Spectators at the Tokyo Olympics: What a Difference 57 Years Make

Our take

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics felt different without the buzz of live fans, reminding us just how much energy a crowd brings to the games. Flashback 57 years to the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where vibrant crowds filled the stands, creating an electric atmosphere that fueled athletes' performances. This stark contrast highlights not just the evolution of the Olympics but also the essential role of community in celebrating sporting achievement. Let’s explore how the spirit of spectators has transformed over nearly six decades.

Spectators at the Tokyo Olympics: What a Difference 57 Years Make

Japanese lady at Opening Day Ceremonies. UPI

We missed the energy of fans at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. But 57 years ago, crowds filled the stadia, arenas and roads of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

I recently purchased hard copy black and white photographs of those Games.

Here are a few that show Japanese in the act of watching, as well as athletes enjoying the shopping and dining our scant visitors in 2021 could not.

Kids were in the stands at many events. Here are boy scouts at the National Stadium. UPI

Construction was a constant during the Roaring Sixties. Here are a few taking in the festivities. UPI

Members of the Soviet Team out on the town enjoying sushi._UPI

Shopping by foreign visitors and athletes alike was an ongoing competition during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. UPI

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#college-town atmosphere#Tokyo Olympics#spectators#fans#2020 Olympics#1964 Olympics#crowds#stadia#arenas#photographs#Japanese#athletes#energy#watching#dining#shopping#visitors#hard copy#black and white#ceremonies