Despite Japan finishing twelfth in Kitakyushu this weekend, the tournament itself is part of a global opportunity for the sport.
The hosts ended their weekend with 33-14 defeat against Canada in the 11th place play-off, ending a disappointing campaign.
But despite not reaching their goal of a top eight finish, captain Chiharu Nakamura believes that hosting a round on the series not only plays an integral role in growing the game in Japan but also for teams as preparation for Tokyo 2020.
“To have a tournament on home soil is very special things for us,” said Nakamura.
‘It is a great opportunity for us to show matches of an international standard in front of our families, friends and other Kitakyushu rugby fans.
“It is also an important part of other countries and their preparation because of Tokyo 2020.”
With sevens’ second Olympics on the horizon in Tokyo, teams at the Kitakyushu tournament have the opportunity to witness first hand sevens life in Japan.
And with a Rugby World Cup next year, Japan will be in the spotlight for rugby over the next two years.
“With Rugby World Cup and Tokyo 2020 – it will be a chance for Japan to know world rugby.
“This time in Kitakyushu many teams, including Japan, participated in rugby events and spent time at local schools playing with local kids.
“The impact of that is that those kids will remember the players and support as a fan, widening the rugby community.
“With the growth of fans in Japan, this tournament is a great tournament for many reasons and one we are proud to host.”
Elsewhere in the tournament China finished eighth having booked their place in the quarter-finals with a win over Ireland on day one.
But they lost 50-0, 24-19 and 36-5 to New Zealand, Fiji and England respectively in their first tournament since qualifying for next season’s series.
