12th Asian Games: Hiroshima 1994

The 12th Asian Games were held from Oct 2 to 16, 1994, in Hiroshima, Japan.

The main theme of this edition was to promote peace and harmony among Asian nations. It was emphasized by the choice of host city because the venue was the site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945.

The Hiroshima Asian Games was the first to be held in a non-capital city.

Emblem of the 12th Asian Games [Photo/ocasia.org]

The emblem of the 12th Asian Games depicts a dove, which is a symbol of peace. It was also the "H" of Hiroshima, reflecting the city's desire for peace.

The emblem of the Olympic Council of Asia and the dynamic lines reaching out in all directions were suggestive of an athlete in motion. The color red represented overflowing energy and youth.

Mascots of the 12th Asian Games [Photo/ocasia.org]

The mascots of the 12th Asian Games were two doves which forms the "H" of the emblem. This was the first Asian Games mascot to consist of a pair of cartoon characters. The male dove is named Poppo, and the female is named Coccu.

The white dove, the symbol of the Asian games in Hiroshima, symbolized the spirit of peace advocated by Hiroshima.