Approximately 4,000 fans attended Borussia Dortmund's first training session of the Asia Tour in Tokyo's Todoroki Stadium, where the Black and Yellows will square off against J-League side Kawasaki Frontale in their first friendly match on Tuesday (12:00 CET).

The level of enthusiasm surrounding BVB in Japan can scarcely be described in words and is certainly beyond all expectations or hopes. More locals would be at the airport to greet the arriving Black and Yellow contingent than there would be to welcome Manchester United, reported Germany's kicker magazine. "If the tour continues in the same vein, it will be a huge success," said BVB Director of Marketing Carsten Cramer.

Even a downpour did not prevent fans from making their way to the stadium to attend the first of two training sessions. The latter is taking place at this very moment - well past midnight German time. Among others, Shinji Kagawa was present at today's press conference with Japanese media. The midfielder had only got to know new coach Thomas Tuchel shortly beforehand, having taken an extended holiday. "I'm very much looking forward to working with him," said Kagawa. The new cover of "FIFA 16" - the world's most popular football video game - which was just released today, goes some way to illustrating his popularity in Japan. Kagawa is on the front - next to one Lionel Messi...