Princess Hisako Takamado and Family: News and Pictures

[Prisma]

photos of Princess Tsuguko at the 2022 Empress's Cup All Japan Volleyball Championship Final on December 18:

https://twitter.com/x/status/1609716967321260032

 

[Prisma]

On January 5th, Princess Hisako visited the 62nd All Japan Society World Orchid Exhibition 2023 "The Orchid is All" at Sunshine City Bunka Kaikan in Tokyo.

Photo: tokyoorchidnursery.com

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Photos from Princess Hisako's interview with Fujin Gaho magazine for its New Year Special

She spoke about environmental destruction and peace, which can be seen from birds, and about photographing birds and netsuke in the series.

Source: https://www.fujingaho.jp/culture/in...6/takamadonomiyahidenka-interview2023-230101/

https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/images/fg2301-tain-03-01-high-1670909923.jpg
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-pro...2301-tain-03-02-2-1200-0-72-80-1670829994.jpg
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-pro...2301-tain-03-03-2-1200-0-72-80-1670830702.jpg

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More photos of Ikebana International Fair 2022 on December 12

https://ikebanatokyo.or.jp/category/fair/fair-2022/

 

[Prisma]

On January 19th, Princess Hisako visited Wakamiya Shrine within the Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. She offered tamagushi and toured the National Treasure Hall. Wakamiya Shrine completed its every 20 years repairs in fall 2022 (and Princess Kako attended the conclusion).

Princess Hisako also visited the special exhibition on the Shikinen Reconstruction at Nara National Museum.

Photos: AP Images, Asahi, nara-np.co.jp

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More photos of Princess Hisako's unofficial visit (November 26 to December 3) to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022.

She visited 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/BusinessStartUpQatar/posts/pfbid02pzdNF1hJYDTbeskF6HYQZnxRWdFW96mxFCy3TYVKfNLazreD3BNJN18pudyJYHmkl

 

[Prisma]

Princess Hisako will give a special netsuke presentation on February 8 at the Tokyo American Club (TAC) ahead of its 95th anniversary in May.

Club 95th Anniversary TAC Talk: Princess Takamado - Fitness & Recreation | Tokyo American Club

[...]

In a special presentation titled “The Seasonal Tales of Netsuke,” the Japanese royal will discuss her passion for netsuke, the traditional fasteners that were hung from obi kimono sashes.

The princess’ late husband, Prince Takamado, accumulated a collection of hundreds of netsuke, which were exhibited last year at the Tokyo National Museum. The prince was also a supporter of contemporary netsuke artisans.

[...]

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FNN article about Princess Hisako at the "AED Promotion Forum 2022" on December 13.

 

[Prisma]

On January 27th, Princess Hisako attended the Tableware Festival 2023 opening ceremony and preview at Tokyo Dome.

Photos: AP Images
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=5794826870604259&set=pcb.5794839257269687

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Princess Hisako attended a piano concert at the Embassy of Belgium, hosted by Ambassador of Belgium, H.E. Mrs. Roxane de Bilderling, and her spouse on January 14. "Belgium pianist Philippe Raskin, who is of Ukrainian and Russian descent, guided the audience through a 'melancholic' journey of European piano masterpieces."

Photo: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cna3nqKtTDR/
https://scontent-sjc3-1.cdninstagra...KcVetVP2FTasoVatoA&oe=63D992BF&_nc_sid=1527a3

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On October 22nd, Princess Hisako attended the 34th Starry Sky City / Blue Sky Town National Convention in Mitaka City, Tokyo.
Photo:

https://www.facebook.com/asuka.shino.3/posts/pfbid0eQphfYpVNzge2CnS7CXJJJ6QczzjMiQFxt1h8sNLYVPEdQyvY986R7b2D5pZLvoWl

Later, Princess Hisako visited Mitaka Campus of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.

Photos: NAOJ

 

[Prisma]

On January 28th, Princess Hisako attended the Empress’s Cup JFA 44th All Japan Women’s Football Championship Final (Nippon TV Tokyo Verdy Beleza vs INAC Kobe Leonessa) at Yodoko Sakura Stadium in Osaka Prefecture.

Photo: https://sakanowa.jp/topics/nadeshiko/68647/5

On January 27th, Princess Hisako attended the Tableware Festival 2023 opening ceremony and preview at Tokyo Dome.

Photos: AP Images
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=5794826870604259&set=pcb.5794839257269687

[...]

More photos:

https://www.facebook.com/yoshiaki.matsuo.3/posts/pfbid0YTms8TNf2z1bCZurQzUqLfQZCvgxqMNGbEpViyesmPFoQ2BDhRNd9X4AvggP2uiNl

Princess Hisako will give a special netsuke presentation on February 8 at the Tokyo American Club (TAC) ahead of its 95th anniversary in May.

Club 95th Anniversary TAC Talk: Princess Takamado - Fitness & Recreation | Tokyo American Club

"Ahead of her TAC Talk on February 8, Princess Takamado discusses her twin passions for the craftsmanship of Japanese netsuke and photographing nature in the brand-new issue of INTOUCH Magazine"

February 2023 INTOUCH Magazine by Tokyo American Club - Issuu

https://www.facebook.com/tokyoamericanclub/posts/pfbid0zdMqkuNNraeNyLN5sKSd88YBPex5FWArRmmzHB2PtV4Cjua2afmC4Wj6pisDVK7cl

https://twitter.com/x/status/1620512519717617665

https://twitter.com/x/status/1620682330544414720

Full article: Small but Perfectly Formed | Tokyo American Club

 

[Prisma]

On February 8th, Princess Hisako attended the opening ceremony of Japan Grand Prix International Orchid and Flower Show 2023 "Festival of Flowers and Greenery" at Tokyo Dome Prism Hall. Her speech offered condolences and wishes for quick recovery after earthquakes in Turkey. Regarding the invasion of Ukraine, Princess Hisako said, "I pray that many people who have been hurt and who are working hard to protect their homeland will find peace in their daily lives as soon as possible." .

Her second daughter, Noriko Senge, served as an honorary advisor to the executive committee and presented certificates of commendation to the winners.

Photos/info/video: AP Images, NTV, TBS, FNN

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Princess Hisako with actor and singer Norika Fujiwara at Tableware Festival 2023 at Tokyo Dome on January 27.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoMSLE4y1Ra/

https://www.facebook.com/norika.fujiwara628/posts/pfbid033rf7H8xWJ5YDGKBnL8wfLyM59pKLQrdGQPq2nzV6o6HTAQKdtDz6F5FY6CbqN1WSl

 

[Prisma]

On February 8th, Princess Hisako gave a special netsuke presentation at the Tokyo American Club (TAC) ahead of its 95th anniversary in May.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/tokyoamericanclub/posts/pfbid0252hSYKyZcv7B1Xj5a53V2zQey1sGvw4UiF51FzEB43rVUD8v1SKA3Z5iJBZq4baGl

https://twitter.com/x/status/1623605754723966979

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Princess Hisako attended a party at Tokyo Daijingu in early February. Possibly a charity event for BirdLife International? She's holding a face mask with bird design and autographed a shirt. A painting and bottles of wine are nearby.

Photos/video shared on February 4 and 7:

https://www.facebook.com/kubo.satoki/posts/pfbid0jUSajRJHaJ7KktwE1fq7K7vGFwCSaRbFJDfUnjCQowmbyt7xrEgAfE4eaUZTjGWLl

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoXEMtnyNJl/

 

[iceflower]

Princess Hisako attended the FUJIFILM Super Cup between Yokohama F･Marinos and Ventforet Kofu at the National Stadium in Tokyo today, February 11:


** Pic **

 

[Prisma]

On February 24th, Princess Hisako attended the 30th Yomiuri Theater Awards at the Imperial Hotel in Chiyoda, Tokyo.

Photos: Yomiuri, Nikkansports

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Princess Hisako and Princess Astrid of Belgium attended a Kyudo demonstration at the Chuo Dojo in Tokyo on December 10, 2022 when the Belgian princess led an economic mission to Japan in early December.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/kenji.tanaka.526/posts/pfbid02p8JZxaPLNqgsbNA3qqVLBQsCgwkNz6ABKiZbLwSUeoHKLBDeCcsYMv5AjPWeSdFAl

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Princess Hisako's special netsuke presentation at the Tokyo American Club (TAC) on February 8.

 

[Prisma]

On February 20th, Princess Hisako attended a tea ceremony in coordination with her patronage Ikebana International at the Embassy of Tunisia.

"On this occasion, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado commended Tokyo Chapter of "II" for its commitment to the development of art, culture and human exchange. She also expressed her appreciation to Tunisia as President of the 2022 edition of Ikebana International Fair 2022 and to those who contributed to the success of this Fair organized in December 2022 in Tokyo."

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/TunisiaEmbassy.jp/posts/pfbid0zPqGX1Ar84kPMzGhdDpTGrTHwDizaNozuvfERFNeyDc7tmBJD9vPxCzzn6QhFm3ul

https://twitter.com/x/status/1630449057067040768

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On February 26th, Princess Hisako attended the Prince Takamado 2022 Hockey Japan League Women’s Season Final at Oi Hockey Stadium in Shinagawa, Tokyo.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1629735123695599616

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

Another photo of Princess Tsuguko at the 2nd Global Youth Forum for the Culture of Lawfulness on 3 December 2022.

Source: Moj.go

 

[Prisma]

On February 22nd, Princess Hisako attended the 2022 Japan Foundation Global Citizenship Awards Ceremony in Minato, Tokyo.

Photos: AFLO Images

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Prince Takamado Japan Centre's Facebook post:

Exciting news! University of Alberta President Bill Flanagan recently met with Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and Ambassador Ian McKay (Embassy of Canada to Japan) in #Tokyo to discuss the collaboration between #UAlberta and Japanese institutions facilitated by the Japan-Canada Academic Consortium. [...]

Photo:

https://www.facebook.com/PTJCUA1/posts/pfbid02o1mQp6HwTy58uW5BPYFTy6FYv2kX2qGppPPyh9Likni5i6cVJ99yaKFmTZBKqjS8l

https://twitter.com/x/status/1630695918230970371

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On March 1st, Princess Hisako visited the special exhibition "Painting Love in the Louvre Collections" at the National Art Center in Minato, Tokyo. She spent an hour appreciating the artworks, listening to Japanese and French curators in English.

Photo/video: Yomiuri, NTV

 

[Prisma]

Princess Tsuguko attended a ceremony commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Croatia and Japan at the Croatian Embassy on March 5 (I think? Tweeted on March 6 early morning for me and then I used timezone converter...)

Yesterday we celebrated 30 years of unwavering diplomatic ties between Croatia and Japan. The esteemed presence of H.I.H. Princess Tsuguko of Takamado and other distinguished guests who have contributed significantly to our relations made the event even more special.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1632718273652596737

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

Princess Tsuguko attended a ceremony commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Croatia and Japan at the Croatian Embassy on March 5 (I think? Tweeted on March 6 early morning for me and then I used timezone converter...)

https://twitter.com/x/status/1632718273652596737

It's good to see Princess Tsuguko again! What a nice surprise to see her at the embassy. Tomorrow, moreover, she celebrates 37 years! Hope to see more photos from the event at the embassy.
Thanks a lot Prisma!

 

[Prisma]

another photo of Princess Tsuguko at the Croatian Embassy on March 5 (confirmed date! yay!)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Croatia - Piano concert by Yoko Nishii and a reception at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Tokyo on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Croatia and Japan

As part of the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Croatia and Japan, a concert by pianist Yoko Nishii was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Tokyo on Sunday, March 5, 2023. The event was graced by the presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Tsuguko of Takamado and officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and other institutions as well as cities and companies connected to Croatia. [...]

https://mvep.gov.hr/userdocsimages//slike/dmku/JP/Koncert1.jpg

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On March 7th, Princess Hisako attended the Takamadonomiya Hockey Japan League Awards 2022 ceremony at Meiji Kinenkan in Minato, Tokyo.

Photos: https://hjl-hockey.tv/news/2023/03/07/20698/

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As Honorary President of BirdLife International, Princess Hisako attended an interview with Yomiuri Shimbun at the Takamado residence on March 8.

Photos: AP Images

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ETA: On March 10th, Princess Hisako attended the "77th JOGA (Japan Orchid Growers Association) Orchid Exhibition" Opening Ceremony and Preview at Hanamidori Cultural Center in Kokuei Showa Memorial Park in Tachikawa, Tokyo.

Photos: https://www.tokyoorchidnursery.com/2023/03/10/joga洋らん展入賞花/

https://twitter.com/x/status/1634121976448180227

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

More photos of Princess Tsuguko at the 60th All Japan Hospital Association conference held at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba on 6 October 2018.

Source: Ajha.or.jp

 

[Prisma]

Princess Hisako visited Kyoto Prefecture March 11-12 for the Emperor's Cup 34th National Wheelchair Ekiden Race.

March 11: opening ceremony at the Prince Kyoto Takaragaike hotel
March 12: start from Kyoto International Conference Center, finish at Takebishi Stadium, and awards ceremony at Kyoto Municipal Gymnasium

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/toshihiro.takahashi.733/posts/pfbid0bmnmuUWxAgPvpM7CZxieH2QzwPdbm5ARif4z5ZupqksiMtgLUMoN9UQ22jHFNYayl

https://www.facebook.com/kadokawadaisaku/posts/pfbid02zzgD8X8AUiJeXj5e9d2zsefqicW8MvGi6au2xhXytPfZAwfPFqBgHXHpXSFJwveQl

https://www.facebook.com/takao.yoshida.79/posts/pfbid0PuL3Gd2btEyUgS5f7ZKvZZrct4isx3JsVEN4BCoPZmD8mbDzD6K8uFPtKnYQ6GDal

https://www.facebook.com/takao.yoshida.79/posts/pfbid02LvfdaytkhXgVWTMZSi1AxKNpqwKNdpwxMmYb2DgodRyaAFSr1Uue5dCqZzW9T8GNl

https://www.facebook.com/kadokawadaisaku/posts/pfbid02kspWJ9m7QCSCcb5eTzYRF4vc1MMsMQehBqbATnauKq58QdcoXGDqTJALTpaiWbxul

https://www.facebook.com/kadokawada...1GywRqMgGVGVzfjG2tfFtP8yEUY4wkSC8ikbTJ3qAqvyl

https://twitter.com/yoshidash_komei/status/1634509820601724929
https://twitter.com/yoshidash_komei/status/1634804378556325888

ETA: Princess Hisako also enjoyed tea provided by Tea Ceremony Urasenke Tankokai Kyoto Four Youth Group Federation at the opening ceremony.

Photos: https://www.facebook.com/kyoto4sein...DwCQ3qNWd32DAAMdop8qfUTg4ijev929DzJPF5c172krl

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Back on February 17th, Princess Hisako attended the Trophy Awards Ceremony for 25th Japan Wine Challenge at the Conrad Tokyo hotel. Over 1,200 wines from 21 countries were entered and judged November 2-5, 2022.

Photos: https://www.facebook.com/grofdegenf...etM1Z3hPCJNt1q35TH63d3NQtopUiz9M4ExGYedwpFAbl
https://www.facebook.com/nagai.nori...GewmFfbFY3B1NTL5ofBaX7e27cY5dwKrWTdd7eDDM5tHl

 

[Prisma]

More photos of Princess Hisako in Kyoto Prefecture for the Emperor's Cup 34th National Wheelchair Ekiden Race: https://www.world-ac.jp/race/10710

She appears a few times in the livestream:

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ETA: On March 15th, Princess Hisako attended the opening ceremony of the "Japan Through Diplomats' Eyes 2022: Japan - on the move" photo exhibition at Minato Mirai Gallery in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. This is the last stop for the 2022 / 25th photo exhibition which opened in Tokyo in October and traveled to Kobe and Nagoya.

Following the government's removal of mask guidelines for COVID-19 on March 13, leaving the decision to personal choice, Princess Hisako is the first Imperial family member to be mask-less at a public event. She removed her mask when she sat down.

Photo: NHK

https://twitter.com/x/status/1635925169461133313

 

[Prisma]

Princess Tsuguko visited Miyazaki Prefecture May 11-13, 2022 as part of UNICEF Caravan, sponsored by the Japan Committee for UNICEF, to raise awareness of children’s situations globally and UNICEF activities.

- meeting with Miyazaki's UNICEF branch
- presentations at elementary and middle school
- workshops for prefectural teachers
- meeting local government officials

Photos: https://unicef-miyazaki.jp/?p=4416

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Suzuki Method’s November 2022 issue: In Memory of His Imperial Highness Prince Norihito Takamado (includes some photos)

Cello instructor Yoshihiko Terada and piano instructor Sakiko Ishikawa remember the late Prince on the 20th anniversary of his death.

- Prince Takamado had a deep understanding of the Suzuki Method and has greatly contributed to its development
- Prince Takamado began studying cello in August 1993 with Terada using the Suzuki method
- His friend cellist Yo-Yo Ma and then-Emperor Akihito both recommended he study cello before turning 40
- Daughters Tsuguko, Noriko, and Ayako received violin lessons from Yuko Suzuki and piano lessons from Shizuko Suzuki
- Princess Hisako received violin lessons
- He had a good sense of pitch and when his daughters began cello lessons, he'd quietly enter the room with his cello and accompany them ad-lib
- He could only practice cello about 30 minutes a week due to official duties
- Tsuguko listened to her father practicing the first volume of cello instruction "French Folk Songs,” and took up her violin to play along, having memorized the cello music which was not included in the violin teaching songbook
- Terada was chairman of the executive committee for the Grand Concert (1995-1997) and began a campaign to get used instruments from Suzuki members, repair them and sent to developing countries
- However, he did not know how to arrange safe transport to various countries and consulted with Prince Takamado, who made introductions to the Ambassadors of Argentina and Mexico
- Princesses Tsuguko, Noriko, and Ayako and other children played for the First Lady of Mexico during the 1997 state visit
- Prince and Princess Takamado attended a Grand Concert with Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako in 1997
- Prince and Princess Takamado attended a Grand Concert with Grand Duke Jean and Grand Duchess Josephine-Charlotte during the 1999 state visit

- Around 1996, Sakiko Ishikawa took over the daughters' piano lessons from her grandmother Shizuko Suzuki
- Her mother Yuko was teaching the princesses violin and Sakiko had many opportunities to join the Takamado family at recitals and branch activities
- Prince and Princess Takamado were like piano instructors and considered family (Shizuko's grandchild, Yuko's child)
- Sakiko remembers a surprise coincidence when Prince Takamado attended the same Yo-Yo Ma's concert at Suntory Hall
- Prince Takamado played Saint-Saëns' "The Swan" with Sakiko accompanying on piano at grandmother Shizuko’s birthday celebration
- Sakiko, Yuko, and Prince Takamaro visited local sake shops
- When Sakiko said she wanted to get married during a chat, Prince Takamado mentioned a potential candidate despite an age difference. Unfortunately, the Prince passed away before he could make introductions.
- Sakiko is still single. Her mother Yuko died last year.
- 3 generations of Suzuki are thankful for his great care of them
- Sakiko “would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Princesses Hisako, Tsuguko, Noriko, and Ayako, who are still connected to us today.”

 

[Prisma]

A few more photos of Princess Hisako at the "Japan Through Diplomats' Eyes 2022: Japan - on the move" photo exhibition opening ceremony in Yokohama on March 15.

https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/mayor/photodiary/2022/202303/20230315-2.html

https://www.facebook.com/shinobu.abe.315/posts/pfbid0ReMV29USYNowHreE6x4ExWSEWYVDaHsyM75hxuyGHAbCeFY8K4SiYujo3uwKmNbvl

https://www.facebook.com/venezuelainjpn/posts/pfbid02tbay1urHnsTX6pYK5fzrACV3V2XLLUCcv4wJvtV3FayDvy1wjmseN2ajX8rk9Zwul

https://twitter.com/x/status/1638352202967420930

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On March 17th, Princess Hisako attended the BirdLife Spring Gala 2023 at Hotel New Otani Osaka.

2nd photo at https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp5A4bIv0nZ/

 

[Prisma]

On March 14th, Princess Hisako attended a luncheon hosted by the AWAAJ (Association of Wives of African Ambassadors in Japan) at the official residence of the Ambassador of Algeria.

Photos: https://algerianembassy-japan.jp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/f59b35182975ae354284f315b353e8ef.pdf

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On March 20th, Princess Hisako attended the 53rd World Children's Art Exhibition awards ceremony at Tokyo National Museum in Taito, Tokyo.

Source: Yomiuri

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Found a photo of Princess Tsuguko on October 9, 2022 arriving at the gymnastics venue in Motegi Town, Tochigi Prefecture during the National Sports Festival. She was gifted "Yuzumo," the yuzu fruit mascot of Motegi.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1640641118181421056

https://twitter.com/x/status/1218732221911027712

Found a photo of Princess Tsuguko at Sakura City Museum on October 9 when she visited Tochigi Prefecture for the 77th National Sports Festival.

https://www.city.tochigi-sakura.lg.jp/government/000049/000295/p002965.html

[...]

Princess Tsuguko visited Tochigi Prefecture October 8-9 for the 77th National Sports Festival.
- canoe slalom in Shioya Town
- volleyball in Kanuma City
- gymnastics in Motegi Town
- archery in Nasukarasuyama City
- Sakura City Museum

Photos: https://www.shimotsuke.co.jp/articles/-/644060

[...]

 

[Prisma]

On March 27th, Princess Hisako attended the funeral of Chikage Oogi at Zojoji Temple in Minato, Tokyo. Oogi, who died on March 9 at age 89, was the first female President of the House of Councillors and a former Takarazuka performer.

Video: 9:37 at

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On March 27th, Princess Hisako attended the "Asiatic Society of Japan's annual meeting / 150th anniversary special lecture" held at the Embassy of Poland in Meguro, Tokyo. The Ambassador of Poland delivered the special lecture.

Princess Hisako visited Osaka Prefecture March 28-29 to attend the football match between Japan and Colombia held at Yodoko Sakura Stadium in Osaka City.

Sources: Sankei Imperial Weekly 788, Asahi Imperial Schedule March 27-April 2

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On April 1st, Princess Hisako was appointed Honorary President of Japan Volleyball Association at its request. She has attended various competitions such as the "Emperor's Cup / Empress's Cup All Japan Volleyball Championships." She was already appointed Honorary Patron of the Mamasan Volleyball Federation Nippon in 2020. Princess Hisako now has some 30 honorary positions and the Japan Volleyball Association is her 11th patronage in sports.

Sources: Sankei, Jiji, NTV

 

[Prisma]

On March 31st, Princess Hisako attended the photo selection meeting of "Arab Countries through Japanese Diplomats' Eyes Photo Exhibition 2023." This is a competition for photographs taken by Japanese diplomats stationed in Arab countries.

Luxembourg Finance Minister Pierre Gramegna, who started the Japan through Diplomats' Eyes Exhibition 25 years ago when he was Ambassador to Japan, also attended.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/venezuelainjpn/posts/pfbid0UDYTCTbVeJxNj2u7pvQ9GYMk1HF2J9V8wF3LqzQkTt5F9WhDUVdMmjzS2cormEjRl

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqkPfCKrZW_/

https://twitter.com/x/status/1642795647471620096

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On April 4th, Princess Hisako attended the "Japan through Diplomats' Eyes 2023" Promotional Event hosted by the Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/venezuelainjpn/posts/pfbid02m5QhMvbLqMCn5jCWQo2Qam6Kk2tyfxC4zJtdLCMotbAQ82rPxHa8PMnmPcNTNnknl

https://twitter.com/x/status/1643162394578010112

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqpJ5OYs28m/

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ETA: On February 27th, Princess Hisako attended the closing ceremony and reception of the 14th Japan-Canada Academic Consortium Student Forum at the Embassy of Canada.

[...]

The 14th Japan-Canada Academic Consortium Student Forum was held at Josai International University
from February 21 to March 1, 2023. The purpose of the Forum is to deepen mutual understanding
through group work among students selected from 17 Japanese and Canadian universities that
are members of the Japan-Canada Academic Consortium (JACAC).

[...]

The Closing Ceremony and Reception were held at the Embassy of Canada in the presence of
Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado on February 27. Following the enthusiastic presentations
by the six groups, three professors and one embassy official judged the presentations and decided on
the group to receive the Best Presentation Award, which was then announced at the Closing Ceremony.
The four members of the best group made a further presentation in front of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, after which Her Imperial Highness presented them with Certificates of Commendation and shared a few words.

The Canadian Ambassador also gave commemorative gifts to the winners.

[...]

Photos: https://www.jiu.ac.jp/cie/news/detail/id=13656
https://www.seinan-gu.ac.jp/news/2023/14677.html

 

[Prisma]

On April 21st, Princess Hisako attended "Daihatsu Alegria - In A New Light by Cirque du Soleil" at the Odaiba Big Top in Koto, Tokyo.

Photos/info: Sankei, FNN

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

I found Princess Tsuguko's past activities for UNICEF!

On 4 June 2014, Princess Tsuguko visited Kanagawa Prefecture with the Japan Committee for UNICEF for a project to save children suffering from poverty and disease around the world.

Source/Photos: Pref. Kanagawa

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On 19 February 2018, Princess Tsuguko traveled to Kumamoto Prefecture to attend a conference on sports and children's rights and acted as a lecturer. Her lecture was attended by about 100 participants. She also answered questions that were posed to her.

Source/Photos: UNICEF Kumamoto

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Princess Tsuguko virtually attended a conference on poor and street children as a guest speaker for UNICEF on 17 November 2020. She presented the issues to about 130 participants.

Source/Photo: Chuo University

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On 27 October 2021, Princess Tsuguko visited Misasa, Tottori Prefecture where she gave a lecture on UNICEF and its history (?) at Misasa Junior High School.

Source/Photo: Twitter

今日２７日（水）
午後７時からの「まちネタ」では
高円宮承子さまが三朝中生にユニセフの
活動などを紹介した話題などをお届け!

 

[Prisma]

Princess Hisako visited Nagano Prefecture February 14-16 to photograph birds.

Photos 1 & 2 at https://hnbirdlabo.org/index.php/2023/02/18/bird-photography-in-winter-feb2023/

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On April 26th, Princess Hisako and daughter Noriko Senge attended a memorial ceremony for the late C.W. Nicol, British born-Japanese writer and environmental activist who died in 2020, in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture.

About 90 people gathered at a community center near Afan Forest and laid a wreath. Nicol was chairman of Afan Woodland Trust. Princess Hisako is an honorary member and a close friend. She recalled being guided through the forest with Noriko.

Photo/video: Kyodo, TSB, NTV

 

[Prisma]

As Honorary President of BirdLife International, Princess Hisako attended an interview with Yomiuri Shimbun at the Takamado residence on March 8.

Photos: AP Images

Part 1 of Yomiuri Shimbun interview with Princess Hisako.

- Hisako celebrated her 20th anniversary as honorary president of BirdLife International and agreed to the interview which lasted 3 hours and mentions King Charles III and the late C.W. Nicol
- brief environmental improvements when the Covid-19 pandemic restricted human movement and behavior
- asks people whether warnings of climate change from BirdLife and other environmental conservation groups has reached society clearly
- difficult target of "limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels."
- In March 2004, Princess Hisako assumed the post of Honorary President from Queen Noor of Jordan
- It began at the recommendation from Paraguay
- 5 years earlier, the Takamado couple watched the Japanese football team and Hisako went birdwatching early twice. A local partner noticed her enthusiasm and knowledge of birds' names in English and Latin, and approached headquarters
- She has been interested in birds since childhood and seeks out opportunities to visit habitats and partner activities when overseas
- She began photographing birds after Prince Takamado passed away in 2002, using his camera and has noticed changes in the ecosystem
- Fewer cavities for owls and rollers to nest, earlier breeding season for starlings, number of wintering swallows has increased, etc.
- Royal Bird Conservation Society is a partner of BirdLife and King Charles III has provided advice and cooperation on projects

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On April 21st, Princess Hisako attended "Daihatsu Alegria - In A New Light by Cirque du Soleil" at the Odaiba Big Top in Koto, Tokyo.

Photos/info: Sankei, FNN

FNN expanded on the "Daihatsu Alegria" visit.

- Princess Hisako has also seen Saltimbanco in 1994, Dralion in 2007 and Ovo in 2014.
- Her interest in Cirque du Soleil began in May 1987 when she and Prince Takamado visited Mexico and Canada as their first official visit after marriage. They were very moved at the performance.
- Takamado family has long history with Canada.
- Prince Takamado studied at Queen's University in Ontario, Canada for two years. Later, Princess Ayako studied at Camosun College 2013-2015 and spent time at University of British Columbia before returning to Japan.
- There was no deep reason for Prince Takamado to choose Canada to study. His father Prince Mikasa thought North America would be a good place for a 3rd son since eldest son Prince Tomohito went to UK and second son Prince Katsura (Yoshihito) went to Australia.
- He had a great experience, Canada became a "second home"
- Prince Takamado met Hisako Tottori at the Canadian Embassy in Japan.
- She and her mother Fumiko attended a reception to celebrate the marriage of the ambassador's daughter and was introduced to the prince by the ambassador's wife.

FNN gallery includes old photos of the Takamado family at Cirque du Soleil's "Saltimbanco" and Takamado wedding.

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Princess Hisako sent a video message for the 31st National Japan Bowl held April 13-14 in Maryland, USA. The Championship Round & Awards Ceremony was broadcast on April 28 EST (April 29 JST)

 

[Prisma]

Part 2 of Yomiuri Shimbun's interview with Princess Hisako.

- BirdLife International embarked on a rainforest conservation project on the island of Sumatra in 2007, purchasing 100,000 hectares from the Indonesian government
- Then-Prince of Wales (now King Charles III), an early advocate of rainforests importance in carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen conversion, was impatient for the contract’s conclusion. He said, "Let's ask the Indonesian government what the situation is."
- The next year, Prince Charles invited Princess Hisako to join him in Afan Forest established by C.W. Nicol
- C.W. Nicol also knew Prince Takamado and had exchanges with the family. He told her, "If you want me to help you with BirdLife activities, you should ask me."
- Nicol, being Welsh, was very enthusiastic to show his work to the future king.
- Princess Hisako's 2023 New Year's poem (Utakai Hajime) is about walking with Nicol in Afan Forest and she recalls his last poem which includes the line "I wish I could be a tree, broad and deep rooted in the darkness, a tree that holds the earth firmly and supports the earth."
- Princess Hisako noted King Charles' first speech since his accession mentioned "It will be difficult to dedicate time and passion to the things that I have been interested in, but I am sure that they will be able to achieve them with the help of people I trust."
- She recalled at the 2019 enthronement ceremonies, then-Prince Charles was very concerned about the deforestation of the Amazon rainforest, and she understood his message as King.
- Princess Hisako intends to keep King Charles and C.W. Nicol in mind in her BirdLife activities.

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Chopard created a watch to benefit BirdLife International. Princess Hisako attended the unveiling at a cocktail party at the Swiss Ambassador's residence on April 18.

L.U.C XP BirdLife
One-of-a-kind creation in ethical 18-carat white gold
A timepiece with a Grand Feu enamel dial in support of animal protection

[...]

To mark BirdLife’s 100th anniversary, this ethically produced and aesthetically pleasing creation was revealed on April 18th 2023 by Chopard Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, in the presence of the Honorary President of BirdLife International, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado of Japan, at a cocktail party at the Swiss Ambassador’s residence hosted by David Braun, Swiss Charge d’Affaires ad interim. Proceeds from the sale of this one-off timepiece will be donated to the BirdLife International Japan Fund for Science established to commemorate Princess Takamado’s 15th anniversary as the Honorary President of BirdLife International.

Photos:

https://www.facebook.com/thethailanders/posts/pfbid02qpxfY1u3pPTfY8qWTJTK7kBGZnNJCJfbXiPrXxEuma5gyUjyZKcgxQ5saYmZLQF5l

 

[Prisma]

Princess Hisako and Princess Tsuguko will officially visit Jordan to attend the wedding of Crown Prince Hussein and Rajwa Al Saif on June 1.

They will travel separately: Hisako May 28-June 3 (enter Amman via Istanbul), Tsuguko May 29-June 3 (enter Amman via Dubai). The Cabinet approved the travel at a meeting on May 9. This is Tsuguko's first official visit to a foreign country. She has visited Jordan privately in 2008 during study abroad in the UK. Princess Hisako has visited Jordan twice.

Both princesses met King Abdullah, Queen Rania and Crown Prince Hussein when they visited Japan in April.

Sources: Sankei, Jiji

NTV reports the invitation to the Takamado princesses was received early April and the invitation to the Crown Prince Akishino couple was received in early March. However, the Akishino couple have conflict with domestic schedules and are unable to attend. After consulting with Emperor Naruhito, the decision was made to send the Takamado princesses who have deep ties with Jordan.

Japan Princesses Hisako, Tsuguko to Attend Royal Wedding in Jordan | Nippon.com

[...]

Princess Hisako, the widow of the late Prince Takamado, a cousin of Emperor Emeritus Akihito, will depart on May 28 and Princess Tsuguko the following day, according to the Imperial Household Agency.

[...]

This will be Princess Hisako's first official overseas trip since June 2015, when she visited Sweden to attend Swedish Prince Carl Philip's wedding, and the first ever for Princess Tsuguko.