The 34th Japan-Korea-China Junior Sports Exchange Event Set to Take Place in Saga

The 34th Japan-Korea-China Junior Sports Exchange Competition

The Japan Sports Association (JSPO), officially known as the Public Interest Foundation Japan Sports Association headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo and led by President Toshiaki Endo, is excited to announce the upcoming 34th Japan-Korea-China Junior Sports Exchange Competition to be held in Saga Prefecture. This long-standing event brings together top high school athletes from Japan, Korea, and China, promoting youth sports exchanges and fostering mutual understanding among the countries while enhancing competitive skills.

This prestigious competition has been a staple since its inception in 1993, marking its 34th edition this year. Notably, 2026 will see Japan host the event every three years. Historical events of this competition have included current elite athletes who continue to excel at international tournaments, making this year's gathering a unique opportunity to witness the rising stars destined to shape the future of sports in the region.

Event Details

The 34th Junior Sports Exchange Competition is scheduled for August 23-29, 2026, featuring 11 different sports including athletics, soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, weightlifting, handball, soft tennis, table tennis, badminton, and rugby football. The expected number of participants is approximately 902 athletes from Japan, South Korea, China, and the Saga Prefectural team.

The grand opening ceremony will take place on August 24, 2026, at 18:00, in the SAGA Arena located in Saga City. Preliminary schedules, competition dates, and a list of Japanese representatives will be provided ahead of the event.

Ensuring the safety of all participants is of utmost importance. The JSPO will implement measures to counteract heat stress, based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, which may necessitate temporary suspensions or cancellations of events to prioritize athlete safety.

About JSPO

Founded in July 1911 as the Greater Japan Athletic Association, initially focused on promoting national sports and enhancing international competitiveness, JSPO has evolved significantly. After undergoing name changes, it officially became the Japan Sports Association in April 2018. The organization hosts various sporting events encompassing all generations, such as the National Sports Festival and the Japan Sports Masters, while also supporting local youth sports clubs and developing coaches to help foster a culture of sport. JSPO's goal is to create an environment where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can engage with sports as participants, spectators, or supporters.

The JSPO collaborates with numerous stakeholders, including government bodies, over sixty sporting organizations, and sports associations across Japan’s forty-seven prefectures, striving to enhance the nation's sporting landscape.

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As we look forward to this competitive event, we encourage young athletes and sports enthusiasts to participate and support their local teams, making this 34th installment an unforgettable experience that fortifies friendships through sports across nations.