On our way to Miyazaki, we made a special stop in Oita for something a little different, a VASAGEY Oita futsal match. Luca and Nico’s coach had just joined this new team, and after hearing how sharp and goal-hungry they were, the boys were eager to see for themselves. It was only their second time attending a game like this, and even though the scoreboard didn’t favor the home team, it turned into one of those unexpected family-friendly sports experiences in Japan that stays with you. If you’re looking for memorable ways to enjoy live sports in Japan with kids, this kind of detour might just be the highlight between destinations.
This post is part of our ongoing Luca & Nico’s Travel Journal series, inspired by our actual adventures, interactions, and discoveries in Japan with kids.
As you plan your family trip to Japan, this guide is a great place to start! For a full overview of how to explore the country with kids, across both well-known destinations and quieter corners, begin with our Japan Family-Friendly Travel Hub. You can also visit our Off The Map Japan Hub to find family-friendly guides to smaller towns, rural regions, and unique attractions that many travelers miss. For inspiration across the entire country, browse our Ultimate Guide to Family Attractions in Japan with Kids for theme parks, nature adventures, cultural treasures, and hidden gems.
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Luca’s Journal Entry
Dear Journal,
We were supposed to be heading straight to Miyazaki. But then Papa said, “Quick stop, your coach’s new team is playing in Oita.” So obviously, we said yes. We hadn’t seen him in weeks, and he told us his new team, VASAGEY Oita, was really good. “When they shoot, they actually score,” he said. The arena was loud, like, really loud, but not in a scary way. It was full of music, clapping, and shouting from all around. The team in orange was fast and sharp. But the other team, from Shinagawa, was… faster. They scored once, then again, and again. Final score: 4-0. Nico kept looking back at the scoreboard like it might change. Even though the team didn’t win, the match was exciting the whole time. I kept watching how the players moved, how quick their passes were, and how the crowd kept cheering no matter what. It made me want to learn how to move like that. Also, I tried a corn dog for the first time. In Japan, they call it アメリカンドッグ (American Dog). It was sweet and weird and good. When the game was over, we walked toward the exit, and there they were, the whole team, lined up outside the doors to give everyone high-fives. Our coach saw us and smiled big. We ran over and slapped hands with him first, then went down the whole line, player by player. It felt kind of like we were on the team too.
~ Luca
Nico’s Journal Entry
Dear Journal,
Our coach got a new team. He said they were awesome and score goals all the time. So we went to see for ourselves. The place was INSIDE, which was cool, and full of noise. Music, shouting, clapping. I loved it. The other team from Shinagawa was kind of a machine. They kept scoring and scoring and scoring. I wasn’t even mad. I just wanted to know HOW. Also, I ate my first アメリカンドッグ (corn dog). IT WAS SO GOOD. I didn’t even care that it was sweet. I want another. After the match, our coach and all the players stood outside to give high-fives. It was like a mini victory anyway. He looked really happy to see us. I slapped every single player’s hand. Twice. One of them had the biggest hands I’ve ever seen. Losing 4-0 doesn’t feel bad when you’ve got snacks, high-fives, and 1,000 people cheering like crazy.
~ Nico
Luca & Nico’s Challenge:
Next time you’re at a game, win or lose, try to notice something cool that has nothing to do with the score. Who’s passing best? What chants are people shouting? What snack do you want to try next?
Parent Insight:
Sports aren’t just about wins, they’re about belonging. Watching a coach or mentor in a new context, surrounded by energy, teamwork, and excitement, can light up something new in your child. Whether or not they understand every rule, kids absorb the rhythm of movement, effort, and spirit from the stands.
Did You Know? Fun Facts About Futsal in Japan
- Futsal is a 5-a-side game played on a smaller, indoor pitch with a heavier ball to encourage tighter control and faster passing.
- Many pro players start with futsal before moving to 11-a-side football, it’s a key part of youth development.
- VASAGEY Oita is a professional futsal club in the Kyushu region that plays in the F-League, Japan’s top futsal league.
- In Japan, corn dogs are called アメリカンドッグ (American Dogs) and are often sold at sports events and convenience stores, slightly sweeter than their Western counterparts.
Choosing the right base can make all the difference when exploring Japan’s lesser-known towns and rural regions. Our Best Family Hotels in Japan guide highlights kid-friendly stays across every part of the country, from cozy ryokan and hot spring retreats to modern hotels with spacious family rooms and easy transport access. If you’re comparing options in larger cities before or after your visit, you can also explore our dedicated hotel guides for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kobe, and Nagasaki.
Until Next Time…
The scoreboard didn’t shine, but the high-fives, noise, and first-ever corn dogs made this one of the most memorable detours of our trip.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
