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Japan

Ritual enthronement ceremonies begin in rainy Tokyo

Even though it is a very rainy day in Tokyo, Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement activities continue despite the weather.

This morning, the Emperor and his wife, Empress Masako visited one of the three imperial sanctuaries where Naruhito reported his enthronement to his ancestors. Both were dressed in ancient-style kimonos. The Empress also had her hair styled in an ancient style.

NHK/Fair Use
NHK/Fair Use

Other members of the Imperial Family were in attendance, as was Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The imperial couple arrived at the Imperial Palace this morning where, despite the pouring rain, members of the Japanese public lined up outside waving the Japanese flag to greet their Emperor and Empress. The Emperor rolled his window down and waved to those awaiting his arrival.

The Enthronement Ceremony will begin at 1.00 pm Japanese time today (5.00 am UK time).

About author

Brittani is from Tennessee, USA. She is a political scientist and historian after graduating with a degree in the topics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in December 2014. She also holds a master's degree from Northeastern University. She enjoys reading and researching all things regarding the royals of the world. She's been researching, reading, and writing on royalty for over a decade. She became Europe Editor in October 2016, and then Deputy Editor in January 2019, and has been featured on several podcasts, radio shows, news broadcasts and websites including Global News Canada, ABC News Australia, WION India and BBC World News.