Columbia Women’s Basketball Heads to Japan
Columbia University’s women’s basketball program is set to embark on a ten‑day tour of Japan, a venture that blends high‑level competition with immersive cultural exchange. The schedule, running from August 11 through August 21, will take the team from the bustling streets of Osaka to the historic heart of Kyoto, then onward to Hiroshima and finally Tokyo.
Ten Days, Four Cities, Endless Opportunities
The itinerary allocates four nights each to Osaka and Kyoto, a single night in Hiroshima, and four nights in Tokyo, giving the squad ample time to adjust to local time zones while exploring each city’s distinct character. In Osaka and Kyoto the team will tour iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle and the famed Kinkaku‑ji temple, while Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Museum offers a reflective pause before the final leg in the capital.
On the Court: Exhibition Games and Goals
During the tour the Lions will contest three exhibition matches, one of which pits them against the Japanese National Team. These games serve as a crucial warm‑up for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, allowing the players to test new strategies and build chemistry under a different style of play.
Cultural Immersion and Community Outreach
Beyond the hardwood, the schedule is packed with cultural activities. Visits to Kiyomizu‑dera Temple, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Tokyo Skytree and the teamLab Planets digital art museum are complemented by a youth coaching clinic and alumni engagement events, fostering a two‑way exchange of ideas and experiences.
Leadership on the Road
Megan Griffith, the Lavine Family Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at Columbia, will lead the delegation. Under her guidance the team will also participate in an Amazing Race‑style challenge across Tokyo, a playful test of teamwork that underscores the tour’s broader mission of personal growth.
Looking Ahead to the 2026‑27 Season
The tour is more than a preseason exercise; it is a strategic initiative to broaden the program’s global footprint. By immersing the student‑athletes in a foreign basketball environment and diverse cultural settings, Columbia aims to enhance recruitment, enrich the academic experience, and prepare its athletes for the rigors of future competition.