Asian Games 2026: Aichi-Nagoya Guide and Schedule

Asian Games 2026: Dates, Sports, and Key Info

Picture courtesy of Japan Association of Athletics Federations

The Asian Games 2026, officially known as the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026, will be held in Japan from September 19 to October 4, 2026.

Hosted mainly across Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, the Games return to Japan for the first time since the 1994 Hiroshima Asian Games. Athletes from across Asia will compete in 469 events across 43 sports, including athletics (track and field), swimming, soccer, basketball, table tennis, gymnastics, and judo.

Some competitions begin before the opening ceremony, with women’s soccer starting September 14 and men’s soccer on September 16.

This guide covers the Asian Games 2026 schedule, sports, venues, tickets, athletes, and streaming options, as well as recommended sightseeing spots and places to stay in Nagoya.

• Table of Contents
• Key Details of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games
• 2026 Asian Games Event Schedule
• Where Are the Venues? Major Locations and Access
• How to Buy Tickets for the 2026 Asian Games
• Key Athletes to Watch: Team Japan at the 2026 Asian Games
• TV Broadcasting and Live Streaming for the 2026 Asian Games
• Nagoya Sightseeing Spots to Enjoy Alongside the Asian Games
• Recommended Areas to Stay in Nagoya for the Asian Games
• Frequently Asked Questions: Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games
• Enjoy Aichi and Nagoya Alongside the Asian Games!

Key Details of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games

Item	Details
Event Name	20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026)
Opening Ceremony	Saturday, September 19, 2026
Closing Ceremony	Sunday, October 4, 2026
Competition Starts	Select sports begin Monday, September 14
Host Location	Centered in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya City
Sports and Events	469 events across 43 sports
Venues	54 venues
Participating Nations	Around 45 Asian nations and territories

At the Aichi-Nagoya Games, spectators can enjoy popular Olympic events such as athletics, swimming, soccer, and volleyball, alongside various sports that hold massive popularity across Asia.

While most events take place within Aichi Prefecture, venues for specific sports are also located in other prefectures, including Tokyo, Shizuoka, Osaka, and Gifu.

Reference URL: Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Official Website

2026 Asian Games Event Schedule

At the 2026 Asian Games, select competitions will kick off prior to the opening ceremony on September 19.

Soccer in particular gets an early start, with women's soccer matches scheduled to begin on Monday, September 14, and men's soccer matches starting on Wednesday, September 16.

Key Sports	Highlights
Soccer	Matches start before the opening ceremony, featuring key action from Japan's national teams
Athletics	A highly popular sport where Team Japan aims for major medal success
Swimming	Brings together top Asian swimmers, including elite competitors from Japan and China
Table Tennis	A top-tier competition featuring world-class players from Japan, China, and South Korea
Basketball	A crowd favorite delivering fast-paced, high-energy games
Volleyball	High expectations surround both the men's and women's Japanese national teams
Gymnastics	A sport where Japan stands among the world's elite contenders
Judo	Originating in Japan, this event promises intense competition for the podium

Event schedules are subject to change. If you plan to attend a specific event, check the official website shortly before your visit for the latest dates and start times.

Where Are the Venues? Major Locations and Access

A total of 54 venues are scheduled for use during the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Here are some of the most notable locations.

Nagoya Mizuho Park Athletics Stadium (Paloma Mizuho Stadium)

Picture courtesy of pixta
Located in Mizuho Ward, Nagoya City, this large-scale stadium will serve as a key venue for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies along with athletics events.

Its location within Nagoya makes it a convenient stop for visitors who want to enjoy sightseeing around the city alongside watching the games.

Travel time from Nagoya Station: Approx. 30 to 35 minutes
Take the Sakuradori Subway Line from Nagoya Station to Mizuho Undojo Nishi Station (approx. 20 minutes). From the station, it is roughly a 10 to 15 minute walk to the venue.

Aichi International Arena (IG Arena)

Picture courtesy of pixta
Located inside Meijo Park near Nagoya Castle, this large-scale arena will serve as one of the flagship venues of the Asian Games.

It will host multiple events, including basketball and judo.

Surrounded by major sightseeing spots such as Nagoya Castle and the Sakae area, the arena offers convenient opportunities to explore the city before or after watching matches.

Travel time from Nagoya Station: Approx. 20 to 25 minutes
Take the Higashiyama Subway Line from Nagoya Station to Sakae Station, then transfer to the Meijo Subway Line and get off at Meijokoen Station. Train travel time including the transfer takes about 15 minutes, and the arena is easily accessible on foot from Meijokoen Station.

Port Messe Nagoya

Picture courtesy of pixta
Located at Kinjo Futo in Minato Ward, Nagoya City, this facility stands as one of the largest exhibition venues in the Chubu region.

During the Games, it is scheduled to host sports such as sport climbing. Connected directly to Kinjo-futo Station on the Aonami Line via a pedestrian walkway, it offers straightforward access from Nagoya Station.
Travel time from Nagoya Station: Approx. 30 minutes
Board the Aonami Line from Nagoya Station and ride to the final stop, Kinjo-futo Station (approx. 24 minutes). From Kinjo-futo Station, Port Messe Nagoya is a 2 to 5 minute walk, offering convenient direct travel without transfers.

Toyota Stadium

Picture courtesy of pixta
Located in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, this is one of Japan's largest ball-sports stadiums.

During the Asian Games, it will serve as a venue for soccer matches, including the men's soccer final.

With a capacity of over 40,000 spectators, the venue promises an electric atmosphere toward the end of the tournament.

Travel time from Nagoya Station: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Take the Sakuradori or Tsurumai Subway Line and the Meitetsu Toyota Line from Nagoya Station toward Toyotashi Station. The train ride takes about an hour, followed by a 15 to 20 minute walk from Toyotashi Station to the stadium.

Since travel time is longer compared to venues within central Nagoya, it is recommended to leave early to arrive ahead of kick-off.

Reference URL: Venue List | Official Website

How to Buy Tickets for the 2026 Asian Games

Spectators planning to watch the Asian Games in person can purchase tickets through the official ticket sales website.

Also, an in-person ticket office will open in Nagoya City, offering options to buy tickets directly on-site in addition to ordering online.

For events with remaining seats, same-day tickets are expected to be available on the official sales website and at select venue box offices.

However, high-demand competitions—such as Japan national soccer team matches, athletics, table tennis, and basketball—may sell out of preferred seating options early.

If you have specific events you want to attend, we recommend checking the official ticket site in advance.

Reference URL: Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games Official Ticket Sales Website

Key Athletes to Watch: Team Japan at the 2026 Asian Games

With the Asian Games taking place on home soil in Japan, fans are eager to see how Team Japan performs.

The roster features a compelling mix of established stars who have excelled at world championships and Olympic Games, as well as rising talent representing the future of Japanese athletics.

Here is a look at a key athlete to watch, along with event schedules and broadcast information.

Haruka Kitaguchi in Athletics: Women's Javelin Throw

Picture courtesy of AFLO SPORT

Known for her bright smile and powerful throws, Haruka Kitaguchi has elevated Japanese women's javelin throwing to the elite international level.

Her signature dynamic technique generates immense power during the approach run, and her mental toughness allows her to turn matches around with a single throw.

Having consistently delivered top performances on the global stage, she stands out as a strong gold medal contender at these home-nation Asian Games.

Event Schedule: Sunday, September 27, 21:03– Women's Javelin Throw Final
Venue: Nagoya Mizuho Park Athletics Stadium

The women's javelin throw will go straight to the final on September 27 without preliminary rounds. Be sure to follow every throw as Kitaguchi competes for the podium.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on Sunday, September 27. For specific broadcast times and online streaming details for the women's javelin throw and other events, please check the latest schedule on the official TBS website.

Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Rashid Muratake in Athletics: 110m Hurdles

Picture courtesy of AFLO SPORT

Rashid Muratake is Japan's premier hurdler, holding a world-class record in the 110m hurdles.

His signature running style relies on accelerating rapidly right out of the blocks and maintaining a fluid rhythm over every hurdle. Packed into a brief 13-second window, his races offer an intense burst of speed, technique, and focus.

His event stands as one of the most thrilling and fast-paced competitions in track and field.
Event Schedule:
・Saturday, September 26, 19:05– Men's 110m Hurdles Heats
・Sunday, September 27, 20:08– Men's 110m Hurdles Final
Venue: Nagoya Mizuho Park Athletics Stadium

Preliminary heats will take place on September 26, with qualifying runners advancing to the final the following evening on September 27. Alongside Muratake, Japanese teammate Shunsuke Izumiya is also slated to compete, setting the stage for an exciting battle among top domestic contenders for the podium.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on both Saturday, September 26, and Sunday, September 27. Please visit the official TBS website for the latest broadcast times and live streaming schedule for the 110m hurdles.

Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Ryuji Miura in Athletics: 3000m Steeplechase

Picture courtesy of AFLO SPORT

Ryuji Miura is a key figure in Japanese distance running, having proven his ability against top international athletes, particularly in the 3000m steeplechase.

Unlike standard track events, the 3000m steeplechase requires runners to navigate hurdles and water jumps throughout the race.

Miura stands out for his exceptional hurdling technique alongside his ability to maintain a high pace right into the closing stages. His powerful final lap kick is always a major highlight.

Event Schedule: Monday, September 28, 19:42– Men's 3000m Steeplechase Final
Venue: Nagoya Mizuho Park Athletics Stadium

The men's 3000m steeplechase final is scheduled for September 28. Miura will compete alongside fellow Japanese athlete Ryoma Aoki. The battle for position over the hurdles and water jumps in the final laps promises to deliver thrilling action.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on Monday, September 28. Check the official TBS website for the latest schedule, broadcast times, and live streaming options for the 3000m steeplechase.

Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Tomoyuki Matsushita in Swimming

(Left) Tomoyuki Matsushita Picture courtesy of Mizuno Corporation

Tomoyuki Matsushita is a talented young swimmer specializing in individual medley events.

His core strength lies in his high-level, well-rounded technical mastery across all four swimming strokes: butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle. His signature quality is maintaining speed in the second half of races, allowing him to push through and make impressive late surges.

At the Asian Games, Matsushita is slated to compete in three events: the men's 200m butterfly, 200m individual medley, and 400m individual medley. Fans hold high expectations for him to secure multiple podium finishes.

Event Schedule:
・Sunday, September 20: 10:00– Men's 200m Individual Medley Heats / 17:00– Final
・Tuesday, September 22 (Public Holiday): 10:00– Men's 400m Individual Medley Heats / 17:00– Final
・Friday, September 25: 10:00– Men's 200m Butterfly Heats / 17:00– Final

Venue: Tokyo Aquatics Centre

The individual medley events stand out as key highlights. Because swimmers compete across all four strokes in sequence, overall race pacing and technical execution across every stroke determine the outcome.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on Sunday, September 20, Tuesday, September 22, and Friday, September 25. Check the official TBS website for the latest schedule, broadcast times, and online streaming options for each of Matsushita's races.

Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Rikuto Tamai in Diving

Rikuto Tamai stands as a leading figure in Japanese men's diving, having competed at elite national levels since his junior high school years.

His diving highlights include rotations launched from explosive jumps, along with clean, precise entries that minimize splash.

In a judged sport marked by high pressure, watching him execute difficult maneuvers with accuracy makes for a captivating performance.

At the Asian Games, Tamai is scheduled to compete in the men's 10m platform event.
Event Schedule: Wednesday, September 30: Men's 10m Platform Heats and Final
Venue: Tokyo Aquatics Centre

As an Olympic silver medalist in Paris, Tamai carries high expectations for a gold medal at these Asian Games. Spectators will be watching closely for his high-level execution, performing complex spins and twists from a height of 10 meters in mere seconds while leaving virtually no splash upon entry.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on Wednesday, September 30. Check the official TBS website for the latest updates regarding exact broadcast times and live streaming for the men's 10m platform.

Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Daiki Hashimoto in Gymnastics

Daiki Hashimoto is an elite all-around gymnast celebrated for his elegant and consistent performances.

He excels across all six apparatuses, particularly on the horizontal bar and parallel bars, combining highly difficult elements with clean, precise landings.

As a leader of the Japanese men's gymnastics team, his battle for the podium against Asia's formidable top contenders will be a major highlight of the Games.

Event Schedule:
・Monday, September 21 (Public Holiday): Men's Team Qualification, Individual Apparatus Qualification, Individual All-Around Final
・Wednesday, September 23 (Public Holiday): Men's Team Final
・Thursday, September 24: Men's and Women's Individual Apparatus Finals (Day 1)
・Friday, September 25: Men's and Women's Individual Apparatus Finals (Day 2)

Venue: Nagoya Civic General Gymnasium (Rainbow Hall)

Hashimoto has been selected for the Japan men's national team and is scheduled to start competing on September 21 in the team and individual apparatus qualification rounds. Since the individual all-around winners will also be decided on that same day, the opening stage of the competition promises high drama.

For the individual apparatus finals, qualifications will determine which events he competes in. Keep an eye out to see which event finals Hashimoto reaches, including his signature horizontal bar.

TV Broadcasting and Streaming: TBS network plans to broadcast Asian Games coverage on Monday, September 21, Wednesday, September 23, Thursday, September 24, and Friday, September 25. Check the latest broadcast schedule for precise airing times and live streaming details for each gymnastics event.

Reference URL: Japan Gymnastics Association: 20th Asian Games
Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

Rion Ichihara in Soccer

Rion Ichihara is a soccer defender who combines defensive stability with excellent ball distribution skills.

His game is defined not only by his strength in one-on-one situations against opposing forwards, but also by his ability to build up play from the back line and initiate attacks.

With defense playing a critical role in navigating a tight tournament schedule, he stands out as a core player anchoring Japan's backline.

Ichihara has been named to the U-21 Japan national team roster. Japan will compete in Group A alongside Hong Kong, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Thailand.

Group Stage Schedule:
・Wednesday, September 16, 19:30– Japan vs Hong Kong, China
・Sunday, September 20, 19:30– Kyrgyzstan vs Japan
・Wednesday, September 23 (Public Holiday), 19:30– Japan vs Thailand
Venue: Toyota Stadium

If Japan advances past the group stage, they will move on to the knockout rounds. While Ichihara's appearance depends on match-by-match squad selection, he remains a key defender anchoring the team's backline.

TV Broadcasting:
・Wednesday, September 16: Japan vs Hong Kong, China (Live on TBS network from 19:00)
・Sunday, September 20: Kyrgyzstan vs Japan (Scheduled on TBS network)
・Wednesday, September 23 (Public Holiday): Japan vs Thailand (Scheduled on TBS network)

Additional online streaming details may be announced in the future. Please check the official JFA and TBS websites for the latest streaming information.

Reference URL: JFA: 20th Asian Games TV Broadcast
Reference URL: TBS Asian Games Broadcast Schedule

*Match and event times reflect the schedule as of September 7, 2026. Event schedules, participating athletes, and TV broadcast or streaming details are subject to change. Please verify the latest information on the official event website, athletic federations, or TBS official site prior to watching.

TV Broadcasting and Live Streaming for the 2026 Asian Games

Picture courtesy of TBS Official Program Page

If you cannot attend in person, you can enjoy the competition through television broadcasts and online streaming.

Coverage for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games is scheduled on the TBS network from Wednesday, September 16 to Sunday, October 4.

Live broadcasts will center on major events featuring Team Japan athletes.

Item	Details
TV Broadcasting	TBS Network
Broadcast Period	Wednesday, September 16, 2026 – Sunday, October 4, 2026
Coverage Content	Scheduled to focus on Team Japan matches and major sports
Live Streaming	Check TBS and official event websites for the latest updates

Details regarding online live streaming, including covered sports and streaming platforms, may be announced closer to the event.

If you have specific competitions you wish to watch, be sure to check the broadcast and streaming schedules ahead of match day.

Reference URL: TBS "Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya"

Nagoya Sightseeing Spots to Enjoy Alongside the Asian Games

If you are traveling to Aichi and Nagoya to watch the Asian Games, take the opportunity to explore Nagoya before or after matches or on rest days.

Nagoya offers a wide range of attractions, from historical landmarks to famous local food spots. A short trip outside the city center also grants access to the globally popular Ghibli Park.

Nagoya Castle

Picture courtesy of pixta

Nagoya Castle stands as one of the city's premier sightseeing destinations.

Famous for its golden shachihoko—mythical tiger-headed carp roof ornaments—this iconic Nagoya landmark lets visitors explore its lavishly decorated Hommaru Palace.

Located near the Meijo Park area—where Aichi International Arena is situated—it is an ideal spot to combine with spectator events.

Atsuta Shrine

Picture courtesy of pixta
Atsuta Shrine, which holds a history spanning approximately 1,900 years, stands as one of Nagoya's most prominent Shinto shrines.

Surrounded by lush greenery, its expansive grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere right in the heart of the city.

Easily accessible from both Nagoya Station and Kanayama, it makes an ideal stopover during your trip to watch the Games.

Osu Shopping Street

Picture courtesy of pixta
If you want to enjoy food and shopping in Nagoya, Osu Shopping Street comes highly recommended.

The bustling district brings together a diverse range of shops, including eateries serving iconic Nagoya cuisine, vintage clothing stores, gift shops, and cafes.

It provides a great atmosphere for strolling around and grabbing snacks before or after attending event sessions.

Sakae and Hisaya-odori

Sakae serves as Nagoya's central commercial and entertainment hub.

Packed with shopping complexes and restaurants, the area also features major landmarks such as Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER and Hisaya-odori Park.

Since the neighborhood remains vibrant well into the evening, it makes a prime location for dining and nightlife after a day at the sports venues.

Ghibli Park

Picture courtesy of ©Studio Ghibli
If you have extra time in your itinerary, consider taking a trip to Ghibli Park in Nagakute City, near Nagoya.

Designed to express the world of Studio Ghibli, the park spans five distinct areas: Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches.

Visitors can immerse themselves in scenery inspired by beloved films such as "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Howl's Moving Castle."

Easily reachable on a day trip from central Nagoya, it offers a memorable addition to any Asian Games trip across Aichi.

MATCHA provides detailed articles covering key sightseeing locations including Nagoya Castle and Ghibli Park, alongside local Nagoya food guides.

Recommended Areas to Stay in Nagoya for the Asian Games

During the Asian Games, competitions will take place across various locations in Aichi Prefecture, including Toyota City, Okazaki City, and Toyohashi City, in addition to Nagoya.

If you plan to attend multiple events or want to include sightseeing in your trip, staying in central Nagoya offers convenient access through its excellent railway network.
Earn Rakuten Points! Check vacancies and rates around NagoyaFlexible cancellations! Check room availability and best prices near Nagoya

Nagoya Station Area: Convenient for Traveling

Picture courtesy of pixta
The area surrounding Nagoya Station serves as an ideal base for first-time visitors or travelers taking the Shinkansen (bullet train).

With multiple transit options available—including JR, municipal subways, Meitetsu, and Kintetsu railways—it serves as a major transportation hub for reaching venues both inside Nagoya and throughout Aichi Prefecture.

Offering a wide selection of accommodations, it is well suited for visitors prioritizing convenient travel between competition venues.

Sakae Area: Sightseeing and Local Cuisine

For visitors looking to pair Asian Games spectator events with Nagoya sightseeing, the Sakae area offers great convenience.

Packed with dining and shopping options, major attractions like Hisaya-odori Park and Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER rest within comfortable walking distance.

Served by both the Higashiyama and Meijo subway lines, it also provides seamless travel to various parts of the city.

Kanayama Area: Access via Meitetsu, JR, and Subway

Picture courtesy of pixta

Kanayama stands as one of Nagoya's major transit hubs, served by JR, Meitetsu, and municipal subway lines.

Offering direct travel to Chubu Centrair International Airport, it serves as a practical alternative base to Nagoya Station or Sakae.

Frequently Asked Questions: Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games

Q. When will the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games take place?

The Opening Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026, and the Closing Ceremony for Sunday, October 4.

However, select competitions such as soccer will begin prior to the Opening Ceremony, with women's soccer matches slated to start on Monday, September 14.

Q. How many sports will feature at the Asian Games?

The Games will feature 43 sports and 469 events.

Q. Are all competition venues located in Nagoya?

No.

While centered in Nagoya City, events will take place across Aichi Prefecture, with select competitions hosted in Tokyo, Shizuoka, Osaka, and Gifu Prefectures.

Q. Will the 2026 Asian Games be broadcast on TV?

Yes, broadcasts are scheduled on the TBS network from Wednesday, September 16, 2026, through Sunday, October 4.

Q. Is live streaming available for the 2026 Asian Games?

Coverage details regarding live streaming services and broadcast events may be updated closer to the start of the Games.

Please verify the latest details on the official TBS website or the official Games site.

Q. Can I purchase Asian Games tickets on the day of the event?

Same-day tickets will be available for competitions with remaining seat capacity.

However, high-demand events may sell out early, so advance purchase is recommended.

Q. What are the recommended places to stay in Nagoya when attending the Games?

For overall travel convenience across multiple venues, the Nagoya Station area is recommended. If you wish to focus on dining and local sightseeing, consider the Sakae area.

For travelers arriving via Chubu Centrair International Airport, staying around Kanayama Station offers straightforward rail access via the Meitetsu Line.

Enjoy Aichi and Nagoya Alongside the Asian Games!

The 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026) mark the return of the event to Japan for the first time in 32 years.

Bringing together top Asian athletes across 43 sports—including athletics, swimming, soccer, table tennis, gymnastics, and judo—the Games deliver intense competition centered around Aichi and Nagoya from September through October 2026.

Beyond cheering for Team Japan, it offers a rare opportunity to watch world-class athletes compete in person.

When attending the Games on-site, consider pairing spectator events with sightseeing highlights such as Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, Osu Shopping Street, Sakae, and Ghibli Park.

Schedules, national team rosters, TV and streaming options, and ticket availability remain subject to updates.

Be sure to check the official event website for the latest updates before attending, and enjoy both the 20th Asian Games and your trip to Aichi and Nagoya!

Main image courtesy of pixta