The Tokyo 1964 Games completely transformed Japan, and country is set for another history when it hosts next year’s Games.
The Japanese capital will host the Olympic Games for the second time, making them the first Asian city to do so.
5,133 athletes from 93 nations and regions gathered in Tokyo and demonstrated their exceptional abilities across 163 Olympic events in 20 sports in 1964.
Judo and volleyball, which made their first appearance at an Olympic Games while women’s pentathlon was also added to the athletics schedule.
However, since 1964, participation from athletes and nations has grown significantly with over 11,000 athletes from 206 nations expected to descend on Tokyo next summer.
International Olympic Committee
Athletes will compete across 339 events in 33 sports with four new sports being added to the Olympic programme including karate, sports climbing, skateboarding and surfing while baseball/softball make its long awaited return to the Olympic stage after a 12-year absence.
49 per cent female athletes
The Games will also be the most gendered balanced in history with 49 per cent of athletes competing being female.
Five venues will be reused for Tokyo 2020 including Yoyogi National Gymnasium, Nippon Budokan, Equestrian Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium and Enoshima Yacht Harbor.
The Games will also offer a unique welcome to athletes, coaches, families and fans coming to the city called omotenashi, Japanese hospitality.
Omotenashi is unlike anything visitors would’ve experienced before with Japanese citizen treating guest with open arms.
Tokyo 2020 want to promote future changes throughout the world and leave a positive legacy for future generations.
