Japan’s Emperor celebrates 5th anniversary on the throne

Five years have passed since Japan’s Emperor Naruhito ascended the throne, and during this time, he has embraced his role as a symbol of the state with grace and dedication. Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, the Emperor has found innovative ways to connect with the people of Japan.

In his first news conference after his enthronement, Emperor Naruhito expressed his commitment to meeting and listening to the stories of many people. True to his word, he and Empress Masako have traveled across Japan for annual events, offering support and encouragement to those affected by natural disasters.

While the pandemic forced the couple to suspend their in-person visits, they adapted by engaging with communities through online interactions. Recently, they were able to resume their visits in person, traveling to areas in central Japan affected by the New Year’s Day earthquake.

In addition to their domestic efforts, the Emperor and Empress have also worked to strengthen international ties. Their visit to Britain for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral and their official trip to Indonesia demonstrate their commitment to fostering global relationships.

Furthermore, the couple’s influence extends to the culinary world, with Japanese dishes now being served as appetizers at Imperial luncheons hosting overseas guests. This change reflects their desire to showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage to the world.

To keep the public informed, the Imperial Household Agency launched an official Instagram account last month, providing a platform for sharing accurate information about the Imperial Family. As Emperor Naruhito continues to navigate his role with compassion and innovation, the people of Japan can look forward to a future filled with meaningful connections and positive change.