World Masters Games 2027 in Kansai, Japan

As a passionate rower and club organizer, the thought of competing in the World Masters Games (WMG) fills me with excitement. Scheduled for May 14-30, 2027, in Japan's vibrant Kansai region, this event is a dream for masters athletes. While many associate Japan with Tokyo, the WMG is centered in Kansai – encompassing cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe – with rowing events at the stunning Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture. Read more HERE

How to organise your Club?

This guide will help you organize your rowing club members, highlight must-do activities, explore areas of interest, and suggest travel ideas, especially if you're bringing a non-rowing partner or spouse. Let's paddle into the details!

Step 1: Rallying the Crew – Organizing Your Club

Organizing a group trip to an international event like the WMG requires early planning, especially with entries opening soon. According to official sources, general registration for rowing begins on March 2, 2026, with no early entry option. As club leader, start by gauging interest via a survey or meeting. Aim for masters rowers aged 27+ (for rowing categories), ensuring everyone meets the eligibility – no qualifiers needed, just enthusiasm!

Form a planning committee: assign roles for registration, training, fundraising, and logistics. Registration is individual but coordinate to enter the same events, like singles, doubles, or eights. The participation fee is around ¥20,000-30,000 (about $130-200 USD), covering access to all facilities. Budget for club uniforms, travel insurance, and group discounts on flights.

Training is key. Set up a 12-18 month program focusing on endurance, technique, and team syncing. Incorporate virtual sessions if members are spread out. Partner with local coaches for Japan-specific prep, like adapting to Lake Biwa's calm waters, which span 670 square kilometers – ideal for regattas but with potential wind variations.

Logistics: Fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka for direct access, or Narita/Haneda in Tokyo followed by a 2.5-hour Shinkansen bullet train ride (about ¥14,000 one-way). Book accommodations early in Otsu City, near the Kansai Mirai Rowing Center. Options range from budget ryokans (traditional inns) at ¥10,000/night to hotels like the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel for ¥15,000+. For groups, consider Airbnb or hostels to foster team bonding.

Fundraise through club events, sponsorships, or crowdfunding. Apply for travel grants from rowing federations. With proper organization, your club could field multiple boats, turning this into a memorable team adventure.

Step 2: Immersing in the Games – Things to Do On-Site

The WMG isn't just competition; it's a festival of sport and culture. Rowing events will unfold at the Biwako Rowing Center, a world-class facility on Lake Biwa's shores. Expect heats, finals, and mixed crews over several days in mid-May. Between races, cheer on clubmates or watch other sports – the Games feature 35 disciplines, from athletics to judo.

Opening ceremony on May 14 in Kyoto's Okazaki area sets a festive tone with parades and cultural performances. Closing on May 30 in Osaka wraps up with awards and parties. Participate in athlete villages for networking – meet rowers from 100+ countries!

For non-rowing partners, the Games offer spectator passes. They can enjoy lakeside picnics, yoga sessions, or wellness workshops. Kansai's mild May weather (15-25°C) is perfect for outdoor activities. Try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Biwa or rent bikes to explore nearby trails.

Evening events include cultural nights with taiko drumming or sake tastings. If your spouse loves food, sample okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Osaka or kaiseki multi-course meals in Kyoto. These shared experiences strengthen bonds, making the trip more than just rowing.

Step 3: Exploring Kansai's Gems – Areas of Interest During Your Stay

Kansai is a treasure trove of history and modernity, perfect for downtime. Base in Otsu for rowing, but venture out via efficient trains.

Kyoto, a 20-minute ride away, boasts over 2,000 temples. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Fushimi Inari Shrine's torii gates – romantic walks ideal for couples.

Stroll Arashiyama's bamboo grove or join a tea ceremony for cultural immersion.

Osaka, 40 minutes from Otsu, is food heaven. Dotonbori's neon lights and street eats like takoyaki (octopus balls) energize post-race evenings. Universal Studios Japan offers thrills for adventure-seeking partners.

Kobe, an hour away, blends East-West with its harbor views and beef. Hike Mount Rokko for panoramas or relax in Arima Onsen's hot springs – a soothing treat after rowing.

Nara's deer park and ancient Todaiji Temple provide serene escapes. For nature, Lake Biwa itself has islands like Chikubu for boat tours.

With a Japan Rail Pass, hop between sites easily. Allocate rest days for these excursions to balance competition and exploration.

Step 4: Beyond the Games – Travel Ideas During and After

During the Games, squeeze in half-day trips. From Otsu, a quick train to Kyoto for geisha district Gion sightseeing or Osaka Castle. Partners can join guided tours while you train.

Post-Games (after May 30), extend your stay for a full Japan adventure. Head to Tokyo via Shinkansen – 2.5 hours to the capital's buzz.

Explore Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and Akihabara's tech scene. For couples, Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple or a Sumida River cruise offer romance.

Venture further: Mount Fuji for hiking (May weather is mild), or Hiroshima's Peace Memorial for reflection. If time allows, fly to Okinawa for beaches or Hokkaido for wilderness.

With a spouse, prioritize couple-friendly spots. In Tokyo, dine at Michelin-starred spots or shop in Ginza. In Kyoto, rent kimonos for photos. Budget for a 10-14 day itinerary: 7 days Games, 7 days travel.

Visa-wise, many nationalities get 90-day exemptions. Health insurance is crucial; consider COVID protocols if any linger. Apps like Hyperdia for trains and Google Translate ease navigation.

In summary, the WMG 2027 in Kansai is more than races – it's a life-enriching journey. Organize early, embrace the culture, and create memories with your club and loved ones. Row on!