Catching a pro baseball game in Japan is an activity that I recommend any sport fan to do during their stay.
However the league does not want you uploading and sharing the exciting shots you took at the stadium to any social network platform - if they fall under a certain criteria.
Announced in September 2024, the new rules take effect from February 1st.
Fans will be prohibited from:
1) Uploading any movies related to the baseball game that exceeds 140 seconds (this also applies for pre-game practice or post-game interview)
2) Upload of any images or movies depicting a player while the ball is in play ("Player" is specified as the pitcher, catcher, fielder, batter and runner)
As long as images/movies are not uploaded while the game is in progress AND does not exceed 140 seconds, the following will be permitted:
1) Social media uploads of scenes while the ball is not in play
2) Uploads that feature the managers or players in the bench
3) Uploads that feature the team mascot, cheerleaders or view of the seats
The restriction does not apply for any photos or movies you take for personal use, or to share among family and friends.
The announcement caused some uproar among Japanese fans and many are wondering the intentions of the NPB and if there is any way to enforce such a rule when so many platforms exist. Similar restrictions exist in other sports leagues of Japan, but none anywhere near as strict as these NPB guidelines.
The full content can be viewed in Japanese here: