The Japan Bandy Federation would like to invite all ice sports aficionados of this country to join in the speed, skill and excitement of this old yet new winter sport.
“Old” because Bandy is said to be a 1000-year-old sport which originated in Russia from a game of hitting a ball with sticks on ice. It became known as Russian Hockey in the 17th Century and is believed to be the forerunner of ice
hockey.
“New” because Bandy was introduced into Japan just this year, 2011, and the Japan Bandy Federation is now officially recognized. Russia and the Scandinavian countries, along with 25 other member countries, form the International Bandy Federation and Japan has just joined as its 26th member. You can find the detailed rules of Bandy, some YouTube footage as well as the game schedules by clicking the ListView items on the HP. Male or female, young or old, everyone is welcome to share in the thrill and fun of Bandy. You can play surrounded by nature at outdoor rinks in the northern cities or at indoor rinks all around the country. Kushiro City in Hokkaido as well as many other cities are now interested in hosting Bandy teams. Starting with the next Asian Winter Games, our greater dream is for Bandy to be recognized as an Olympic sport in the future. Please come and join us in this wonderful new sport. We all look forward to your participation soon.