Japan declares 20th Asian Games open
Summary
Japan has officially opened the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya with a high-tech ceremony led by Emperor Naruhito. Nepal’s 135-athlete delegation is competing across 21 sports, with medal hopes resting on karateka Arika Gurung.
Key Points
- Japan declared the 20th Asian Games open at the renovated Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya, with Emperor Naruhito officiating.
- More than 15,000 athletes and officials from 45 countries and regions are taking part in Aichi–Nagoya 2026, which runs until 4 October.
- Nepal entered the stadium led by kabaddi player Manmati Bista and boxer Chandra Bahadur Thapa, and has sent 135 athletes across 21 sports.
- Nepal’s main medal hope is karateka Arika Gurung, while other Nepali athletes are competing in karate, wushu, table tennis and swimming.
