Where is 'pickle9' located?

It's in the Aoyama area of Minato City, Tokyo, offering a luxury environment for pickleball and golf.

Can beginners participate?

Yes, beginner-friendly experience sessions and themed lessons are available for all skill levels.

Is food and drink available on site?

Yes, a bar counter is available to enjoy drinks before and after playing.

MARINE Announces Operation Partnership for 'pickle9,' Tokyo's New Luxury Pickleball Facility in Aoyama

Published Jul 15, 2026 9:31 PM ・ Updated Jul 15, 2026 2:47 PM ・ 10 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

MARINE Co., Ltd. has become the operational partner for 'pickle9,' a luxury pickleball facility that opened today, July 15, in Aoyama, Tokyo. The company will lead school operations, events, and community-building initiatives to promote pickleball in urban areas.

MARINE Co., Ltd. (Aichi Prefecture, CEO: Shoji Watanabe) announced today, July 15, that it will serve as the operational partner for 'pickle9,' a new pickleball facility opening in Aoyama, Tokyo.

As the operational partner, MARINE will leverage its extensive experience in tennis and pickleball club management to oversee overall advisory, school operations, experience sessions, event support, and community development.

About pickle9

'pickle9' is a pickleball community facility located in the Aoyama district of Minato City, Tokyo.

The facility has added one pickleball court to the luxury simulation golf venue 'Loun9ine Aoyama Park Nine.'

By offering schools, open play sessions, and networking events for players of all levels—from beginners to competitive players—'pickle9' aims to create a new community where people connect through pickleball.

To date, the facility has welcomed entrepreneurs, athletes, and influencers from diverse fields, gaining attention as a new social hub centered around the sport of pickleball.

- Bar counter available; enjoy drinks during and after play - Japan's first simulation putting system installed - Four simulation golf bays available

Notable Guests

- Naomi Yuki @yukimaomi - Natsuki Abe @i.am_natsuki_

Role of MARINE Co., Ltd.

MARINE Co., Ltd. will be responsible for the following operations at the facility: - Overall advisory - School operations - Experience session management - Event planning and operation (including open play) - Community building through pickleball exchange events - Hosting clinics led by professional pickleball players

Beyond simply providing a playing environment, MARINE aims to foster community connections, enhance user satisfaction, and contribute to the wider promotion of pickleball.

Message from Shoji Watanabe, CEO of MARINE Co., Ltd.

We are deeply honored to serve as the operational partner for 'pickle9club.'

Pickleball is a sport that not only allows 'anyone, easily, and immediately enjoyable' gameplay but also naturally connects people across age, gender, and athletic experience.

However, when I started playing pickleball two years ago, there were no dedicated courts for casual play or structured schools to systematically learn techniques. We had to rent gymnasiums and learn through trial and error by referencing overseas information. From this experience, I strongly felt the need for 'a place in the city where people can casually play pickleball' and 'an environment where pickleball know-how can be learned.'

Our club aims to solve these challenges by offering theme-based skill lessons and creating an environment where players—from beginners to those aiming for competition—can continuously grow and enjoy the sport. Through pickleball, we aim to naturally connect entrepreneurs and business professionals, fostering new encounters and business opportunities.

Background

Graduated from Keio University, then joined a major insurance company, gaining nine years of experience in retail and corporate sales before becoming independent. Currently operates tennis clubs and launched pickleball clubs in May 2026, with this being the third location.

Achievements

【Tennis】 - Singles: 3rd place, All-Japan Intercollegiate Indoor Championships - Doubles: Runner-up, All-Japan Junior Championships (under 18)

【Pickleball】 - Singles: 2026 APP Utsunomiya Pro Category Top 4, 2026 APP Tsu Pro Category 5th place - Doubles: PJF Championship 2025 Skill 5.0+ Top 4, TOP TOUR Hamanako Pro Category Top 4

Future Outlook

In addition to expanding operations in Handa, Nagoya, and Tokyo, we aim to grow nationwide, broadening the creation of new communities through pickleball.

Through joint operations, management outsourcing, and consulting, we support the launch and operation of pickleball businesses. Beyond this case, we are collaborating with JTB to operate pickleball clubs. We welcome partnerships with companies and municipalities considering pickleball facility development or market entry—please feel free to contact us.

We also plan to collaborate with celebrities and corporations, developing and selling original merchandise such as apparel and paddles, to create new value and culture around pickleball.

Company Overview

Company Name: MARINE Co., Ltd.

Representative: CEO Shoji Watanabe

Business Activities: Pickleball club operations, event planning and management, shop operations, tennis club operations

pickle9 URL: https://www.pickle9.jp/

Koromo Tennis Club URL: https://marine-tennis.jp/

Marine Pickleball Club URL: https://marine-tennis.jp/pickleball/handa

Sasashima Pickleball Club URL: https://marine-tennis.jp/pickleball/sasashima

FACT BOX

Source: PR TIMES
Category: Partnership
Organizations: JTB