Key Facts
• November 23: Niiname-sai, Japan’s most significant imperial ritual, held at the Imperial Palace.
• Prince Hisahito, son of Crown Prince Akishino, attended for the first time.
• Ceremony took place at the Shinka-den, where the Emperor offers newly harvested rice to deities.
• Prince Hisahito entered the palace by car via Hanzomon Gate before 6 PM.
• Crown Prince Akishino participated from the hall, while Prince Hisahito joined from the courtyard.
• This marks Prince Hisahito’s first attendance after completing his coming-of-age ceremony this year.
• Earlier that day, Prince Hisahito returned to Tokyo from Izu Oshima, where he observed the Deaflympics orienteering event.
Summary
On November 23, Prince Hisahito attended the Niiname-sai ceremony at the Imperial Palace for the first time. This event, considered the most important imperial ritual, involves the Emperor offering newly harvested rice to deities in gratitude and praying for national prosperity. Prince Hisahito, who recently completed his coming-of-age ceremony, participated from the courtyard, while Crown Prince Akishino joined from the hall. Earlier that day, Prince Hisahito returned to Tokyo from Izu Oshima, where he observed the Deaflympics orienteering competition. His attendance at Niiname-sai marks a significant milestone in his royal duties.
