Japan

The Japan men's national volleyball team (Japanese: 男子バレーボール日本代表), also referred to as Ryujin Nippon (Japanese: 龍神ニッポン; Lit. trans: Dragon God of Japan) or simply Nippon, represents Japan in international volleyball competitions and friendly matches, governed by Japan Volleyball Association. As of September 2024, the team is ranked sixth in the FIVB Senior World Rankings, with their peak coming at second place prior to the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Japan first won a bronze medal at the Tokyo 1964 Olympic Games, followed by silver at Mexico 1968 and a gold at Munich 1972. In the years that followed, Japan has been unsuccessful and missed three successive Olympic Games before returning at Beijing 2008, where they failed to win a match. Japan then failed to qualify for London 2012 and Rio 2016. At the FIVB World Championship, Japan has won bronze medals in 1970 and 1974, as well as silver medals at the 1969 and 1977 FIVB World Cup.

Despite their past struggles in the world leagues, Japan has been recognized as one of the best volleyball teams in Asia, and Japan's SV.League is typically regarded as the most prestigious volleyball league on the continent. The team has won the Asian Championships nine times and the Asian Games eight times.

At the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan and the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, Japan advanced to the Quarterfinals round and eventually finished in seventh place, its best result since the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. As of the last 3 years, the team has been successful in the world leagues as they have achieved both bronze and silver medals at the 2023 FIVB Men's Volleyball Nations League and the 2024 edition, respectively. These results have been the nation's best since the tournament's creation in 2017.

The Japan men's volleyball team, known simply as "Japan," is a prominent and respected national team in the international volleyball community. Renowned for their agility, technical skill, and strategic play, the team has a rich history of competing at the highest levels, including the Olympics, World Championships, and Asian Games. Japan's volleyball style emphasizes quick attacks, disciplined defense, and exceptional teamwork, often leveraging their agility and speed to outmaneuver larger opponents. Over the years, the team has achieved notable successes, including multiple Asian Championship titles and strong performances in global tournaments. With a dedicated roster of talented players and a passionate fan base, Japan continues to be a formidable force in international volleyball, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.