Home > Policy > White Paper, Notice, Announcement > White Paper > JAPANESE GOVERMENT POLICICIES IN EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND CULTURE 1994 > PART II Chapter 8 Section 1 1

Sports contribute to healthy mental and physical development and help create an enriching and dynamic social environment. In other words, sports not only respond to the human desire for physical activity but also provide the mental satisfaction, enjoyment, and happiness that are vital to a fulfilled life. Sports also play a major role in the maintenance and improvement of mental and physical health and in young people's character formation.

People explore the frontiers of human potential through sports. When athletes challenge the limits of their ability in competitive sports, they evoke powerful emotions in those watching and provide considerable enjoyment and vitality. In addition sports, which are conducted under shared rules, make a highly significant contribution to understanding and friendship among the world's peoples through their role as a form of culture that transcends the language barrier.

In recent years the people of Japan have taken an increasing interest in sports, and sports needs are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated. These trends reflect a number of changes in Japan's social environment, including rising income levels, the expansion of leisure time, and the aging of society. The implementation of sports promotion policies designed to meet the sports needs of the people is therefore likely to become an increasingly important priority in the years ahead.