The Mikasa Family Thread

[Prisma]

Princess Nobuko's speech was delivered on her behalf by the Chairman of the National Agriculture Chamber of Commerce & Industry at the 25th National Agricultural Leaders Summit in Tokyo on February 28, 2024. She did not attend due to radiation treatment January 23-February 27 following breast cancer surgery.

Speech, photos: nca.or.jp (PDF)

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Princess Nobuko visited Maison de la Culture du Japon à Paris on February 11, 2020 during her February 6-14 visit to France to attend the Judo Grand Slam Paris. She toured the tea room, library and exhibitions including "Transsphere #7 Yuya Tsukahara + Contact Gonzo: watching you surf on beautiful accidents" and "Colors of the Tale of Genji: The seasonal attire of Japanese princesses."

Photos: jpf.go.jp (PDF)

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

Princess Akiko visited Tochigi Prefecture September 6th-7th:

On September 6th, Princess Akiko attended the opening ceremony of the 78th Tochigi National
Recreational Tournament at the Light Cube Utsunomiya, in Utsunomiya.

This tournament is sponsored by the Japan Recreation Association. This is the second time in 71 years that the tournament has been held in the Prefecture, the first time in 1953, and will be attended by about 10,000 people from inside and outside the prefecture.

Sources/photos: Shimotsuke, Facebook

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On September 3rd, Princess Akiko attended the 4th Classics Day Culture Fund Award ceremony at the Kyoto Concert Hall, in Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture.

Princess Akiko delivered a speech at the ceremony: "When we come into contact with the classics, we are also exposed to the thoughts of our predecessors and the history we have experienced". The Princess is Honorary President of the Classics Day Prize Committee.

Source/video: NHK

 

[Prisma]

Princess Yohko, along with drivers, signed the back of artwork "Untitled [Red Bull Racing]" for City Circuit Tokyo Bay Auction July 26-28.

Photo: Facebook BINGOInternational

[...]

Red Bull Japan reported this artwork was sold for 3.6 million yen and, excluding operating costs, will be donated to Wings for Life World Run, which supports research into a cure for spinal cord injury. The auction was titled "Back Wall Project presents Wings for Life World Run Charity Auction."

"Back Wall Project" is a new initiative that started with the theme of "creating a more beautiful world." Princess Yohko was the initiator of the project, and the artwork was created in collaboration with contemporary artist Shinsuke Ikeuchi and Red Bull. F1 parts are used in the artwork. The artwork was created and finished in the Red Bull VIP lounge set up at Suzuka Circuit during this year's Japanese Grand Prix.

Going forward, donations from the "Back Wall Project presents Wings for Life World Run" will be converted into vouchers, which will be used to encourage more people to participate in the Wings for Life World Run and raise awareness of the event. The next Wings for Life World Run is scheduled to be held on Sunday, May 4, 2025, and entries are currently being accepted.

Photos, source: formula-web.jp, Mainichi

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On September 9th, Princess Yuriko returned to the general ward from the intensive care unit of St. Luke's International Hospital in Tokyo. She was diagnosed with mild pneumonia on August 16 and admitted to the ICU as a precaution. Her condition improved by August 24. The 101-year-old princess remains on IV drip for nutrients and hydration but is able to sit in bed and communicate by nodding, etc. The IHA describes her condition is "generally stable."

Jiji reports "There is no prospect of her being discharged from hospital."

Sources: NTV, FNN

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

On September 3rd, Princess Nobuko attended the 2024 (Reiwa 6) National Police Judo Championships and the National Police Kendo Championships at the Nippon Budokan, in Tokyo.

She is visible for a while from about minute 4:40 of the video.

 

[iceflower]

Princess Akiko attended the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup Final between Fiji and Japan at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka, Osaka today, September 21:


** gettyimages gallery **

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

Thanks! More photos of Princess Akiko at the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup Final on September 21st at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka:

https://twitter.com/x/status/1837448418911752452

https://twitter.com/x/status/1837387428535193663

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Princess Yōko and Back Wall Project were in Osaka Prefecture (today?) to see where they could hold a new "Back Wall Project event".

I'm happy that Princess Yōko is carrying on Back Wall Project, because it's a way for her to do what she loves.

Screenshots from the Instagram stories of the official profile:




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On September 14th, Princess Yōko attended the "Inclusive Design Ideathon 2024 presentation" at Shibaura Institute of Technology Toyosu Campus in Koto, Tokyo. The Princess is Honorary Advisor of the Inclusive Design Network.

I was hoping for photos, but still nothing.

Source: Asahi Imperial Schedule September 9th-15th (copied at blog.goo.ne.jp)

 

[Prisma]

Some photos of Princess Akiko's appearance on "Tetsuko's Room," which broadcast on September 16: news.mynavi.jp

Prince Tomohito appeared on "Tetsuko's Room" twice. He also introduced Princess Akiko's compositions from her childhood. When Princess Akiko heard his thoughts about herself on the video from that time, tears welled up in her eyes. She said that she currently lives in Kyoto for work, but that the tranquil flow of time there suits her very well.

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On September 18th, Princess Akiko attended the 59th Cherry Blossom Festival Central Convention, commemorating of its 60th establishment anniversary, at Hotel New Otani in Chiyoda, Tokyo.

Distant photos: Facebook Rie Kamoshida, Facebook wakamatsukaneshige

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Princess Akiko will give a special course/lecture entitled "Passing on Japanese beauty, spirit and tradition to the future" at NHK Culture's Kyoto Classroom on November 3. The course is already fully booked.

Source: NHK

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More tweets of Princess Akiko at the Pacific Nations Cup 2024 Final Series on September 21. Besides the Final match between Japan and Fiji, she also attended the 3rd Place match between Samoa and USA.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1837517297050857883

https://twitter.com/x/status/1837432461464133798

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More photos of Princess Yohko's visit to California, USA in August.

Wendywangla bought an art piece. Facebook Reel

Wendy Wang on Instagram: "I acquired a piece of art that I truly love at this art exhibition. The event was held at Li Xinghua Jade City, and it became even more extraordinary with the arrival of Princess Yohko from the Japanese royal family. Her pre

13 likes, 0 comments - wendywangla on September 13, 2024: "I acquired a piece of art that I truly love at this art exhibition. The event was held at Li Xinghua Jade City, and it became even more extraordinary with the arrival of Princess Yohko from the Japanese royal family. Her presence...

www.instagram.com

I acquired a piece of art that I truly love at this art exhibition. The event was held at Li Xinghua Jade City, and it became even more extraordinary with the arrival of Princess Yohko from the Japanese royal family. Her presence instantly turned the entire event into a highlight of artistic and cultural convergence.

Li Xinghua Jade City has long been known for its exquisite jade and precious art collections. At this exhibition, collectors from around the world gathered to bid on these masterfully crafted art treasures. The arrival of Princess Yohko brought a strong royal atmosphere to the event. She is not only a representative of the Japanese royal family but also an art enthusiast and connoisseur.

[...] After the auction, Princess Yohko graciously signed the piece I had purchased as a keepsake. Her elegance and warmth left a deep impression, and her autograph added immeasurable value to this piece. Having such a special memento makes my experience at this art event incredibly precious.

This auction was not merely a transaction of artworks; it was also a platform for cultural and emotional exchange. The presence of Princess Yohko gave the event even greater significance. Her signature added more stories and context to my art collection and provided endless inspiration for my future journey in collecting.

 

[Prisma]

From September 30 to October 1st, Princess Akiko visited Emperor Jimmu's Mausoleum in Kyoto and Emperor Itoku's Mausoleum in Nara for its 2500th enshrinement anniversary.

 

[Prisma]

Princess Yohko visited Kagoshima Prefecture October 4-5 for the Welfare Life Festival DX Welfare Equipment Exhibition & Seminar. She attended to mark "Welfare Equipment Day" (October 1) and as honorary president of Japan Universal Sound Design Association.

During a special lecture on the relationship between hearing loss and dementia, Princess Yohko, who is also hearing impaired, said "It can happen to young people too, so I want everyone to understand not only hearing impairments but also dementia, and I would be grateful if everyone could understand both."

The event's executive chairman remarked the princess, "both as an honorary president and a public official, was very enthusiastic about her duties. In contrast, she speaks very frankly and clearly." She took notes the whole time.

Later, Princess Yohko toured the exhibition where over 500 of the latest in equipment are on display.

Video/photo: kkb.co.jp, 373news.com

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Princess Nobuko met Yasuhiko Fujikawa, flower artist and a director of the International Federation of Flower Carpet Art, at her residence in Tokyo.

"This year, I was invited to the home of Her Imperial Highness Princess Tomohito (Nobuko). We were able to speak at length for two hours about supporting the disaster-stricken areas. I am truly in awe of Her Imperial Highness's efforts."

Photo (posted October 1): Facebook Yasuhiko Fujikawa

藤川靖彦 on Instagram: "今年も寬仁親王妃信子殿下のお宅にお招きいただいた。なんと2時間もお時間をいただき、じっくりと被災地支援について談話させていただきました。本当妃殿下の活動には頭が下がります。"

62 likes, 0 comments - yasuchin414 on September 30, 2024: "今年も寬仁親王妃信子殿下のお宅にお招きいただいた。なんと2時間もお時間をいただき、じっくりと被災地支援について談話させていただきました。本当妃殿下の活動には頭が下がります。".

www.instagram.com

https://twitter.com/x/status/1840962626643509386

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

More content from Princess Yōko's lecture on October 4th on the occasion of the Welfare Life Festival:

Source/video: news.ntv

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On October 5th, Princess Nobuko began a 2-day visit to Fukuoka Prefecture:

She attended the JCI Japan National Convention 73rd Fukuoka 2024 of the Japan Junior Chamber Public Interest Incorporated Association at the International Conference Center in Fukuoka.

Sources/photos: Facebook

https://twitter.com/x/status/1842605203557916690

 

[Prisma]

Princess Akiko will visit Tottori Prefecture October 18-19 for the 36th National Health & Welfare Festival for Seniors (Nenlympics or Nenrinpic)

• 10/18: Aoya Kamijichi Historic Site Park in Tottori city, Misasa Onsen in Misasa town
• 10/19: Nenlympics opening ceremony

The 2024 Nenlympics will be held October 19-22.

Source: NTV

 

[Prisma]

More photos of Princess Yohko in Osaka for Back Wall Project. @MarieAmelie_95 posted screenshots in #846

Back Wall Project on Instagram: "We are excited to be working with the Princess Yohko Foundation again for our next project in Osaka. We are currently looking for the next venue for the event and will update you all soon! #backwallproject #princess

21 likes, 0 comments - backwallproject on October 1, 2024: "We are excited to be working with the Princess Yohko Foundation again for our next project in Osaka. We are currently looking for the next venue for the event and will update you all soon! #backwallproject #princessyohkofoundation".

www.instagram.com

 

[Prisma]

Another video of Princess Yohko at the Welfare Life Festival DX Welfare Equipment Exhibition & Seminar in Kagoshima Prefecture on October 4.

Source: kts-tv.co.jp

 

[Prisma]

On October 8th, Princess Akiko attended "Tea offering ceremony by the Head of the Omotesenke school," hosted by President Katsuhisa Suzuka of Shogoin Yatsuhashi, at Yoshida Shrine in Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture.

Photo: Facebook seiji.maehara21

https://twitter.com/x/status/1843534301247484217

yatsuhashi is a traditional sweet made of rice flour (mochi), sugar and cinnamon.

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ETA: More details of Princess Akiko's October 18-19 visit to Tottori Prefecture for the 36th National Health & Welfare Festival for Seniors (Nenlympics or Nenrinpic)

• Mikasa East residence > Tokyo Airport > Tottori Airport
• Aoya Kamijichi Historic Site Park, Tottori city
• San'in Shiba Inu Breeding Association (Uno District Community Center)
• Ozaki family residence
• Misasa Onsen, Misasa town
• Izanro Iwasaki hotel, Misasa town
  
  
• Opening ceremony, Tottori Prefectural Fuse Sports Park, Tottori city
• Lunch at Hotel New Otani Tottori
• Tottori Sand Dunes
• Oenosato Natural Farm
• Tottori Airport > Tokyo Airport > Mikasa East residence

Source: 第36回全国健康福祉祭とっとり大会（ねんりんピックはばたけ鳥取２０２４）に彬子女王殿下がお成りになります

 

[Prisma]

On October 9th, Princess Akiko attended the 22nd Self-Defense Forces Awards Ceremony at Hotel Grand Hill Ichigaya in Shinjuku, Tokyo. This year, members of SDF were honored for their contributions to the rapid transportation of personnel and supplies during the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January 2024.

Photos: Sankei, FNN

 

[Prisma]

On October 10th, Princess Akiko visited the Saga City History and Folklore Museum during a 2-day visit to Saga Prefecture for the 78th National Sports Festival. After viewing a brooch and corsage exhibit, she experienced hand weaving traditional craft Saga Nishiki.

Photos, sources: city.saga.lg.jp, sagatv.co.jp

October 10-11: Princess Akiko in Saga

• Rugby, History and Folklore Museum, Tea Tourism
• Handball, Child Development Medical Center

 

[Prisma]

another photo at Saga City Promotion social media: Facebook sagacitypromotion

https://twitter.com/x/status/1844329402517291246

... and watching rugby

https://twitter.com/x/status/1844314563904462978

 

[Prisma]

On October 11th, Princess Akiko visited the Child Development Medical Center of Saga Seishi Gakuen in Saga City. She played boccia with teens and people in their 20s and inquired about their activities.

Photos: saga-s.co.jp

 

[Prisma]

On October 12th, Princess Yohko visited Kashima Civic Cultural Hall in Saga Prefecture during a 2-day visit for the 78th National Sports Festival. She viewed Intangible Cultural Property "Sarasa Woodblock Prints" materials and listened to explanations from Living National Treasure Suzuta Shigeto. She also had the opportunity to paint a clay doll "nogominingyo," a beloved local toy.

Source: sagatv.co.jp

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

On October 12th, Princess Akiko attended the opening ceremony of the 36th Okayama Kibi Kogen Wheelchair Fureai Road Race at the Kibi National Youth Nature Center, in Kibichūō, Okayama Prefecture.

About 290 people participated, including players and referees. After the greetings of Akira Okazaki, president of the tournament organizing committee, Akiko rode a speech. At the reception after the ceremony, the invited athletes expressed their enthusiasm and chatted with Princess Akiko.

Sources/photos: Sanyonews.jp, Facebook

 

[Prisma]

On September 23rd, Princess Akiko harvested rice in Niigata Prefecture with members of her cultural organization Shinyusha, Kokugakuin University students and local farmers. The weather was bad with rain still falling at 8am but luckily it stopped. Everyone had lunch, making onigiri at the community center after the harvest. The rice will be dedicated at Tokyo Daijingu Shrine in December.

Photos: Facebook Shinyusha

 

[MarieAmelie_95]

More photos of Princess Akiko at the 4th Classics Day Culture Fund Award ceremony at the Kyoto Concert Hall, in Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture on September 3rd.

After the ceremony, she gave an interview to Yomiuri Shimbun.

Photos: Ap Images

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Another photo of Princess Nobuko at the JCI Japan National Convention 73rd Fukuoka 2024 in Fukuoka Prefecture on October 5th. Princess Nobuko's brother former Prime Minister Taro Aso was also present:

Photo: Facebook

 

[Prisma]

Princess Akiko might be visiting the UK? There's a venue so I don't think it's online. IHA has not announced yet.

She is the speaker for Nissan Institute of Japanese Studies at Oxford's November 12 seminar. Her talk is entitled "A Tale of the Royal and Imperial Costumes: The Trajectory of UK-Japan Relations"

Nissan Seminar: Princess Akiko of Mikasa – A Tale of the Royal and Imperial Costumes: The Trajectory of UK-Japan Relations

www.nissan.ox.ac.uk

More info: Princess Akiko of Mikasa – A Tale of the Royal and Imperial Costumes: The Trajectory of UK-Japan Relations

Public audience, no booking required, organizer contact information.

 

[Prisma]

More photos of Princess Yohko at the 48th "Water Day" commemorative event "Gathering to Think About Water" on August 1: mlit.go.jp

Another photo of Princess Yohko at Kashima Civic Cultural Hall in Saga Prefecture on October 12: saga-s.co.jp

ETA: Princess Nobuko visited Saga Prefecture October 13-14 for the 78th National Sports Festival. She watched judo and athletics at SAGA Sunrise Park in Saga City, and inspected local products at the Roadside Station Yamato Soyokazekan.

Photo: saga-s.co.jp

https://twitter.com/x/status/1845685275814670401