An Interista in Tokyo: An immersion into the soul of FC Tokyo

Words: Giulia Sala

Images: Giulia Sala

A few weeks ago, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first J1 League match at the National Stadium in Tokyo.

I had practically just arrived from Italy and was already missing San Siro, so I didn’t want to miss the chance to not only go to a stadium in Japan but, above all, experience it with FC Tokyo fans.

Thanks to a mutual contact (huge thanks, Tom!), I was able to enjoy the evening like a true local; Teru welcomed me with his mates as if I were a lifelong friend.

Our first stop was an aperitif together, where the guys told me about their love for FC Tokyo and even taught me a few chants—I didn’t want to be caught unprepared!

Afterwards, we walked to the Japan National Stadium and from there, the magic began.

©Giulia Sala/ Terrace Edition. Pre-match refreshments Tokyo style.

They introduced me to so many people, and we took a photo of me wearing a Yuto Nagatomo shirt, standing next to one of the guys in an Inter shirt.

Thanks to Yuto, FC Tokyo fans love Inter, and for them, I immediately became Giulia San: the girl from the Curva Nord Milano.

I felt incredibly happy and special to be welcomed like that by everyone.

Quick tip for anyone planning a visit to the stadium: they don’t accept cards; it’s PayPay and cash only, so if you’re planning to enjoy a few beers, be prepared!

As the match started vs Nagoya Grampus, there were fireworks, lights, and music, and then—boom!—the curve burst into song! It was amazing to find myself alongside other passionate fans, singing and watching their team win.

©Giulia Sala/ Terrace Edition. FC Tokyo vs Nagoya Grampus.

My presence seemed to bring good luck, as the final score was 4-1 for FC Tokyo, not in their home stadium but still in their city.

Throughout the whole match, we never stopped singing, having fun with beers and wild celebrations.

The roar of the crowd, the rhythm of the drums, and the sea of blue and red flags waving in unison—there’s nothing quite like the electric atmosphere of an FC Tokyo game.

Experiencing it for the first time, right in the heart of the local supporters’ section, was an unforgettable thrill.

I didn’t just feel like an observer; I felt like part of the team. As the chants echoed around the stadium, I was swept up in the energy, welcomed by fans who treated me like one of their own.

This wasn’t just a football game; it was a full immersion into the passionate soul of Japanese football culture.

As the final whistle blew and the crowd slowly dispersed, I couldn’t shake the sense of belonging I felt that night. My first FC Tokyo game was more than just watching football; it was a powerful introduction to a community, a chance to cheer and celebrate with people who felt like new friends by the end of the night.

This experience will always hold a special place in my memory, and I can’t wait to return to the stands, side by side with my fellow FC Tokyo supporters, chanting, singing, and celebrating every goal with my new friends.

©Giulia Sala/ Terrace Edition. Giulia and friends.

Giulia is on Instagram: @giuly_182

FC Tokyo are on X and Instagram: fctokyofficial

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