Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Onlookers flocked to the Yume-no-Ohashi Bridge in Tokyo to watch the cauldron where the Olympic flame lights up the night.

The flame arrived in utmost secrecy early morning on July 24. After lighting up the National Stadium during the Tokyo 2020 Games Ceremony opening, former Olympic badminton medalist athlete Ayaka Takahashi lit the cauldron on the deck.

Arab News Japan learned that IOC and Tokyo Prefecture members attended the secret cauldron lighting ceremony on the bridge where no media was present.

The event is nevertheless significant since it is the first hydrogen-burning cauldron that does not emit carbon dioxide and symbolizes the goal of society must achieve zero carbon emissions to fight global warming.

The shape of the cauldron designed by Oki SATO is reminiscent of a blooming flower, and Fukushima Prefecture supplies the high-pressure gas fuel.

Despite the significant presence of security guards trying to maintain physical distances to avoid Corona infection and the loudspeakers broadcasting uninterrupted messages to encourage mask wear, a few couples took selfies in front of the cauldron. Others a little more away from the hubbub indulge in a romantic embrace in the moonlight.

The event is visible during the Olympic and Paralympic Games from July 24 to August 8, and from August 25 to September 5 near the Teleport metro station.