An Imperial Week in Photos: Emperor and Empress Conclude Historic Mongolia Trip

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On July 11, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia's largest national festival. They watched traditional archery events and participated in shagai, a game in which animal bones are flicked with the fingers to hit a target. When Empress Masako successfully hit a high-scoring target, the audience erupted in applause.

*Empress Masako playing shagai, a traditional game in which animal bones are flicked at a target — afternoon of July 11, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.*

Last Days in Mongolia

On July 12, Their Majesties observed the festival's main event: horse racing. They applauded enthusiastically as children rode horses across the course. His Majesty also took photographs with his personal camera.

*Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress tour the information center at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia.*

Later that day, the Emperor and Empress visited Hustai National Park to observe a herd of Przewalski's horses, considered the world's oldest breed of wild horse. They were invited to name a foal. Emperor Naruhito chose "Tomo" (Friend), while Empress Masako chose "Ai" (Love).

*Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress observe Przewalski's horses at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia.*

On July 13, the imperial couple concluded their 8-day trip with a meeting with President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh at the presidential residence. That evening, they returned to Japan aboard the government aircraft. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and officials. The couple exchanged friendly words with those who came to greet them.

Reflections on a Historic Visit

After their return, Their Majesties released a statement reflecting on the trip: "We sincerely hope that the friendship and cooperative relationship between Japan and Mongolia will continue to deepen." Although His Majesty had previously visited Mongolia in 2007 as Crown Prince, this was their first visit as a couple. They described the journey as a "very memorable experience."

*Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress depart from Chinggis Khaan International Airport — afternoon of July 13, outskirts of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)*

They also spoke about their visit to a memorial for Japanese internees who were held in Mongolia by the Soviet Union after World War II. His Majesty remarked, "It reminded us of the importance of never forgetting those who perished in the war, deepening our understanding of the past, and fostering a spirit that cherishes peace."

Emperor Emeritus Begins New Treatment

On July 14, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, father of the current emperor, was admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital. He began a new treatment for asymptomatic myocardial ischemia and related conditions. Empress Emerita Michiko accompanied him. According to the Imperial Household Agency, doctors have prescribed a new oral medication to ease the strain on his heart. His condition will be closely monitored through tests such as electrocardiograms as physicians adjust the dosage.

Remembering Hiroshima Through Photography

On July 11, Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and their family visited the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum in Meguro Ward. They viewed the exhibition Hiroshima 1945, which marks 80 years since the atomic bombing. The exhibition featured around 160 photographs, including images taken shortly after the bombing by news agencies and others.

Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, with their second daughter Princess Kako and son Prince Hisahito, view the "Hiroshima 1945" exhibition — morning of July 11, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, Meguro Ward, Tokyo.

While viewing a photo taken near the hypocenter, Prince Fumihito remarked, "The blast must have been extremely powerful." According to a museum guide, their second daughter, Princess Kako, also reflected, "I could sense the inner conflict the photographers must have felt as they took these pictures."

Princess Kiko in Miyagi

On July 15 and 16, Princess Kiko visited Miyagi Prefecture to attend several events, including the 61st National Convention for Promoting Blood Donation. On July 16, she visited the Akiu Kagayaki Support School in Sendai City, where she visited Doma Café, a space designed for interaction and learning between students and local residents. She also toured the Tohoku History Museum in Tagajo City.

*On July 15 in Sendai City, Crown Princess Kiko speaks with students at Doma Café of Miyagi Prefectural Akiu Kagayaki Support School.*

Later that day, she attended the national blood donation convention at Sendai Sunplaza Hall. In her remarks, she stated, "To ensure a stable supply of blood in the future, it is important for younger generations to understand and participate in blood donation."

Princess Hisako Honors Young Innovators

Also on July 14, Princess Hisako attended the 38th Advanced Technology Award for Pioneering Originality ceremony, held at the Meiji Kinenkan in Minato Ward, Tokyo. The award recognizes outstanding achievements by students in science and engineering, as well as by young corporate researchers. Her Imperial Highness offered words of praise to the recipients.