A number of major Japanese balloon releases have been cancelled over the coming weeks, due to concerns over the risk of spreading coronavirus.
Environmental concerns aside, the mass balloon launches traditionally take place at major NPB baseball games throughout the country, both during the seventh inning and again when their teams win.
The custom is a highlight for many, but Yokohama BayStars and the Hanshin Tigers have both asked their fans not to launch balloons at any of the club’s games during spring training, due to concerns about the current coronavirus outbreak.
Best balloon practise does not include the deliberate release of helium-filled balloons, an act which is generally viewed as damaging and destructive to the environment.
