Celebrating Japanese Culture

Set amongst the glorious and diverse landscapes of Japan, this year’s Tokyo Olympics were an opportunity to celebrate the capital, the country and the unique culture and people. Showcasing beautiful backdrops throughout the games, this year’s Olympics was not only a chance for more western audiences to learn of the country’s incredible talent but also see the spectacular sites of Tokyo and neighbouring areas.

The 16 days of coverage displayed expansive natural scenes stretching from Mount Fuji to Chiba Prefecture's Pacific coastline in events such as cross-country cycling, surfing, swimming and rowing.

Described as “cycling on a course created in nature”, it was the outdoor mountain biking which perfectly encapsulated Japanese philosophies around connecting to mother earth and using natural resources as a guide - something we also denote to in our own studio’s design ethos.

In an opening ceremony that intertwined technology, tradition and an overriding message of hope, an abundance of natural symbolism was present throughout. The beginning visuals started off by representing a seedling growing, while later in the ceremony we were shown stunning wood rings that were crafted from trees that were planted at the time of the first 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Reflecting the gravitas of the momentous, final event of the Opening Ceremony, tennis champion Naomi Osaka then climbed steps designed by Oki Sato - intended to exemplify Mount Fuji and that unfolded to evoke the image of a blooming flower.

Thank you for taking the time to read this journal article and our thoughts surrounding the display of Japanese culture during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. If you are looking for more inspiration content, design tips and exclusive images of our projects you can follow us on Instagram & Facebook.

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