JSPO (official name: Japan Sports Association, Shinjuku City, Tokyo / President Toshiaki Endo), an organization dedicated to creating environments where people can 'participate in,' 'watch,' and 'support' sports, announced at its 3rd Board Meeting held on July 15, 2026 (Reiwa 8), that Gunma Prefecture has been selected as the host for the main event of the 83rd National Sports Festival, and Nara Prefecture has been provisionally designated as the host for the 85th edition.

◆ Decisions Made

・ Selection of Gunma Prefecture as the host for the 83rd National Sports Festival (Reiwa 11 / 2029)

・ Provisional designation of Nara Prefecture as the host for the 85th National Sports Festival (Reiwa 13 / 2031)

◆ Decision Date: July 15, 2026 (Wednesday), Reiwa 8

◆ Attendees: Ichita Yamamoto, Governor of Gunma Prefecture, and others

Makoto Yamashita, Governor of Nara Prefecture, and others

【Reference】Prefectures officially selected or provisionally designated as hosts for the National Sports Festival main event

◆ About JSPO (Japan Sports Association)

JSPO was founded in July 1911 as the Greater Japan Physical Education Association, with the goals of 'promoting national sports' and 'enhancing international competitive strength.' It operated as the Japan Amateur Sports Association before adopting its current name on April 1, 2018.

JSPO organizes nationwide sports events covering all generations, such as the National Sports Festival (formerly the National Physical Education Festival) and the Japan Sports Masters. It creates opportunities for sports participation through initiatives like the Sports Boys and Girls Club and Comprehensive Community Sports Clubs. The organization also trains sports instructors who support the enjoyment of sports and promotes sports based on the latest medical and scientific research. As Japan’s unified sports organization, JSPO collaborates with the national government, over 60 sports federations, all 47 prefectural sports associations, and various other sports-related organizations and individuals.

▶ Website: https://www.japan-sports.or.jp/

▶ Business Overview Brochure

https://www.japan-sports.or.jp/about/tabid57.html#09 (Approx. 15-minute read)

▶ JSPO Mid-Term Plan 2023–2027

https://www.japan-sports.or.jp/about/tabid149.html#01

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event