Asian Games open in Nagoya after challenging build-up

The cauldron was designed in the shape of Nagoya's iconic kinshachi, or golden tiger-fish ornaments.

The cultural performance was built around the theme of a "Harmonic Heart Beat," beginning with the sound of a heartbeat and violinist Taro Hakase's performance of "Legacy 2026," accompanied by 240 citizen dancers, heart-shaped drones and light and laser effects.

The program then showcased Aichi-Nagoya's traditional culture and manufacturing heritage before returning to the theme of a harmonious heartbeat bringing people together across Asia.