Tennis Court Conversion vs. Dedicated Pickleball Courts | Features, Costs, and How to Choose, Compared by an Authorized Dealer
"I want to try pickleball, but where can I play?" – This is one of the questions we often hear from customers. In Japan, there are generally two types of places where you can play pickleball.
These are converted tennis courts and dedicated pickleball courts. Both have their pros and cons, and choosing incorrectly can lead to "not being able to play as expected." As "Yoshi Coach," who has test-played over 100 paddles, I will thoroughly compare the differences between the two from a coach's perspective.
Pickleball Court Situation in Japan
The Japan Pickleball Association (JPA) was established in 2015, and the number of players has surged in recent years. Furthermore, on April 14, 2026, the JPA and the Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF) merged to form a new organization, "Pickleball Japan (PJ)." Consequently, the number of available playing locations has gradually increased, but the number of facilities is still limited compared to tennis or table tennis.
Trends in Facility Types Nationwide
| Type | Prevalence | Main Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Converted Tennis Courts | Growing, most common | Public tennis courts in municipalities nationwide, private tennis clubs |
| Dedicated Pickleball Courts | Increasing, few | Private sports facilities in urban areas, some public facilities |
| Converted Gym Courts | Some available | Community centers, public gyms (used with lines drawn) |
| Garages/Homes | Individual level | Private courts (some enthusiasts) |
A pickleball court measures 6.10m x 13.41m, which is approximately one-third the area of a tennis court. However, by dividing a tennis court width-wise along its longer side, one tennis court can accommodate four pickleball courts – this is the logical basis for conversion.
💡 Yoshi Coach's Point
In the US, "dedicated pickleball courts" are increasing explosively. Since I discovered pickleball in LA in 2026, I've been following the latest trends in its home country, but Japan is still in a transitional period. "Converted tennis courts" will be the mainstream for the time being. That's why understanding the differences between the two is crucial to avoid disappointment when choosing a facility.
What are Converted Tennis Courts?
The most common method is to use existing tennis courts by adding pickleball lines.
Setup Patterns
- Permanent lines: Pickleball lines drawn on top of tennis courts using yellow or white tape
- Portable nets: Bringing or setting up a lower pickleball net (86cm at the center)
- 2-4 courts simultaneously: Accommodating 2-4 pickleball courts on one tennis court
Pros
- Many facilities: Potentially includes municipal tennis courts nationwide
- Lower cost: Around 500-1,500 yen per hour for public tennis courts
- Good accessibility: Utilizes existing tennis infrastructure
- Easy to secure multiple courts: Can play multiple matches simultaneously with friends
Cons
- Complex lines: Tennis lines and pickleball lines overlap, making it difficult for beginners to see
- Net height issue: Tennis nets are about 91cm at the center, pickleball nets are 86cm – a 5cm difference affects the feel of play
- Court surface is too hard: Tennis courts are hard, putting strain on knees and ankles during long play
- Tennis court space: Extra space on both sides means longer distances to run compared to a dedicated pickleball court design
What are Dedicated Pickleball Courts?
These are courts designed specifically for pickleball from the outset. While still limited in number in Japan, they are increasing.
Design Features
- Optimized for 6.10m x 13.41m size
- Dedicated net (correct height of 86cm at the center, 91cm at the posts)
- Medium-hard surface (often uses materials gentle on ankles and knees)
- Clear lines: Only pickleball lines for high visibility
Pros
- Authentic playing feel: Professional environment fosters skill development
- Gentle on joints: Appropriate surface makes long play comfortable
- Clear lines: No confusion during judgment calls
- Strong community: Attracts serious pickleball players
Cons
- Few facilities: Mostly in urban areas. Difficult to find in rural areas
- Slightly higher cost: Around 1,500-3,000 yen per hour (private facilities)
- Difficult to book: Popular facilities can be booked weeks in advance
- Limited access: Often far from train stations
💡 Yoshi Coach's Point
When I first played on a "dedicated pickleball court" in Tokyo, I was amazed by the difference from a converted tennis court within the first 30 minutes. Net height, surface, lines – everything was optimized for pickleball, which accelerates learning. Especially for beginners, I recommend practicing on a dedicated court even once or twice a month if possible.
Comparison Chart: Which Should You Choose?
I've listed the two types based on key criteria.
| Item | Converted Tennis Court | Dedicated Court |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Facilities | Many (nationwide) | Few (mainly urban areas) |
| Cost (per hour) | 500-1,500 yen (public) | 1,500-7,000 yen (private) |
| Booking Difficulty | Relatively easy to book | Somewhat difficult (popular facilities) |
| Access | Often good for public facilities | Private facilities can be far from stations |
| Authenticity | Can be confusing for those not used to it | Professional specifications foster skill development |
| Strain on Joints | Hard courts often cause significant strain | Medium-hard surface is easy on joints |
| Line Visibility | Overlaps with tennis lines | Clear with only pickleball lines |
| Community | Also interaction with tennis enthusiasts | Exclusively pickleball players |
Recommended for These People
Converted Tennis Courts are Recommended for:
- Beginners and first-timers who want to start easily
- Students and younger generations who want to save money
- Those transitioning from tennis who want to play in a familiar environment
- Those whose main focus is casual play with friends
Dedicated Courts are Recommended for:
- Intermediate to advanced players who want to seriously improve
- Competitive players aiming for tournament participation
- Middle-aged and seniors who want to reduce strain on their joints
- Those who want to join a pickleball community
However, this is not an "either/or" situation. A combination like "converted tennis courts on weekdays, dedicated courts on weekends" is also recommended.
How to Find a Court
"How do I actually find places to play?" – Here are three concrete methods.
Method 1: Pickleball Japan (PJ, formerly JPA) Member Organization Information
On the official Pickleball Japan (PJ) website, you can find a list of member organizations and regional branch information. For specific facility lists, it's best to inquire with the regional branches.
Method 2: Local SNS Communities
Follow accounts like "○○ Pickleball Club" or "○○ Prefecture Pickleball" on Instagram and Facebook. The latest court information and trial session announcements are frequently updated.
Method 3: Check Tennis Court Reservation Websites
Check public tennis court reservation websites (per municipality) for courts listed as "pickleball compatible." Recently, more courts with pickleball lines have been added.
Method 4: Ask Paddle Retailers
This is a slightly unexpected method, but paddle retailers are often connected with local player communities. At our store (Pickleball Lab), if you send us a message via LINE asking for "court information in the ○○ area," we will reply with what we know.
💡 Yoshi Coach's Point
In fact, pickleball facilities in Japan are increasing year by year. Facilities that didn't exist a year ago might have doubled this year. The trick is to search regularly. Recently, private sports clubs have also started to participate, and the options for facilities are definitely expanding.
Equipment to Bring to the Court
Finally, here's a summary of the basic equipment to bring when going to the court.
Essential Equipment
- Paddle: One that suits your level and style
- Pickleball: Outdoor for outdoor courts, Indoor for indoor courts. At least 2-3 balls.
- Shoes: Court shoes (badminton or tennis shoes can be substituted, ones suitable for side-stepping)
- Comfortable clothing: Moisture-wicking material
Convenient to Have
- Towel and drink: For temperature regulation
- Replacement grip tape: To swap if sweaty and slippery
- Portable net: If setting up your own (effective when only tennis courts are available)
For information on ball types, please refer to "Complete Guide to Pickleball Balls: Differences Between Outdoor and Indoor, and Choosing Official Balls."
Summary
- Pickleball courts in Japan are mainly of two types: converted tennis courts and dedicated courts.
- Converted tennis courts are numerous and affordable, but have complex lines and hard surfaces.
- Dedicated courts offer an authentic experience but are fewer, more expensive, and harder to book.
- Alternating between them is ideal: converted tennis courts for casual weekday play, dedicated courts for serious weekend play.
- Ways to find courts: JPA official website, local SNS, tennis court reservation sites, and inquiries to paddle retailers.
The place where you play pickleball can affect your progress. Use this article as a guide to choose a facility that matches your level and goals.
I often get asked, "Do you know where I can play pickleball in my area?" Feel free to message me (Yoshi Coach) on LINE, and I'll answer to the best of my knowledge.
Related Articles
- The Day I Discovered Pickleball in LA | Origin Story — Dedicated court experience from meeting pickleball in LA
- Control vs. Power Paddles | How to Find the Paddle Type That Suits You — Choosing a paddle that suits the court
- Complete Guide to Pickleball Balls: Differences Between Outdoor and Indoor — Balls suitable for outdoor and indoor courts
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