TOKOROZAWA, Saitama Pref. — At this time of year, particularly after sunset when the games are played, it feels almost like winter rather than fall at the area around the wood-surrounded Seibu Dome.
Fans wear thick jackets and some even put on gloves, exhaling white breath while watching the ongoing Japan Series games on the chilly green seats at the stadium.
Or in the outfield, where there is artificial turf instead of chairs, the loyal fans keep standing and popping around, violently beating small plastic bats against each other to keep themselves as warm as possible during the contests.