1998 Winter Olympics opening ceremony

The 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony was a grand celebration of Japanese culture, unity, and global harmony. The event's central theme revolved around peace and universalism, reflecting a shift towards international unity rather than nationalism. Key highlights included the "Ring of Peace," symbolizing global harmony, and performances by renowned artists like Midori Ito, who lit the cauldron wearing a kimono representing the goddess Amaterasu. Kenji Ogiwara took the Olympic oath, emphasizing the spirit of fair play.

The ceremony featured a massed choir performing Beethoven's "Ode to Joy," with participants from five global locations, symbolizing unity across borders. The involvement of international choirs and the Blue Impulse flyover further underscored this theme. Legacy-wise, the event marked one of the last major Olympics to prioritize universalism over nationalism, highlighting its significance in promoting global peace and cultural exchange.