Accommodation Shortages and Quality Concerns Plague Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games

Officials and athletes have raised serious concerns regarding a shortage of accommodations for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games just days before the official opening on Saturday. To reduce costs and maintain eco-friendly policies, organizers did not build a dedicated athletes village. Instead, they planned to house approximately 15,000 athletes and officials across hotels, a cruise ship, and temporary container units.

Reports indicate that the number of participants may have ballooned to over 17,000, exceeding the organizers' budget and manpower. A South Korean Olympic committee official stated that there is a serious shortage of rooms for delegations from around the world. Specifically, some Olympic committees were reportedly promised more container rooms than were actually provided. The Philippine Olympic Committee noted that while athletes were housed, some coaches had to be moved to Airbnbs.

Quality issues have also emerged regarding the container village, which is designed to house 2,000 people. A South Korean basketball official described the housing as the worst ever, noting that beds are too short for athletes over two meters tall. One athlete shared a video on social media showing a leaking sink and soaked floor. Additionally, record rainfall in Nagoya recently forced the temporary evacuation of hundreds of athletes from their accommodations.

In contrast, some athletes staying in Nagoya hotels expressed satisfaction with their facilities. The Olympic Council of Asia has stated that everyone will receive a place to stay, and organizers are reportedly seeking additional hotel rooms to address the complaints. Between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes are expected to stay aboard the Costa Serena cruise ship anchored in Nagoya.