[New Taipei City News] New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih led a delegation today (April 14) to visit the Seibu Dome(Belluna Dome), home of the Saitama Seibu Lions, to gain insights into stadium infrastructure and fan experience, providing inspiration for the planning and design of the upcoming New Taipei Dome. During the visit, Mayor Hou brought a taste of home to cheer on Taiwanese slugger Lin Kuan-Chen—who was selected fourth overall by the Seibu Lions last year—offering him classic Taiwanese snacks like Kuai Kuai corn puffs and wheat black tea.
Mayor Hou remarked that the Seibu Dome(Belluna Dome) has hosted numerous sporting events and concerts, with surrounding facilities including an amusement park, golf course, and ski area. Since its completion in 1979, the stadium has undergone major renovations to meet fans’ expectations and provide improved training environments for athletes. Its steady revenue performance serves as a valuable reference for the New Taipei Dome, which is currently consolidating diverse opinions to shape a facility that meets public needs.
The delegation was welcomed by Saitama Seibu Lions’ Executive Director of Business Operations Hisato Onozuka and Deputy General Manager Ryo Toyoda, who provided a guided tour. They explained that in 1999, a roof was added to the stadium to prevent rain delays, and in 2021, a children’s play plaza was established adjacent to the venue, transforming the stadium into a baseball-themed amusement zone.
During the visit, Hisato Onozuka explained that direct trains operate between Tokyo’s Ikebukuro Station and Seibu Dome on game days, ensuring smooth transportation for fans. The stadium also benefits from naming rights sponsorships, which support ongoing maintenance and operations. Several seating sections are sponsored and uniquely designed by different companies, enhancing the overall spectator experience. The delegation also had the opportunity to meet Seibu Lions star pitcher Kona Takahashi, who enthusiastically posed for photos with the group and raised his fist with a spirited “No. 1!” cheer.
Additionally, Taiwanese rising star Lin Kuan-Chen—widely recognized in Japan as a “top rookie”—took time from training to greet Mayor Hou Yu-ih. Mayor Hou brought Lin a taste of home, gifting him classic Taiwanese snacks to ease any homesickness and share with his teammates. He expressed hope to one day see Lin don the national team jersey and lead Taiwan to another world championship.
New Taipei City Department of Sports Commissioner Hung Yu-ling noted that Japan’s large-scale sports venues are highly developed in both operations and design. During this visit, the delegation toured two iconic facilities, Tokyo Dome and Seibu Dome(Belluna Dome), gaining valuable insights for the planning and development of the upcoming New Taipei Dome. Key takeaways included Tokyo Dome’s state-of-the-art ring-shaped display screen, concert-grade sound and lighting systems, and specialized seating areas, as well as the diverse cultural, sports, dining, and recreational facilities surrounding both domes.
