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Asian Games 2026 Aichi-Nagoya: Dates, Sports and Host Guide

Posted by Zeya Sanchez on September 14, 2026 at 12:51pm

Japan Welcomes Asia: A Guide to the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games

The 20th Asian Games open on 19 September 2026 at Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya and close on 4 October. More than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries will compete in 43 sports and 469 medal events across Aichi Prefecture, with some competitions already under way.

The main keep of Nagoya Castle against a blue sky Nagoya Castle, one of the Asian Games host city's best-known landmarks. Photo: Syced, via Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

By the UISC BD Editorial Desk · United Information Service Center · Published 14 September 2026 · 5-minute read

Interest in the Games is surging across the continent: in the Philippines, "Asian Games 2026 basketball" is one of the top searches on Google, and in Japan the host region is preparing to welcome athletes and fans.

Key Facts

  • Edition: the 20th Asian Games.
  • Hosts: Aichi Prefecture and the city of Nagoya, Japan.
  • Opening ceremony: Saturday 19 September 2026, Paloma Mizuho Stadium, Nagoya.
  • Closing ceremony: Sunday 4 October 2026.
  • Early events: some sports, including basketball, began before the opening ceremony.

The Games in Numbers

  • Sports: 43.
  • Disciplines: 71.
  • Medal events: 469.
  • Athletes: more than 11,000.
  • Team officials: about 6,000.
  • Participating countries: 45.

Japan's Third Asian Games

Japan previously hosted the Asian Games in Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. Aichi-Nagoya 2026 continues that tradition, with venues spread across the prefecture to make use of existing facilities.

What's on the Programme

Alongside Olympic sports such as athletics, swimming, basketball, volleyball and football, the Asian Games include sports with strong regional followings. The programme gives athletes from across Asia valuable international competition, and for many sports serves as an important step towards the LA28 Olympic Games.

Stories to Follow

The Philippines' Gilas Pilipinas are defending basketball champions — see their campaign so far.

Rising stars. Multi-sport Games often launch young athletes onto the world stage.

Host nation success. Home crowds can give Japanese athletes an extra lift.

Tips for Visitors

  • Check the official schedule on the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 website, as sessions are spread across many venues.
  • Use public transport — Nagoya's subway and rail network connect major sites.
  • Buy tickets only from official sellers.
  • Prepare for warm weather in late September: carry water and sun protection.
  • Explore Nagoya between events — Nagoya Castle and local dishes such as miso katsu are popular.

Why the Asian Games Matter

As the world's second-largest multi-sport event after the Olympics, the Asian Games bring together a huge range of cultures and sporting traditions, promoting friendship and understanding across the continent.

More From Japan

Also this week: Tokyo Game Show 2026 and Japan's minimum wage rise.

Related reading

Sources

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