The main part of the emblem of the first Asian Games is a bright red sun with 16 rays. It symbolizes that Asia in the east of the world is the place of sunrise, and also stands for the vigorous development and rapid promotion of Asian sports. Under the sun are 11 inter-connected rings, representing the 11 participating countries or regions of the first Asian Games.

The main part of the emblem "Surging Tides" of the 19th Asian Games is composed of six elements: fan, Qiantang River, Qiantang River tide, track, internet symbol and sun symbolizing the Asian Olympic Council. Below are the name of the host city and the year of hosting. These constitute the complete emblem of Hangzhou Asian Games.

The fan shape reflects the cultural connotation of Jiangnan. The track represents sports competition. The internet symbol conforms to the characteristics of Hangzhou City, and the sun is the symbol of the Asian Olympic Council. Qiantang River and Qiantang River tide are the core image of the emblem. The water and mountains show the characteristics of Hangzhou City in Zhejiang Province. The surging rivers and tides express the pioneering spirit and bravery of the people of Zhejiang Province. The whole image of the emblem symbolizes the surging and development of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era, and also symbolizes the unity and hand-in-hand of the Asian Olympic Council family, embracing each other closely and moving forward forever.