Aichi's First Dedicated Outdoor Pickleball Court 'Marine Pickleball Club' Opens in Handa City This June!

Marine Co., Ltd. (Handa City, Aichi Prefecture; CEO: Masashi Watanabe) has opened 'Marine Pickleball Club,' Aichi Prefecture’s first dedicated outdoor pickleball court (*), in June 2026.

Pickleball is a paddle sport originating in the United States, where player numbers are rapidly increasing. Known for being accessible to people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels, it has gained global attention. In recent years, the number of players in Japan has also grown, raising expectations for pickleball as a new lifelong sport.

At Marine Pickleball Club, we aim to create a locally rooted sports community based on the concept of 'anyone, easily, immediately enjoyable.' We will offer experience sessions, lessons, open play, social events, and tournaments to foster new connections.

*As of June 2026, based on our research, the first permanent dedicated outdoor pickleball court in Aichi Prefecture.

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is an American-origin paddle sport combining elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. In the U.S., over 48 million people already play, and its social nature—where anyone can have fun and quickly become friends—has made it a sensation. It is also gaining massive popularity in Asian countries such as Vietnam and Malaysia.

In Japan, it is becoming increasingly popular, especially in Tokyo, and is attracting significant attention.

Features of Marine Pickleball Club

- Aichi’s First Dedicated Pickleball Outdoor Court

Marine Pickleball Club has established one dedicated outdoor pickleball court (mat court), the first of its kind in Aichi Prefecture.

*Indoor courts (1.5 courts) are scheduled to open in July.

With dedicated nets and court lines, players of all levels—from beginners to advanced—can enjoy comfortable gameplay.

- Multiple Latest-Model Paddles Available for Trial Use

We offer the latest models from top brands like YOLA, used by world-class players. You can immediately test any paddle you're interested in on the pickleball court to find the perfect fit. We plan to expand our range of available brands in the future.

- Community Building Through Sports

At Marine Pickleball Club, we value more than just a sports facility—we aim to build a community where people connect.

We will regularly host open play sessions, social events, and skill-level tournaments to create opportunities for meeting new friends and building relationships.

Background of the Opening

Two years ago, our CEO, Watanabe, visited his sister living in the United States and was introduced to pickleball.

On the courts, people of all ages, genders, and athletic backgrounds were naturally chatting and smiling while playing together, regardless of prior experience.

Seeing his sister, who initially felt isolated, make many friends and enjoy a fulfilling life through pickleball, he strongly sensed the sport’s potential.

Meanwhile, in Japan, there were almost no dedicated courts, and the environment for playing was insufficient.

Driven by the desire to share the joy of pickleball with more people, we have now opened Marine Pickleball Club.

CEO Statement

"I believe pickleball is a sport that connects people.

Not only can beginners and those who dislike exercise quickly enjoy it, but its greatest appeal lies in enabling natural interaction across nationalities, generations, and social backgrounds.

Through Marine Pickleball Club, we aim to help everyone meet new friends and build connections, improving both mental and physical well-being, and enriching their lives."

Marine Co., Ltd. CEO Masashi Watanabe

Future Outlook

Marine Co., Ltd. will jointly operate 'Sasashima Pickle Club,' scheduled to open on June 18, 2026, in Nakagawa Ward, Nagoya City, with JTB Corporation, managing the lesson programs.

The Handa location will also add 1.5 indoor courts in July, aiming for further expansion of our pickleball business.

We are also considering opening new stores in major cities such as Tokyo and Nagoya and are currently seeking property leads.

We welcome partnerships with property owners and others who wish to grow the pickleball industry together.

"Creating a society where people connect through pickleball."

Marine Pickleball Club will contribute to the development of pickleball culture in Japan.

Pickleball Coach Recruitment

We are currently actively recruiting pickleball coaches for both the Handa and Nagoya Sasashima locations.

Lessons are 55 minutes per session, scheduled weekly at fixed times. We welcome applicants with as little as one session per week.

If you want to turn your passion into a career, try something new, or simply love pickleball, join us in growing the pickleball industry!

Facility Overview

Facility Name: Marine Pickleball Club

Address: 2-4-28 Mizuho-cho, Handa City, Aichi Prefecture Website: https://marine-tennis.jp/pickleball/handa

- Services Offered - Court Rentals - Lesson Programs - Pickleball Equipment Sales - Experience Sessions - Open Play - Social Events - Tournament Hosting

Company Overview

Company Name: Marine Co., Ltd.

Representative: CEO Masashi Watanabe

Business Activities: Operation of tennis clubs, pickleball clubs, and retail shops

Contact Information

Operating Company: Marine Co., Ltd.

Email: masashi.watanabe.0105@gmail.com Phone: 0569-22-3078