Shohei Ohtani, the renowned Japanese baseball star now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has sparked a significant rise in tourism from Japan to Los Angeles. Known for his exceptional skills both as a hitter and pitcher, Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers has intensified an already fervent fan base across the Pacific.

Japanese tourists, eager to witness Ohtani’s performances firsthand, have been flocking to Dodger Stadium in unprecedented numbers. Despite currently focusing on hitting due to recovery from elbow surgery, Ohtani’s presence alone has driven up to 200 clients per game through a major Japanese travel agency. This influx has prompted the Dodgers to introduce Japanese-language stadium tours, new menu items such as chicken katsu sandwiches and takoyaki, and partnerships with Japanese sponsors like Toyo Tires and Yakult.

Takayo Hizume, one such enthusiast, epitomizes the dedication of these fans. She flew from Japan to Los Angeles specifically to support Ohtani, describing him as feeling like “her own son.” This sentiment resonates deeply in Japan, where Ohtani is viewed as a symbol of national pride—a sentiment echoed by Akira Yuhara, general manager of the Miyako Hotel, where many Japanese visitors stay during their trips to catch a Dodgers game.

The impact extends beyond game days; businesses in Little Tokyo, like the Miyako Hotel and local eateries such as Mr. Ramen and Far Bar, have reported doubled foot traffic. The area’s famed Ohtani mural, “LA Rising,” painted on the side of the Miyako Hotel by artist Robert Vargas, has become a pilgrimage site for fans. Its augmented reality feature, activated by a QR code, allows visitors to see Ohtani swing and pitch against the backdrop of downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Tourism has noted a staggering 91.7% increase in visitors from Japan in recent years, largely attributed to Ohtani’s influence. Hotels like the Miyako Hotel have experienced full bookings during Dodgers’ home game series, often commanding higher rates.

Stan Kasten, president and CEO of the Dodgers, expressed surprise at the magnitude of the Ohtani effect, emphasizing its positive impact on both the Dodgers and the broader baseball community. He highlighted the sold-out ad space at Dodger Stadium and the economic boost to local businesses as clear indicators of Ohtani’s global appeal.

Beyond the economic impact, Ohtani’s presence has fostered cultural exchange, blending American pastimes with global enthusiasm. The Dodgers’ efforts to accommodate Japanese fans with tailored experiences, from language-specific tours to culinary offerings, underscore a commitment to inclusivity and fan engagement.

As Ohtani continues to captivate audiences with his exceptional performances and humble demeanor, the international spotlight on Los Angeles grows brighter. For Japanese fans like Hizume and countless others, witnessing Ohtani’s journey in the MLB represents more than a sporting event—it’s a cultural celebration that bridges nations through a shared love for baseball and admiration for an extraordinary athlete.

In summary, Shohei Ohtani’s impact on Japanese tourism to Los Angeles transcends the boundaries of sports, embodying a cultural phenomenon that unites fans across continents and enriches the fabric of global sportsmanship.