Japan's rugby union team has truly came to the international fore in the 21st century, but the side's history actually dates back to the 19th! The first bona fide test match took place in 1932, when Japan narrowly beat a touring Canadian team. Throughout the remainder of the 20th century, Japan competed regularly at Asia Rugby Championships, and the Pacific Nations Cup; they have won the Championships more than any other team, and have won the Pacific Nations Cup on numerous occasions.
In 2015, the "Brave Blossoms" stunned the sporting world when, trailing South Africa in the dying minutes of their Rugby World Cup pool match, they opted to go for a try, instead of taking a penalty which could have got them the draw. The only thing more surprising than the bravery of that decision was the fact that it paid off in spectacular fashion: Japan scored a try, beating the Springboks to record possibly the biggest shock in world rugby.
The Japanese team's performance at that World Cup - as well as their hosting of the 2019 tournament - greatly enhanced their reputation; the Brave Blossoms are not yet rugby royalty, but they are taken seriously, and much revered as an astute, speedy, intelligent rugby side.
