The 20th Asian Games officially opened in Nagoya, Japan, with a high-tech two-hour Opening Ceremony at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium attended by Japan’s Imperial Family and Olympic officials.

More than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries are taking part in the Games.

A highlight act featured violinist Taro Hakase as lasers lit up the arena, blending celebration with resilience after prior organizational challenges.

Delegations cited logistical glitches, including double-bookings, long athlete registration waits, late buses, and wrong venue allocations, with India arranging extra hotel space for its cricket team and South Korea reporting cramped basketball containers.

India’s parade featured flag-bearers Manu Bhaker and Pawan Sehrawat, with Sehrawat replacing a last-minute kit issue for Tajinderpal Singh Toor.

AP photographers provided coverage, capturing the momentous ceremony.

Women’s cricket had started ahead of the ceremony, with India advancing to the semi-finals under Harmanpreet Kaur.

Organizers faced pre-Games logistical and organizational challenges that affected perceptions of readiness.

Pre-opening tensions included Taiwan’s delegation briefly withdrawing from a welcoming ceremony due to travel restrictions on their sports minister, and North Korea’s anthem incident affecting South Korea’s hockey team.

India’s contingent drew support from Indian spectators and some Japanese fans during the Athletes’ Parade, highlighting cross-cultural engagement.

The Games will feature 43 sports, including kabaddi, sepak takraw, esports, teqball, virtual taekwondo, alongside traditional Olympic disciplines.

The opening theme, Harmonic Heart Beat, centers on One Asia and unity, with a heart-shaped stage and a focal moment featuring a dramatic flag presentation.