Mercari Stadium, officially known as Kashima Stadium until 2025, is one of Japan’s most important football-specific venues and the long-standing home of Kashima Antlers. First opened in 1993, Mercari Stadium quickly grew from a modest regional ground into a major international arena after renovations for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Mercari Stadium remains a symbol of Ibaraki Prefecture’s football culture, with the Antlers’ passionate supporters helping establish it as one of the loudest and most atmospheric stadiums in Japan.
Stadium Details
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Mercari Stadium (Kashima Stadium) |
| Former Name | Ibaraki Prefectural Kashima Soccer Stadium (1993–2025) |
| Capacity | 40,728 |
| Country | Japan |
| City | Kashima |
| Home Club | Kashima Antlers FC |
| Inauguration | 4 May 1993 |
| Construction | March 1992 – May 1993 |
| Renovations | 1998 – 2001 |
| Cost | $161 million (renovation period) |
| Architect | Nikken Sekkei |
| Contractor | Takenaka Corporation |
| Address | 26-2 Ushiroyama, Jinkoji, Kashima City, Ibaraki |
| Car Park | 12,000 capacity |
| Floodlights | 1,500 lux |
Early Construction and Opening
Mercari Stadium was completed in just over a year, opening on 4 May 1993 with a match between Kashima Antlers and Fluminense. The initial design was purely football-specific, featuring stands along the sidelines and behind each goal without corner seating. Its original capacity was around 15,000, with partial roof coverage providing shelter for supporters. Despite its modest scale, the stadium quickly became a stronghold for the rising Antlers.
Expansion for the 2002 FIFA World Cup
When Japan was selected to co-host the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Kashima was chosen as one of the host cities. This decision triggered a major redevelopment plan that began in 1999. A new upper tier was added above the existing stands, increasing capacity to over 40,000 and meeting FIFA’s venue requirements.
The renovation works took longer than the original construction because the stadium needed to remain operational for Kashima Antlers’ matches. The result was a significantly expanded and modernized stadium capable of hosting international football at the highest level.
During the 2002 World Cup, Mercari Stadium hosted three matches, contributing to Japan’s first World Cup on Asian soil. Despite the large number of venues nationwide, the stadium left a memorable impression thanks to its sharp sightlines and compact, fan-focused design.
Home of Kashima Antlers and a Football Legacy
Following the World Cup, Mercari Stadium became even more closely tied to Kashima Antlers, one of Japan’s most successful football clubs. Since 2006, the club has managed the stadium, hosting league matches, cup fixtures and community events.
The Antlers’ supporters are known across Japan for their dedication and noise, transforming Mercari Stadium into a fortress for home games. The venue regularly hosts high-profile domestic fixtures, Asian competitions and large-scale sporting events.
Earthquake and Tsunami Impact in 2011
Mercari Stadium suffered significant structural damage during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. Sections of the prefabricated structure warped, and parts of the roof required reinforcement. Lighting and sound systems were temporarily removed and repositioned in the corner seating areas, temporarily reducing capacity. Restoration work ensured that the stadium returned to full operation within months, reinforcing its resilience and importance to the community.
A Modern Stadium with Lasting Importance
Today, Mercari Stadium stands as a major football venue in eastern Japan, hosting J.League fixtures, national team matches and various sporting events. Its evolution from a 15,000-seat regional ground to a World Cup venue showcases its significance in Japan’s sporting development. With strong local support and a leading J.League club as its tenant, the stadium remains a cornerstone of football culture in Ibaraki.
