The 5 Wealthiest Japanese Pro Rugby Teams and the Corporate Giants Behind Them

Rugby Clubs in the Japan Rugby League One

Article by: Zila Mbekela

Japanese rugby has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two decades. What was once a largely domestic competition featuring company teams with local employees has evolved into one of the most dynamic and financially supported leagues in world rugby.

The launch of the Japan Rugby League One competition in 2022 - formalized the country’s push towards professionalization, creating a structure more aligned with the rugby union leagues in Europe and the Southern Hemisphere. At the heart of this professional revolution are corporate-backed teams with 'deep' financial pockets, allowing them to attract some of the biggest names in global rugby.

Here are the five wealthiest Japanese pro rugby teams, their estimated worth in USD, and the historical context of the corporations that own them.

1. Tokyo Sungoliath (Owned by Suntory Holdings Limited)

• Estimated Worth: $75 - $100 million USD

• Founded: 1980

• Home Ground: Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium (Tokyo)

  
  

The Corporation:

Suntory is one of Japan’s most recognizable brands, founded in 1899. Originally a brewery and distillery, it has grown into a multinational giant known for beverages like Hibiki and Yamazaki whiskey, as well as soft drinks and health products. Suntory’s global expansion and acquisition of American brand Beam Inc. (makers of Jim Beam) for $16 billion in 2014 demonstrate its financial clout.

Rugby Impact:

Suntory Sungoliath has long been a dominant force in Japanese rugby. The team has employed world-class players such as George Smith and Cheslin Kolbe reflecting its ability to offer lucrative contracts. With a polished image and significant investment in sports science, coaching, and marketing, Sungoliath is a modern powerhouse.

2. Kobelco Kobe Steelers (Owned by Kobe Steel, Ltd.)

• Estimated Worth: $60 - $90 million USD

• Founded: 1928

• Home Ground: Noevir Stadium Kobe

  
  

The Corporation:

Founded in 1905, Kobe Steel is a historic Japanese industrial manufacturer known for its contributions to infrastructure, construction, and aerospace materials. Despite being rocked by a data fabrication scandal in 2017, the company remains one of Japan’s major steel producers and a significant force in the global market.

Rugby Impact:

The Kobe Steelers are famous for signing international stars, most notably Dan Carter, who helped them win the Top League in 2018. Their financial strength allows for investment in high-performance facilities and international coaching talent. The Steelers are one of the most well-supported and well-funded rugby programs in Japan.

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3. Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo (Owned by Toshiba Corporation)

• Estimated Worth: $55 - $85 million USD

• Founded: 1948

• Home Ground: Ajinomoto Stadium (Tokyo)

  
  

The Corporation:

Toshiba is a household name globally. Founded in 1875, it grew into one of Japan’s leading electronics and infrastructure conglomerates, involved in everything from semiconductors to nuclear energy. Although it faced recent corporate restructuring due to internal scandals, Toshiba remains a powerful financial entity.

Rugby Impact:

Brave Lupus has consistently competed at the highest level of Japanese rugby. The club has nurtured homegrown talent like former Japan captain Toshiaki Hirose and attracted international players including Richard Kahu and Richie Mo'unga Its corporate heritage ensures world-class facilities and a professional development system for young athletes.

4. Yokohama Canon Eagles (Owned by Canon Inc.)

• Estimated Worth: $50 - $80 million USD

• Founded: 1980

• Home Ground: Nissan Stadium (Yokohama)

  
  

The Corporation:

Canon Inc. is a global leader in imaging and optical products, including cameras, printers, and medical equipment. Founded in 1937, Canon has been at the forefront of technological innovation and has maintained a solid financial base through decades of global economic fluctuations.

Rugby Impact:

Canon Eagles have been building a competitive squad over the years, recently becoming a regular fixture in the top tiers of League One. The team has attracted players like Faf de Klerk, showing their commitment to importing world-class talent. Backed by Canon’s stable corporate infrastructure, they are a team on the rise both financially and competitively.

5. Urayasu D-Rocks (Owned by NTT Group)

• Estimated Worth: $40 - $70 million USD

• Founded: 1976 (as NTT Communications RFC)

• Home Ground: Kashiwanoha Stadium (Chiba Prefecture)

  
  

The Corporation:

NTT Group is one of the world’s largest telecommunications companies, with revenues exceeding $100 billion annually. The company has diversified into multiple areas including AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. In 2022, NTT established a sports division (NTT Sports X) with an initial capital injection of $17.8 million USD, reflecting its long-term commitment to rugby.

Rugby Impact:

Urayasu D-Rocks are the rebranded version of NTT Communications Shining Arcs. They aim to become a digital-forward rugby brand, with investments in youth development and fan engagement technology. While newer to the top-tier spotlight, their financial support and strategic backing are strong indicators of future success.

Why These Teams Are So Financially Strong

Unlike many professional rugby teams in Europe and the Southern Hemisphere that rely heavily on ticket sales and television rights, Japanese teams benefit from corporate ownership that prioritizes brand exposure, community engagement, and employee wellness. These corporations often cover operational losses as part of their broader marketing or CSR budgets, allowing for more aggressive recruitment of global talent.

Attracting Top International Talent

The financial muscle of these teams has turned Japan into a lucrative destination for international stars. Players nearing the end of their prime, or even in their peak years, now consider a move to League One as both financially and competitively appealing. Examples include:

• Cheslin Kolbe(Tokyo Sungoliath)

• Kieran Read (Toyota Verblitz)

• Faf de Klerk (Yokohama Canon Eagles)

• Michael Hooper (Toyota Verblitz)

With top-tier medical care, less physically taxing seasons compared to Europe, and cultural appeal, Japan is an ideal alternative for many elite players.

League Structure Encourages Growth

Japan Rugby League One is divided into three divisions with promotion and relegation, creating competitiveness across the board. Top Division 1 is where these financial powerhouses reside, pushing standards higher every year. The league is also investing heavily in grassroots rugby and digital broadcasting to enhance accessibility and fan growth.

Conclusion

Japanese rugby is booming, and at the center of its growth are these five financially elite teams. Fueled by corporate giants like Suntory, Toshiba, and Canon, they have the resources to compete not only domestically but also to poach stars from traditional rugby nations. This blend of 'deep' pockets, professional structure, and international appeal makes Japan Rugby League One one of the most intriguing leagues in the world today.

As investments continue and corporate strategies align more closely with professional sports marketing, don’t be surprised if a Japanese team soon becomes a dominant force not just in Asia, but in global club rugby.