History and description

Denka Big Swan Stadium, initially known as Niigata Stadium, was built to serve as a playing venue for the 2002 World Cup. Construction started in 1997 and almost 4 years later, on 29 April 2001, the stadium officially opened. The Niigata Stadium's roof resembles the wings of a swan, and because of the high prevalence of swans in the area around the stadium, it was given the name Big Swan Stadium.

In 2002, Niigata Big Swan Stadium hosted two group matches and the round of 16 match between Denmark and England.

In 2007, the stadium was renamed Denryoku Big Swan Stadium after a naming rights sponsorship deal. In 2013, it was renamed Denka Big Swan Stadium after a new deal.

How to get to Big Swan Stadium

The Denka Big Swan Stadium is located in the city of Niigata, near Niigata Station and the city center. The stadium is close to a number of popular tourist destinations, including the Ginza district and Meiji Shrine. The stadium is on the southern bank of the Toyano Lagoon, which separates it from the more urban parts of Tokyo. The stadium is close to a number of popular tourist destinations, including the Ginza district and Meiji Shrine.

Due to its location, few public transportation options are available. The buses on the New Town line, Nigatashiminbyoin line, and Ohno line sometimes have service from Niigata Station. Get off at stop Sports Koen.

On matchdays, a special shuttle bus runs from the southern side of Niigata Station to the stadium. Buses run from four hours before kickoff.

Address: 68 Seigoro, Niigata City

Albirex Niigata Tickets

Tickets for Albirex Niigata games can be bought at 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. Albirex's official website has a complete 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.

Tickets for unreserved seating cost $2,100, whereas prices for reserved seats range from $3,100 to $4,100. Tickets are $500 more expensive if bought on the day.

Big Swan Stadium tours

Big Swan Stadium offers walking tours that include access to the dressing rooms and VIP areas. The tours last about 45 minutes. Tour times vary daily and there are no tours on match days or when events are being held at the stadium.

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

Relevant Internet links

The official website of Albirex Niigata, the Tohoku Denryoku Big Swan Stadium, and the Niigata area's travel guide are all located at Albirex.co.jp. Public transport information can be found at Bus.niigata-inet.or.jp.