Welcome to Japan and its capital city Tokyo which now hosts the 2019 World Judo Championships.

It was here that the Kodokan was founded by Dr Kano Jigoro... and it was attended by guests including Her Imperial Highness Princess Tomohito of Mikasa and IJF President Mr Marius Vizer who came for an art exhibition celebrating judo on the eve of the championships.

Mr Vizer then welcomed the Judo family to a gala dinner which honoured some of the sports greatest champions and culminated in a performance by IJF ambassador Al bano.

The scene for the championships would be the Nippon Budokan the same venue that will host Judo during the Olympic games next year and for Japanese Judoka a hallowed ground.

The judo loving public here were in for a treat as they got to see the world's very best athletes and to cheer on their own team of superstars.

We’ll bring you all the best action and stories of Judo’s flagship event...an event which once more showcased the values of this incredible sport.