Baseball in Japan, known as yakyū, is one of the country's most popular sports. It was introduced in the 1870s and has since developed a unique culture, including high school tournaments like the Koshien Championship, which draws massive crowds and national attention. The professional league, known as Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), features teams such as the Yomiuri Giants and the Hanshin Tigers. Japanese players have made significant contributions to Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States, with stars like Ichiro Suzuki and Shohei Ohtani gaining international fame. The sport emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and respect, reflecting broader cultural values in Japan.