Olympic Torch Relay Emblem and Torch Unveiled
On March 20, the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee unveiled the emblem and torch for the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay. The date coincided with exactly one year before the Olympic flame arrives at the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Matsushima Air Base in Miyagi Prefecture from Greece.
The unveiling event at the Organizing Committee's Tokyo office was attended by Chairman Yoshiro Mori, the torch designer, representatives from the four presenting partners of the Torch Relay, and official relay ambassador Tadahiro Nomura (judo medalist).
Opening the event, Chairman Mori touched on the torch relay schedule, stating, "The relay's concept is 'Hope Lights Our Way / Connecting the Path of Hope.' We aim to realize a relay embodying this banner. With today's unveiling of the emblem, torch, and ambassador, I hope momentum will further build, making this a relay enjoyed by many people nationwide."
Following him, Miho Takeda (synchronized swimming medalist) of the Torch Relay Planning Committee took the stage to unveil the emblem.
The Torch Relay emblem reimagines the three squares composing the Games emblem (symbolizing mutual support, mutual recognition, and mutual growth) as the flame of the sacred fire, expressing its dynamic movement. It also employs the ukiyo-e technique of "wiping and blurring." The colors combine "vermilion," evoking energy and passion, with "yellow ochre," suggesting the earth, to create a distinctly Japanese festive atmosphere.
Takeda stated, "The emblem, along with the torchbearers, will traverse Japan's rich land. The flame will illuminate the 'path of hope' leading to the future," as he introduced Ambassador Nomura.
Official ambassadors play a role in supporting the public relations activities of the torch relay. Alongside Mr. Nomura, Paralympian Aki Taguchi (shooting), actress Satomi Ishihara, and comedy duo Sandwich Man were announced as ambassadors.
Nomura expressed "surprise and joy" at becoming an ambassador. Recalling the torch relay, she mentioned the image of former boxing world champion Muhammad Ali appearing at the Atlanta Games. She also revealed that her mother was one of the torchbearers for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, stating her aspiration: "The Olympic flame is something special for athletes and everyone else. I want to convey its charm and magnificence to as many people as possible."
On stage, Nomura and torch designer Tokujin Yoshioka unveiled the Olympic Torch Relay torch.
The torch, inspired by the cherry blossom—Japan's most beloved flower—utilizes technology also used in bullet train manufacturing to achieve a seamless design. Additionally, part of the material incorporates recycled aluminum construction waste from temporary housing built for the Great East Japan Earthquake recovery. The five flames emerging from the torch's petals are designed to converge into one at the center.
Yoshioka stated, "The design was inspired by cherry blossom drawings I made with children in Tohoku years ago. Even before the call for submissions, I couldn't suppress my desire to design the torch. I'm incredibly happy my concept came to life."
Holding the torch, Nomura said, "I'm so moved by this torch, filled with the thoughts of so many people, that my hands are shaking. Thinking about how this will connect the whole nation makes me feel excited."
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