Pricing

HOCKEY IN JAPAN

Asia's most developed program

8
Ice Rinks
0
Teams
1
Leagues
0
Players
#22
IIHF Men's
#8
IIHF Women's
1930
First NHL Player
full
IIHF Member
Division I A
Ranked #4 in division
IIHF Division (2025)

Hockey in Japan

Japan has 8 ice rinks, 0 active hockey teams, 1 league and 0 players on file in the RinkStop directory. Japan is a full member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the men’s national team is currently ranked #22 in the world, with the women’s national team at #8.

Finding hockey in Japan

The teams listed on this page are organized by league. The top professional league is the BHL.Each team has a roster page with arena info, the league they play in, and a link to the team\u2019s official site.

Where to play hockey in Japan

New players should start with a learn-to-skate program at one of the 8 rinks on this page. Most rinks also run learn-to-play hockey clinics for both kids and adults. Registration with the national federation is typically required before joining a team. The \u201cHow to play\u201d section below has a step-by-step pathway from first-time skater to league play.

Hockey ecosystem in Japan

Japan has 8 ice rinks, 0 active teams, and 1 leagues in the RinkStop directory. Asia's most developed program

National Teams in Japan

IIHF Full Member
Men's
Japan Men's
World #22
Men's U18
Japan Men's U18
Unranked
Men's U20
Japan Men's U20
Unranked
Women's
Japan Women's
World #7
Women's U18
Japan Women's U18
World #8

Directory status: RinkStop currently lists 8 rinks in Japan, no club teams, and 1 league. Hockey is governed by Japan Ice Hockey Federation in Japan. Help us complete this directory — add a team or league in Japan.

Hockey Leagues in Japan

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Japan Cup
professional

Ice Rinks in Japan

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How to Play Hockey in Japan

A practical guide for beginners, newcomers to Japan, and parents looking to get their child into the sport.

  1. 1
    Learn to skate first
    Most hockey players in Japan start with skating lessons. Many rinks run learn-to-skate programs for ages 3+ that teach the basics of balance, edges, and stopping — the foundations of hockey.
  2. 2
    Try a learn-to-play clinic
    Most local rinks and clubs run learn-to-play programs for beginners. These typically run 6–8 weeks, provide loaner equipment, and cost between $50–$300. Browse rinks above and contact one directly to ask about upcoming sessions.
  3. 3
    Join a youth or adult recreational team
    After learn-to-play, most players in Japan join a house league or recreational team. These run weekly practices and games at the local rink and are the most common entry point to organized hockey.
  4. 4
    Register with the national federation
    Asia's most developed program In the US this is USA Hockey, in Canada it's Hockey Canada, and in Europe each country has its own federation. Registration is typically annual and includes insurance.
  5. 5
    Progress through the development pathway
    Talented players in Japan typically progress through age-group teams (U8, U10, U12...) into travel or select teams, then junior leagues, and eventually professional or collegiate hockey. The pathway differs by country but generally follows the IIHF development model.
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Help us keep the Japan hockey directory accurate. Add or update a rink, team, or league →

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hockey in Japan

How many ice rinks are in Japan?+

RinkStop currently lists 8 ice rinks in Japan. The directory covers public arenas, private clubs, and training facilities.

What is the main hockey league in Japan?+

The top professional hockey league in Japan is the BHL.

How do I start playing hockey in Japan?+

Most players in Japan start with a learn-to-skate program, then progress to a learn-to-play clinic through a local rink or club. The "How to play" section below has a step-by-step pathway.

Is there women's hockey in Japan?+

Yes, Japan has women's hockey programs. Most rinks run women-only recreational leagues in addition to any national women's league.

Is hockey popular in Japan?+

Hockey in Japan: Asia's most developed program. IIHF ranking: #23.

How many registered hockey teams are in Japan?+

RinkStop's directory lists 0 active hockey teams in Japan across all levels and age groups.

What is the IIHF ranking of Japan?+

Japan is ranked #22 in the IIHF Men's World Ranking (as of 2025-05-26).

Does Japan have an ice hockey national team?+

Yes. Japan fields 5 national teams through the IIHF, including Japan Men's National Ice Hockey Team and Japan Men's U18 National Ice Hockey Team.

Can my child start hockey at any age in Japan?+

Yes. Most programs in Japan accept beginners from age 5–6, and many rinks offer adult learn-to-play programs for any age above 18.

Hockey Guides for Japan

The RinkStop blog covers the questions every player, parent, and coach asks.

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How to Find Local Rinks

The complete guide to finding ice rinks, public skate sessions, and open hockey in your area.

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Find Hockey Teams Near You

From youth to adult, learn how to find the right team and league at every level.

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Rinks with Pro Shops

One-stop hockey facilities with on-site gear, fitting, and equipment — no extra trips.

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