Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya Hit by Anthem and Accommodation Woes

The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games have gotten off to a chaotic start, with a myriad of problems casting a cloud over the 2026 event and raising doubts about Japan’s ability to host international sporting events, The Japan Times reported on September 25, 2026.

Wrong Anthems and Accommodation Issues

Among the problems reported were the playing of wrong national anthems and accommodation issues. The mishaps have cast a shadow over the games, which are being hosted in Aichi Prefecture and the city of Nagoya.

• Wrong national anthems were played at the games.
• Accommodation issues were reported among the early problems.

Together, the troubles have raised doubts about Japan’s ability to host large international sporting events.

Organizers Face Growing Doubts

Takaaki Omi of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organizing Committee (AINAGOC) spoke to reporters on Tuesday in Nagoya as scrutiny of the event mounted.

Hospitality and Know-How in Focus

“Hosting sports events is not just about inviting foreign athletes to play in Japan,” said Hamada, adding that it is also about hospitality.

Hamada said Japan should nurture and pass on Dentsu’s knowledge to other agencies and personnel so that others would also be able to host large events in the future.

“Otherwise, Japan will suffer a major embarrassment at an event of national pride,” Hamada warned.

A Test for Japan’s Event-Hosting Reputation

The early turmoil at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games has put a spotlight on Japan’s preparations for international sporting events. As Hamada’s remarks suggest, the stakes extend beyond the playing field: hospitality and the transfer of organizing expertise are seen as essential if Japan is to avoid what he called a major embarrassment at an event of national pride.