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Home , Abdication, Akasaka Estate, Akihito, Chrysanthemum Throne, Emperor Meiji, Empress Masako

123rd year | no. 42,916 ISSN 0289-1956 © THE TIMES, LTD., 2019 ’s Tuesday, October 22, 2019 Traditional styles adapt to changing times New emperor and spears will be planted and ceremonial officials will carry and bows. Drum expected to uphold and gong players will also take part in the ceremony. Guests will be seated in rooms progressive ways and hallways surrounding the courtyard, of predecessor with monitors set up to enable them to watch the rituals.

Sayuri Daimon Breaking precedent Staff writer Just like how the enthronement cer- emony has changed to adopt modern Emperor will formally declare aspects, many changes were brought to his ascension as Japan’s 126th in the imperial family during the Era front of about 2,000 leaders and represen- led by then-Emperor and Empress tatives from over 170 countries and regions Michiko. at the Imperial Palace on Tuesday. Midori Watanabe, a former producer for The Sokuirei Seiden no Gi (enthrone- Nippon TV, who extensively covered the ment ceremony) will represent the old tra- imperial family, remembers how she was dition that has been carried on over 1,000 surprised to see the changes in the imperial years, but at the same time, it will be closely family traditions. watched by people around the world as “When Emperor Showa and Empress the beginning of the new era led by a new Nagako went out, they always traveled generation of the imperial family. with a huge entourage, and Empress Emperor Naruhito ascended the chry- Nagako used to walk several steps behind santhemum on May 1 following the the emperor. But in the Heisei Era, Emperor of his father, Emperor Emeritus Akihito and always Akihito, who was the first to be enthroned walked together side by side,’’ Watanabe as the symbol of “the state and of the recalled. unity of the people” under the postwar She also said when then-Emperor Aki- Constitution. hito and Empress Michiko went to Mount Mindful of the scars left by the war Unzen in Prefecture when it fought under the name of his father erupted in 1991 and visited local evacua- Emperor Showa, Emperor Emeritus Aki- tion shelters to comfort victims, they only hito during his spoke of the impor- took a few officials with them. tance of peace in many occasions and was “What was more surprising was that the seen as a “people’s emperor.” Many expect imperial couple knelt down on the floor that Emperor Naruhito will basically fol- to talk to people at the evacuation cen- low his path, but also adopt a new ters; something that had never happened that reflects the modern era. before. When I saw it, I really thought “He shall largely follow the model things have changed so much in the Heisei provided by his father, the first emperor Era,” she said. enthroned under the postwar Constitu- ‘‘He will The ceremony at the Seiden State Hall ritual has evolved over time. then-Prime Minister wore. Emperor Naruhito Watanabe said that Empress Emerita tion. At the same time, he shall not be a will start at 1 p.m. in the Matsu no Ma state formerly wore Chinese for- Instead of traditional court dress worn by makes his first Michiko, who received a modern educa- carbon copy of his father — he will adopt adopt various room, with the emperor announcing his mal clothing for ceremonies, but adopted past prime ministers, Kaifu was dressed in speech after his tion and was active as the president of the various social issues as society changes, social issues enthronement from the 6.5-meter-high traditional Japanese attire after studying a swallow-tailed coat. He also stood on the ascension to the students’ association while she attended keeping the imperial house in tune with as society canopied throne, known as the takami- ancient customs during Emperor ’s same platform as the emperor when lead- throne as his wife, the University of the , , the trends of the time,” said Kenneth Ruoff, changes, kura. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will reign (1868 to 1912). The enthronement ing the banzai cheers so as to avoid giving , and Emperor Emeritus Akihito together led a professor of history at Portland State Uni- keeping the deliver a congratulatory message and lead ceremonies for Emperor Taisho in 1915 and any impression that he was subordinate to stands by his side at the imperial household to change old prac- versity and the author of the book “Japan’s imperial guests in three banzai cheers to wish for Emperor Showa in 1928 were conducted in the emperor. the Imperial Palace tices and adopt to the new era. Imperial House in the Postwar Era” to be the emperor’s longevity. and were based on the Tokyokurei The protocol of the ceremony for in Tokyo on May 1. Empress Emerita Michiko, born Michiko released by Press in house in The emperor will wear a dark orange (imperial ordinance concerning the ascen- Emperor Naruhito will follow the prec- POOL / VIA KYODO Shoda, daughter of former president of November. tune with the robe called Korozen no goho, the design of sion to the imperial throne) promulgated edent set by his father Emperor Emeritus Nisshin Flour Milling Co., also broke prec- trends of the which dates back to the ninth century and in 1909 by . Akihito. edents in many ways. She was the first Key ceremony time.’’ is only worn by emperors for special cer- When Emperor Emeritus Akihito Prince Akishino, the emperor’s commoner to marry into the imperial fam- Tuesday’s Sokuirei Seiden no Gi is consid- Kenneth Ruoff, emonies. The color of the robe is meant to took over the throne from his late father younger brother, his wife Crown Princess ily. She also breastfed and raised children ered the most important among a series professor of mimic the color of the rising sun. Empress Emperor Showa in 1989, the government Kiko and other members of the imperial by herself instead of entrusting to the care history at Portland of enthronement-related ceremonies that State University Masako will be dressed in a layered court decided to modify the traditional imperial family will also wear traditional Japanese of court chamberlains. started in May as the new emperor will offi- during the ceremony. family rites to suit the spirit of the postwar clothing, while other participants are Such new practices have certainly been cially proclaim his enthronement before Though the ceremony adheres funda- Constitution. expected to wear morning dress. passed onto Emperor Naruhito, who many guests from Japan and abroad. mentally to the old traditional style, the One of the major changes was the attire During the ceremony, various banners Continued on page B4→

PAGE: 1 B2 | | Tuesday, October 22, 2019 Emperor Naruhito profile Ushering in an era of harmony between old and new

KYODO, STAFF REPORT Emperor Naruhito A friend from his time at the university Sanitation between 2007 and 2015. The emperor is known to have a number returns to his Aka- noted he is well-prepared and tempera- Having set himself the goal of finding of hobbies, including mountain climbing, Emperor Naruhito ascended the throne saka Estate residence mentally suited to the role he assumed a partner before turning 30, he married jogging, playing tennis and skiing. He plays on May 1, a day after his 85-year-old father, in Tokyo on May 1 after his father’s abdication, reflecting on Masako Owada, a career diplomat who viola and was part of an orchestra during now referred to as Emperor Emeritus Aki- after attending his early impressions of the royal figure spent her early childhood in and his time at . hito, became the first living Japanese mon- ceremonies marking then known as Prince Hiro. New York, at the slightly later age of 33, in The emperor has participated in a variety arch to abdicate in over 200 years. his accession to the “The are fortunate they June 1993. of events and rituals, both in and outside In accordance with his ascension, the throne at the Impe- have him as the emperor, that he represents “I will protect you with all my might for the Imperial Palace, sometimes on behalf of new imperial era of (meaning rial Palace. KYODO Japan,” said Keith George, an American law- the rest of your life,” the then- Emperor Emeritus Akihito in recent years. “beautiful harmony”) began, bringing the yer from Charleston, West Virginia, who said when proposing to her. In late May, the emperor and empress 30-year Heisei (meaning “achieving peace”) studied at Oxford for the same two years in Their wedding took place the following greeted U.S. President and Era to a close. the 1980s as Emperor Naruhito. year, and the couple’s only child, Princess first lady Melania as the first state guests of The 59-year-old earlier signaled his “ in some countries have Aiko, 17, was born on Dec. 1, 2001. the new era. intent to adapt to “the changing times,” scandals and erode moral standards, (but) while also saying his years with his parents Hiro doesn’t have that at all,” George said, would serve as “major guideposts” for him describing the new emperor as a “perfect Chronology of major events related to Emperor Naruhito’s life as he performs his nonpolitical duties as fit” to “maintain tradition but also respect Feb. 23, 1960 — Born the eldest son of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. the symbol of the state in the years ahead. change” during Reiwa. April 1978 — Enters Department of History, Faculty of Letters, Gakushuin University. In his first speech following ascension on The emperor’s research theme at Oxford April 1982 — Enters Graduate School of Humanities, Gakushuin University. May 1, the emperor vowed to fulfill his role was the history of transportation on the October 1983 to October 1985 — Studies in Britain at Merton College, . as the symbol of the state. River Thames. He published a paper titled Oct. 18, 1986 “In acceding to the throne, I swear that I “The Thames as a Highway” in 1989 and — Meets then-diplomat Masako Owada at reception for Princess Elena of will reflect deeply on the course followed by book of Chinese Confucian philosophy After advancing to the university’s was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws . his the emperor emeritus and bear and means “a man who acquires heavenly graduate school in April 1982, he studied degree by the university in 1991. March 1987 — Visits , where he develops interest in issues surrounding water. in mind the path trodden by past emperors, virtues.” for two years at the University of Oxford’s This expertise led to him serving as March 1988 — Completes first part of doctorate. and will devote myself to self-improvement,” Unlike his father who grew up away from Merton College from 1983 where he lived honorary president of the U.N. Secretary- Jan. 7, 1989 — Moves to first in line for throne upon death of Emperor , posthu- he said in his speech broadcast live on TV. his parents in line with imperial family cus- in a dormitory for the first time. General’s Advisory Board on Water and mously called Emperor Showa. “I will act according to the Constitution tom, Emperor Naruhito; his younger brother During his stay, he said he casually vis- Feb. 23, 1991 — Officially becomes crown prince after investiture as crown prince. and fulfill my responsibility as the symbol Crown Prince Akishino, 53; and younger sis- ited pubs and bought posters of American April 1992 — Becomes visiting research fellow of the Museum of History of Gakushuin of the state and of the unity of the people of ter Sayako Kuroda, 50, who left the imperial actresses Jane Fonda and Brooke Shields to University. Japan, while always turning my thoughts to household upon marrying Kuroda decorate his room. August 1992 — Crown Prince Naruhito, Masako Owada meet again at home of former the people and standing with them,” he said. in 2005, were raised by their parents. diplomat Kensuke Yanagiya. On the duties of a monarch, the emperor The emperor entered Gakushuin Uni- June 9, 1993 — Marries Masako Owada. has said he believes it would be essential to versity’s kindergarten in 1964 and attended February 1995 — Visits areas affected by the January Great Hanshin Earthquake. “stand by the people, listen to their voices the university’s elementary, junior high Dec. 1, 2001 — Daughter, Princess Aiko, is born. and be close to them in their thoughts.” and high schools; Gakushuin University Nov. 1, 2007 — Becomes honorary president of the U.N. Secretary-General’s Advisory Emperor Naruhito was born on Feb. 23, was initially established as a school for aris- Board on Water and Sanitation. 1960, as the eldest son of Emperor Emeritus tocrats in the . June 2011 Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko a “His majesty was gentle and always calm, — Visits , which was hit by the March 2011 Great East Japan year after their marriage. His now 85-year- and he naturally attracted people,” said Earthquake and tsunami. old mother, formerly known as Michiko Akihiko Imai, a friend of the emperor since March 2013 — Gives keynote speech at special U.N. session on water and disasters at Shoda, was the first crown princess who junior high school. U.N. headquarters in New York. was born an ordinary citizen. In 1978, the emperor enrolled in the uni- June 9, 2018 — Crown Prince Naruhito, Crown celebrate 25 years of His name Naruhito, given by his grand- versity’s Faculty of Letters, majoring in his- Crown Prince Naruhito plays the viola with Crown Prince Naruhito receives an honorary marriage. father Emperor Hirohito, posthumously tory. Before his graduation in 1982, he wrote national orchestra members in Ulaanbaatar Doctor of Laws degree from a University of May 1, 2019 — Ascends the throne upon the abdication of Emperor Emeritus Akihito. known as Emperor Showa, consists of two a diploma thesis on medieval water trans- during his official visit to Mongolia in July 2007. Oxford official at the university in September KYODO Chinese characters taken from an ancient port throughout Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. KYODO 1991. KYODO

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PAGE: B2 Tuesday, October 22, 2019 | The Japan Times | B3 Empress Masako profile

Empress Masako leaves the Imperial Palace after attend- Striving for the people’s happiness ing a ceremony marking her hus- band Emperor kyodo, STAFF REPORT , 87, a former vice foreign attended the ’s Faculty he had declared, “I will protect you with Naruhito’s ascension minister and judge at the International of Law to study politics before passing the all my might for the rest of your life.” This on May 1. KYODO Empress Masako is a Harvard University Court of Justice in The Hague. Japanese Foreign Ministry’s entrance exam time, he said he was unsure whether to alumna who also studied at the University Her father’s various assignments helped in 1986. propose to her again because he had begun of Oxford, serving as a career diplomat cultivate her international outlook from a In 1988, she was assigned a probation- questioning whether he could truly live up before marrying into the imperial family young age — she spent her early childhood ary diplomat role in the U.K. at the Japa- to the gravity of his words. over 25 years ago. in Moscow and New York before return- nese Embassy in and studied at The couple’s engagement became offi- The 55-year-old is the second com- ing to Tokyo and attending Denenchofu Oxford’s Balliol College for two years. cial in January 1993 and the two wed the moner after Empress Emerita Michiko, Futaba’s elementary, junior high and high Fluent in English, French and German, following June. Around 190,000 well- 85, to wed a crown prince. Her time as schools. In 1979, her family moved back the empress engaged in negotiations to wishers greeted the newlyweds during crown princess is largely characterized to the U.S. once more after her father was resolve Japan-U.S. trade disputes after a procession in central Tokyo. For some by her struggles to adapt to the rigid posted to the Japanese Embassy in Wash- returning to Japan. of the general public, she represented expectations of one of the world’s oldest ington and invited to Harvard as a visiting The empress is known to be good at soft- the potential for change in the imperial monarchies. professor of international law. ball, skiing and tennis. tradition. Born Masako Owada in Tokyo on Dec. After graduating from high school in the She first met then-Crown Prince However, over the next decade, the 9, 1963, she has two younger twin sisters U.S., the empress went on to major in inter- Naruhito in October 1986 at a party to wel- accumulated pressures that accompanied and is the eldest daughter of then-diplomat national at Harvard and later come Spain’s Princess Elena on a visit to her new role as crown princess would Japan. However, despite meeting several gradually take their toll. Instead of being more times over the next year, it was not able to continue applying her diplomatic Chronology of major events related to Empress Masako’s life until August 1992 that they encountered and language skills when carrying out her Dec. 9, 1963 — Born the eldest daughter of diplomat Hisashi Owada. each other again. duties, heavy expectations to produce a September 1981 — Enters Harvard University. He proposed to her in October of that male heir resulted in the Imperial House- year and, after turning him down because hold Agency preventing her from travel- empress said at a press conference in ment, the then-crown prince had shared June 1985 — Graduates from Harvard University. of indecision over leaving her career, she ing abroad. 2002. during a press conference that, “It is true April 1986 — Enters the University of Tokyo. eventually accepted in December 1992. “The situation in which I could not At present, Japan’s Imperial House Law that there were developments that denied Oct. 18, 1986 — Prince Naruhito, Masako Owada meet for the first time at reception to What won her over was his honest visit other countries for six years required limits imperial succession to males of the Masako’s career as a diplomat as well as welcome Spain’s Princess Elena. admission of his own worries. Initially, a great effort for myself to adjust,” the male line belonging to the imperial lineage. her personality.” His unexpected comment April 1987 — Joins the Foreign Ministry. There has been debate over whether to sparked a society-wide debate about the July 1988 — Moves to Britain to study at University of Oxford’s Balliol College. Masako Owada allow women of the imperial family to suc- Imperial Household Agency prioritizing August 1992 — Crown Prince Naruhito, Masako Owada meet again at home of former (standing), during ceed to the throne, but no substantial prog- the birth of male heirs. diplomat Kensuke Yanagiya. her days with the ress has been made. While she has mostly remained out of Oct. 3, 1992 — Crown Prince Naruhito proposes to Masako Owada for the first time at Japanese Foreign The couple’s only child, Princess Aiko, the spotlight since then, the empress has Shinhama Imperial Wild Duck Preserve in Ichikawa, . Ministry, serves as was born in 2001. The 17-year-old is cur- gradually expanded the scope of her pub- Dec. 12, 1992 — Accepts Crown Prince Naruhito’s second attempt. interpreter during a rently a third-year student at Gakushuin lic activities in recent years. These efforts Girls’ Senior High School in Tokyo and include visiting children at welfare facilities June 9, 1993 — Marries Crown Prince Naruhito. meeting between Japanese officials and shares her parents’ interest in learning and learning about animal therapy options November 1994 — The couple visit Middle Eastern countries on their first official over- U.S. Secretary of State about other countries. for sick children. seas trip. James Baker (left) in Following the birth of their daughter, the “I want to devote myself to the happi- Dec. 1, 2001 — Daughter, Princess Aiko, is born. Tokyo in November then-crown princess continued to experi- ness of the people, so I will make efforts March 11, 2011 — Massive earthquake, tsunami hit northeastern Japan, triggering nuclear 1991. KYODO ence pressure to produce a son and began to that end while gaining more expe- disaster in Fukushima. The couple visits those affected at evacuation centers in following receiving treatment for a physical and men- rience,” she said on her birthday last months. tal ailment in 2003. In 2004, the Imperial December. June 9, 2018 — Crown Prince Naruhito, Crown Princess Masako celebrate 25 years of Household Agency disclosed she had been “She must well understand other peo- marriage. diagnosed with adjustment disorder; fol- ple’s pain as she has suffered herself from May 1, 2019 — Becomes empress. lowing this, she withdrew from all official an adjustment disorder,” said an individual KYODO duties. familiar with her recent activities of inter- Two months prior to that announce- acting with sick children.

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of the Republic of Benin the Republic of the Republic of in Japan the Republic of Congo On behalf of the President of On behalf of the Government and People of On behalf of the government and On behalf of the president and the Republic and the people of Benin, Botswana, we congratulate people of Cameroon, I would like to convey the people of the Republic of Congo, I respectfully extend my heartfelt congratulations to Your the Emperor & Empress my most sincere wishes for peace and I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Ascendance to the Throne. success to Their Imperial Majesties Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on the occasion of Your Enthronement. Pula! Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. on Your Enthronement.

H.E. Makarimi Abissola Adechoubou H.E. Nkoloi Nkoloi H.E. Pierre Ndzengue H.E. Felix Ngoma Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of the Federal Embassy of the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire the Republic of Djibouti Democratic Republic of On behalf of the President and On behalf of the Government and people of I would like to congratulate On behalf of the Hellenic Republic the people of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire, the Republic of Djibouti, Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement. I have the honor to I wish longevity, happiness and excellent health to I would like to express my sincere I also express my sincere wish and hope that offer my warmest Congratulations to His Majesty Emperor Naruhito congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito the new Reiwa Era is one of comprehensive ties Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on his ascension to the . on Your Enthronement. for the two countries. on Your Enthronement

H.E. Jerome Kloh Weya H.E. Ahmed Araita Ali H.E. Kassa T. Gebrehiwet H.E. Constantin Cakioussis Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

PAGE: B3 B4 | The Japan Times | Tuesday, October 22, 2019 enthronement ceremony A duty to serving the nation, global society

→ Continued from page B1 did not experience it, I think that today, Emerita Michiko, who experienced the war his reign,” Watanabe said, referring to the married career diplomat Masako Owada. where memories of the war have started firsthand as children, made a series of visits shrine in Tokyo, which enshrines Class-A The couple is currently raising Princess to fade, it is important to look back in a to the sites of fierce battles and devastation war criminals alongside the souls of mil- Aiko by themselves. humble way on the past and correctly pass during the war, including , Peleliu lions of Japan’s war dead. Many experts expect that Emperor on the tragic experiences of war and the Island in and the , to pray “After all, the three main duties of the Naruhito will also inherit his father’s knowledge of the course of history that for the war victims. imperial household are to pray for peace, value of cherishing peace, and the remark Japan has followed, from the generation “Emperor Akihito was in a way taking on promote international exchanges and carry made by then-Crown Prince Naruhito on that experienced the war to those who a burden of bitter legacy left by Emperor on Japanese tradition and culture,” she his birthday in 2015 seems to back this have grown up without firsthand knowl- Showa. … He’s been to Okinawa many said, adding that these duties will continue expectation. edge of it,” he said. times to pray for the victims of war, but to be carried on by the new imperial cou- “Although I was born after the war and Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress he never went to during ple in the Reiwa Era. Emperor’s role in Reiwa Ceremony of the Enthronement of the Emperor Many predict that Emperor Naruhito, who Oct. 22, 2019 (Tue.) was educated at Oxford University, and at the Seiden State Hall From 1 p.m., approx. 30 mins Takamikura Michodai Empress Masako, who graduated from (Imperial throne) (August seat) Seiden Expected no. of dignitaries: Harvard University, are likely to approach Emperor Naruhito State Hall About 2,000 representatives various issues in society from even more participates in the of an international perspective than their opening ceremony of predecessors. an extraordinary “Consider Naruhito’s interest in water: Diet session in Tokyo What make this so interesting is that water on Oct. 4. AFP-JIJI Matsu-no-Ma State Room is not a pressing issue for Japan, as all Japa- nese have access to clean water. But water is a consuming issue for the billions of individuals around the world for whom accessing clean water is a daily challenge,” Gesshotoban Nisshotoban Embassy of (Moon flag) (Sun flag) said professor Ruoff of Portland State Ceremonial officials 18-step staircase University. the Republic of Iraq The emperor, while he was still the crown prince, served as honorary president On behalf of the Iraqi people and its government, of the Secretary-General’s I would like to extend my sincere and Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation Chrysanthemum heartfelt congratulations to Banzai flag flags from 2007 through 2015, and was interna- Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Swords tionally active in trying to solve this global issue. on the Chrysanthemum Enthronement. Bows Ceremonial “Although it is too early to conclude this Quivers item holders with certainty, it is likely that in the same Spears way that his father and mother devoted much of their reign to lending their pres- Shields tige to the most vulnerable members of Japanese society, (Emperor) Naruhito Gongs intends through the focus on water to lend his prestige to some of the most vulnerable Instrument players Courtyard members of global society to try to make a Drums difference in their lives,” Ruoff said. Spears H.E. Khalil Ismail Al Mosawi SOURCE: KYODO GRAPHIC Information from Kyodo added Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of to Japan the Republic of Namibia Nepal the Republic of the Philippines On behalf of the Italian Republic The Government and the people of Namibia, On behalf of the government and people of Nepal, The Philippines stands with Japan in I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations wish to convey sincere congratulations on I would like to extend my warmest congratulations joyous celebration of the Enthronement of to Your Majesty the Emperor Your Majesty’s accession to to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito. on the occasion of the Ceremonies of the Throne as well as continued good health on the occasion of Your Enthronement. May the Reiwa Era bring abiding peace and the Accession to the Throne and economic prosperity for Japan. profound harmony to all nations.

H.E. Giorgio Starace H.E. Morven M. Luswenyo H.E. Prativa Rana H.E. Jose C. Laurel V Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Royal Thai Embassy Embassy of Embassy of in Tokyo the Republic of Turkey the On behalf of the Thai people, On behalf of H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, On the auspicious occasion of the enthronement of I wish to express our warmest congratulations , Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito, on Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement. I extend my sincerest congratulations the government and people of the UAE extend May the close ties between our countries continue to on Emperor Naruhito’s Ascension to their sincere congratulations. May Japan enjoy peace and strengthen for years to come. the Throne and wish Japan peace and prosperity. prosperity in the new Reiwa Era. ASEAN Committee in Tokyo (ACT) ACT extends its heartfelt congratulations to Your Majesty the Emperor Naruhito on H.E. Bansarn Bunnag H.E. Hasan Murat Mercan H.E. Khaled Alameri the occasion of the eminent ceremony of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Your Majesty’s Enthronement.

PAGE: B4 Tuesday, October 22, 2019 | The Japan Times | B5 the pastrevisited Old friend details life with emperor

Eriko Arita found it very difficult to say Jii to the prince. known the emperor, he has been positive staff writer So I maybe called him Jii a couple of times. and never said anything bad about anybody. But I think he liked his nickname.” “He is always very positive and always Meeting Emperor Naruhito in person is a During the excursion to Hokuriku, Ark- sees a positive outcome for everything.” Such limited opportunity for regular people, a ley was surprised to see a crowd of around characteristics, Arkley believes, were greatly majority of whom have only seen his sol- 1,000 locals welcoming the emperor at influenced by the emperor’s upbringing. emn expression at ceremonies or gentle Kanazawa Station. Although met with “I think his parents did a remarkable job smile at receptions. However, Andrew B. a mass of people waiting for him, the of raising their children. Not just him, but Arkley, an old friend and schoolmate, has emperor spent his time as any other student also Prince Akishino and Sayako-sama (for- shed some light on the emperor’s natural did by visiting geographical spots, as well mer Princess Sayako). Such a warm family self to The Japan Times, including his friend- as chatting and laughing with each other and environment,” said Arkley who has liness and nickname in high school. until late at night at inns, said Arkley, who met the emperor’s family members. “He is always smiling and he is always detailed this and many other episodes with Arkley said warm familial relations were very warm and thoughtful, and he goes out the emperor in his recent book in Japanese also a factor in the abdication of Emperor of his way to make people fit in and feel “Heika, kyo wa naniwo hanashimasho” Emeritus Akihito in April. He described it as comfortable. He is the epitome of thought- (“Your Majesty, what shall we talk about a marvelous change of style for the emperor fulness,” said Arkley, the general manager today?”) to abdicate when he was still healthy, which of a medical clinic in Yokohama and former The book shared how much the emperor in turn gave people a chance to say thank Australian trading company owner. loved going on trips with his fellow students you, and welcome the new emperor with- As an exchange student of the Rotary as he wrote a Japanese and English poem on out going through bereavement. Club then, the native entered another excursion in a letter to Arkley when “I think it’s wonderful and so typical of the Andrew B. Arkley, an Australian friend of Emperor Naruhito, holds a handwritten poem and message Gakushuin University’s high school in he went back to . The poem went: way that family looks after each other. And from the emperor in 1976 at his home in Yokohama on Sept. 19 . Satoko Kawasaki Tokyo in April 1975 as a second year stu- “The hour for putting out lights was over, of course, there were probably many rea- dent and one of the school’s first non- Andrew B. Arkley’s “Heika, kyo wa naniwo We were, however, chatting with each other, sons why the emperor wanted to abdicate. He is man of honor,” Arkley said and main- lomat and speaks English and other lan- Japanese pupils. Arkley had known the hanashimasho” (“Your Majesty, what shall we A bear shouted out ‘Go to sleep sooner.’” One reason I am sure is because he wanted tained he wasn’t surprised when in 2004, guages very fluently, the imperial couple are emperor, then-Prince Naruhito, was talk about today?”) published by Subarusya Corp. “This is an example of how he likes to give his son the opportunity to become the emperor obliquely accused the Imperial more outreaching to foreign countries and among the first-year students, but couldn’t poetry and his sense of humor,” Arkley emperor before he got too old. So it’s been Household Agency, which administers all acting as something like diplomats while tell who the prince was because every stu- And I said ‘Can we be friends?’ And he said said. “The emperor, the prince at that time, such a happy event and I know the new affairs of the imperial family, of suppressing also working on domestic issues in Japan. dent wore the same school uniform. ‘With pleasure,’” Arkley said, adding that loves telling jokes. He is very humorous. emperor must be ready to take on his role.” his former diplomat wife’s wish to make “As we all know, the previous emperor Arkley took a German class that com- the prince’s amiable aura made him feel And that’s why maybe he is smiling a lot.” Since he was young, Emperor Naruhito overseas trips and thereby negating her and empress also spoke fluent English. The bined both first and second year students, they could easily become friends. After corresponding with the emperor, was the kind of person to try and see personality. new emperor and empress have much and one of the first-year students that he “From a distance, he looks like anyone Arkley came back to Japan in 1977 and things through, said Arkley. He expressed It is believed the agency’s policy of reduc- more opportunities studying and living befriended introduced the prince to him. else. But when you meet him, he is very went to a school his hope for the emperor to continue his ing her foreign trips to let her concentrate overseas, ... not just learning languages but “I said: ‘hajimemashite’ (very nice to meet friendly. His eyes are looking at you and attached to Tokyo University of Foreign research into water matters, which he has on giving birth to a male heir caused her also firsthand experience of learning dif- you). I think I spoke to him in Japanese. understanding you. You could feel his Studies. At that time, he often visited the devoted himself to. This passionate and stress and she was diagnosed with a type of ferent cultures and societies,” said Arkley. warmth,” he reflected on his first impression emperor at the palace at the . serious attitude toward research and duties mental illness later in the year. “And of course, at this age in Japan, the of the imperial figure who was called “Miya- “And we usually spoke in English, and also extends to his wife, Empress Masako, But in recent years, the empress has been working labor force is becoming smaller sama” (Prince) at the school. “He is always the reason I went was to let him practice Arkley added, referring to what the steadily recovering and she has joined the and the elderly (population is) becoming like that when he is talking to anybody.” his English conversation ... we discussed emperor said to her when he proposed. emperor’s duties. In May she attracted bigger, there are going to be needs for for- After their first meeting, Arkley had different things ... And he might have asked “He said, when he got married, ‘Bokuga attention through her native-level English eign people. Japan has to think about Japan more chances to speak with the emperor me some questions,” said Arkley, explain- issho zenryokude omamorishimasu’ (‘I will when she welcomed U.S. President Donald and the world. In that sense, I think the as they belonged to the school’s geography ing the emperor had free time before protect you with all my might for the rest of Trump and first lady dur- new emperor and empress will be setting club. During the club’s excursion to the entering Gakushuin University. “It was your life’). ’t take that lightly. He is very ing their state visit to Japan. a remarkable example (of understanding Hokuriku region, an area facing the Sea of an opportunity for him to concentrate on serious when he says something like that. Arkley said, as the empress was a dip- people from other countries).” Japan, the emperor talked about his nick- other things like studying English, which name “Jii” to Arkley. While the Australian he knew of course was going to be so said he didn’t know what Jii meant then, he important for him in the future. But to me, I heard from the emperor why he was nick- didn’t feel it a burden but a real pleasure. It Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito named that several years later. was such a lovely experience.” on Your Enthronement “During his junior high school days, he Although they met less for their English was walking on the school grounds and sessions as the emperor became busy with passed one of the neighbors’ backyard. And university, Arkley had been invited to the there was a . And he said to his friends, palace many times when the emperor held ‘Nakanaka ii edaburi dane’ (‘The tree has parties, he said. And as the emperor became quite a handsome foliage’). And his friends more occupied with his official duties and Andrew B. Arkley and Emperor Naruhito during said: ‘Your taste is something like of ojiisan family after he married Masako Owada in Embassy of their high school’s geography club trip to (an old man). Let’s call you Jii (old man). 1993, Arkley was only able to meet him the Islamic Republic of Prefecture in 1975 Andrew B. Arkley That’s how it started,” Arkley said. “To me, I twice since then. He said all the time he has Emperor Naruhito and Andrew B. Arkley in 1989 Andrew B. Arkley H.E. Bashir Mohabbat Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement

Embassy of the People's Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Democratic Republic of Algeria the Republic of Angola the Republic of Honduras the Islamic Republic of Iran H.E. Mohamed El Amine Bencherif H.E. Rui Orlando Ferreira de Ceita da Silva Xavier H.E. Alejandro Palma Cerna H.E. Morteza Rahmani Movahed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of the Republic of the Republic of the Republic of the Republic of Maldives H.E. Solomon K. Maina H.E. Blamoh Nelson H.E. Grenenger K.M. Banda H.E. Ibrahim Uvais Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique the Republic of the Union of Myanmar the Republic of the State of H.E. Jose Maria Morais H.E. Myint Thu H.E. Radoslaw Tyszkiewicz H.E. Hassan Bin Mohammed Rafei Al-Emadi Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement on Your Enthronement

Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania the Republic of Togo the Kingdom of the Republic of Zimbabwe John F. Kambona A. Kouakou Sedaminou H.E. Tania Laumanulupe 'o Talafolika Fusitu'a H.E. Titus M.J. Abu-Basutu Charge d'Affaires a.i. Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

PAGE: B5 B6 | The Japan Times | Tuesday, October 22, 2019 life in photos

Crown Prince Naruhito and Emperor Akihito at the Chowa Den building in the Imperial Palace on Dec. 23. Right: Emperor Naruhito, Empress Top: (From left) Crown Prince Akihito, Prince Akishino, Prince Masako and their daughter, Princess Aiko, take a stroll with their dog Naruhito, Princess Sayako and Crown Princess Michiko in November Yuri at the Nasu Imperial Villa in on Aug. 19. 1972. Above: Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako KYODO / POOL / VIA KYODO with their daughter, Princess Aiko, on the grounds of the Akasaka Estate in Tokyo on Nov. 19, 2002. KYODO / IMPERIAL HOUSEHOLD AGENCY / VIA KYODO

Congratulations to Your Majesty Emperor Naruhito on Your Enthronement

PRESIDENT: SATOSHI IHARA Homat Royal Suite 101, 14-11, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 Telephone: 81-3-3584-6171 Facsimile: 81-3-3505-0939 E-mail: [email protected] http://sunrealty.jp/

Prince Naruhito and U.S. President Ronald Reagan at the White Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako with other guests following the of House on Oct. 11, 1985. Left: Prince Naruhito in traditional Dutch King Willem-Alexander at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam on April 30, 2013. Below: Crown attire to celebrate his coming of age in February 1980. Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako speak with individuals affected by the 2011 Great AP / VIA KYODO / KYODO East Japan Earthquake and tsunami at a temporary housing facility in Shichigahama, Miyagi Prefecture, on Aug. 20, 2013. POOL / VIA AP / VIA KYODO / KYODO

Crown Prince Naruhito delivers a speech at the World Water Forum in Brasilia on March 19, 2018. KYODO

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