TOKYO - Volunteer recruitment for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics kicked off on Wednesday, with a total of some 120,000 volunteers needed.

The Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games has opened applications for the Games Volunteer Program on Wednesday, aiming to secure 80,000 volunteers via a special website through early December.

"Volunteers will provide valuable support for the operation of the Games in a variety of roles at competition venues and at the Athletes' Village," said the organizer.

In addition, the Tokyo metropolitan government also seeks 30,000 "city volunteers" to provide tourism and transport information for tourists as well as spectators to the games.

Applications for becoming a "city volunteer" could be sent via the internet, fax and post from Sept. 26 to Dec 5.

Applicants for both volunteer opportunities need to be 18 years old or above as of April 1, 2020.