Kushiro Ice Arena: A Hub for Japanese Ice Hockey
Located in the scenic city of Kushiro on the island of Hokkaidō, Japan, the Kushiro Ice Arena stands as a significant venue for regional sports. Since its opening, this facility has played a vital role in the local sporting community, serving as a dedicated space for ice hockey enthusiasts and professional athletes alike.
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A Legacy of Professional Hockey
The arena has a rich history tied to professional ice hockey teams within the Asia League Ice Hockey. For many years, it served as the home base for the Nippon Paper Cranes, a team that operated out of the venue from 1997 until their dissolution in 2019. Following this era, the arena became the home of the East Hokkaido Cranes, who played there from 2019 through 2023.
The facility's location is strategically significant, situated near Japan National Route 38 and in close proximity to the Nippon Paper plant, which was the former owner of the Nippon Paper Cranes.
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Facility Specifications and Capacity
Opened in 1996, the Kushiro Ice Arena was designed to provide an intimate yet professional atmosphere for spectators. The venue offers a combination of seated and standing accommodations to ensure fans can enjoy the fast-paced action of ice hockey.
Seating and Attendance
The arena features a total capacity designed to accommodate a variety of crowd sizes:
- Seated Capacity: 2,539 seats
- Standing Room: Approximately 500 additional spaces
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Key Facts
- Location: Kushiro, Hokkaidō, Japan
- Opened: 1996
- Primary Use: Ice hockey
- Total Capacity: Over 3,000 (including standing room)
- Owner: Kushiro City
- Operator: Kushiro City Sports Foundation
Arena Overview Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| City/Region | Kushiro, Hokkaidō |
| Year Opened | 1996 |
| Seated Capacity | 2,539 |
| Former Tenants | Nippon Paper Cranes (1997–2019) |
| Recent Tenants | East Hokkaido Cranes (2019–2023) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Kushiro Ice Arena located?
The arena is located in Kushiro, Hokkaidō, Japan, situated near Japan National Route 38.
What is the primary sport played at this arena?
The facility is primarily used for ice hockey.
How many people can the arena hold?
The arena has 2,539 seats and can accommodate nearly 500 additional people in standing-room-only areas.
Who operates the Kushiro Ice Arena?
The arena is owned by Kushiro City and is operated by the Kushiro City Sports Foundation.
Which professional teams have played there?
The Nippon Paper Cranes (1997–2019) and the East Hokkaido Cranes (2019–2023) have both used the arena as their home venue.