The 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 is set to open on September 23 by the Qiantang River, which attracts attention of the world. But what does this sporting event mean for Asia?

China is confident to top medal table

China has consistently emerged as a winner in the Asian Games. Since the 9th Asian Games held in New Delhi, India, China has remained atop in the medal rankings for 10 consecutive games.

Among the 40 sports of the Hangzhou Asian Games, the Chinese team is expected to dominate in table tennis, badminton, weightlifting, gymnastics, shooting, and swimming. In boxing, wrestling, taekwondo, hockey, handball, archery and tennis, China is on par with Japan, Republic of Korea and Central and West Asian countries. Audiences can expect thrilling competitions in these sports.

Asian Games provide a glimpse into diverse cultures

The Asian Games provide an excellent platform for showcasing the unique nationalities, histories, cultures, geographies, and customs of Asian countries and regions. Sports like Southeast Asia's sepaktakraw, South Asia's kabaddi, Central Asia's kurash, and East Asia's dragon boat, each with their distinct national characteristics, help promote a better understanding of each region's culture through the Asian Games.

More sports are becoming daily routines

Competitive sports not only draw people's attention but also promote mass fitness. The inclusion of sports such as sailing, canoe, sport climbing, street dance, and esports in the Asian Games has enabled previously uncommonly known sports to become means for daily fitness.