Baseball becomes a catalyst for Hokkaido urban development

Nippon Ham Fighters' new neighbors include a hotel, hot spa and medical school

Es Con Top 2025-04

Es Con Field Hokkaido is at the center of Kitahiroshima's urban development initiative. (Photos by Kotose Hamano)

KOTOSE HAMANO

SAPPORO, Japan -- A baseball stadium in Kitahiroshima, Hokkaido, is fostering some urban development. With March having marked Es Con Field Hokkaido's second anniversary, the home of the Nipponham Fighters finds itself in the middle of plans for a new train station, a commercial complex, even a college.

After finishing second in Nippon Professional Baseball's Pacific League standings last year, the Fighters have their sights set on winning their first championship since moving into their new park. (The team last won the Japan Series in 2016)

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