Applications can now be made to use the Tokyo 2020 facility for miscellaneous purposes, such as cultural activities including live performances or filming for television it has been reported in Inside The Games. The Sea Forest Waterway, due to host the Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoe sprint events at Tokyo 2020, has already been open for sporting practice from last month, and will remain open until December 28.  

The 2,300 metres course is in Tokyo Bay, and is located next to a former landfill site which has been turned into a forest. `there is a permanent grandstand which can accommodate 2,000 spectators, but this will be extended to 16,000 for the games next summer. 

Photo Start line at the Sea Forest Waterway venue in Japan.

Credit Steve McArthur

It may also be opened for public use at some point, although this will be in consideration of the coronavirus pandemic which has forced the postponement of the Olympics and Paralympics to next year.

There had been initial doubts as to whether Sea Forest Waterway would be used for the Games, with Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike in 2016 suggesting a venue change due to fears of a ballooning budget. However it was determined it would actually cost more to abandon the plans.

Preparations for Tokyo 2020 continue, with the Olympics now scheduled for July 23 to August 8 and the Paralympics from August 24 to September 5. 

Measures are set to be in place to counter COVID-19, while organisers have also pledged to hold a ‘simplified’ Games to reduce the financial impact.