This thread is for the Japanese Monarchy: Official Duties, Current Events and News for TIM the Emperor and the Empress and other family members .The Japanese royals released a video from New Year's Day. I am surprised that the video doesn't have sound, but it shows the family spending time together.
QuoteVideo of Japanese Imperial Family released for New Year's Day
The Imperial Household Agency released a video for New Year's Day showing members of the Imperial Family together. The video does not have any sound but it shows Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko, their two sons, Crown Prince Naruhito and Fumihito, Prince Akishino and their families. In the video. they are examining candy bowls created to commemorate the Emperor's marriage and enthronement. You can watch the video here.
This is the first year that Emperor Akihito has not released his traditional New Year's message. Vice Grand Steward Yasuhiko Nishimura said Emperor Akihito, who recently turned 83, has accepted a proposal made by the Imperial Household Agency to forgo the message that he has been delivering on 1 January ever since he succeeded to the throne in 1989.
The New Year message is very close to the traditional press conference that Emperor Akihito offers on his birthday on 23 December. Foregoing the New Year message would make his work load more bearable.
Emperor Akihito will continue with the traditional greetings from the entire Royal Household, which takes from the Imperial Palace balcony in Tokyo on 2 January. The day is expected to pull record crowds as travel agencies are reporting that day trips into the city are completely sold out.
Read more:
Video of Japanese Imperial Family released for New Year's Day – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/video-of-japanese-imperial-family-released-for-new-years-day-74418)
I hope Princess Akiko will be fine. May she recover soon from her high fever & asthma. I wonder if she got this from stress or something she ate?
QuotePrincess Akiko of Japan was hospitalised last Wednesday in Tokyo with a high fever and asthma, the Imperial Household Agency said. Princess Akiko visited the emergency room of the Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine's hospital in Kyoto at 3 in the morning. She was spending the New Year holidays in Kyoto when she felt unwell.
She developed a fever late Tuesday afternoon and had symptoms of asthma and was hospitalised to "be on the safe side", the Imperial Household Agency added. She is said to be already recovering.
Princess Akiko of Misaka was born 20 December 1981 as the daughter of the late Prince Tomohito of Mikasa and Princess Tomohito of Mikasa. She is the great-granddaughter of Yoshihito, Emperor Taishō. She graduated from Gakushuin University with a bachelor's degree in history. In 2003 she studied at the University of Oxford as a doctoral student at the Faculty of Oriental Studies. In 2011 she was awarded a D.Phil. degree from the University of Oxford, becoming the second member of the Japanese Imperial family to achieve a doctorate.
Read more:
Princess Akiko of Japan hospitalized for high fever and asthma – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/princess-akiko-of-japan-hospitalized-for-high-fever-and-asthma-74537)
Quote03-01-2017 Photo taken Dec. 15, 1983 shows Prince Naruhito , the eldest son of then Japanese Crown Prince Akihito and then Crown Princess Michiko, chatting with friends at the University of Oxford's Merton College, England.
The current crown prince was described as "personable, although slightly shy" by British officials in 1984, according to newly released government files at the National Archives in London.
PPE Agency (http://www.ppe-agency.com/show.php?zoektype=2&search=03-01-2017%20Photo)
Quote02-01-2017 Japanese imperial family members wave to well-wishers from behind windowpanes on a balcony of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Emperor Akihito offered them New Year's greetings.
PPE Agency (http://www.ppe-agency.com/show.php?zoektype=2&search=02-01-2017%20Japanese)
Quote01-01-2017 Japan Emperor Akihito , Empress Michiko and Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako and Prince Akishino attend a New Year's ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
PPE Agency (http://www.ppe-agency.com/show.php?zoektype=2&search=01-01-2017%20Japan)
I like poems about nature. They are always very lovely to read. Although Emperor Akihito & Empress Michiko's poems are short, they were able to express the beauty of nature. I wonder if in Japanese is it even possible to make poems rhyme?
QuoteImperial couple introduce their poems at annual New Year ceremony
The traditional "Waka" poems, penned by the Imperial Family, and ten selected works from the public, were recited at the annual New Year event in the Matsunoma main hall in the Imperial Palace. The theme of this year's poems was "no", which translates as "field."
Emperor Akihito's poem recalls the chirping of tree crickets near the Omei pavilion where he stayed in the autumn at the Imperial Villa in Nasu. Researchers were invited to explain the sounds of the autumn insects, according to the Imperial Household Agency.
Empress Michiko's poem is about the nature-rich grounds of the Imperial Palace. Her waka poem reflects on her love for the wide variety of the wild plants on the palace grounds and also mentions how she gathers horsetails plants in the spring and gingko nuts in the autumn.
Read more:
Imperial couple introduce their poems at annual New Year ceremony – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/imperial-couple-introduce-their-poems-at-annual-new-year-ceremony-75106)
Quote13-02-2017 Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko visit the National Theater in Tokyo to enjoy a Bunraku puppet show.
PPE Agency (http://www.ppe-agency.com/show.php?zoektype=2&search=13-02-2017%20Japanese)
QuoteCrown Prince Naruhito Opens 2017 Asian Winter Games
is Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan has officially opened the 2017 Asian Winter Games in Sapporo. He did this together with ski jumping legend Masahiko Harada. Masahiko Harada also received the Asian Winter Games Torch and lit the cauldron before fireworks erupted in the indoor stadium. For security reasons, Crown Prince Naruhito's attendance had not been widely publicised beforehand.
The opening event took place in the Sapporo Dome stadium, which is known for having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1972. The city of Obihiro is co-hosting the event. A total of 64 sporting events are set to take place over the next week before the closing ceremony on 26 February.
Unity and overcoming adversity were the central themes of the event. The build-up to the Games had been dominated by Chinese and South Korean concerns about books denying the 1937 Nanjing Massacre which had been left in athletes' hotel rooms. The Games also include a team of seven people from North-Korea, who have been given special permission to enter Japan. Australia and New Zealand are participating for the first time, but feature as "guests" and are not eligible to win medals.
Read more:
Crown Prince Naruhito Opens 2017 Asian Winter Games – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/crown-prince-naruhito-opens-2017-asian-winter-games-76830)
Emperor, empress to meet Vietnamese wives of ex-Japanese soldiers - The Mainichi (http://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20170210/p2g/00m/0dm/065000c)
Japan emperor, empress arrive in Vietnam for 1st trip - The Mainichi (https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20170228/p2g/00m/0dm/038000c)
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-4510700/Japans-Princess-Mako-married-report-says.htmlo
There is a possibility that Princess Mako is engaged. Mako is the eldest child of Prince Ashkino and Princess Kiko.
Japan may announce new Imperial era name in summer 2018 | The Japan Times (http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/05/19/national/politics-diplomacy/japan-may-announce-new-imperial-era-name-summer-2018/#.WR7pGsa1tdg)
I think it's unfortunate that Princess Mako has to give up her royal status to marry a commoner man she loves. She should have the same privileges as her grandfather, uncle and father. It is not fair that she is treated differently because she is a woman.
QuoteJAPAN'S Princess Mako will give up her royal status to marry her college sweetheart in a move that will trigger a major debate on royal succession.
Emperor Akihito's granddaughter, 25, will become engaged to her commoner boyfriend, Kei Komuro, 25, after they met while studying together. Mr Komuro works at a law firm and once worked as "Prince of the Sea" promoting tourism in Japan.
Public broadcaster NHK broke the story of Princess Mako's engagement late Tuesday, sending the country into a frenzy with the news dominating television chat shows and newspaper coverage ahead of an expected official announcement in coming weeks.
Read more:
Princess Mako: Japanese royal to give up title to marry commoner (http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/marriage/japans-princess-mako-to-give-up-royal-title-to-marry-college-sweetheart/news-story/f02317c83539524adf4993173d2ac4bd)
Double post auto-merged: May 21, 2017, 11:22:20 AM
QuoteJapan's Princess Mako chooses love over royalty by marrying commoner Kei Komuro
The eldest granddaughter of Japan's emperor is to give up her royal status in order to marry a legal assistant, reigniting concerns surrounding the future of the world's oldest monarchy.
Princess Mako plans to marry Kei Komuro, a legal assistant who apparently loves the ocean and enjoys skiing, playing the violin and cooking, according to Japanese media reports.
The pair, both 25, reportedly met five years ago at a party being held to discuss studying abroad when they were both students at International Christian University in Tokyo.
Read more:
https://thewest.com.au/news/world/japans-princess-make-chooses-love-over-royalty-by-marrying-commoner-kei-komuro-ng-b88480293z
Amabel, although this isn't really germane to what we discussed a few days ago about women who married into the Imperial Family this article on the poor Emperor Akihito, who has been given permission to abdicate, has to go through in his role and the rigmarole often associated with the Imperial Household Agency.
Emperor Akihito shocked by conservative experts' remarks that 'emperors should just pray' - The Mainichi (https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20170522/p2a/00m/0na/011000c)
QuotePrincess Mako undertakes first public appearance since engagement announcement
A week since the public announcement of her engagement, Princess Mako has undertaken her first public appearance. Accompanying her parents, Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, Princess Mako has recently undertaken a visit to the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo. While taking a tour of the building, the Imperial Family were shown an exhibition on loan from the Natural History Museum in London called "Treasures of the Natural World — Best of London's Natural History Museum".
It consists of over 180 pieces from the museum's collection, and it chronicles the story of how scientists, historians and archaeologists sought to better understand the natural world, from the 18th century to the present day. Featured are numerous artefacts and specimens that inspired numerous scientific breakthroughs, such as complete skeletons of the now-extinct New Zealand moa. The collection continues to be used as a valuable research resource for scientists across the world, and the exhibition symbolises Anglo-Japanese cooperation in academia.
Given the relative distance between London and Tokyo, it offers Japanese citizens a chance to see the Natural History Museum of London's collection that they may not otherwise be able to manage.
Read more:
Princess Mako undertakes first public appearance since engagement announcement – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/princess-mako-undertakes-first-public-appearance-since-engagement-announcement-82679)
Double post auto-merged: May 28, 2017, 06:25:11 PM
It's good that many Japanese believe the female members of the family should included in the line of succession to rule. The Dutch, Belgian and Swedish royal families have females listed as future queens. I think the male heir only rule limits the amount of people that can possibly rule. There are only four people included in the line of succession and I think that list is quite short. At least 10 people should be listed regardless of gender.
QuoteJapan rallies behind idea of a Japanese Empress
Results from a poll published recently have suggested that 68% of the Japanese people may be in favour of an Empress-Regent of Japan.
As of today, Japan operates under agnatic primogeniture. Only male heirs may inherit, and female members of the Imperial Household are passed over. The only way there can be an Empress is by marriage to the Emperor; so a woman may never sit on the Chrysanthemum Throne in her own right. In recent decades, however, the idea of male-only succession has come under increasing criticism from Japanese figures who believe that the traditional method of succession is placing the Imperial Household in jeopardy.
Before the birth of Prince Hisahito in 2006, there were grave concerns that the Japanese monarchy may be walking into a succession crisis with the absence of a male heir after Crown Prince Naruhito. This danger prompted discussions among the Japanese government about amending the Imperial Household Act of 1947 to allow for a female inheritance to the Japanese monarchy, with a panel appointed to study the law and recommend a course of action. The birth of Prince Hisahito rendered the talks moot, and by 2007, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced that he was no longer considering any change in the Imperial Household Act.
Read more:
Japan rallies behind idea of a Japanese Empress – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/japanese-imperial-family/japan-rallies-behind-idea-of-a-japanese-empress-82810)
Princess Mako to Officially Announce Engagement (http://people.com/royals/japanese-princess-who-is-giving-up-her-royal-status-to-marry-a-commoner-set-to-announce-wedding-date/ri)
Princess Mako will also be giving up her royal status once she marries like her aunt and other female relatives have done since the end of WWII.
?????????????????????????(17/10/02) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SsP-IT6nAY)
The CP couple in Kyoto 10/2/17.
Emperor and Empress of Japan visit victims of heavy rain disaster – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/international/emperor-and-empress-of-japan-visit-victims-of-heavy-rain-disaster-90686)
Autumn Imperial Garden Party | IMPERIAL FAMILY OF JAPAN (https://imperialfamilyjapan.wordpress.com/2017/11/09/autumn-imperial-garden-party-)
Imperial Garden party
On December 5th, CP Naruhito and CP Masako attended an award ceremony recognizing students who wrote about disabilities impacting their lives."Week of the Disabled" (Dec 3-9) in Chiyoda, Tokyo.
?????????????????????(17/12/05) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neYiKdZu6VU)
Double post auto-merged: December 07, 2017, 11:48:40 PM
TIM visited the Japan Fine Arts exhibition on December 6, 2017.
???????????????????????(17/12/07) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wrj6HCNRCOE)
On 12/18/17 Princess Kiko visited the Association of Mothers with Hearing Impaired Children.
???????????????????????? TBS NEWS (http://news.tbs.co.jp/newseye/tbs_newseye3242810.html) Video in Japanese.
The start of the New Year's activities for the Imperial Family.
????????????????????????????????? (https://www.asahi.com/articles/photo/AS20180101000966.html) Photos from the CP family's arrival.
TIM receiving New Year's greetings at the Imperial Palace.
??????????????????????(18/01/01) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doFU2O5hIBc) In Japanese.
Japan Emperor greets cheering crowd at palace for new year - The Mainichi (http://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20180102/p2g/00m/0dm/004000c)
Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko will attend the memorial ceremony for the 7th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake at the National Theater in Chiyoda, Tokyo on March 11th.
Prince Akishino plans to visit Hawaii, daughter Mako to make trip to Brazil - The Mainichi (https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20180129/p2g/00m/0dm/058000c)
QuoteTOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's Prince Akishino and his wife Princess Kiko are planning to visit Hawaii in early June, while their eldest daughter Princess Mako will likely travel to Brazil in July, an official of the Imperial Household Agency said Monday.
The agency is currently making arrangements for the couple's weeklong trip to Hawaii and their daughter's likely last trip overseas before she leaves the imperial family upon her planned marriage to a commoner in the fall. Both trips will mark anniversary years of the arrivals by first Japanese immigrants, the official said.
CP couple attended a concert in Tokyo.
http://1.t.cdn.belga.be/belgaimage:132771735:1800x650:w?v=5a817e8d&m=naoilapp
Crown Prince Akishino, Crown Princess Kiko and Prince Hisahito watched the opening ceremony of the 44th National High School Comprehensive Cultural Festival (Soubun Festival) broadcast from Kochi, Kochi Prefecture.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B7pjPysNNs
Japanese Emperor Naruhito expressed deep remorse over the countrys wartime past and prayed for world peace on Saturday, the 75th anniversary of Japans surrender in World War Two.
More: Japan Emperor Naruhito expresses 'deep remorse' over country's wartime past - Reuters (https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ww2-anniversary-japan-emperor-idUSKCN25B07C)
Prince Hisahito, who is 2nd in line to the Japanese imperial throne after his father, turns 14 tomorrow. The Imperial Household Agency has issued a few photos to celebrate the occasion. Hisahito is currently a pupil at the Ochanomizu University Junior High School.
Twitter (https://twitter.com/LSzkopinski/status/1302319013306011648?s=20)
Hard to believe that he's already 14!
Yes, I remember that there was reportedly a bit of a crisis before Hisahito was conceived. The Imperial House Agency officials were very worried apparently as the present Emperor and his wife had just the one daughter and Akishino and Kiko had only daughters. Heaven forbid that the Chrysanthemum Throne should be occupied by a female!
Then, as if by a miracle Kiko, who was no longer young, became pregnant and even more miraculously, had a son. The IHA officials must have been ecstatic. This poor boy had his life mapped out for him from the moment he took his first breaths. I hope he can cope with it and has a happy private life, because otherwise it will be unsupportable IMO.
September 18: Emperor Emeritus Akihito & Empress Emerita Michiko visited the Imperial Household Hospital for checkups. They entered the Imperial Palace after 10am. The retired emperor also conducted goby research at the biology institute in the morning
Twitter (https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1307205363066744832?s=20)
Japanese Emperor Naruhitos younger brother Crown Prince Fumihito is sworn in as first in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne in traditional ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo
Crown Prince Fumihito is sworn in as first in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-8926097/Crown-Prince-Fumihito-sworn-line-Chrysanthemum-Throne.html)
Japan's imperial family don masks but no tiaras during the family's New Year reception | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-9122283/Japans-imperial-family-don-masks-no-tiaras-familys-New-Year-reception.html)
Due coronavirus (COVID-19) article says no tiara this year and use little jewelry for Empress and Princess to wore on new year reception
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako hosted 2021 New Year reception (https://www.newmyroyals.com/2021/01/emperor-naruhito-and-empress-masako.html)
Japan's Suga declares state of emergency for Tokyo as Covid-19 cases surge - CNN (https://edition.cnn.com/2021/01/07/asia/japan-state-of-emergency-tokyo-coronavirus-intl-hnk/index.html)
QuoteJapan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has declared a state of emergency for Tokyo and its surrounding areas today after a surge in covid-19 cases.
Cases are believed to be as high as they were at the start of the pandemic, CNN reported.
The state of emergency is set to remain in place until February 2, and will see the Nippon capital under a set of restrictions.
Japan recorded 5,953 new Covid-19 infections yesterday, the highest daily number of cases recorded so far, as well as 72 deaths.
This brings the national total to 259,105 cases since the start of the apndemic, with at least 3,804 fatalities.
While it is not the typical gala event for 2021, it was good to see that some of the traditional ceremony.
Emperor of Japan thankful for ?perseverance and strength of the people? ? Royal Central (https://royalcentral.co.uk/asia/japan/emperor-of-japan-thankful-for-perseverance-and-strength-of-the-people-156196/)
QuoteEmperor Naruhito of Japan has said that he is thankful for the ?perseverance and strength of the [Japanese] people? during the pandemic. He made the remarks on the occasion of his 61st birthday on 23 February.
The Emperor also thanked the medical professionals for all of their work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He held a press conference last Friday in Tokyo ahead of his birthday where he told the press: ?I look forward to a bright future after the public overcomes the coronavirus pandemic with patience by cooperating with each other.?
His Imperial Majesty also expressed his condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives to the coronavirus. He praised how the people have worked together to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Emperor Naruhito expressed his hope that he and Empress Masako will be able to visit the northeastern Tohoku region of Japan, which is due to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster that impacted the area on 11 March. The disaster killed around 16,000 and left around 2,500 unaccounted for.
Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko visited the Imperial Palace to inspect the Imperial residence. Renovations were expected to be completed by March but problems were found and need another 2 months to finish.
https://youtu.be/mqQOHN1fJuo
In the cable, Emperor Naruhito expressed his sincere thanks for His Majesty the Sultans good greetings, wishing His Majesty a good health and happiness. He also wished the Omani people further progress and prosperity.
HM receives thanks cable from Emperor of Japan (https://www.omanobserver.om/hm-receives-thanks-cable-from-emperor-of-japan/amp/?__twitter_impression=true)
April 23: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the 15th MIDORI Academic Prize at the Parliamentary Museum in Tokyo. The prize honors outstanding achievements in botany and environmental conservation.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1385862392614035459?s=20
April 23: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the 15th MIDORI Academic Prize at the Parliamentary Museum in Chiyoda, Tokyo.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1385858683117047809?s=20
April 23 after 5pm: the Akishino family visited the Imperial Palace to view, what is believed to be Edo Castles oldest stone wall (~400 years old) found during an excavation. Emperor Naruhito's family visited the wall last week.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1385851000662147073?s=20
April 27: Emperor Emeritus Akihito & Empress Emerita Michiko had regular checkups at the Imperial Household Hospital. 3 examinations will be conducted by middle of May. No significant changes in their physical condition.
Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko walk in the morning and evening at their residence in Takanawa, Tokyo. Empress Emerita Michiko stops to catch her breath at times and continues to have low-grade fever.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1387980630575570952?s=20
April 30: Princess Kako had an online visit to the 53rd Naruhodo-Ten exhibition at Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan. Japan Women Inventors Association sponsors the exhibit, featuring winners of an invention contest focused on daily life.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1388566544658038788?s=20
April 28: Emperor Naruhito & Empress Masako remotely visited Fukushima Prefecture. They were briefed on the reconstruction progress from Governor Masao Uchibori, toured a memorial museum, and met survivors from Futaba and Okuma.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1388703847963533313?s=20
May 2: Princess Akiko of Mikasa and her cultural organization Shinyusha held an online session about horses. Panelists included Tsuruma Kazuyuki, Professor of Ancient Chinese History at Gakushuin University, and Hujiki Yasumasa of Kamigamo Shrine.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1389770210689748992?s=20
May 6: Empress Masako attended Goyosan Hajime no Gi (Ceremony to mark the start of Imperial sericulture) at Momijiyama Imperial Cocoonery. Later, she and Princess Aiko visited Toyoyoshi, an old horse who will be transferred to the Imperial Stock Farm in Tochigi Prefecture.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1390209819206766592?s=20
Editorial: Japan gov't can't stay divided on imperial succession issue forever - The Mainichi (https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20210506/p2a/00m/0op/016000c)
May 12: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako made online visits to elementary and junior high schools in Takamori Town, Kumamoto and Takeshima, Mishima Village, Kagoshima. The visits are related to Childrens Day (May 5).
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1394457892833484803?s=20
May 12: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako remotely visited elementary and junior high schools in Takamori Town, Kumamoto and Takeshima, Mishima Village, Kagoshima.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1394460330474967043?s=20
May 17: Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko had an online meeting with members of the Regional Development Cooperation Corps in Kesennuma City, Miyagi and Shimanto Town, Kochi.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1396141303889600514?s=20
May 20: Princess Akiko of Mikasa remotely attended the newly established Nara Rotary Club Cultural Service Award ceremony held at the Nara Hotel in Takabatake-cho, Nara City.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1396160321287454720?s=20
May 21: Empress Masako visited Momijiyama Imperial Cocoonery at the Imperial Palace to give mulberry leaves to silkworms which have grown to ~3cm.
FNN video shows 2020 feeding and 2021 arrival.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1396515310006464514?s=20
Money row tied to Princess Mako's partner casts shadow over debate on female-line emperors - The Mainichi (https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20210512/p2a/00m/0na/017000c)
On another forum, there is some stuff about Princess Mako and her fiance.. and their engagement. And someone said that her boyfriend AND his mother get securtiy from the state which costs quite a lot. Anyone know about this? Why would someone who is just a fiance of a royal get state paid security?
May 22: Princess Akikos cultural organization Shinyusha held an online session titled Japanese Tea Recommendation: Shincha. Panelists included Suguru Tokubuchi of Yorozu Tea & Shiou Tsukuda of Issa-an with Hirotoshi Maruwaka of En Tea as moderator.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1398006091422728192?s=20
May 25 before 5pm: Empress Masako visited Momijiyama Imperial Cocoonery at the Imperial Palace. She spent an hour giving mulberry leaves to 30,000 Koishimaru silkworms with a staff member.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1397393763543093250?s=20
Ambassador Presents Credentials to Japanese Emperor after 4 Months l KBS WORLD (http://world.kbs.co.kr/service/news_view.htm?lang=e&Seq_Code=161679)
Korean ambassador presents credentials to Japan | The Korea Times (http://m.koreatimes.co.kr/pages/article.amp.asp?newsIdx=309500&tw=&__twitter_impression=true)
Imperial couple attends tree-planting ceremony virtually (https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2021/05/e7a3f7e90df8-imperial-couple-attends-tree-planting-ceremony-virtually.html)
Japan's former emperor, empress get COVID-19 vaccinations (https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2021/06/36ca3e40af5e-japans-imperial-family-members-receive-covid-vaccines-for-1st-time.html)
June 21. Emperor Naruhito accompanied by Empress Masako addressed the 111th Japan Academy Prize ceremony in Tokyo.
Emperor Prize June 21 Bilder und Fotos - Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/fotos/emperor-prize-june-21-2021?family=editorial&phrase=emperor%20prize%20June%2021),%202021&sort=best
June 25: Emperor Naruhito delivered the keynote address at the virtual Fifth United Nations Special Thematic Session on Water and Disasters "Building Back Better towards More Resilient and Sustainable Post-COVID-19 World".
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1408651237243842561?s=20
June 28. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the ceremony for the 76th and 77th Imperial Prize of the Japan Academy in Tokyo.
LOS EMPERADORES DE JAPON NARUHITO Y MASAKO ENTREGAN LOS PREMIOS DE LA ACADEMIA DE LAS ARTES EN TOKIO - Todos - ..:GTRESONLINE:.. (http://images.gtresnews.com/es/feature/1261968/los-emperadores-de-japon-naruhito-y-masako-entregan-los-premios-de-la-academia-de-las-artes-en-tokio/page/1/SN/ACTUALITY_TODOS)
June 30. Princess Kako attended the online 68th Sankei Children's Book Awards ceremony from the Akishino residence. She also sent a video message.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1410816798837010435?s=20
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako sent condolences to the victims of the landslide in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture. The message was conveyed through their Grand Chamberlain Koro Bessho to Governor Heita Kawakatsu.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1412106070806306816?s=20
July 14. Emperor Naruhito visited the Imperial Palace to attend credential presentation ceremonies for ambassadors from Laos and Chile. Ambassadors from North Macedonia and Kazakhstan presented their credentials the next day.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1415880125464276993?s=20
July 21: Crown Prince Akishino & Crown Princess Kiko visited the IHA hospital for the 1st dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Emperor Naruhito received his 1st vaccine dose on July 6.
6 older Imperial family members received their 1st & 2nd doses on June 1 & 22.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1417738428968361985?s=20
July 22. Emperor Naruhito received the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executives ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games at the Imperial Palace.
Bilder und Fotos - Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/search/2/image?events=775685366&family=editorial&editorialproducts=all)
July 30. Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and Imperial family members attended a memorial ceremony at the Koreiden on the anniversary of Emperor Meiji's death.
Princess Akiko of Mikasa attended a ceremony at Emperor Meiji's mausoleum in Kyoto.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1421315934384320514?s=20
August 1: Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko remotely attended the English section and arts & crafts section of the 45th National High School Comprehensive Cultural Festival (Sobunsai) in Wakayama Prefecture.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1423878296236818437?s=20
EDITORIAL: Imperial family system needs popular support to survive | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis (https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/14415492)
Emperor Naruhito voices "deep remorse" over Japan's wartime past on Sunday, the 76th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War Two, delivering a message largely unchanged from last year's.
Emperor Naruhito voices deep remorse over Japan's wartime past | Nippon.com (https://www.nippon.com/en/news/reu20210815KBN2FG02R/amp/?__twitter_impression=true)
At least that?s an improvement on the decades after WW2 when the Old Guard were in power and the subject of Japan?s behaviour towards China in the 1930s and atrocities towards POWs (including Aussies btw) by the Japanese army was scarcely mentioned. Today?s younger generation of Japanese know better.
August 15: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the memorial ceremony marking the 76th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II at Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. About 200 people attended the scaled-down ceremony.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1426812150467620867?s=20
The Emperor's family will stay at the Imperial Palace (Kyuden) while their personal belongings are moved from Akasaka Imperial residence to the Imperial residence, September 6-15. The Kyuden is normally used for ceremonies & events, not for living accommodations.
The Imperial Household Agency initially planned for the Emperor's family to stay at Nasu Imperial Villa in Tochigi Prefecture during the 10-day move. However, Emperor Naruhito expressed concerns, intending to limit travel during the pandemic.
It's the first time in 50 years the Kyuden will be used as living accommodations. Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun stayed at the Kyuden overnight as rehearsal before visiting Europe in 1971.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1431127033489199107?s=20
August 27: the government assigned Shigetaka Yamasaki to the newly established position of General Manager of Imperial Family Liaison and Coordination, responsible for planning and comprehensive coordination regarding stable succession.
Yamasaki will retire as Cabinet Office Administrative Vice Minister on September 1st. He headed the 26-member secretariat that oversaw the 2019 abdication and accession.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1432083242883031040?s=20
August 21: Princess Tsuguko sent a video message for the awards and closing ceremony of the archery competition of the Inter-High School Championships in Fukui Prefecture. She is Honorary President of the All Japan Archery Federation.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1432780228951265281?s=20
August 28: Princess Akiko and her cultural organization Shinyusha held an online cooking class for "Kiku no Sekku" (Chrysanthemum Day, September 9) featuring lotus root, prawns, pumpkin, green onions, rice cake powder, bean paste, and soup stock.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1432569248551882757?s=20
Japanese Princess Mako, a niece of Emperor Naruhito, is likely to marry her boyfriend, Kei Komuro, by the end of the year, sources familiar with the matter said Wednesday.
No marriage-related ceremonies for the couple, both 29, such as the "Nosai-no-Gi" official engagement ceremony, are expected to be held, the sources said. The couple plans to submit a notification of marriage to a municipality.
More: Japanese Princess Mako to Marry Boyfriend Komuro by Year-End | Nippon.com (https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2021090100253/amp/?__twitter_impression=true)
August 27 and 31: Emperor Naruhito attended credential presentation ceremonies for new ambassadors to Japan from Canada, Nigeria, Serbia, and the Holy See at the Imperial Palace.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1433649744279048198?s=20
Japan Emperor Naruhito, His Family Move to Palace.
Japan Emperor Naruhito, His Family Move to Palace | Nippon.com (https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2021090600664/amp/?__twitter_impression=true)
September 23. The Korei-sai autumn ceremonies to honour past emperors and members of the Imperial Family took place today.
Korei Sai September 2021 Bilder und Fotos - Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/fotos/korei-sai-september-2021?editorialproducts=entertainment&family=editorial&phrase=korei-sai%20september%202021&sort=newest)
Longer video of Emperor Naruhito's family symbolically moving to the Imperial residence on September 6. The family stayed at the Kyuden until September 20, while their belongings were moved.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1441614984744620043?s=20
Emperor and empress remotely attend world quake conference - Nippon TV News 24 Japan.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1442878013801054209?s=20
Emperor, Empress attend conservation event online | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1444691331092123657?s=20
October 3: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako remotely attended the 40th National Sea Enrichment Festival in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1445259957671235585?s=20
October 3: After the National Sea Enrichment Festival, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako learned about the reconstruction progress, toured a museum remotely, and met survivors of the 2011 disaster.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1445267510849277955?s=20
October 4: Emperor Naruhito attended the imperial investiture of new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the Imperial Palace's Matsu-no-Ma room.
Kishida takes office as Japan PM, calls Oct. 31 general election.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1445414056198742019?s=20
October 6: Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko visited the former Akasaka Imperial Residence to inspect renovations. The work should be completed May or June 2022.
The couple lived at the residence for 33 years until December 1993.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1446339572149932062?s=20
Emperor Naruhito will remotely attend the 36th National Cultural Festival and the 21st National Arts and Culture Festival for the Disabled in Wakayama Prefecture on October 30. Empress Masako's attendance depends on her physical condition.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1447990998378844161?s=20
October 30: Emperor Naruhito & Empress Masako remotely attended the 36th National Cultural Festival & 21st National Disability Arts & Culture Festival in Wakayama Prefecture.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1454697142338015240?s=20
Princess Aiko comes of age (20) on December.
- ceremonies will be held on December 5 (Sunday) due to university classes.
- morning: worship at the Palace Sanctuaries
- receive Order of the Precious Crown.
- afternoon: greet the Emperor and Empress.
- Princess Aiko will also visit her grandparents.
- Other celebrations such as dinner party are postponed due to the pandemic.
- Her 1st press conference is undecided, could be January.
- Aiko is expected to attend New Year's Receptions as her first public activity.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1454509689916461056?s=20
Japan held the award ceremony for this year's Order of Culture recipients at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday.
Six of the nine awardees were present at the ceremony, held on Culture Day, and given the medals from Emperor Naruhito.
Ceremony Held for Order of Culture Awardees | Nippon.com (https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2021110300177/#.YYIxJgT6-t0.twitter)
November 8: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako remotely visited outpatient care facility "Fleus" for the elderly in Shizuoka Prefecture. They met people and learned about activities such as strength training, boccia, and picture letters.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1457822739734142977?s=20
The Emperor delivers his annual New Year's Speech virtually for 2022.
Emperor of Japan delivers video address instead of traditional balcony speech for New Year?s ? Royal Central (https://royalcentral.co.uk/asia/japan/emperor-of-japan-delivers-video-address-instead-of-traditional-balcony-speech-for-new-years-170529/)
QuoteEmperor Naruhito of Japan has addressed the Japanese people through a video instead of the traditional balcony appearance at the Imperial Palace.
The video was recorded on 28 December and was released to prevent too many people from gathering as the global health crisis continues into the third year. His Imperial Majesty had to release a video for New Year?s Day 2021 as well due to the same reason.
The Emperor was joined by his wife, Empress Masako, who also gave brief remarks to the Japanese public.
Emperor Naruhito focused on the global health crisis and shared his thoughts for those who have been affected by the pandemic. He also thanked medical professionals and first responders who have sacrificed over the past three years.
The Emperor said he was thankful that infection rates in Japan had gone down due to high vaccination rates in the country and the efforts of the people. He went on to express his sadness that there are people outside of Japan who cannot receive the vaccine or good treatment for COVID-19.
His Imperial Majesty shared his hope that the world would overcome the pandemic soon and said: ?We are looking forward to the day when the spread of the new coronavirus infection has subsided, and we will be able to meet you again.?
Emperor Naruhito also mentioned the 10th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2021 and how reconstruction was continuing well. He also spoke about the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, saying that they gave ?people courage and hope.?
Short video of the Imperial Family at a scaled down New Year's reception. No tiaras are worn by the ladies. This is Princess Aiko's first public duty.
Entrance order: TIM the Emperor and Empress, the Crown Prince and Crown Princesss, Princess Aiko etc...
??????????????????2022?1?1?? - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq_i6YM3hNM)
Princess Aiko steps up as the Japanese imperial family conducts a sober New Year's ceremony | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-10370843/Princess-Aiko-steps-Japanese-imperial-family-conducts-sober-New-Years-ceremony.html)
Princess Aiko of Japan Makes Royal Debut After Mako Leaves Imperial Family | PEOPLE.com (https://people.com/royals/princess-aiko-japan-royal-debut-after-cousin-mako-leaves-imperial-family/)
Princess Akiko of Mikasa will present the 2021 Japan-British Society (JBS) Award to Robin Maynard MBE at the JBS Annual Dinner on 24 January 2022 at the Hotel Okura Tokyo.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1479120580968394754?s=20
On December 27th, Emperor Naruhito received the credentials of Muhammad Abu Bakr, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Japan.
https://middleeast.in-24.com/News/534318.html
January 7: Imperial family attended a ceremony marking the anniversary of Emperor Showa's death at the Palace Sanctuaries. Princess Kako worshipped at Emperor Showa's mausoleum in Hachioji, Tokyo.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1479636757746384897?s=20
January 17. Emperor Naruhito presided over the opening ceremony of the ordinary Diet session at the National Assembly building in Tokyo today:
https://www.rexfeatures.com/livefeed/2022/01/17/opening_ceremony_of_the_ordinary_parliament_session,_tokyo?
January 17: Emperor Naruhito's family and the Emeritus couple observed moments of silence for the victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake which occurred at 5:46am 27 years ago.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1483135806931832832?s=20
February 10: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako remotely visited "Kamenoko," a support facility for people with disabilities in Oda, Shimane Prefecture. They observed music therapy, talked to people, and watched an employment workshop video (making tofu).
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1492581774647382016?s=20&t=pE26UmrCqkMaNbWQ6mCZ3Q
February 28: Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako were briefed on the global history of infectious diseases by Professor Taro Yamamoto of the Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, at the Imperial residence.
https://twitter.com/ImperialJPNfan/status/1498515874478649347?s=20&t=QSQxYcs82kkucSttCZZiDQ
Imperial Family of Japan holds minute of silence in memory of 2011 earthquake victims ? Royal Central (https://royalcentral.co.uk/asia/japan/imperial-family-holds-minute-of-silence-in-memory-of-2011-earthquake-victims-173842/)
QuoteThe Imperial Family of Japan has joined the nation in observing a minute of silence to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the 2011 earthquake.
Both the imperial couple Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, as well as their daughter Princess Aiko, and the Emeritus imperial couple, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, have joined the Japanese population in observing a minute of silence to commemorate the natural disaster and its victims.
At 2:46pm local time on 11 March 2011, Japan was struck by a 9.1 magnitude earthquake, that triggered a tsunami wave. The sequence of events became known as the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Japan has always been an earthquake-prone nation, as it sits on the so-called Ring of Fire, a circle of active underwater volcanoes, that cause frequent tremors. However, the magnitude is generally attested around the 7 on average on the Richter scale.
The island nation has always been one of the leaders around the world in constructions with earthquake proofing and innovative solutions in the field. However, nothing was ready for such a strong tremor.
The earthquake triggered a series of tsunami waves that, at 15 metres high on their lowest point, dwarfed the protective seawalls that only measured six metres.
The loss of power that followed the earthquake, coupled with the destruction of the backup generators caused by the tsunami wave, caused one of the greatest nuclear accidents in history at the Daichi power plant, on the coast of Northern Japan.
This disaster had a significant impact on the community where my family and I reside. At the time Toyota's North American Headquarters was still based in Torrance, CA. In addition we have one of the United States' largest communities of Japanese nationals, expats and Japanese Americans outside of Japan and Hawaii. My children's schools had many fundraisers to assist those who were impacted by this devastating natural disaster. Japan literally has the "gold standard" for earthquake preparedness, however this was such a strong and forecful tremor followed by a tsunami that it overwhelmed decades of infrastructure. I can only imagine that the devastation would have been worse without it.
Princess Aiko held her first press conference on March 17, 2022.
Princess Aiko vows to fulfill duties as adult in first news conference ? Royal Central (https://royalcentral.co.uk/asia/japan/princess-aiko-vows-to-fulfill-duties-as-adult-in-first-news-conference-174097/)
Quote
Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan, held her first news conference since coming of age last December.
Princess Aiko?s official ceremonies to mark her coming of age when she turned 20 were held in December last year, but the customary press conference, usually held before the birthday, was postponed to March to avoid disrupting her studies. Princess Aiko said that she ?felt tense? during those ceremonies, but they did make her realize that she ?needed to approach each event with a sense of responsibility.?
The news conference was held in the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, and Princess Aiko offered her ?heartfelt gratitude? to all those who had supported her journey up until now. She also said she would ?value each and every one of my duties.?
She spoke lovingly about her parents. ?(My parents?) presence is irreplaceable, and they are always there closest to me, no matter what situation I?m in,? she said. In reference to a news conference shortly after her birth, in which then Crown Princess Masako thanked her daughter for being born, Princess Aiko said, ?I also want to thank (my mother) for giving birth to me.?
Princess Aiko added that her weaknesses were her shyness and being a little too laid back but added that one of her strengths was being able to sleep anywhere. She also said that she had not thought about marriage as it would still be some way off. Still, she said she believed that her ideal relationship would be one ?where both parties can make each other smile by being together.?
She said of the Ukraine crisis, ?I am very heartbroken that many precious lives have been lost.?
Princess Aiko is currently studying Japanese literature at Gakushuin University in Tokyo.
Empress attends convention for Japanese Red Cross Society | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis (https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14625757)
QuoteEmpress Masako attended the Japanese Red Cross Society?s national convention in Tokyo on May 19 for the first time in three years.
This was the empress's first solo official duty outside of the Imperial Palace since the 47th Florence Nightingale Medal awards ceremony in August 2019.
The annual convention of the Japanese Red Cross Society had been canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The empress, who serves as its honorary president, gave medals of merit to 10 individuals and representatives of three organizations for their continuous support and volunteer activities for the JRC.
She also listened to a report from the director of the Japanese Red Cross Musashino Hospital with Crown Princess Kiko and other participants. The hospital has accepted many patients infected with the novel coronavirus.
?I am certain you have gone through many difficulties,? Masako told the director of the hospital after the convention.
This is the second time the empress has attended the convention since taking over as the honorary president from Empress Emerita Michiko.
Emperor Naruhito welcomes President Biden during his trip to Asia ? Royal Central (https://royalcentral.co.uk/asia/japan/emperor-naruhito-welcomes-president-biden-during-his-trip-to-asia-177062/)
QuoteEmperor Naruhito of Japan welcomed US President Joe Biden at the Tokyo Imperial Palace during the latter?s two-day visit to Asia.
On Monday morning, His Imperial Majesty was waiting for the President when the Beast ? the nickname for the President?s car ? arrived at the Palace, and the two heads of state posed for a photo opportunity before they were ushered inside for a private meeting.
On June 9th, Emperor Emeritus Akhito and Empress Emerita Michiko visited the "Ryukyu: 50th anniversary special exhibition of Okinawa's reversion to Japan" at Tokyo National Museum.
The Emeritus couple arrived before 5pm and stayed about 40 minutes. The museum requested their visit according to Jiji. This is the couple's first activity outside Imperial residences since visiting Meiji Jingu in October 2020.
https://mobile.twitter.com/mainichiphoto/status/1534910216130531330
On August 8th, Emperor Naruhito met Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres at the Imperial residence in Tokyo.
https://mobile.twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1556500760438796289
On August 10th, Empress Masako, Crown Princess Kiko, Princess Nobuko, and Princess Hisako attended the 48th Florence Nightingale Medal ceremony at Tokyo Prince Hotel in Minato, Tokyo:
???????3????????????????????????????????FNN????????? (https://www.fnn.jp/articles/gallery/401621)
Princess Aiko and Princess Kako attended the Gagaku Concert (https://www.newmyroyals.com/2022/11/princess-aiko-and-princess-kako.html)
QuoteOn November 5, 2022, Princess Aiko and Princess Kako attended the Autumn Gagaku Concert at Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Gagaku, which translates as "elegant music" is Japanese classical music created to accompany the ceremonial worship rituals of the Imperial court. Gagaku is performed at several court functions at the Imperial Palace, at State Dinners and on the occasion of the Spring and Autumn Garden Parties.
Emperor awards Grand Cordon Orders to 16 recipients - The Japan News (https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/society/imperial-family/20221110-69892/)
Emperor Naruhito to greet public on birthday for first time | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20221219_17/)
TM the Emperor and Empress accompanied by Princess Aiko attended a charity film screening.
??????????????????3??????? - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20OwyZT95PA)
Japan's Emperor and Empress to visit Indonesia on first overseas goodwill trip | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230406_15/)
Quote
NHK has learned that arrangements are being made for Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to make an official visit to Indonesia around late June.
It will be the couple's first goodwill trip abroad since the Emperor ascended to the throne in 2019.
Indonesia is the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for 2023, which also marks the 50th year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.
Planning is reportedly underway for the Emperor and Empress to visit the capital Jakarta and other locations as state guests, and attend a welcome ceremony and a dinner hosted by Indonesia's president and first lady.
The Emperor and Empress visited Britain last September for the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
Japan remembers war dead 78 years after end of World War Two | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230815_18/)
QuoteThe fighting stopped long ago, but the millions killed continue to be remembered. Japan is marking 78 years since World War Two. It regards August 15, 1945, as the end of the conflict. That's the day the public learned that Japan had surrendered.
About 1,800 people attended the government's annual memorial ceremony in Tokyo. They included bereaved families of the war dead. There was a bigger crowd this year now that coronavirus measures have been eased. But some had to cancel due to the severe tropical storm ripping through the country's west.
The moment of silence at noon honored the war dead. About 2.3 million were soldiers and others involved in the Imperial Japanese military. About 800,000 civilians also died.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako took part in the ceremony. Emperor Naruhito said " Looking back on the long period of post-war peace, reflecting on our past and bearing in mind the feelings of deep remorse, I earnestly hope that the ravages of war will never again be repeated. Together with all our people, I now pay my heartfelt tribute to all those who lost their lives in the war, both on the battlefields and elsewhere, and pray for world peace and for the continuing developments of our country."
Quote from: TLLK on August 15, 2023, 12:24:50 PM
Japan remembers war dead 78 years after end of World War Two | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230815_18/)
It?s always a contentious issue for the JRF isn?t it, especially considering how much the Emperor Hirohito was involved in the run-up to WW2 and during the war and just after it. That doesn?t mean that the war dead should not be honoured by the IF of course.
On October 15th, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako began a 2-day visit to Ishikawa Prefecture for the "Ishikawa Hyakumangoku Cultural Festival 2023," which is the unified name for the 38th National Cultural Festival and the 23rd National Art & Cultural Festival for People with Disabilities.
??????????????????????????????????TBS NEWS DIG - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvC42gDsi4w)
The Emperor opens Parliament today.
AP (https://newsroom.ap.org/editorial-photos-videos/search?query=emperor%20naruhito%20october%2020),%202023&mediaType=photo&st=keyword
The Imperial Family enjoy a concert tonight.
Imperial family members attend concert by Imperial Guard Band - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPTNCooXtrw)
The IF canceled the public New Year greetings on the balcony due to the earthquake. There is speculation that the appearance might be made next month for the Emperor's birthday.
Quote from: TLLK on January 07, 2024, 06:26:35 PM
The IF canceled the public New Year greetings on the balcony due to the earthquake. There is speculation that the appearance might be made next month for the Emperor's birthday.
That is understandable. Japan has had a terrible beginning to 2024 and there can?t be public appearances on the balcony while dead bodies are still being recovered from wrecked buildings. The Emperor?s birthday will be better, so long as there are no further earthquakes.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako viewed an exhibition commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Mori Art Museum in Tokyo today, February 27:
https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2034863498/photo/japans-emperor-empress-visit-exhibition.jpg?s=2048x2048&w=gi&k=20&c=cDrqvStj6ec-Lvgkcsj76EhHt7BM1PvK15sVCK7qILE=
Japan's Princess Aiko, 22, says it's 'sobering' to make her first step as 'member of society' as she begins work for the Japanese Red Cross -
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-13258849/Japans-Princess-Aiko-22-says-sobering-make-step-member-society-begins-work-Japanese-Red-Cross.html
TBS News: Princess Aiko, eldest daughter of the Emperor and Empress, attends spring garden party for the first time on April 23rd, announced by the Imperial Household Agency (https://newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/1125013?display=1)