Nagoya, Japan, August 18, 2026: The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC) has announced that the cruise ship to serve as the Athletes’ Village will dock in Nagoya on Tuesday, September 15.
The ship’s arrival at Kinjo Pier will be greeted by a celebration of taiko drums and other cultural performances four days before the opening ceremony of the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya on September 19.
AINAGOC describes the cruise liner as the “hotel ship” which will constitute the Athletes’ Village along with container homes known as Asian Games villas at nearby Garden Pier.
“The Hotel Ship is a new initiative that utilizes cruise ships as accommodation facilities. It will utilize the maritime space and provide accommodation for thousands of people during the competition period without any new construction,” AINAGOC stated.
“To commemorate this docking, a welcoming event will be held…with hospitality unique to Aichi and Nagoya.”
This includes the Nagoya Omotenashi (hospitality) Samurai Team performance and a display of taiko drums.
“In addition, we have planned opening greetings, welcome speeches, gift presentations, commemorative photo sessions and photo shoots,” AINAGOC added.
The public viewing area on Kinjo Pier will open at 12 noon, with the welcome ceremony running from 1pm to 1.40pm.
AINAGOC is advertising for 500 people to join the celebration, with a deadline for applications of August 27 at 12 noon – but warns the spectators will not be allowed to board the cruise ship.
(AINAGOC)
