JAPAN TRENDS



 

It is now exactly one year to go until the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games open in Tokyo. After a rocky start, including the cancellation of the stadium design and change of logo, preparations are now coming together and anticipation is beginning to build.

Ahead of the opening, the organizers have already issued a large amount of official merchandise to help people get into the festive mood of the occasion. This number will only increase more and more as we get closer to the opening day.

Here is our selection of the five best Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games official products released so far!

Tokyo 2020 Olympics Mascot Plush Toy

This is Japan, so of course there is a cute mascot character! The Tokyo 2020 Olympics Mascot Plush Toy features Miraitowa, whose name means “future forever.” Artist Ryo Taniguchi created this character especially for the Games, selected from 2,042 other candidates’ designs. There are various others available, too.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Official Yukata (Shippo)

 

Along with cute mascots, does it get any more traditionally Japanese than the kimono? The Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Official Yukata (Shippo) integrates the 2020 Olympics or Paralympics logos into a classic yukata cotton summer kimono.

In addition to this “shippo” motif one, which comes in a range of colors and sizes, there is also another version where the emblems are highlighted more strikingly.

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Anime Characters T-Shirt

 

This Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Anime Characters T-Shirt is a tribute to one of Japan’s most impressive examples of soft power: anime. All eyes will be on Tokyo in summer 2020, though people are already very familiar with Japanes culture through such popular anime and manga franchises as Astro Boy, Sailor Moon, One Piece, Yo-Kai Watch, Crayon Shinchan, Naruto, Maho Girls Precure, and Dragon Ball — who are all featured on these t-shirts!

Tokyo 2020 Olympics Medaru Swatch Wristwatch

 

A mix of international talents here with this chic yet minimal Tokyo 2020 Olympics Medaru Swatch Wristwatch, designed by the renowned Swiss watchmaker for Tokyo 2020. It is available in burgundy or navy.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics & Paralympics Taiko Drums

Another traditional entry in this list, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics & Paralympics Taiko Drums will surely be a great way to sound your support during those exciting sporting events next year! Just be careful to warn the neighbors first!