When Is Baseball Season in Japan? NPB Schedule Explained

The baseball season in Japan usually begins in late March and continues through early October, followed by postseason competition that ends with the Japan Series in late October or early November. Before the regular season starts, teams take part in spring training and preseason games during February and March. The annual schedule also features All-Star games and a structured playoff system known as the Climax Series, giving fans a full and clearly defined baseball calendar.

 Spring Training and Preseason Preparation

Japanese professional teams begin their annual preparations with spring training in February. These training camps are often held in warmer regions, allowing players to build fitness, refine techniques, and compete for roster spots ahead of the regular season.

Preseason exhibition games follow in early March, giving teams a chance to test lineups and strategies. For fans, this period offers an early preview of the upcoming season and introduces new players before competitive play begins.

Regular Season Timeline

The NPB regular season officially starts with Opening Day in late March. Teams from both the Central League and the Pacific League compete in a long schedule that typically runs until early October.

Each team plays a full slate of games spread across the week, creating a steady rhythm of competition. Standings during this period determine playoff qualification, making consistency and depth critical across the lengthy season.

 Mid-Season Events and Key Highlights

The Japanese baseball calendar includes several notable events during the regular season. Interleague play allows teams from the two leagues to face each other, adding variety and excitement to the schedule.

Another major highlight is the NPB All-Star Games, usually held in mid-July. These games showcase the league’s top players and serve as a celebratory midpoint before the season’s decisive final months.

Postseason: Climax Series and Japan Series

After the regular season concludes, the focus shifts to the postseason. Qualifying teams enter the Climax Series, a multi-round playoff format designed to determine each league’s champion.

Winners of the Climax Series advance to the Japan Series, a best-of-seven championship matchup typically played from late October into early November. This final stage represents the peak of Japanese professional baseball competition.

Offseason and the Annual Cycle

 Once the Japan Series ends, the NPB offseason begins. Players rest, train, or participate in international competitions, while teams plan for the next year through roster moves and development programs.

This annual cycle — from spring training to the championship finale — defines baseball in Japan and helps fans understand when to watch, attend games, and follow the league throughout the year.