Japan, the rugby of the Brave Blossoms
The Japan page celebrates the Brave Blossoms, the Japanese team in their red and white striped kit adorned with the cherry blossom. The outfits and products in Japan's colours are aimed at fans who discovered this fast rugby during the 2019 World Cup held in the archipelago, as well as travellers and lovers of Japanese culture.
Rugby in the land of the Rising Sun.
From Keio University in 1899 to the Japan Rugby League One
Rugby was established in Japan in 1899 at Keio University, where Edward Bramwell Clarke and Ginnosuke Tanaka, both having attended Cambridge, introduced the game to students. The sport initially developed in universities, followed by corporate teams. In 1932, at Osaka, the national team won its first international match against Canada, 9 to 8. Since 2022, the Japan Rugby League One has taken over from the former Top League and attracts top international players, particularly from New Zealand and South Africa.
Other Nations
Other nations also include:
All other nations are gathered on the other nations page.
Brighton 2015 and the Quarter-Final in 2019
On September 19, 2015, in Brighton, Japan defeated South Africa 34 to 32 with a try from Karne Hesketh in injury time, in a match often cited as the greatest upset in World Cup history. Four years later, it hosted the first World Cup held in Asia, defeating Ireland and then Scotland, and reached the quarter-finals for the first time. This rugby, based on speed, quick ball movement, and outstanding physical condition, has made the Brave Blossoms a feared team.
Red and White Stripes and Cherry Blossom: The Jersey
Japan's jersey is recognized by its red and white horizontal stripes, taken from the national flag's colours, and by the cherry blossom, the sakura, emblem of the team worn on the chest. This very identifiable design makes the jersey popular well beyond supporters: travellers returning from Japan, fans of Japanese culture, or collectors. In supporter version, it fits true to size based on chest measurement; for a child between two sizes, the larger one offers extra room.
Good Deals
Good deals can be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday in late autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days of spring, then the summer sales and back-to-school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Japan ever drawn with France?
Yes, on November 25, 2017, in Nanterre, where Japan secured a 23-23 draw with the French XV. This result confirmed, two years before the home World Cup, the progress of the Brave Blossoms.
How is the Japan team composed?
It mixes players born in Japan and players from abroad, eligible after several years of residency. The iconic captain Michael Leitch, born in New Zealand, arrived in Japan as a teenager for his studies.
Does Japan play rugby sevens?
Yes, and its men's team finished fourth in the first Olympic rugby sevens tournament, in Rio in 2016. The 2021 Tokyo Games then provided a showcase for the discipline at home.
Does Japan have a women's team?
Yes, the Sakura Fifteen, named after the cherry blossom. They have participated in the women's World Cups of 2017, 2021, and 2025, and are progressing thanks to the development of women's rugby in universities.
Does Japan compete in the Nations Championship?
Yes, Japan is one of the two invited teams, alongside Fiji, in this competition launched in 2026 by World Rugby. There, it faces major European nations in July and November.
