Not Tokyo’s first time!
Tokyo, hosting the Olympics for the second time in 2021, impressed the entire whole world when the city hosted the Games in 1964. Among the firsts that year: the Olympics were broadcast via satellite and advanced calculation tools measured competitors’ times in fractions of seconds. As if this was not enough, Tokyo was also awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize for its special gymnasium – built for the Olympics, the structure gracefully blended Japanese and western architecture.
The program has been announced!
The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games is planned for July 23. Within the scope of the Games, football and softball events will take place on July 21, two days prior to the opening ceremony. Most of the other events, including swimming and judo, start on July 24. The closing ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, August 8, 2021.
Prepare for the robots!
Tech companies in Japan will use the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games as an opportunity to showcase their robot technology! Robots will allegedly be assigned to direct spectators to seats, provide event information, and transport food and other items.
Technology to the fullest!
In addition to robots, the Tokyo Olympics will be the first to use a large-scale face recognition system. This system is designed to improve security and speed access to the venue for athletes, officials and press members and other accredited attendees.
Recycled Medals!
Even as the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games introduce new technological features, they also set an example in sustainability. The approximately 5,000 medals planned to be distributed at the Olympics are made from recycled electronic products such as old phones. From more than 78 tons of small electronic devices donated by Japanese citizens, 32 kilograms of gold, 3,500 kilograms of silver and 2,200 kilograms of bronze were extracted. One side of the medals bears a relief of Nike, the Goddess of Victory, originally drawn by the Italian artist Gossoioli in 1928, holding a wreath of victory; the other bears the Tokyo 2020 Olympics emblem.
Carbon emissions reduced to zero for four days!
Tokyo announced a plan to make the city free of carbon dioxide emissions during the opening and closing days of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Energy-saving measures and the use of renewable energy will be employed to reduce CO₂ emissions generated during both the preparation phase and the actual Games. As well, carbon offset measures will be accomplished by using certain credits. It is estimated that approximately 720 thousand tons of emissions will be prevented through this action.
Mascots determined!
The mascots of the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games were selected with a vote by primary school students. The Olympic Games mascot is Miraitowa – the name is a combination of the Japanese words for future and infinity. The Paralympic Games mascot is Someity, which is Someiyoshino, a type of cherry blossom common in the country. The mascots reflect an understanding of both tradition and innovation. A variety of Miraitowa and Someity toys are already available!
Discover Tokyo!
The Olympics are a great reason to visit Tokyo, which is one of the most interesting cities in the world! While you’re there, check out the Tokyo city guide blog for other tips and suggestions, like attending a Sumo wrestling match, sampling local specialties and exploring historical temples, especially Kaneiji.
