Nagoya-Aichi Asian Games 2026 Opens With Ceremonial Simplicity

The opening ceremony of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games took place on September 19, 2026, with Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, Crown Prince Akishino, Crown Princess Kiko, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani (president of the Olympic Council of Asia), and International Olympic Committee president Kirstie Coventry in attendance at Paloma Mizuho Stadium.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Yukihiko Tsutami, the ceremony opened with the J-pop group INI performing ahead of the live broadcast. This was followed by acclaimed Osaka violinist Taro Akasegawa and distinguished voice actress Keko Toda, who sang the Japanese national anthem and has provided voices for major productions.

Before the athletes' parade commenced with representatives from 45 nations, Thailand's delegation was led by volleyball player Thaddaw Nuekchaeng and equestrian athlete Chalermphan Yodswiryapanich carrying the Thai flag. Princess Sirivannavari, a member of Thailand's equestrian team, also participated. The Thai athletes' ceremonial uniforms were designed by the Sirivannavari brand under the concept "The Art of Unity."

The ceremony continued with a rock music performance blended with Kabuki theater featuring Nakamura Kanguro from the renowned historic Nakamura Kabuki family of Japan. Nakamura Kanguro performed Kabuki alongside giant industrial robotic arms to reflect both the ancient culture and technological advancement of Aichi Prefecture.

The torch relay then entered the stadium, with renowned Japanese athletes Murofushi Shigenobu and his son Murofushi Koji, both hammer throw champions, lighting the cauldron. The father is a five-time Asian Games champion and Aichi native, while the son won Olympic gold in 2004, officially opening the 2026 Asian Games with simplicity and dignity.