People in Japan are finding unique ways to express support for their national soccer team.

The Japanese team plays Germany in a first-round match on Wednesday as part of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

One hot spring in Tahikami Town of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, has turned the hot water of its open-air bath blue, the color of the Japanese team's uniforms.

The bath has been named the "Samurai Blue hot spring," after the squad's nickname. A television is placed near the bath so fans can watch games while lounging in the hot water.

One bather said all the people in the same bath will be united in cheering the team on.

The spa's manager said he wants everyone to get excited by cheering for the Japanese players.

One elementary school in Saitama Prefecture's Tokorozawa City served a school lunch featuring German food on Tuesday.

Students ate Vienna sausages, fried buns filled with jam and bacon and vegetable soup, all German-style dishes. Salads similar to pickled cabbage, sauerkraut, were also served.

A fifth-grade boy said the lunch was very delicious. He said he wants the Japanese team to score many goals and reach the top eight in the team rankings.

A teacher who created the menu said she hopes the lunch helps the children know more about countries Japan plays against in the World Cup.