India is converting 40‑by‑8‑foot shipping containers at SAI centres in Patiala and Bengaluru into living quarters to simulate Nagoya’s accommodation. Athletes are also tasting sushi to get accustomed to Japanese cuisine before the Asian Games begin on September 19.

  • Indian athletes are staying in modified shipping containers to mimic Nagoya housing
  • Sushi and Japanese menu are being introduced early for dietary acclimatization
  • 17,000 participants will have three lodging options: cruise ship, hotel or container

Container Accommodation Strategy

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has repurposed 40‑foot shipping containers at its Bengaluru and Patiala centres into two‑room living units. Each unit now includes air‑conditioning, a pantry, a washroom and twin beds, mirroring the container‑village that athletes will encounter in Nagoya.

Food Training – Sushi on the Menu

At the Bengaluru canteen, sushi has become a daily offering. Chef Jeyaraj designed a Japanese menu in January and rolled it out in July, right after the squad announcement, ensuring athletes won’t be surprised by Japanese fare at the Games.

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Voices from the Athletes

Seema Kaliraman, Commonwealth Games bronze‑medallist in discus, admitted the first night in a container was uncomfortable, but she soon adjusted. “Our focus is winning medals, not worrying about where we sleep,” she said.

Tajinder Pal Singh Toor, two‑time Asian Games shot‑put champion, likened the container space to his hostel days at Punjabi University. “Being tall, space is tight, but mental preparation for such challenges helps any sportsperson,” he added.

Historical Background

India secured a record 107 medals (28 gold) at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. To replicate that success, the preparation now extends beyond training to include housing and nutrition, with COVID‑era containers being refurbished for this purpose.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that familiarizing athletes with non‑traditional housing and cuisine reduces performance anxiety, a factor often overlooked in elite sports preparation.

“Adapting to unexpected living conditions builds mental resilience, which can be decisive in winning medals,” says sports psychologist Dr. Anita Sharma.
Did You Know?: The 2026 Asian Games will feature a cruise‑ship as a floating athletes' village, a first for the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will every Indian athlete stay in a container?

A: No, athletes will be allocated either containers, hotels or the cruise‑ship based on individual needs and budget considerations.

Q2: Besides sushi, what other Japanese foods are being prepared?

A: Nutritionists have crafted a menu that includes ramen, sashimi and energy bars tailored to athletes’ caloric and macronutrient requirements.