History of Japan Open (tennis) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: September 29, 2025

The Japan Open is a men's tennis tournament held annually in Tokyo, Japan, since 1972. It features both singles and doubles competitions. The primary venue is Ariake Tennis Forest Park, with the center court being Ariake Coliseum. In 2018, the event temporarily moved to Musashino Forest Sports Plaza due to renovations at Ariake Coliseum in preparation for the 2020 Summer Olympics.

1972: First Japan Open

In 1972, the Japan Open was first held as a minor ATP event.

1972: Inauguration of the Japan Open

In 1972, the Japan Open, a men's tennis tournament, was inaugurated at Ariake Tennis Forest Park in Koto, Tokyo.

1973: Japan Open becomes part of the Grand Prix tennis tour

In 1973, the Japan Open became part of the Grand Prix tennis tour and was known as the "Tokyo Outdoor Grand Prix".

1979: Japan Open becomes a joint tournament

From 1979, the Japan Open became a joint tournament for both men and women.

1989: End of "Tokyo Outdoor Grand Prix" era

In 1989, the Japan Open was still known as the "Tokyo Outdoor Grand Prix", marking the last year of that name.

1990: Japan Open joins the ATP Tour

In 1990, the Japan Open became part of the ATP Tour.

2008: End of joint tournament for men and women

In 2008, the Japan Open ceased to be a joint tournament for both men and women.

2014: Downgrade of the women's Japan Open

In 2014, the women's Japan Open was downgraded to a $100,000+H ITF Women's Circuit event on the WTA Tour.

2018: Venue change to Musashino Forest Sports Plaza

In 2018, the Japan Open venue was switched to the Musashino Forest Sports Plaza as the Ariake Coliseum was renovated for the 2020 Summer Olympics tennis events.