Back to All Events

The 1964 Tokyo Olympics: A Nation Reborn

  • New Otani Hotel 4-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8578, Japan Japan (map)

In 1964, by successfully hosting the Olympic Games, Japan showcased its economic and political revival, announcing its return to the world stage. The upcoming 2020 Games offers a similar chance to demonstrate it has overcome post-bubble difficulties. Both events highlight "the paradox of globalization": balancing unique traditions with the need to compete globally.

The 1964 Games spurred immense physical and psychological change, instilling self-confidence and paving the way for further growth. Tokyo was modernized with new infrastructure, including the Shinkansen.

Robert Whiting, an expert on sports and crime, will detail this story. He explains how Japanese athletes achieved success in Western sports using intense training rooted in Samurai and Zen principles, epitomized by the women's volleyball team's gold and spirit of 'gaman' (endurance). Drawing on his time in Tokyo in 1962, Whiting will also cover the under-discussed negative aspects, like environmental destruction. The 1964 Games provided a vital morale boost, offering valuable lessons for 2020.

Learn at the Delphi salon
Previous
Previous
March 10

The Outsiders Who Shaped Japan

Next
Next
April 23

Can Japan Stand Up to America?