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Mario Kart, Matcha, and Shibuya – BVB players explore Tokyo
Arcade Games
After Almugera Kabar exchanges Japanese banknotes for coins, the fun can begin: First up is “Mario Kart.” Once the four BVB players have selected their characters, the wild ride begins. In the first race, “Bowser” Kabar overtakes “Toad” Bellingham – who had been in the lead for a long time – just before the finish line. “I was in the lead the whole time,” Bellingham says, unable to believe it. There’s a lot of laughter. The four decide to play another round, which, after many lead changes, is won by “Yoshi” Anton ahead of “Luigi” Drewes. After three more games and plenty of laughs, it’s time to move on.
Shibuya Crossing
Arguably the most famous intersection in the world: Located in the Shibuya district, right outside the train station exit, up to 2,500 people cross the streets during each traffic light cycle. Joining the crowd today: the four BVB first team players, who don’t go unrecognized for long in their new PUMA alternate jerseys. Passersby are amazed when professional football players suddenly mingle with the crowd. Mobile phones are pulled out, and more and more people join the players as they cross the street. Jobe Bellingham, in particular, attracts a lot of attention.
Matcha Tea Ceremony
The event concludes with a traditional matcha tea ceremony: First, the players sample matcha lattes. Then they prepare pure matcha tea themselves. Waldemar Anton mentions that he also drinks the tea at home. A conversation develops with the tea master, and it turns out he’s a football fan because of Shinji Kagawa and follows BVB. “It’s an honor to have you here,” he says. After the hustle and bustle at the intersection, calm returns here, and the Japanese host explains the culture of tea drinking to everyone. Bellingham, Anton, and Drewes later explain that the tea ceremony was the highlight of the tour for them. (cr)
