Borussia Dortmund is heading back to Japan, and this summer's BVB Evonik Japan Tour 2026 promises a heartwarming reunion with a club legend. The Black and Yellows will kick off their trip in Osaka, where they'll face Cerezo Osaka on July 29 at the Yanmar Hanasaka Stadium. The match carries extra significance as it will feature Shinji Kagawa, the beloved Japanese midfielder who wore the BVB jersey from 2010 to 2012 and again from 2014 to 2019. Now under contract with Cerezo Osaka, Kagawa's return to face his former club is a moment every Dortmund fan will want to see. Since early 2026, Cerezo Osaka has also been a BVB partner club, with a shared focus on developing young talent.
From Osaka, the squad will travel east to Tokyo for their second match on August 1 at the iconic Japan National Stadium. There, they'll take on FC Tokyo, currently sitting second in the J1 100 Year Vision League (East Region). This matchup is more than just a friendly—it's a chance for BVB to reconnect with familiar faces. Three FC Tokyo players—captain Sei Muroya, Keita Endo, and Kein Sato—have all previously played in Germany, adding a layer of familiarity to the contest. FC Tokyo is also one of the league's top draws, boasting some of the highest average attendance numbers.
But the Japan Tour is about more than preseason preparation. Carsten Cramer, Borussia Dortmund's managing spokesperson, captures the spirit of the trip: "After our fantastic experiences in Tokyo and Osaka, we feel closely connected to the Japanese fans, partners, and the country's culture. The reunion with Shinji Kagawa and the return to Tokyo are highlights for all of us. We thank our partners and fans for their loyalty and look forward to unforgettable experiences with old and new friends."
This tour wouldn't be possible without the support of partners Evonik, Puma, Vodafone, ROWE, Topps, and SCO Group, whose commitment helps grow the international BVB family. Stay tuned—more details on the tour, ticket sales, and special events will be announced in mid-May. For fans of BVB and Japanese football alike, this summer's journey is shaping up to be one for the books.