Hakucho Arena
Tomakomai, Japan
Formerly: Hakucho Oji Ice Arena, nepia Ice Arena
Hakucho Arena sits in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, not far from the station, but what keeps it distinct is the way it handles the sport. The rink is an international standard, measuring 60 by 30 metres, and the ice is maintained to a level that allows the Red Eagles to play without interruption. The building has a steel structure that covers 8,480 square metres, a footprint that suggests the planners intended to grow with the city.
Inside, the capacity of 4,015 is split between seated areas and standing room. The second-floor seats are fitted with electric heaters, a practical detail for the Hokkaido winters that means the crowd stays warm while watching. This comfort allows the locals to support their team through long periods of play without worrying about the cold. The venue also includes ten spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring the community can gather here regardless of mobility.
The arena has changed its name several times, moving from Hakucho Arena to Hakucho Oji Ice Arena and now to nepia Ice Arena, but the team has remained the same. The venue has hosted significant events, including the 2025 Women's Ice Hockey Final Olympic Qualification Group G tournament.
What stands out most is the consistency of the experience. Since it opened in 1996, the arena has served as a national training centre, meaning the ice is always in peak condition. It is a functional space, built for hockey, where the focus remains on the game rather than the spectacle.