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“Mrs. Judo: Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful” by Yuriko Gamo Romer
San Francisco-based Yuriko Gamo Romer is an extraordinarily talented documentary filmmaker – someone who knows how to combine storytelling and research into a beautifully-presented piece of art.
Released in 2012, “Mrs. Judo: Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful,” is a biographical documentary about Keiko Fukuda, the first woman to attain the 10th degree black belt in judo. This film traveled to more than 25 film festivals internationally and was awarded the Grand Jury Award for Best Documentary at the International Festival of Sport Films in Moscow and was broadcast nationally on PBS.
Her current documentary project, “Diamond Diplomacy,” explores the relationship between the United States and Japan through a shared love of baseball. The film is currently in production. More information can be found at DiamondDiplomacy.com. Yuriko appeared on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” Zoom call in 2020 – check out our recap of that episode here.
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American Pastime
This dramatic historical fiction film, set in Utah’s infamous Topaz concentration camp for Japanese Americans during World War II, tells the story of a family’s internment and the role baseball played in the camps. Baseball not only provided a diversion and physical outlet – it also cultivated camaraderie amongst the interns and respect from the white American community.
American Pastime was inspired by the work of the Nisei Baseball Research Project and its founder, Kerry Yo Nakagawa. Kerry Yo was a special guest on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” in April 2021, and his episode was the most powerful in our series. You can watch the video on YouTube or read the recap here.
The link below is for streaming options on Amazon; to buy the DVD, click here.
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Ballparks of NPB 2024 Calendar
$44.00The 12 ballparks of Nippon Professional Baseball – have you visited them all yet!?
This 2024 calendar depicts each of the 12 NPB parks – one per month – in a way that only the brilliant artists of Ballpark Blueprints can. From the brand-new and world-class Es Con Field all the way up in Hokkaido, to the five stadiums in the Tokyo region, and all the way down to Hiroshima and Fukuoka, each ballpark has its own unique architectural charm or flare, and it’s captured with each turn of the page!
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Carry-On Suitcase – Samsonite Spinner
My wife and I put two suitcases on our wedding registry, and I’m sure glad that I ended up with this one! It is pretty much as large as it can be to still pass for a carry-on, which is why I chose it. It rolls smoothly through the airport or train station and I’ve found that the dividers and straps inside come in handy too. The hard sidewalls make it ideal for collecting precious Japanese souvenirs!
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Diamonds in the Rough: Zeni and the Legacy of Japanese American Baseball
Using the life of Kenichi “Zeni” Zenimura, the godfather of Japanese American baseball, as the foundation, this 35-minute documentary captures the rich and overlooked history of Japanese American baseball. A must-watch for any baseball history buff who prides themselves on knowing the most influential characters in the game’s history, and for anyone with an interest in the Japanese experience in America. Noriyuki “Pat” Morita, famous for his role as Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid series, narrates this informative and enlightening film.
This documentary was inspired by the work of the Nisei Baseball Research Project and its founder, Kerry Yo Nakagawa. Kerry Yo was a special guest on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” in April 2021, and his episode was the most powerful in our series. You can watch the video on YouTube or read the recap here.
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Gentle Black Giants: A History of Negro Leaguers in Japan
Between 1927 and 1934, the Philadelphia Royal Giants of the U.S. Negro Leagues embarked on several goodwill tours across the Pacific. They were relegated to second-class citizenship at home, but abroad they were treated with tremendous respect. Unlike the well-known tours of major league stars who ridiculed their opponents through embarrassing defeats, the Royal Giants made the games competitive, dignified, and enjoyable for opposing players. This book makes the argument that the mutual respect – and spirited competition – between the Black and Japanese players played a significant role in the founding of professional baseball in Japan. For more, check out our book review.
Co-author Bill Staples, Jr. appeared on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” Zoom call in 2020 – check out our recap of that episode here. Kazuo Sayama, the other co-author, was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2021.
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Growing the Game: The Globalization of Major League Baseball
I picked up this book shortly after it came out in 2008. I was a senior in college, and looking to pursue a career in baseball. This book meticulously described to me how baseball was in the process of becoming a truly global game, and I wanted to be part of that movement. I immediately tried to figure out how I could combine my love of baseball with traveling the world. And hey, what do you know – here we are!
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Hanshin Tigers Adjustable Baseball Cap
I used to only wear game-style baseball hats, thinking that the floppy hats were “dad hats.” Well, now that has changed. I always bring a hat like this when traveling so that I can cram it in my luggage without worrying about it losing shape. I like this vintage-style Hanshin Tigers hat because of the classic Tiger graphic and the “rising sun” in the background, but more importantly, it says “Hanshin Tigers” on it, which is often a conversation-starter for curious American baseball fans!
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Hiroshima Toyo Carp Red “Dad Hat”
Hiroshima’s Mazda ZOOM ZOOM Stadium, home of the Carp, is a sea of red on game day and home to arguably the best fans in all of Nippon Professional Baseball. Make sure that you fit in with this beautiful travel-friendly cap!
This American Needle dad hat is super high quality and features the official Hiroshima Carp “Carp Boy” logo patch on the front, and a stylish and functional buckle closure on the back making it a good fit for everyone. When visiting Hiroshima, you’ll notice that you see this logo just about everywhere, including the manhole covers of the city’s sewer system. Dad hats like this one are perfect for travel because unlike structured caps, they can be packed without losing their shape.
Whether you’re sporting this comfortable classic curved brim cap at a Carp game, or wearing it around town back home, it’s sure to become a staple in your wardrobe, and quite the conversation starter as well!
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In Search of Millionaires (The Life of a Baseball Gypsy): The Bob Fontaine Jr. Story
Baseball legends like Tony Gwynn, Ozzie Smith, and Randy Johnson are some of the most extraordinary talents that the game has ever known. But before they were pros, there was no industry consensus on these players – none of them were drafted in the first round of the MLB draft. But Bob Fontaine, Jr. saw in them something that the other teams didn’t, and millions of fans can thank him for drafting their franchise icon.
For nearly five decades, Fontaine looked into the future. He traveled the world and beat the bushes to scout, sign, and develop baseball’s constantly-refreshing next generation of stars. He led a relentless search, logging countless days abroad and wearing his car’s odometer out in the U.S.
But this book doesn’t just tally the biggest hits of Fontaine’s illustrious scouting career. Anyone who’s ever talked to a scout knows that scouts can tell stories like Ozzie Smith fields a routine grounder: with ease and just the right amount of flare. And Fontaine can spin a yarn with the best of them.
In this book, you’ll read about the inspiring draft story of Jim Abbott (who was born with only one hand), around-the-world baseball adventures (Fontaine three players in Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union!), the early days of some of baseball’s biggest characters (Ozzie Guillen and John Kruk, for example), drafting the foundation of the 2002 World Series champion Anaheim Angels (Tim Salmon, Garrett Anderson, etc.), and scouting amateur players all over the world, including Yu Darvish in Japan (read an excerpt on scouting Darvish).
This book is a baseball lover’s dream. It has just the right amount of history and nostalgia mixed with humility and humor. Get a first-hand look at the life of a legendary baseball man who exemplifies the vital role that scouts – the unheralded soothsayers of the game – play.
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JapanBall Black Trucker Hat
$36.00This Legacy brand black trucker hat features a mesh back, slightly curved visor, and a snapback closure. This comfortable cap is a must have for your next day at the ballpark!
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JapanBall Dugout Mug
$35.00Introducing the official JapanBall Dugout Mug! Dugout Mugs are made from the barrel of a baseball bat, giving them a distinctive and authentic look. This mug includes the official JapanBall logo, and can hold up to 12 ounces. It’s perfect for any JapanBaller who likes to enjoy a cold beverage while watching the ballgame!
In addition to being a great conversation piece, dugout mugs are also functional and practical. They can be used at home, at a tailgate, or even on the go, making them a versatile accessory for any baseball lover. Plus, with their durable construction and unique design, dugout mugs are sure to be a cherished item for years to come.
Hand wash only.
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JapanBall Gray Hat with Blue Brim
$36.00This Yupoong brand hat provides a classically good look with a contrasting gray body and blue brim. It features a green undervisor and a snapback closure, with the JapanBall logo displayed prominently on the front panels.
80% acrylic, 20% wool
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JapanBall Khaki Hat
$36.00Crafted from 100% pure cotton, this dad hat offers unparalleled comfort and breathability. The high-quality fabric ensures that the hat retains its shape over time while providing a soft and comfortable fit. Whether you’re out for a casual stroll or on a JapanBall tour, this hat will keep you cool and comfortable all day long! Scroll down for product details.
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JapanBall Polo Shirt
$35.00This Gildan brand JapanBall polo shirt is 100% ring-spun cotton. Its blend of comfort and durability will mean its a favorite for years to come! It features the JapanBall logo on the chest, and a classic two button placket. Scroll down for product details.
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JapanBall Tie Dye Shirt
$55.00These one of a kind t-shirts are hand-dyed by JapanBall President Shane Barclay!
100% cotton Bella + Canvas t-shirt featuring the JapanBall logo on the front, and a Ballpark Blueprints map of the NPB stadiums on the back!
Please note: The map on the back of these specific shirts includes Sapporo Dome (not Es Con Field Hokkaido), as well as both Kyocera Dome Osaka and Hotto Motto Field for the Orix Buffaloes stadium.
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JapanBall Unisex Logo T-Shirt (Various Colors Available)
$25.00 – $29.00Show off your JapanBall pride with this ultra-comfortable 100% cotton Bella+Canvas t-shirt, featuring the JapanBall logo on the left chest. Scroll down for product details.
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JapanBall Women’s T-Shirt
$25.00This women’s t-shirt featuring the JapanBall logo is 100% cotton. It’s so comfortable, it will quickly become one of your favorites!
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Kenichi Zenimura, Japanese American Baseball Pioneer
This biography by Bill Staples, Jr. delves into the extraordinary life of Kenichi Zenimura (1900-1968), celebrated as the Father of Japanese-American Baseball. Scroll down for product details.
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Koshien: Japan’s Field of Dreams by Ema Ryan Yamazaki
Filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki describes Japan’s National High School Baseball Championship (more commonly known as “Koshien,” for the stadium it’s played in) as a combination of the Super Bowl (for the national popularity and significance of the title) and NCAA basketball’s “March Madness” (for its intense, single-elimination format). In this film, Yamazaki grants viewers an insider’s look into two teams’ journeys to Koshien.
But this is not just a film about baseball, for baseball fans – this is a dramatic tale of the fighting spirit, harmony, tradition, and discipline that are the bedrock of Japanese culture, and how they fit into modern society.
For more about this fascinating documentary, check out our review. Ema Ryan Yamazaki appeared on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” Zoom call in 2020 – check out our recap of that episode here. For an in-depth, first-person Koshien experience, check out this article by Tom McGuire.
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Lars Nootbaar 2023 Japan WBC Champs Signed 8×10 photo (2 variations)
$87.00Choose from two options of glossy 8×10 photos, each personally autographed by Samurai Japan and St. Louis Cardinals outfielder, Lars Nootbaar. Scroll down for product details.
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Mashi: The Unfulfilled Baseball Dreams of Masanori Murakami, the First Japanese Major Leaguer
Did you know that 30+ years before Hideo Nomo, the San Francisco Giants had a Japanese pitching sensation on their club? I don’t blame you if you don’t, because Masanori Murakami’s tale is not well-known. “Mashi” had an adventurous and courageous spirit to pair with a talented left arm, and his place in history is iron-clad: he was the first Japanese player in Major League Baseball.
Read our full review of the book. Author Rob Fitts appeared on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” Zoom call in 2020 – check out our recap of that episode here. Want to own a piece of baseball history? Purchase an autographed Masanori Murakami trading card here.
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Matt Winters Autographed Nippon Ham Fighters Cards (3 variations)
$11.00 – $13.00After signing with the Nippon Ham Fighters in 1990, Winters quickly became the team’s best power hitter. He hit over 30 home runs in each of his first four seasons in NPB. While he was known for his clutch hitting, Winters also became a fan favorite for this lively personality. He would often be found dancing between innings and entertaining his teammates during delays in play. Winters retired after the 1994 season.
Choose from three different cards autographed by Winters; his 1991 NPB rookie card, 1993 BBM card, or his 1994 BBM card.
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Mr. Baseball
For most people, Mr. Baseball is their gateway into Japanese baseball, and we’re OK with that! The film does a good job showing the sometimes-bizarre and always-interesting life of a gaijin (foreigner) ballplayer in Japan.
Jack Elliot, played by Tom Selleck, is a talented but aging Major League Baseball player who finds himself traded to the Chunichi Dragons of Nippon Professional Baseball. The movie showcases Elliot’s challenging adjustment to life in Japan and features many comical moments as he tries to acclimate to the cultural differences and customs of Japan and Japanese baseball.
The film does a good job of showing the contrasts between American and Japanese baseball cultures and is a decent introduction to NPB. It highlights the respect for tradition and importance of teamwork that is inherit in Japanese baseball versus the more individualistic approach we often see in Major League Baseball. While at first, you might not find Elliot to be a particularly charismatic protagonist, we’re willing to bet you’ll find yourself cheering him on and rooting for his redemption and success in both baseball and life.
If you’re a fan of the classic sports underdog story and comedy, Mr. Baseball is a heartwarming and humorous watch.
(Click below for streaming options, and if you want to order the DVD or Blu-Ray, click here.)
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Nichibei Yakyu: Baseball Tours of Japan
SABR has published a unique two-volume set titled Nichibei Yakyu: US Tours of Japan to mark the 150th anniversary of baseball in Japan. This collection, the first in English to do so, chronicles the visits of over 100 American and Hawaiian baseball teams to Japan since 1907. Scroll down for product details.
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Noise Cancelling, Extra Bass Earbuds
These are essential for the long flight to Japan!
If your earbuds are Apple “flash” compatible or Bluetooth, then you’ll be stuck on the plane with those cheap airline earbuds that have no bass and sound like you’re watching a movie in the airplane’s hanger. In my carry-on bag, I always bring a pair of higher quality earbuds that I can plug into the on-board entertainment system. Plus, they double as earplugs when you want to sleep!
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Portable Phone/Tablet Charger
I love this little charger. It has been a lifesaver on long train rides and flights. The 4.8A output means It even charges your phone faster than a wall outlet does! In addition, it has two USB outlets, meaning you can charge two things at once. If you are travelling in pairs, you only need one power bank. It’s a great size and weight, so it doesn’t weigh you down or take up too much space. When fully charged, it holds enough power to charge your phone several times over, but can also charge tablets, ear pods, cameras, or any device that utilizes a USB charger. Be sure to bring it along for long days exploring new cities or traveling between ballparks and never worry about running out of phone battery again. It’s an absolute must have for keeping your devices ready to capture all the magic of our baseball tours.
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Remembering Japanese Baseball: An Oral History of the Game
Historian Rob Fitts has written 6+ books about Japanese baseball, but it all started with this one. Inspired by the relative lack of written information about historical baseball figures in Japan, especially in the English language, Rob relays the tales that make up the unique character of the Japanese game. This book is an important one, and I recommend it for anyone that wants to take that next step in getting to know some of NPB’s legendary players – or just loves a great baseball story, because it’s full of them!
Rob Fitts appeared on JapanBall’s “Chatter Up!” Zoom call in 2020 – check out our recap of that episode here.
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Sayonara Home Run!: The Art of the Japanese Baseball Card
Japanese art, from the beautiful woodprint waves of Hokusai to the modern anime films of Studio Ghibli, has long been globally revered. Any appreciator of art and baseball will see from this book why vintage Japanese baseball cards are among the most beautiful baseball collectibles in the world.
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Shohei Ohtani LA Dodgers Painted Glove Portrait Card Art
$395.00This unique baseball card features a hand-painted portrait of Shohei Ohtani in a Los Angeles Dodgers uniform, created by artist Sean Kane. Scroll down for product details.
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Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Angels Bobblehead
$44.99Celebrate Ohtani’s 2018 American League Rookie of the Year victory with this exclusive limited edition bobblehead. The bobblehead is brand new and comes in its original packaging, ensuring its pristine condition. Scroll down for product details.
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Signed and Personalized by the Author: The Chrysanthemum and the Bat by Robert Whiting
$35.00Acclaimed author Robert Whiting is best known for his bestseller You Gotta Have Wa!, published in 1989. And he burst back onto the Japanese baseball scene with 2004’s The Meaning of Ichiro. But it all started with The Chrysanthemum and the Bat: The Game Japanese Play.
We are working with Mr. Whiting to make this book available to you with a personalized messaged in your name (or whatever name you request) and signature from the author!
Whiting moved to Japan in 1962 and found that whenever he talked to his friends back in the U.S., they always wanted to hear more of his stories of Japanese baseball. Nothing about the country’s fascinating history of rulers, the rapid transformation of Tokyo, or the perfect balance between Buddhism and Shinto – just baseball. But Whiting found that baseball was actually the perfect vehicle to talk about Japan’s unique national character.
Motivated by a $500 bet that he wouldn’t write a book within a year (as explained to JapanBall’s “Chatter Up” audience in August 2021), Whiting compiled his observations of Japan’s culture- exemplified through baseball – into this wonderful book that TIME named its 1977 sports book of the year.
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Solario Hanshin Tigers Championship Print
$40.00Celebrate the historic victory of the Hanshin Tigers in the 2023 Nippon Series with a unique art print by Hawaiʻi artist Solario. This exclusive piece marks their first championship since 1985 and only their second ever, featuring the Japanese phrases 夢を叶える瞬間 (The moment the dream came true) and 日本一 (Best in Japan). Scroll down for product details.