Archive · 3 Oct 2026
Honohon Mascot Draws Attention At Asian Games 2026
Honohon is the friendly mascot of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Medal winners received plush dolls of the character during ceremonies.
Its name comes from a Japanese word connected with flames.
The mascot’s design includes features inspired by local history and Japanese traditions.
Its ears resemble a mythical creature linked with Nagoya Castle.
Red markings around its eyes are inspired by Kabuki theatre makeup.
Honohon is meant to represent athletes’ passion and bring people together through sport.
India’s men’s cricket team also received the dolls after beating Pakistan for gold.
Honohon is the official mascot of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, held from September 19 to October 4.
The plush dolls were given to medal winners during podium ceremonies as keepsakes.
The mascot’s name comes from the Japanese word “honoho,” associated with flames and athletes’ passion.
Designer Yoshiyuki Nakagawa drew on regional and Japanese cultural imagery, including Shachihoko and Kabuki makeup.
India beat Pakistan 211/6 to 192/6 for a 19-run win in the men’s cricket final on October 3.
- Who
- Honohon, the official mascot of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games; India and Pakistan’s men’s cricket teams competed in the final.
- What
- Medal winners received Honohon plush dolls; India won the men’s cricket gold medal with a 19-run victory over Pakistan.
- When
- The Games ran from September 19 to October 4, 2026; the cricket final took place on October 3.
- Where
- Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
- Why
- The dolls serve as keepsakes for medal winners, and Honohon represents athletes’ passion and unity through sport.
- Event
- 20th Asian Games
- Host
- Aichi-Nagoya, Japan
- Games dates
- September 19–October 4, 2026
- Mascot
- Honohon
- Mascot designer
- Yoshiyuki Nakagawa
- Cricket final
- India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs on October 3
- India’s score
- 211/6 in 20 overs; Pakistan scored 192/6