Es Con Field Hokkaido Travel Guide

ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO isn’t just another baseball stadium—it’s a sprawling entertainment hub covering almost 32 hectares in Kitahiroshima. As the home turf for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, this modern spot welcomes everyone, whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just curious about the scene.

Even if there’s no game, you’ll find plenty to do here, like soaking in the on-site hot spring or relaxing in the sauna. The STADIUM TOUR, led by the friendly Fighter Girls, takes you behind the scenes into player-only zones and lets you step out onto the field for that real-deal player’s view.

The larger complex, called F Village, packs in food stalls, shops, and activities—honestly, it’s fun even if you’re not here for baseball. If you love the sport, catching a Fighters game in this high-tech stadium gives you an authentic Japanese baseball experience, mixing classic fan rituals with all the modern comforts.

Overview of ES CON Field Hokkaido

ES CON Field Hokkaido stands out as Japan’s newest and most impressive baseball stadium, but there’s more to it than just the games. This place blends cutting-edge design with a bunch of fan-friendly features you’ll probably appreciate.

History and Concept

ES CON Field opened its doors in March 2023, taking over as the Fighters’ home after they left the Sapporo Dome (where they’d played since 2004).

The idea? Build a “ballpark” that feels like a destination, not just a stadium. Inspired by American ballparks, the Fighters’ owners wanted a spot that would draw crowds year-round, not just during baseball season.

Building it wasn’t cheap—about 60 billion yen (roughly $450 million)—and it took four years to finish. ES CON Japan, a real estate company, bought the naming rights, but locals usually just call it “F Village” or “The Field.”

Location and Accessibility

Find ES CON Field in Kitahiroshima, about 15 miles southeast of central Sapporo. It sits inside the giant Hokkaido Ballpark F Village, which covers nearly 32 hectares (that’s around 79 acres).

You can get here via the JR Chitose Line. Just hop off at Kitahiroshima Station, then grab the free shuttle bus on game days—it’s a quick 10-minute ride. If you’re driving, there’s parking for 4,200 cars, but spots go fast when there’s a big matchup.

F Village keeps expanding, with hotels popping up nearby. Right now, most people stay in Sapporo and travel out for games. Expect about 45 minutes of travel from central Sapporo.

Architecture and Design

The stadium’s design feels modern but welcoming. It seats 35,000 for baseball, and honestly, there’s not a bad seat in the house. Unlike a lot of Japanese stadiums, this one was built just for baseball—not as a multi-purpose venue.

Inside, you’ll notice lots of natural wood in the concourses and seating, which gives the place a cozy vibe. Wide walkways make it easy to get around, and the food courts serve up a great mix of Hokkaido specialties.

A few stand-out features:

• Open outfield: You get mountain views beyond the fences
• Grass field: Real turf (pretty rare in Japan)
• 360° concourse: Walk all the way around the field
• Fan zones: Kid-friendly spots and interactive areas

Retractable Roof and Air-Conditioning

The retractable roof is a showstopper. It opens or closes in about 20 minutes, so games go on no matter what Hokkaido’s weather is doing.

In summer, they often leave the roof open to enjoy the fresh air. When it’s closed, the advanced air-conditioning keeps things comfy—super helpful during chilly spring or fall games.

Even with the roof shut, sunlight pours in, making it way brighter than most domed stadiums. The air system keeps things fresh, so you don’t get that stuffy, closed-in feeling.

If you can, try to catch a day game with the roof open—the view of Hokkaido’s landscape is pretty hard to beat.

Getting to ES CON Field Hokkaido

Getting to ES CON Field Hokkaido is pretty straightforward. You’ve got options: train, shuttle bus, taxi, or your own car, depending on what works for you.

Public Transportation Options

Most people use Japan Railway (JR) to reach ES CON Field. Trains run often to Kitahiroshima Station, which is the closest stop. It’s the budget-friendly pick for most visitors.

From New Chitose Airport, you can catch the JR train to Kitahiroshima Station in about 40 minutes. On game days, airport shuttle buses go straight to the stadium, so you don’t need to worry about transfers.

Traveling from other parts of Hokkaido? The JR lines connect from plenty of cities. Double-check train times, especially if you’re heading to a night game—special late-night trains help fans get home after the final pitch.

Access from Sapporo Station and Kitahiroshima Station

From Sapporo Station:

• Hop on a JR train to Kitahiroshima Station (takes 15-20 minutes)
• Fare: Around ¥340 one-way
• Trains run all day

From Kitahiroshima Station to ES CON Field:

• Walk: It’s about 19 minutes on foot
• Shuttle bus: 5 minutes (¥200)
• Taxi: Also 5 minutes, but expect to pay about ¥1,000

On game days, especially for big matchups, the station gets packed. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowd. Just follow the flow of fans or look for stadium signs once you get off the train.

Shuttle Bus Services

Shuttle buses make getting to ES CON Field simple:

From Kitahiroshima Station:

• 5-minute ride
• ¥200 each way
• Runs every 10-15 minutes on game days

From Shin-Sapporo Station:

• 30-minute trip
• ¥400 each way
• Regular service before and after games

From Nopporo Station:

• Special shuttles on game days (check the Fighters’ website for times)

From New Chitose Airport:

• Direct shuttles on game days—super handy if you’re flying in just for baseball

These buses fill up fast as game time approaches. Try to get on early if you want a seat. They usually start running 2-3 hours before the first pitch and keep going for 1-2 hours after the game ends.

Parking Lot Information

If you’re driving, ES CON Field has plenty of parking:

Main Parking Areas:

• North Lot: 1,500 spots
• South Lot: 1,200 spots
• East Lot: 800 spots

Parking Fees:

• Cars: ¥1,000 per day
• Large vehicles: ¥2,000 per day

Lots open three hours before game time. For big games, they fill up quickly, so arriving early is smart. During busy times, public transportation might save you some hassle.

Season ticket holders and visitors with disabilities can reserve parking closer to the entrances. You can also pre-book a spot online for high-demand games—check the Fighters’ website for details.

Experiencing Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters Games

Catching a Fighters game at ES CON FIELD is an energetic mix of baseball and entertainment. The stadium was built to make sure fans of all ages have a memorable day, with plenty of viewing and activity options.

Game Days and Event Calendar

The Fighters play home games from March through October during the regular season. Most games start at 6:00 PM on weekdays and 2:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

Check the Fighters’ official website for the latest schedule and info on special events. They often run themed nights, giveaways, and extra entertainment.

Arriving early is a good idea, especially on weekends or when popular teams like the Yomiuri Giants or Hanshin Tigers are in town. Tickets usually go on sale about a month before each game—you can buy them online, at convenience stores, or at the stadium.

Big events include opening day, interleague matchups, and summer fireworks nights.

Baseball Stadium Features

ES CON FIELD has 38,000 comfy seats, all arranged to give you a great view. The retractable roof means weather won’t ruin your plans.

Premium seating options include:

• Field-level boxes right next to the action
• Club seats with food service at your seat
• Private suites for groups
• Outfield “party deck” spots

A giant HD scoreboard keeps you updated with live stats, player info, and replays. The sound system is crisp, so you won’t miss any announcements or music.

One unique touch: the “Fighter’s Forest” outfield section, filled with real trees and greenery that show off Hokkaido’s landscape. Open concourses let you grab food or explore without losing sight of the game.

Fan Activities and Entertainment Space

You’ll find plenty to do besides watching baseball. F Village has interactive games and batting cages where you can swing for the fences.

A Fighters team museum inside the stadium displays memorabilia, trophies, and the story of baseball in Hokkaido. Before the game, you might catch:

• Player autograph sessions (check the day’s schedule)
• Meet-and-greets with mascots
• On-field ceremonies for lucky fans

Food and drinks highlight Hokkaido’s best, with “Gourmet Road” offering 20+ stalls—everything from classic Japanese eats to international bites.

Beer gardens and chill-out spaces are scattered around, so you can relax and hang out with friends before or during the game.

Children and Family-Friendly Areas

Families with kids are well looked after here. The “Kids Zone” playground lets little ones burn off some energy between innings.

Children under elementary school age get in free with an adult (though they don’t have assigned seats). Family restrooms with changing tables are easy to find.

Special perks for kids include:

• Pre-game field access on select days
• Mascot races between innings
• “Run the bases” after weekend games
• Digital games on concourse screens

The team store stocks kid-sized Fighters gear, and concession stands offer smaller meals at lower prices.

For safety, young kids can wear wristbands with parent contact info, and staff are always around to help out families.

Exploring F Village Attractions

F Village has way more than just baseball. This 32-hectare space brings together sports, nature, and leisure for a full-day outing, no matter what you’re into.

Gardens and Water Features

The gardens at F Village give you a quiet break from the stadium buzz. Seasonal flowers show off Hokkaido’s natural beauty, and a central water feature has a fountain that puts on choreographed shows a few times a day.

Winding paths make it easy to explore, and benches are scattered around if you want to sit and take it all in.

The water features aren’t just for looks—they’re practical, too. In summer, shallow splash pools help families cool off. Come winter, some of the water spots turn into lit-up ice sculptures.

Landscape designers used native Hokkaido plants that don’t need much care but still give you a real sense of the local environment.

Outdoor Activity Facilities

F Village offers plenty of recreational options beyond just baseball. The multi-purpose fields welcome soccer, frisbee, and all kinds of casual sports, making them great for visitors of any age. Unless an event is going on, you can use these areas for free.

You’ll find a walking and jogging track running around the edge of the park, stretching out to exactly 2.5 kilometers. Distance markers help you keep tabs on your workout if you’re into that.

The children’s playground is all about baseball, with mini batting cages and slides shaped like bats. They use soft, safe surfacing, so even little kids can have fun without worry.

In winter, part of the grounds turns into a skating rink from December to February. You can rent skates and gear right there.

When summer rolls around, the beach volleyball courts open up, and you can grab rental equipment at the visitor center.

Tower Eleven and Panoramic View

Tower Eleven really stands out as F Village’s main sightseeing spot. This observation tower rises 111 meters (364 feet) above the ground, giving you a full 360-degree view of the complex and the Kitahiroshima area.

Designers gave the tower eleven sides to represent the players on a baseball field—pretty clever, right? Glass elevators whisk you up to the observation deck in just 45 seconds.

On clear days, you might spot Mount Yotei way off in the distance. Info panels up top help you figure out what you’re looking at.

There’s a small café on the observation deck serving Hokkaido treats like soft serve and local coffee. Prices aren’t bad compared to other tourist spots.

At night, the tower sometimes stays open for special viewing hours, so you can catch Es Con Field all lit up. Photographers will love the chance for unobstructed stadium shots.

Dining Options and Local Food Experiences

Es Con Field really delivers when it comes to food and drink, showing off Hokkaido’s best flavors. When you arrive, you’ll get a Gourmet Guide to help you navigate the many tasty choices.

Restaurants and Eateries

Nemuro Hanamaru, a well-loved conveyor-belt sushi spot, sits on the 6th floor of JR Tower Stellar, not far from Es Con Field. They serve fresh Hokkaido seafood—perfect for a meal before or after the game.

Inside the stadium, you’ll run into loads of food stands with local specialties. There’s honestly a surprising range, from seafood and Japanese snacks to international bites.

F Village, which is part of the 32-hectare Es Con Field complex, has even more dining options. If you want to avoid the game-day rush, this area offers more laid-back spots to eat.

For a true taste of Hokkaido, hunt down dishes with local seafood, dairy, or whatever’s in season.

Bakery Restaurant and Craft Beer

You’ll find specialty bakery restaurants at Es Con Field, with fresh baked goods made from Hokkaido’s famous dairy. These places are ideal for a relaxed breakfast or a snack before the game.

The stadium and its surroundings also have some solid craft beer options, many brewed right in Hokkaido. Sapporo’s beer legacy is alive and well here.

Some beer stations serve up limited-edition brews made just for game days, often using seasonal Hokkaido ingredients.

If you’re not sure what to try, many restaurants offer beer flights so you can sample a few without committing to a full glass.

Cashless Payment Systems

Es Con Field uses cashless payment systems at all its dining spots. This setup makes lines move faster, especially when it gets busy on game days.

Most vendors take major credit cards, electronic payment apps, and special stadium prepaid cards. You can load money onto a stadium card at several places around the complex.

Some food stalls even offer discounts if you use the stadium’s official payment system. Check the Gourmet Guide for those deals.

If you’d rather use cash, there are currency exchange services and ATMs in certain areas. Still, going cashless will save you time and hassle.

Accommodation Facilities and Onsite Amenities

Es Con Field has a range of comfy lodging options and handy amenities for visitors. The complex isn’t just about baseball—it’s got spa facilities and practical services for business travelers too.

Hotels and Stay Experiences

ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO HOTEL Kitahiroshima Station puts you right at the stadium. You can choose between “Standard Floor” and “Starlight Floor” rooms, depending on your budget and style.

Rooms come with flexible sleeping setups—think bunk beds and sofa beds—so families and groups can fit in comfortably. Usually, you get two lower bunk singles, one upper bunk, and a sofa bed.

If you’re staying for a while, apartment-style rooms give you more space and homey touches.

On game days, staying at the hotel makes life easy. You can watch the Fighters play, then just stroll to your room—no scrambling for transport.

Hot Spring and Sauna

The F Village complex features some great bathing facilities, bringing a classic Japanese wellness vibe. The hot spring area uses natural mineral water, which many say helps you relax and recharge.

The modern sauna is a favorite for unwinding after a game or a walk around the stadium. Lots of visitors like to switch between the hot sauna and cool-down zones for that refreshed feeling.

These bathing facilities opened in March 2023 as part of the venue’s unique “ballpark-and-bathing entertainment” idea.

You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy them—day passes are available.

Business Services

Es Con Field makes things easy for business travelers. You can reserve meeting rooms for conferences or small group sessions.

There’s free Wi-Fi everywhere, so staying connected is no problem.

Need a spot to work? The stadium area has workspaces for setting up a temporary office between meetings or events.

Business travelers like the convenience here—you get work and play in one place.

If you need to print something or use basic office services, just ask at the hotel’s front desk.

Seasonal Events and Activities

Es Con Field Hokkaido keeps things lively all year with seasonal activities. The stadium and the area around it change with Hokkaido’s seasons, offering unique experiences no matter when you visit.

Snow-Themed Events

In winter, Es Con Field goes all-in on Hokkaido’s snowy vibe. The stadium hosts winter festivals with snow and ice sculptures made by local artists. At night, they light up the displays for a magical feel.

You can try your hand at snowball target practice in designated areas on certain dates—a fun way to test your aim and enjoy the winter scenery.

The stadium also runs special winter baseball clinics where you can learn baseball skills in the snow. Locals and tourists both seem to love these unconventional baseball experiences.

Don’t forget to check out the winter food stalls for hot chocolate, amazake (sweet rice drink), and other cozy snacks.

Seasonal Nature of Hokkaido

Spring brings cherry blossoms around Es Con Field. The stadium sets up special hanami (flower viewing) events, so you can catch the blooms while watching exhibition games.

Summer is prime baseball season, with milder weather than other parts of Japan. The stadium’s retractable roof opens up for fresh air, but still provides shade on hot days.

In fall, the area turns into a sea of red, orange, and gold. The stadium offers autumn tours that show off both the facility and Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

Stadium restaurants switch up their menus each season, focusing on local ingredients like fresh corn in summer or pumpkin in fall.

Special Performances and Attractions

Es Con Field isn’t just about baseball. The stadium often hosts concerts and cultural performances, bringing in J-pop acts and international artists throughout the year.

During the off-season, you might catch baseball-themed theater shows that blend sports with traditional Japanese performing arts. It’s a cool twist you won’t find everywhere.

Holiday periods bring festive decorations and themed activities. For New Year’s, the stadium holds traditional Japanese ceremonies and events.

Year-round, you can jump into baseball simulation games and virtual reality experiences in the entertainment zone. These high-tech attractions let you feel like a pro player at Es Con Field.

Tickets, Entry, and Visitor Guidelines

If you’re planning a trip to Es Con Field, it helps to know about the ticket options and entry rules. Here’s what you should know about free entry, guidelines for kids, and a few tips from past visitors.

Free Entry Policies

You can take advantage of several free entry opportunities at Es Con Field. On non-game days, outer areas like F Village are usually open to the public at no charge—think walking paths, outdoor exhibits, and some shops.

The stadium sometimes holds special open house events, letting visitors into parts of the stadium for free. These usually get announced on the official Fighters website a month or two ahead.

Arriving early on game days might let you watch team practices for free, but this depends on the schedule.

Keep in mind, you’ll still need tickets for main stadium tours and games.

Entry for Children

Kids get some nice perks at Es Con Field. Children under elementary school age (typically under 6) can enter for free with a paying adult on regular game days.

For stadium tours, kids under 3 get in free, and those aged 3-12 can buy discounted tickets—about half the adult price.

Adults must supervise kids at all times inside the stadium. You’ll find stroller parking near the main entrances, but strollers aren’t allowed in seating areas during games for safety.

Family-friendly facilities include:

• Diaper changing stations in most restrooms
• Private nursing rooms
• Kid-friendly food options at concessions

Reviews and Visitor Tips

Recent visitors often mention how clean and modern the stadium feels. The clear signs in both Japanese and English make it easier for international guests to get around.

A lot of people recommend arriving at least an hour before game time to soak in the pre-game atmosphere and find your seats without any rush. The Fighter Girls guided tours get a lot of love for their behind-the-scenes access.

Food reviews are a mixed bag:

• Highs: Hokkaido specialties and local craft beers stand out
• Lows: Prices run higher than restaurants outside the stadium

Some visitors suggest bringing a light jacket, even in summer, since the air conditioning can get chilly in covered sections. Baseball fans appreciate the clear sightlines from most seats—sections behind home plate seem to offer the best value for die-hard fans.

Planning Your Hokkaido Travel Itinerary

If you’re heading to Es Con Field Hokkaido, you’ll want to check out the surrounding area too. This 32-hectare complex is way more than just baseball.

Nearby Sightseeing Recommendations

Sapporo is close by and makes a great base for your Hokkaido adventure. The city’s got lively nightlife, good shopping, and the famous Sapporo Beer Museum.

Otaru, a charming canal town, is worth a day trip. The canal district, with its old warehouses and glass shops, is super photogenic. Try the fresh seafood at the local market.

Noboribetsu Onsen, one of Japan’s top hot spring resorts, is about an hour and a half from Sapporo. The dramatic “Hell Valley” with its steaming vents and hot springs is something you’ll remember.

Lake Toya offers scenic views and outdoor fun. Take a boat cruise on the caldera lake or hike around Mount Usu, an active volcano with viewpoints that are hard to beat.

Combining ES CON Field with Other Activities

If you’re planning a trip to Es Con Field, try to catch a game, but don’t forget to check out everything else in the complex. You’ll find shops, restaurants, and a bunch of entertainment spots—honestly, it’s fun even if you’re not into baseball.

Seasonal attractions nearby:

• Spring: Head to Maruyama Park for cherry blossoms.
• Summer: Take a drive (about two hours) to see Furano’s famous lavender fields.
• Fall: Check out the autumn colors at Jozankei Onsen.
• Winter: Niseko ski resort is a must for powder snow fans.

Nature lovers should definitely visit the Biei and Furano area. The landscapes there are just stunning—rolling flower fields and that surreal “Blue Pond” with its weirdly bright blue water.

Renting a car gives you way more freedom, since public transport gets pretty sparse once you leave the main cities. Most of the good spots sit within a one to three hour drive from Es Con Field, so day trips are totally doable.