The Tokyo Olympic torch relay began on the 23rd in Hyogo prefecture.
Due to the spread of the new coronavirus, relays are not being held on public roads, and an ignition ceremony is being held at Himeji Castle in Himeji City.
In Hyogo prefecture, about 180 runners were scheduled to connect 14 cities in two days, but the implementation on public roads was canceled due to the spread of the new corona infection.
On the 23rd, an ignition ceremony will be held at Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site, from 5:30 pm without the general public, and the runner will transfer the torch to the next runner on the stage set up at "Sannomaru Square". "Torch kiss" is being performed.
Local Olympic athletes also participated, and Kaori Inoue, who won the bronze medal at the London 2012 Volleyball Girls, and Emi Inui, who won the gold medal at the Beijing Games, moved the holy fire to the next runner.
The ceremony will be held until 7:30 pm and 82 people will connect the torch.
On the second day, the 24th, there will be no relay on public roads, and runners will run about 20 meters per person at the site of Sasayama Castle in Tamba Sasayama City to connect the torch.