What to Bring on Game Day

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, here’s a checklist of things to bring or prepare for your B-Corsairs game day:

• Game Tickets: Don’t forget your ticket! If you have an e-ticket on your phone, make sure you have the screen ready (and your phone charged). Screenshot the QR code or download the ticket in advance since signal can be spotty in crowded areas. If you have a paper ticket, keep it safe and dry. You’ll need to show it at the entrance gate.
• Personal ID: This isn’t always required, but if you have a ticket with a student discount or any special category, bringing an ID (passport, residence card, student ID, etc.) is wise in case they ask for verification. Also, if you plan to pick up tickets at will-call or the convenience store, you might need ID and the reservation number.
• Team Merchandise / Clothing: To really feel part of the crowd, wear something in the team colors (navy blue, red, white) or B-Corsairs gear if you have any. Many fans will be wearing jerseys or t-shirts of their favorite players. If you don’t have any team gear yet, don’t worry – the arena shop sells everything from jerseys to towels (more on that later). Even a simple navy shirt or a basketball-themed cap will do. Comfortable casual attire is best. Also, wear shoes suitable for walking and climbing stairs. High heels might not be the best choice due to the staircase and the fact you might be standing and cheering a lot.
• B-CLAP (Clapper): This is a specific item, but it’s so integral to the B-Corsairs experience that it’s worth listing. The B-CLAP is a fan-folded clapper (like a paddle made of cardboard) that makes a loud clapping noise when you flap it. It’s the signature noisemaker for B-Corsairs fans. If you don’t have one already, you can buy it at the arena shop for about ¥500. Bringing a noise-making device from home (like an NBA thunder-stick or something) is not necessary – just plan to get a B-CLAP and join the fun!
• Drinks and Snacks: Food and drink are part of the fun, but you should know the rules. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are generally allowed in (unlike some stadiums that ban all outside consumables). However, glass bottles and cans are not allowed for safety. If you bring a canned drink, staff will ask you to pour it into a paper cup at the entrance. If you have a water bottle or plastic PET bottle, that’s fine. We recommend bringing a bottle of water or tea especially if you’re coming early, as the arena does not have vending machines inside the seating area. It’s a good idea to have some snacks on hand (a sandwich, chips, etc.) in case you get hungry during the game and don’t want to miss action while waiting in line. That said, you should definitely try the arena food (see the “Arena Gourmet” section below) – but a backup snack doesn’t hurt, especially if you have kids. If you plan to consume alcohol, note that you cannot bring your own alcohol into the arena. Beer and other alcoholic beverages are sold at the concession stands and food trucks inside, so you can purchase on site.
• Cash and Cards: Bring some Japanese yen in cash. While Japan is getting more digital, many small vendors (like some food trucks or merchandise stalls) may be cash-only or prefer cash for speed. The arena shop usually accepts credit cards and IC transit cards (like Suica/Pasmo) for payment, but the temporary food stands might be cash. Having ¥1,000 yen bills and ¥100 coins will be useful.
• Camera/Phone: You’ll likely want to take photos or short videos of the game, the cheerleaders, or yourself with the court in the background. Phones are perfectly fine for this. If you have a dedicated camera, you can bring it (I often bring a mirrorless camera). Important: If you bring a camera with a long zoom lens or any professional-looking gear like a tripod, the staff might stop you. Professional photography and any equipment that obstructs others are not allowed. For casual purposes, though, a camera is fine. Remember no flash photography during the game. And if you do take videos, keep them short (under 15 seconds) if you plan to post online, as per B.League guidelines.
• Portable Battery/Charger: Between using navigation, digital tickets, and taking photos/videos, your phone battery might drain. Having a small backup battery pack can be a lifesaver, especially if you need to show your ticket QR code on exit for re-entry or want to coordinate with friends post-game.
• Clothing extras: The arena is indoors and climate-controlled, so you won’t need a jacket during the game itself (unless you run cold). But the walk to/from the station is outdoors; if it’s winter, bring a coat. If you end up carrying extra layers, you can put them in a backpack or under your seat. You do not need indoor shoes – normal footwear is fine; just avoid very slippery soles because the concourse might have some wet spots if it’s rainy (remember, it’s a pool facility).
• Miscellaneous: If you have kids, consider bringing small entertainment for them during breaks (though the game itself and the mascot usually keep them entertained). Ear protection for very young children could be useful since it can get loud. A small towel or handkerchief is always handy in Japan, either for sweat (if you climb those stairs fast!) or in case your drink spills.

Travel light, as space under the seats can be limited. Note that large items like baby strollers or suitcases cannot be taken to your seat. The arena offers a baggage check service at the information desk or cloakroom area near the entrance where you can leave big items (possibly for a small fee or sometimes free). So if you’re coming straight from the airport or work with luggage, plan to use that service.

Etiquette and Rules: Enjoying the Game Respectfully

Japanese basketball games are high-energy but also have a polite undercurrent. Here are some etiquette tips and rules to ensure everyone has a great time:

• Cheering and Behavior: Unlike some sports where opposing fans have dueling chants, in B.League typically the home team’s cheering dominates. As a visitor supporting Yokohama (or even if you support the away team), you can cheer loudly for good plays and key moments. Stand up when everyone stands (usually during big plays or crucial defense in 4th quarter). It’s okay to shout and make noise, but do be mindful of physical space. For example, if you’re waving your arms or clapping a B-CLAP, ensure you’re not whacking your neighbor. Keep any flags or banners at a reasonable height (don’t block the view of people behind you). Actually, large banners or flags on poles typically cannot be used in the stands for that very reason. Common sense and courtesy go a long way.
• No Offensive Chants: Refrain from any derogatory or profanity-laced yelling. You’ll notice Japanese fans don’t boo much except maybe when referees make a call they strongly disagree with. Even then, it’s usually mild. “Defense!” chants or “Let’s go, B-COR!” are encouraged; swearing at players or refs is not. Also, whistling loudly with fingers in your mouth (the piercing whistle) is not allowed – it’s considered disruptive in a bad way.
• Follow Staff Instructions: There will be announcers and arena staff guiding the crowd for things like when to stand for the national anthem (usually played before tipoff), or when to sit, etc. At some arenas they might ask everyone to remain seated during gameplay if you’re in upper sections to not block others – although in Yokohama International Pool, people do stand at exciting moments. If you’re not sure, just observe those around you and follow along.
• Photography: Personal photography is allowed. Feel free to take pictures of the game, yourself, the dancers, etc., and share on social media. As mentioned, do not use flash as it can distract players. And don’t bring huge camera gear or try to film the entire game – security might intervene if someone is recording the whole match or live-streaming it. Short clips (under 15 seconds each) for Instagram or Twitter are fine. The official rule is up to 15 seconds of game action can be posted. No one’s timing you with a stopwatch, but just avoid uploading full quarters or anything. Enjoy the moment and capture memories, but remember to also put the camera down and soak in the live atmosphere!
• Re-entry: A great thing about B.League games is that re-entry is allowed. If you need to step outside the arena (to grab something you forgot in a locker, or to get food from an outside truck, or even to catch some fresh air), you can do so. When exiting, tell the staff and they will stamp your hand or give you a re-entry ticket/pass. Keep your original ticket stub or digital ticket with you as well. When you come back, show the re-entry pass and your ticket, and you’re back in. Try to minimize coming and going during live play so you don’t disturb others; the best times to step out are halftime or between quarters.
• No Smoking: Yokohama International Pool is a non-smoking facility. There are designated smoking areas outside the building if you need them (ask staff for directions). Definitely no smoking in the stands or indoor areas.
• No Waiting for Players: It’s tempting to try to meet players or get autographs, but at B.League games there is no meet-and-greet or autograph session set up unless it’s a special event. Fans are not allowed to wait by the locker room or team bus area. This is partly for security and partly to let players focus on the game. So, enjoy watching them on the court, but don’t plan on high-fiving or photos with players afterward. (One exception: sometimes for kids, there are pre-arranged events or on-court experiences, but those are typically arranged through the team or fan club in advance).
• Keep it Safe and Fun: The organizers often announce that all spectators should have a safe and enjoyable experience. This means if you see anything unsafe (like someone throwing objects or an accident), you can notify staff. Also, cheer positively – Japanese fans often cheer even when an opposing player who’s ex-NBA or a star makes a great play, out of respect. It’s a friendly environment.

In summary, you’ll find Japanese basketball crowds to be passionate but polite. As a foreign fan, you might stand out a bit, but in a good way – B-Corsairs fans will likely be happy to see you supporting the team. Don’t hesitate to clap and chant along. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, simple chants like “Dee-fense!” or “Let’s Go B-Cor!” are easy to join.

Arena Gourmet – Tasty Food & Drinks at the Game

One of the joys of attending a B.League game in Yokohama is the arena gourmet (stadium food). You won’t go hungry, that’s for sure! Yokohama International Pool offers two main sources of food and drinks on game day:

1. Outdoor Food Trucks (2nd Floor Plaza) – Just outside the arena’s main entrance, there’s a large open plaza where a lineup of kitchen cars (food trucks) park on game days. These food trucks serve a variety of foods: from local favorites to international bites. The lineup changes every game, giving a lot of variety. Some popular items have included:
   • Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches: Thin-sliced beef loaded with cheese in a hoagie roll. A hearty choice that isn’t too messy and fills you up.
   • Yokohama Craft Beer (Weizen): A locally brewed wheat beer with a fruity, banana-like aroma and smooth taste. Even those who typically don’t drink beer might enjoy this one.
   • Hand-Drip Coffee by WEEKEND: A specialty coffee stand that brews each cup to order. Perfect for a caffeine fix or if it’s a chilly day.
   • Local treats: Depending on the day, you might find anything from ramen or curry, to tacos, fried chicken, crepes, or even sweets like taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes with filling) or mini donuts.
     Each truck usually has a big sign (in Japanese, sometimes with pictures). Don’t be shy – many vendors can handle basic English or at least finger-pointing and showing yen bills works just fine! Prices are typically around ¥500-¥1000 for food items, and maybe ¥600-¥800 for beers.
2. Indoor Concession Stands (1st Floor) – Inside the arena, on the concourse behind the seating, you’ll find some permanent concession stands or temporary kiosks. Here you can get items like hot dogs, popcorn, fried noodles, fried chicken (karaage cups), french fries, and drinks (beer, soda, sports drink). One notable stand fans mention is the “Rock Ice Bar” (likely selling shaved ice or drinks with lots of ice, despite the name sounding like it could be cocktails). The indoor stands often have long lines, especially during halftime or right before the game. If you see a line that’s really long and you’re craving something, you can either run out to the food trucks (re-entry allowed!) or plan to grab food well before tipoff.

Important notes about food:

• You are allowed to eat and drink at your seat. So feel free to enjoy your cheesesteak or popcorn while watching the game. The only thing is, please be considerate and try not to spill or make a huge mess on the floor. Japanese fans typically carry their trash with them until they find a garbage can, so you should too. There will be trash bins at the exits or concourse.
• There are no vending machines inside the arena once you pass the entrance. If you want a bottled drink, you either buy from the stands or step outside. However, a trick: if you exit out the main doors (where you entered) and go into the attached building (the pool facility’s lobby), there is a hallway with a bunch of vending machines. This is technically outside the ticketed area, so you’d need a re-entry stamp to get back in. But if you really want a specific drink or a cheaper option, you could do this during a break.
• If you have a general admission ticket and came early to save seats, you might take turns with a friend to go get food so someone is always at the seats (though usually people leave a jacket on the seat to mark it and it’s fine).
• Try the local specialties if you can! The food trucks often represent Yokohama or seasonal flavors, which can make your experience memorable. Plus, nothing beats watching sports with a cold beer and tasty food in hand.

Lastly, keep in mind that arriving early is key to enjoying the food without stress. The team recommends arriving 90 minutes before game time. If you do, you can wander the food truck area with minimal lines, grab your meal, and maybe even have time to eat at a standing table outside before heading to your seat. By 30 minutes before tipoff, those lines get longer and the popular items might even sell out.

Merchandise and Fan Gear

Part of the fun of attending a game is picking up some team merchandise as souvenirs or to use during the game. The B-Corsairs merchandise store is located inside the arena, typically on the first floor (court level) near the home side baseline. Look for a booth or shop area with jerseys hanging and lots of fans crowding around.

At the merch shop, you can find:

• Replica Jerseys (with player names and numbers) and cheaper t-shirts with team logos.
• Scarves and Towels (fans often hold up muffler towels during player introductions or use them to wave).
• B-CLAP clappers – if you haven’t gotten one yet, get it here!
• Hats, Caps, and Accessories – including keychains, stickers, and other small items.
• Kids’ merchandise – mini jerseys or even baby clothes for the little boosters.
• Occasionally, they sell game program booklets or yearbooks if you’re interested (these might be in Japanese, but they have player photos).

Prices can range from a few hundred yen for stickers or pin badges, to ¥4,000-¥8,000 for jerseys. A popular affordable item is the B-CLAP (clapper fan) at around ¥500, which we’ve mentioned before – it’s probably the number one seller because almost everyone gets one.

The shop can get very busy pre-game and at halftime. If you want to avoid the crowds, one strategy is to go right when gates open. You could also wait until after the game; sometimes it’s less crowded then (though occasionally items sell out by the end of the game, especially if a particular player had a great performance and everyone rushes to buy his shirt).

Don’t worry if you can’t speak Japanese – the merchandise staff can usually handle basic transactions by showing the price on a calculator or they might even know item names in English. Pointing and smiling works too. They will put your items in a bag for you. Major credit cards are accepted at the official shop, as well as cash yen.

If you prefer to not carry items during the game, you might come back at halftime or afterwards to buy. However, note that popular jersey numbers or limited items can sell out, so sometimes earlier is better.

And if you miss out or want to shop later, Yokohama B-Corsairs have an online shop (Japanese) and some merchandise can also be found on larger retail sites like Amazon Japan or Rakuten. International shipping might be limited, but if you’re living in Japan it’s easy to order.

Wearing your new gear during the game definitely boosts the fun. You’ll feel more engaged when you’re literally wearing the team spirit. Plus, the players often acknowledge the fans by waving or bowing after the game, and it’s a great feeling to hold up your team scarf or wave in return as part of the sea of team colors.

Entertainment and Cheering: Join the B-Corsairs Spirit!

Live basketball in Japan is not just a game – it’s a full-on entertainment event. Here’s what to look forward to, and how you can participate in the cheering at Yokohama International Pool:

B-ROSE Cheerleaders: The Yokohama B-Corsairs are proud of their cheerleading squad, called B-ROSE. These talented dancers put on high-energy performances before the game, during breaks, and at halftime. They are often considered one of the top cheer teams in the B.League, known for their athletic moves and engaging routines. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself clapping along to the music they perform to – it’s infectious. If you’re keen on photography, halftime is a good chance to snap a few photos of their routine (again, no flash). B-ROSE usually also lead certain crowd chants or dances; just follow the crowd if something’s happening. It’s all part of the fun.

Corse the Mascot: Keep an eye out for a cute pirate-themed character running around – that’s Corse, the team mascot. He (some say “he,” though mascots are kind of genderless) is a boy with wave-styled blue hair and a pirate outfit. Corse might greet fans at the entrance, roam around the court, or do goofy skits during timeouts. He’s very photo-friendly, so if you see him nearby, feel free to approach for a selfie or high-five. The kids love Corse, and he adds a lot of charm to the game. Sometimes he’ll attempt basketball shots or interact with the opposing team’s mascot if they have one visiting, which can be hilarious.

Arena MC (DJ): At B-League games, there’s typically an announcer/DJ who acts as a hype man. In Yokohama, the arena DJ (we call him DJ Tsubasa) is fantastic at firing up the crowd. He’ll call out chants like “Let’s Go B-COR!” when B-Corsairs are on offense, and get the crowd to yell “Defense!” when we need a big stop. Even if you don’t understand everything he says in Japanese, you’ll catch the cues: for example, he might shout the player’s name and you can cheer or clap. When you hear music and a voice leading a rhythm, join in clapping along. The atmosphere is a bit like a party combined with a sporting event.

Booster Defense (Noise during opponent free throws): One unique tradition the B-Corsairs have is called “Booster Defense.” When the opposing team is shooting free throws, B-Corsairs fans all join together to make noise and distract the shooter – this is pretty common in basketball, but Yokohama has branded it with a name and even uses the video screen to add to it. On the big screen, you’ll see funny images or animations pop up aimed at distracting the opposing player. It might be something goofy or surprising – a good laugh for the fans. So, definitely participate by banging your B-CLAP clapper, stomping your feet, yelling, or whatever noise you like (again, without whistling). It’s all in good spirit to cause the opponent to miss their free throw. If they miss, everyone cheers loudly!

Chants and Cheers: You might wonder, are there any organized chants like in European or college basketball? In B.League, the cheering is a bit more straightforward. Common ones you’ll hear and can join:

• “Let’s Go Bee-Cor!” – clap clap, clap-clap-clap (a classic rhythm).
• “De-fence!” (with two strong claps along with it).
• Player-specific chants: Sometimes when a B-Corsairs player is shooting free throws, the DJ might encourage the crowd to yell the player’s last name. For example, if #7 Smith is at the line, you might hear something like “Smith! Smith! Smith!” in rhythm.
• When a B-Corsairs player makes a three-pointer, they often play a sound effect or short music clip. Some fans do a three-finger gesture or shout “Woo!” – you can celebrate however you like for our scores.

During timeouts, there might be mini-events. For instance, a sponsor might have a quick game where fans shown on the camera win prizes if something happens (keep an eye on the big screen – sometimes they show dancing fans or do a “kiss cam” or other fun segments). If you’re lucky to be shown on camera, have fun with it!

Half-time and Break Entertainment: Apart from the main B-ROSE performance, halftime may feature entertainment like youth dance teams, presentations, or contests. Every game can be a bit different. Just enjoy the show and take a rest if needed.

Victory Celebration: If the B-Corsairs win, don’t rush out immediately! After the final buzzer, both teams will gather and bow to the crowd (a nice Japanese sportsmanship gesture). Then the B-Corsairs players usually come near the center court or facing the main stand and do a small victory celebration. Often, the cheerleaders and mascot join them. One thing to watch for is the “Yokohama!” call-and-response: The announcer or captain might shout “Yokohama!” and fans respond with a cheer. There might be a giant “Y” displayed or certain music for wins. The team may also do high-fives among themselves or some little on-court dance. It’s a joyful moment worth experiencing. Applaud the players as they exit – they’ll wave to the crowd. And even if we lose, it’s good form to clap for the team’s effort.

Fan Community: B-Corsairs fans (and B.League fans in general) are very welcoming. If they notice you’re a newcomer or foreign fan, some might strike up a conversation (if they can speak English) or at least give you a thumbs-up. Don’t hesitate to cheer loudly – enthusiasm is appreciated. You’ll see that once you start clapping your clapper and shouting defense, you’re part of the booster family. After a game, fans sometimes mingle outside the arena, chatting about the match or trading high-fives. Even if you’re not fluent in Japanese, the shared excitement of a great play or a close finish transcends language.

Conclusion – Embrace the B-League Live Experience!

Attending a Yokohama B-Corsairs game at Yokohama International Pool is more than just watching a basketball game – it’s about immersing yourself in Japanese sports culture and having a blast. With this guide, you now know how to get tickets, travel to the arena, come prepared, and join in the cheers like a true B-Corsairs booster. From the moment you arrive to the final buzzer (and hopefully celebrating a win), you’ll be swept up in the energy of the crowd, the beat of the music, and the thrill of the game.

A few final tips:

• Arrive early (at least 1-1.5 hours before tipoff) to enjoy pre-game entertainment, get your food and merchandise, and watch warm-ups. Seeing players shoot around and dunk in warm-ups can be really fun, and you might catch an autograph opportunity if some players come to greet fans (occasionally happens during warm-ups for home games).
• Feel free to cheer and don’t be shy. Clap along, yell “Defense!”, and celebrate great plays. The more you engage, the more fun you’ll have.
• Take home a souvenir – whether it’s the memories, a B-CLAP, or a team towel, you’ll want something to remember the experience.
• Explore Yokohama – if you’re visiting from far, note that Yokohama is a fantastic city with attractions like Minato Mirai waterfront, Chinatown, and more. You can make a day of it: sightseeing in Yokohama and capping it off with a B-Corsairs game in the evening, or vice versa.

Japanese basketball games are family-friendly, foreigner-friendly, and full of excitement. The B.League is growing rapidly, fueled by both local and international fans. By coming to a game, you’re not only in for a good time, but you’re also supporting the growth of basketball in Japan.

So, get out there and enjoy the game! Let’s go B-Corsairs, and let’s make some noise in Yokohama! GO B-COR! We’ll see you in the stands, cheering together for the home team. Have an amazing game day experience!