The Asian Games are open with more athletes than the Summer Olympics and some unfamiliar sports

The Asian Games kicked off on Saturday in Nagoya, Japan, marking the start of a 16-day sporting event. However, the ceremony was more of a formality than an official start. The games, with over 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions, are set to feature 43 sports, including familiar Olympic sports like track and field, swimming, and soccer, as well as unique Asian sports like kurash, kabaddi, and sepaktakraw. The games have also introduced mixed martial arts, padel, teqball, and esports to the lineup.

Host nation Japan sent the largest delegation with 933 athletes, followed by China with over 800. The opening ceremony was headlined by Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. The theme, "Harmonic Heart Beat," was represented by a large heart-shaped stage on the field at Nagoya City Stadium. Afghanistan was the first country to enter the parade of athletes, followed by Japan, who received a standing ovation.

Despite the excitement, the games have faced several challenges. Housing for athletes has been a major issue, with organizers opting to house 17,000 athletes and officials on a cruise ship, in hotels, and in wooden containers. Athletes have complained about the size of the beds and rooms, leaks in the wooden huts, and logistical issues with venues spread across Nagoya.

The games also faced political controversies, including the playing of the North Korean national anthem during a field hockey match and the temporary barring of Taiwan's sports minister from a welcoming ceremony.