Nippon Budokan, Tokyo

The Nippon Budokan, also known as the Martial Arts Hall, is a large indoor arena constructed specifically to host the Judo event during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It was designed in the image of the Yumedono Hall located at the Horyuji temple in the Nara Prefecture of Japan.

Built in 1964 under the architectural direction of Mamoru Yamada, the Nippon Budokan features a distinctive octagonal roof and occupies the site where the former Kitanomaru Palace once stood. The facility comprises three separate halls, with the largest one accommodating up to 14,000 spectators. The first floor has 2,762 seats, the second floor boasts over 3,000 seats, while the third floor provides seating for more than 7,000 individuals, along with standing room for 480 additional attendees.

Beyond its role as an Olympic venue, the Nippon Budokan has also gained fame for hosting numerous international rock concerts. Notably, The Beatles were the inaugural musical group to perform here in 1966, and since then, renowned artists such as Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton have graced its stage. Nevertheless, the primary use of the venue remains centered around wrestling and various martial arts disciplines. It annually hosts national championships in traditional martial arts, including Judo, Kendo, Karate, Aikido, and Kyudo. Additionally, the Pro Wrestling organization NOAH holds significant events and competitions at this location, and it serves as a training ground for future champions through martial arts classes conducted at the Nippon Budokan.