TOKYO, Feb 23 (News On Japan) –
Ahead of her upcoming position on the Japanese Red Cross Society beginning in April, Princess Aiko joined the general public festivities to honor the Emperor’s birthday, making a notable look standing within the second row and waving with a smile.
A customer expressed their admiration, saying, “Seeing Princess Aiko for the first time was moving and wonderful. She looked splendid, and we look forward to her future endeavors.”
Crowds had gathered on the Imperial Palace since earlier than the gates opened, forming lengthy traces.
The public celebration on Friday noticed practically 15,000 individuals braving the cruel chilly and sleet to pay their respects. Many have been desirous to see Princess Aiko, with one customer stating, “I came to see Princess Aiko. I’m very happy to have met her. I’ve been looking forward to this moment,” and one other including, “I came to see Princess Aiko and the Emperor. I haven’t been able to come recently, so I came despite the rain.”
This 12 months marked the primary time in 4 years that the occasion was held with out prior functions because of the pandemic, resulting in a big turnout.
By 6:30 AM, 4 hours earlier than the occasion, individuals have been already lining up close to the Imperial Palace with their umbrellas. The line grew steadily, swelling to a number of thousand by 9:00 AM.
At round 10:30 AM, Princess Aiko appeared on the palace balcony with the Emperor, the Empress, the Akishino couple, and Princess Kako.
The Emperor expressed his gratitude, saying, “In the cold rain, I am truly grateful that you have come to celebrate my birthday. I would like to express my condolences to those who lost their lives in the Noto Peninsula earthquake last month and extend my heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families and those affected.”
Princess Aiko was wearing a pale lavender outfit, with an identical hat, and waved repeatedly with a smile.
The public celebration was held thrice, with the Emperor and the royal household responding to the blessings of the attendees.
Source: FNN