2026 Asian Games Athletes To Stay On Floating Village, Shipping Containers In Japan

For the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, organizers have decided to house 4,600 athletes and officials on a leased luxury cruise ship docked at Nagoya's port, while another 2,400 will stay in converted shipping containers nearby, as a cost-saving alternative to a traditional athletes' village. These two accommodations are about 10 minutes apart by shuttle bus, and officials emphasize that athletes will still be able to interact and relax together, with entertainment options like an aquarium nearby. The event will host around 15,000 athletes and officials across Nagoya, Aichi, and Tokyo, where swimming competitions will take place. The approach reflects lessons from past major events in Japan, including the 2021 Olympics and previous Asian Games, while responding to concerns from Asian Olympic chiefs about preserving athlete interaction. Organizers aim to provide a satisfactory experience despite the unconventional housing, acknowledging that public awareness of the Games remains limited in Japan. This marks the first time the Asian Games return to Japan since 1994, with a wide range of sports planned from September 19 to October 4, 2026.