THE Japanese Olympic Committee hosted a reception in anticipation of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Saturday in east China’s Hangzhou, the host city of the just-concluded 19th ASIAD.
In 2026, Japan’s Aichi prefecture and its capital Nagoya will take the reins from Hangzhou to host Asia’s biggest continental sporting event.
The reception was held one day ahead of the Hangzhou Games’ closing ceremony, in which a handover procession marked the passing of the torch from China to Japan.
Raja Randhir Singh, Acting President of the Olympic Council of Asia, and Hideaki Omura, Governor of Aichi Prefecture, along with athletes and officials representing the National Olympic Committees of Asian countries and regions, graced the reception with their presence.
During the event, the governor of Aichi Prefecture extended warm greetings to all guests and praised Hangzhou for hosting an outstanding Asian Games.
“The Hangzhou Asian Games was awesome. By China’s president, His Excellency Xi Jinping, who joined the spectacular ceremony, I had the honor of attending the opening ceremony. The pride of athletes and delegations from member countries and regions in Asia was truly inspiring. I had confidence that the games would be a huge success,” according to Hideaki Omura, Governor of Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
The reception also introduced the rich culture, traditional cuisine, beautiful scenery, and hospitality of the central Japanese prefecture, showcasing its readiness for a splendid competition.
The Committee aims to inspire people with the slogan: ‘‘Imagine One Asia’’, Hideaki Omura said.
“Our Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games will inspire everyone and give children bravery through sports. We will express to the world our slogan: ‘’Imagine One Asia’’,” Hideaki Omura said.
Japan is set to host the 20th Asian Games from September 19 to October 4, 2026.