This is a special two-day academic workshop event to discuss the global role of Japan in relation to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics. The Olympics has historically provided and opportunity for hosting nations to showcase their cultural and political strength and unity within the international community. However, Japan’s model of globalisation has been seen as more inward-looking and seeks to enhance a certain image of itself rather than its global ties. Following this, Tokyo 2020 provides an opportunity to discuss how Japan’s global role and ambitions have developed in the present era.