About Asian Games 2026
The 20th Asian Games open in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan on September 19, 2026 — and the countdown above tracks the days until the world's second-largest multi-sport event after the Olympics gets underway. Japan hosts for the third time, following Tokyo 1958 and Hiroshima 1994.
The Asian Games are colossal: around 45 nations and some 12,000 athletes — more competitors than the Summer Olympics — across roughly 40 sports. Alongside the Olympic disciplines, the program celebrates sports with deep Asian roots, from kabaddi and sepak takraw to wushu, plus esports, which drew enormous crowds at the previous Games in Hangzhou.
Expect powerhouse battles at the top of the medal table — China, Japan and South Korea have finished as the top three at every recent edition — and breakout performances from across the continent, with athletes using the Games as a springboard toward LA 2028. Events spread across Aichi Prefecture and its capital Nagoya, with the opening ceremony launching two weeks of competition.
FAQ
When are the Asian Games 2026?
The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games open on September 19, 2026 in Japan — the live countdown shows the time remaining.
How big are the Asian Games?
Around 12,000 athletes from 45 nations — by participation, larger than the Summer Olympics — competing in roughly 40 sports.
Which sports are unique to the Asian Games?
Traditional Asian sports like kabaddi, sepak takraw and wushu feature alongside Olympic disciplines, plus medal events in esports.
Who usually wins the Asian Games?
China has topped the medal table at every Asian Games since 1982, typically followed by Japan and South Korea.