Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka

Opened on 2 April 1993 as Japan's first retractable-roof stadium. Designed and built by Takenaka Corporation and Maeda Construction in a joint venture, the dome holds approximately 40,178 spectators. The venue was renamed Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka in April 2024.

Use

Office tower

Area

Fukuoka City, Chuo Ward

Completed

1993

Developer

Fukuoka Daiei Hawks Stadium Co., Ltd. (now Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks Corp.)

Architect

Takenaka Corporation / Maeda Construction JV

Japan’s First Retractable-Roof Stadium

Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka — opened on 2 April 1993 as simply “Fukuoka Dome” — stands on reclaimed land in the Jigyohama district, facing Hakata Bay. The facility was constructed by a joint venture of Takenaka Corporation and Maeda Construction at a cost of approximately ¥76 billion, making it one of the most ambitious stadium projects of its era. The building’s defining innovation was Japan’s first retractable roof: a fan-shaped section at the crown of the hemisphere slides open to expose the playing field on fine days, transforming what might otherwise be a sealed indoor venue into an open-air ballpark.

The dome accommodates approximately 40,178 spectators, placing it among the largest professional baseball stadiums in the country. Its near-circular plan and gently raked stands bring the grandstands close to the infield, creating an atmosphere that connects fans to the game. Beyond baseball, the venue regularly hosts large-scale concerts and martial-arts events.

A Changing Name, an Enduring Landmark

The dome has carried several names since opening — Fukuoka Dome, Fukuoka Yahoo! Japan Dome, Fukuoka Yahuoku! Dome and Fukuoka PayPay Dome — before receiving its current name in April 2024. What has not changed is the view from the waterfront: the illuminated hemisphere set against the night sky of Hakata Bay remains one of Fukuoka’s most recognisable silhouettes. Fukuoka Tower stands nearby, reinforcing the district’s character as the city’s seaside leisure and entertainment zone.

Stadium tours operate on non-game days, offering visitors access to the outfield, dugouts and player areas that are otherwise off-limits.

Summary

Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka opened in 1993 as Japan’s first retractable-roof stadium, holding around 40,178 people. Built by Takenaka Corporation and Maeda Construction at a cost of roughly ¥76 billion, it remains the centrepiece of Fukuoka’s waterfront entertainment precinct and the home of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. Whether you visit for a game, a concert or just a walk along the bay, the dome’s dome profile against the sea is an image that stays with you.

Related: Fukuoka Tower / ACROS Fukuoka

Looking for a hotel in Fukuoka? Rakuten Travel offers a wide choice near the dome and city centre.