Key Facts
• September 14, 2025: Emperor and Empress attended the Nagasaki Peace Cultural Festival.
• Event marks 80 years since the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.
• Festival combines the 40th National Cultural Festival and 25th National Festival for the Arts and Culture of Persons with Disabilities.
• Emperor described the event as “highly significant” during his speech.
• Theme: “Culture for Everyone,” with events held across Nagasaki Prefecture.
• Singer-songwriter Masashi Sada performed the national anthem at the opening ceremony.
• Emperor expressed hope for “further development of cultural arts and heightened aspirations for peace.”
• The imperial couple interacted with performers, including 18-year-old peace ambassador Kenshiro Takada, a third-generation atomic bomb survivor.
• Takada shared his commitment to promoting the importance of peace.
• Earlier in the day, the Emperor and Empress watched student street dance performances inspired by Nagasaki’s autumn festival, “Nagasaki Kunchi.”
Summary
On September 14, 2025, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the Nagasaki Peace Cultural Festival in Sasebo City, commemorating 80 years since the atomic bombing. The event, themed “Culture for Everyone,” featured artistic and cultural activities across Nagasaki Prefecture. During the opening ceremony, the Emperor highlighted the significance of the milestone and expressed hopes for cultural growth and peace. Singer-songwriter Masashi Sada performed the national anthem, and the imperial couple engaged with participants, including peace ambassador Kenshiro Takada, who vowed to continue promoting peace. Earlier, the Emperor and Empress enjoyed student performances inspired by Nagasaki’s traditional “Kunchi” festival. The festival underscores Japan’s commitment to peace and cultural heritage.
