The Tokyo 2020 Paralympics are nearly here and, just like the Olympics, we’ll all have to cheer for our favourite teams at home. But that doesn’t mean we can’t get into the Paralympic spirit.
Once you’ve decked yourself out in some official merchandise, Tokyo has several special installations to mark this once-in-a-lifetime event. Here are some places you can visit around the city to get hyped for the Paralympics.
Paralympic agitos in Odaiba
The iconic Olympic symbol that was installed at Odaiba Seaside Park last December has been taken down and was replaced on August 20 by the three swooshes, known as agitos, that form the Paralympic symbol.. It’s one of the biggest symbols installed in Tokyo, measuring at around 17.5 metres high and 23.4 metres wide.
Paralympic agitos in Narita Airport
The Paralympic symbol at Narita Airport is located just outside the Terminal 3 arrival gates. There hasn’t been much reason to go to the airport recently, but if you’re keen to catch the agitos, the airport is accessible by a 1 hour limousine bus ride from Tokyo Station.
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Paralympic agitos in Mt Takao
Go for a hike up Mt Takao to see the Paralympic symbol located at the summit. The hike is beginner-friendly and takes around 90 minutes one way. The Paralympic agitos themselves stand 2 metres high and 2.1 metres wide, with a scenic view of the mountains behind. If you’re exhausted after your climb, use the cable car to take you back, which is also decked in the Tokyo 2020 mascots, Miraitowa and Someity.
Paralympic agitos and mascot statue at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
If you visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – known for its free observatory on the 45th floor – you’ll be treated to more than a spectacular view of Tokyo. Until the first week of September, head to the first floor of Building No 2 and you’ll get to snap a photo with the Tokyo 2020 mascots and the Paralympic agitos.
Miraitowa and Someity flower statues
If you head out to Symbol Promenade Park, just a few minutes from Ariake Station, you’ll spot two massive statues of Miraitowa and Someity made of flowers and trees. You can admire these adorable Tokyo 2020 mascots from afar, queue up to get a picture with them up close.
Countdown clock at Tokyo Station
We’ve all seen the red-and-white countdown clock at Tokyo Station’s central exit. One side counted down the days until the Olympic Games, while the other side is currently counting down the days until the Paralympic Games kick off. The clock is sponsored by luxury watch brand Omega, which is the official timekeeper for Tokyo 2020.
Nihombashi City Dressing for Team Paralympic Japan
Landmarks and shopping centres along Chuo Dori in Nihonbashi will be adorned in Paralympic-themed decorations ifeaturing 81 Japanese Paralympians who will be competing at the Games in the coming weeks. You can find the decorations at the following locations: Mitsui Main Building, Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, Coredo Nihonbashi and at Coredo Muromachi buildings 1, 2 and 3.
Paralympic agitos flower arrangement at Hibiya Park
The Paralympic agitos are popping up in the most unexpected places. Head over to Hibiya Park’s First Flower Garden to see the marvelous symbol made out of red catharanthus, blue salvia and green bassia blooms. The plants here are carefully maintained by local gardeners to keep their pristine condition. This display is entirely free to view and will be in the park until September 5.
More on the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games
6 Paralympic fringe events you should check out in Tokyo
11 things to know about Japan at the Paralympics
Where to get official Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic merchandise in Tokyo
Understanding the Paralympic Games: impairment classifications in Para sport
How to watch the Tokyo Paralympics online for free
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