Former Seibu Lions star Hisanobu Watanabe visits Taiwan, recalls island trip
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former Seibu Lions star Hisanobu Watanabe visited Taiwan, recalling his past experiences, including a motorcycle trip around the island.
- Watanabe expressed a feeling of connection to Taiwan, humorously stating he is "half-Taiwanese."
- The visit coincided with a "2026 Taiwan-Japan Double Lions Exchange Event" hosted by the Uni-Lions.
Former Seibu Lions baseball legend Hisanobu Watanabe returned to Taiwan, stirring fond memories of his time on the island, including a memorable motorcycle journey circumnavigating the country. His visit was part of a special event hosted by the Uni-Lions baseball team.
Watanabe, a celebrated figure from the Seibu Lions' golden era, shared his reflections during the "2026 Taiwan-Japan Double Lions Exchange Event" held at the Tainan Asia-Pacific International Baseball Stadium. The event, timed with the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, drew enthusiastic support from both Taiwanese and Japanese fans.
Reflecting on his experiences, Watanabe conveyed a deep sense of familiarity with Taiwan, even joking that he considers himself "half-Taiwanese." His presence, alongside fellow former Lions player Tetsuya Shiozaki, added a nostalgic and celebratory atmosphere to the occasion, bridging the baseball heritage between Japan and Taiwan.
I consider myself half-Taiwanese.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.