Pakistan, Sept. 20 -- The 20th Asian Games were declared open by Japan's emperor on Saturday following a troubled build-up to the multi-sport spectacular that has more athletes than the Olympics.

There were a large number of empty seats at the 30,000-capacity stadium in Nagoya, where a subdued crowd saw a colourful opening ceremony on a heart-shaped stage. Japan's Emperor and Empress were given a respectful reception as they took their seats alongside International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry. There was polite applause when Emperor Naruhito declared the Games open.

The first gold medal will be won on Sunday morning, likely in the men's individual triathlon, as the continent's finest athletes compete in more than 40 sport...