Sansan Launches Tokyo's First Dedicated Pickleball Facility in Ikebukuro

On July 10, 2026, Sansan Inc. proudly opened the Sansan Pickleball Court Ikebukuro, the largest facility dedicated solely to pickleball in Tokyo. Strategically located just a three-minute walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station, this complex spans the 4th to 6th floors of the Sansougo Ikebukuro building, offering three indoor courts (4th floor) and four outdoor courts (6th floor).

This opening has already generated significant interest, with over 1,800 bookings made in just the first month following its reservation launch on June 10. To accommodate this growing demand, plans for an additional third floor have been announced, which will feature two more indoor courts and two mini practice courts. This expansion aims to provide an inclusive environment for pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels and backgrounds.

Facility Concept

The core philosophy behind the Sansan Pickleball Court is summed up in its slogan: “Where New Meets”. This facility isn’t just about playing a sport; it’s about fostering innovation through connections. Catering to both professionals and absolute beginners, regardless of whether the aim is fitness or business networking, the court serves as a hub for people to forge new relationships through the game.

Sansan's Commitment to Pickleball

Recognizing the unique potential of pickleball to bridge generational and cultural divides, Sansan has actively promoted this American-born sport since February 2024. Celebrated for its accessibility—no matter one's age, gender, or athletic background—pickleball has been acknowledged as the fastest growing sport in the United States for four consecutive years. With the formation of “Pickleball Japan” in April 2026, the sport’s organizational infrastructure in Japan is also establishing a solid foundation for its future growth.

Through various experiential events and corporate gatherings, Sansan has introduced over 10,000 participants to pickleball. The company is also organizing the PPA TOUR ASIA Sansan FUKUOKA OPEN 2025, a major international tournament scheduled for August 2025, signaling its continued commitment to popularizing the sport. In 2026, partnerships with top players like Narisa Hatakeyama, Kyo Sawaki, and Rika Fujiwara will further emphasize their role in fostering athletic talent.

Addressing Facility Shortages in Tokyo

While the interest in pickleball has surged across Japan, the lack of equipped facilities, particularly in Tokyo, has been a significant barrier. Recognizing this gap, Sansan decided to invest in a dedicated pickleball venue to accelerate the sport's growth in the area. The facility will host beginner workshops, competitive lessons, and corporate team-building events, positioning it as a diverse gathering space for players and professionals, where new connections can thrive.

Facility Details

- Name: Sansan Pickleball Court Ikebukuro
- Address: 4-27-10 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo, Japan
- Nearest Access: 3 minutes from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line) and 10 minutes from Ikebukuro Station (JR and various Tokyo Metro lines)
- Facilities: 3 indoor courts (4th floor), 4 outdoor courts (6th floor), lounge, changing rooms, and showers (5th floor)
- Operating Hours: Indoor (6:00 AM - 11:00 PM), Outdoor (9:00 AM - 9:00 PM) year-round
- Rental Rates: Indoor ¥5,500 - ¥8,800 per hour, Outdoor ¥3,300 - ¥5,500 per hour. Paddle, shoes, and apparel are available for rental at ¥500 each.

Programs Tailored for Every Interest

Sansan's Ikebukuro court offers a variety of programs:

- Beginner Experience Rate: 80 minutes for ¥4,000 for those new to the game.
- Skill Classes: Available for beginners and intermediate players, with prices starting at ¥4,000 for an 80-minute session led by professional coaches.
- Women’s Fitness Sessions: A unique 80-minute program combining fitness and pickleball, launching in July with single day rates and monthly subscription options from September.
- Open Play Events: Daily sessions allowing players of all levels to join games starting at 6 AM.
- Wednesday Night Pickleball: An event every Wednesday from 7 PM to 9 PM to promote social interaction through random pair match play.
- Corporate Usage: Tailored programs for team building, client entertainment, or internal events.

Partnerships to Enhance Experience

To elevate the pickleball experience, Sansan has forged two partnerships:

- ASICS: As a global sportswear and footwear brand, ASICS will provide shoe rentals and attire for staff, ensuring the best gear for players.
- G-Search: Alongside the Fujitsu Group, G-Search will utilize the Sansan Pickleball Court as a testing ground for AI-driven feedback services for players, set to begin in July 2026.

Looking Forward

Looking ahead, Sansan aims to expand its facility to include more courts due to overwhelming demand and attract international competitions to elevate Japan's status in the global pickleball scene.

Final Thoughts from Ryosuke Koike

Ryosuke Koike, head of Sansan's Pickleball Business Promotion Office, emphasizes the company’s mission to foster connections that lead to innovation. He believes that engaging in pickleball can create invaluable opportunities, not only for personal interaction but also to develop a vast market potential. The Sansan Pickleball Court Ikebukuro will be open daily, aiming to integrate pickleball into the lives of professionals and enthusiasts alike, ultimately becoming a central hub for sporting culture and innovation in Japan.