The once-every-four-year FIFA World Cup event is always staged in June. The incredible excitement that this event generates worldwide kicks off in 2010 in June in South Africa (June 11-July 11). Obviously, many people will not be able to see this year’s events in person given that South Africa is so far away for nearly everyone. BUT that does not mean you can’t get in on the excitement and action! 

Japanese people are crazy for soccer and Kyoto offers die-hard fans of any nationality all kinds of locations where they can scream and groan together. Check out the action at the following pubs and bars and share the excitement with the crowd! Enjoy! 

Free Ball
Free Ball is a very popular sports bar in downtown Kyoto and its walls are covered with sports memorabilia including many autographs by famous athletes. It is a huge place (seating up to 300) and offers many viewing screens as well as billiard tables and old-style soccer game tables. Many will come for the World Cup games to see the action up close on Free Ball’s 120-inch screen! 
A 5-min. walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Stn.; Open: 18:00-2:00 (until 5:00 on Fri. & Sat.);http://www.freeball.jp/ ; Tel: 075-255-3939 

The Gael
A traditional Irish pub with beautiful Irish decoration from the 19th century. In addition to a TV screen set at each table, a large screen is specially set only during the World Cup period! Get a pint of Guinness and enjoy the games! A 1-min. walk from Keihan Gion Shijo Stn.; Open: 17:00-1:00 (until late on Thurs. & Fri.; please enquire); http://www.irishpubkyoto.com/ ; Tel: 075-525-0680 

Pig & Whistle
This authentic and long-standing UK pub has everything you would expect including Guinness, Bass Pale Ale, other top world beers and dart boards. This pub is popular with locals and tourists and it gets even more exciting and crowded during World Cup season. Spend a fun night at the Pig & Whistle, watch a game and make new friends! A 1-min. walk from Sanjo Keihan Stn.; Open: from 17:00; http://pigandwhistle.org.uk/ ; Tel: 075-761-6022

http://www.kyotoguide.com/ver2/thismonth/2010-FIFA-World-Cup.html