Rugby World Cup 2023 makes travel chaos in Japan

Friday, September 22, 2023

As the Rugby World Cup 2023 unfolds, many Japanese fans find themselves reminiscing about the 2019 tournament held in their home country. While the on-field performance of the Japanese national team, known as the Brave Blossoms, has been lackluster compared to their impressive showing in 2019, nostalgia for that tournament is not solely rooted in sports. Travel inconveniences and logistical issues have plagued the current event.

The efficiency and reliability of Japan’s transportation systems are sorely missed, as cancellations of flights, train services, and difficulties with cruise ship disembarkation have left fans scrambling to find alternative ways to reach host cities and stadiums. Delays have caused some supporters to miss parts or even entire matches.

Criticism has been directed at the French logistics, with fans reporting poor organization and a lack of clarity regarding transportation options. Shuttle buses, security measures, and overcrowded trams have all contributed to the frustration of attendees. For fans who traveled long distances to be part of the tournament, these issues have soured their experience.

While Jacques Rivoal, President of France 2023, acknowledged the problems and praised the efforts to address them, the negative impact on fans’ experiences remains evident. The restructuring of the organizing committee and heightened security measures may have contributed to the challenges faced by attendees and media personnel.

As the Rugby World Cup 2023 continues, it is hoped that organizers and World Rugby will learn from these issues and strive to provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience for fans as the tournament progresses into the knockout stages.

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