Tokyo is again in the spotlight as the much-anticipated Tokyo 2020 Summer Paralympic Games kick off with the Opening Ceremony this evening. An event with the power to change society which started 70 years ago, the Paralympics has developed into the greatest international sporting event of the highest level for top para-athletes around the world. Tokyo 2020 will see the largest Paralympic Games ever, with more than 4400 athletes representing 176 countries participating in 22 sports. Interested in learning more? The Nippon Foundation Paralympic Support Center website has the answers. From an introduction to what the Paralympics are and the history, to sports, the athletes, the schedule of events, interviews and more. So much has gone into these games behind the scenes and Tokyo is all geared up with increased accessibility to welcome the athletes and future visitors to Tokyo.
The Nippon Foundation Paralympic Support Center was established in May 2015 with the objective to ensure the success of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and promote Paralympic sports. Their mission being a historical first as the city to host the Games for a second time. The Foundation has supported preparation for the Paralympic Games, not only have physical barriers for disabled people be removed, but efforts are also being made to overcome psychological barriers to develop “barrier-free minds”.
The Japan National Stadium, which hosted the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, is the site of the Paralympic Opening Ceremony from 9pm AEST on Tuesday, 24 August.
The event official ends with the Closing Ceremony at 9pm AEST on Sunday, 5 September.
The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games will be broadcast LIVE, online and free from Tokyo by the Seven Network.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government has continued to ramp up efforts to make the city more accessible for everyone, including those with disability. Tokyo is vast, but it does not have to be overwhelming. The Tokyo Sightseeing Accessibility Guide has been updated to assist elderly visitors and those with disability to have a pleasant, stress-free sightseeing experience in the city. The easy-to-use guide includes 30 sightseeing courses linking various highlights and attractions, with information on accessibility, travel times and tips to make the journey more enjoyable. The aim of the guide is to give the users enough useful information so they can make their own choices and decisions whilst exploring the city. Courses can be chosen by area or them and the travellers are welcome to shorten or change them according to their personal taste.
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