History and description

It has a maximum capacity of 50,000 people. The Denka Big Swan Stadium was built to serve as a playing venue for the 2002 World Cup. Construction started in 1997 and it was completed four years later on April 29, 2001. The stadium has a maximum capacity of 50,000 people. Niigata Stadium was officially christened Big Swan Stadium due to the unique roof design that resembles the wings of a swan. The venue is known for its abundant population of swans, which lends itself well to its chosen name.

The 2002 World Cup took place in Niigata Big Swan Stadium. Two group matches and the round of 16 match between Denmark and England were held here.

The stadium was renamed in 2007 after a naming rights sponsorship deal, which changed to Denka Big Swan Stadium in 2013 following a new deal.

How to get to Big Swan Stadium

The Denka Big Swan Stadium is located on the southern edge of the city of Niigata, approximately 4 kilometers from Niigata Station and a few kilometers more from the city center. The stadium is located on the southern bank of the Toyano Lagoon, which separates it from the more urban parts of the city.

Due to its somewhat remote location, there are few regular public transport options. Niigata Station has occasional service from various bus lines. Get off at stop Sports Koen.

Special shuttle buses run from the southern side of Niigata Station to the stadium on matchdays. They run from 4 hours before kickoff.

Address: 68 Seigoro, Niigata City

Albirex Niigata Tickets

Tickets for Albirex Niigata games can be bought at the Lawson, Seven-Eleven, and Family Mart convenience stores, or via the PIA ticket agents. Most of these stores also offer telephone or Internet booking options. The Albirex official website has an overview of options and telephone numbers. Tickets for the match can be bought at the stadium on the day of the match. Albirex's attendances are among the highest in the J-League, but few matches will sell out.

Reserved seats cost an average of Y$3,100. Prices for unreserved seating range from Y$2,100 to Y$4,100. Tickets are more expensive if bought on the day.

Big Swan Stadium tours

The Big Swan Stadium offers guided stadium tours that include access to the dressing rooms and VIP areas. The tours last about 45 minutes. The tours are led by stadium personnel who will answer any questions you have about the venue. The tours run daily at 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:00 pm. In the winter months this is reduced to twice a day at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. There are no tours on matchdays or when events are held at the stadium.

Reservations are not required. For more information call +81 25 287 88 11.

Relevant Internet links

Albirex.co.jp is the official website of Albirex Niigata. Tohokuden-bigswan.com is the official website of the Tohoku Denryoku Big Swan Stadium. Enjoyniigata.com is a travel guide for the Niigata area. Bus.niigata-inet.or.jp is public transport information for the Niigata area.