On April 22, 2025, the Emperor and Empress hosted the Spring Garden Party at the Akasaka Imperial Gardens in Moto-Akasaka, Tokyo. This year marked a significant change in the event's format, as for the first time since the venue was established in 1963, the routes taken by the Imperial Couple and other members of the Imperial Family were divided into three distinct paths. This adjustment was made primarily to enhance guest interactions and minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses among attendees.
Approximately 1,800 guests attended the garden party, including notable figures from various fields such as manga artist Tetsuya Chiba, professional golfer Isao Aoki, and former coach of the Japanese women's softball team, Taeko Utsugi. The Emperor took the opportunity to engage with Chiba, saying, "Manga is read all over the world, and it's wonderful." Princess Aiko also participated in the conversations, revealing her enjoyment of Chiba's famous work, "Ashita no Joe," stating, "I have read it." This interaction highlights the connection between the Imperial Family and contemporary Japanese culture.
The decision to implement three separate routes was made in consultation with the Imperial Couple due to increasing temperatures during this time of year, which had previously led to guests experiencing discomfort while waiting to speak with the royals. The Imperial Household Agency expressed hope that this new arrangement would allow attendees to enjoy more time mingling, dining, and appreciating the garden's natural beauty.
Traditionally, the Spring Garden Party is held twice a year, in spring and autumn. This year’s event also marked the resumption of alcoholic beverage service, which had been suspended for over six years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees were treated to a variety of food options, including Genghis Khan and yakitori made from sheep sourced from the Imperial Stock Farm in Tochigi Prefecture. A senior official from the Imperial Household Agency stated, "We hope that people will enjoy the entire Garden Party, with the scattering and the food and drink."
During the event, professional golfer Isao Aoki, known for being the first Japanese man inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, shared a light moment with the Emperor and Empress. When they mentioned their own experiences with golf, Aoki offered, "If there is a chance, I will give you some pointers," which elicited laughter from those present.
Taeko Utsugi, reflecting on her interaction with the Empress, recalled, "When I said to the Empress, 'I will knuckle,' she replied, 'Can you get it?' I think I have a dream that I want to try it once." Princess Aiko also expressed her interest in learning to play softball, stating, "I want to receive a knuckleball," to which Utsugi replied, "I asked her to come and watch the game." This exchange illustrates the warmth and encouragement shared among the attendees and the Imperial Family.
Manga artist Tetsuya Chiba shared his insights regarding the importance of storytelling through manga, particularly about the tragic experiences of war. He told the Emperor, "I am writing manga about the tragedy of war and the hardships I experienced when I was repatriated from Manchuria, so that young people can read it." He was pleasantly surprised by the Emperor's knowledge of current manga trends, which deepened their conversation.
Chiba also recounted his interaction with Princess Aiko, saying, "Princess Aiko said that she had recently started reading 'Ashita no Joe,' and she was worried that the panel divisions were not going well. She said it was very interesting, and I was very happy." This exchange underscores the cultural engagement of the younger generation of the Imperial Family.
Internationally renowned ballet dancer Yoshiko Miyamoto also had a memorable conversation with the Emperor and Empress. She recalled their encouragement regarding her continued performance and their hopes for creating a path to world peace through the art of ballet. Miyamoto stated, "I received warm words of encouragement that I am still continuing to dance and that I should do my best to create a path to world peace through the art of ballet. I strongly felt that the Imperial Family has a deep love for ballet and the arts."
Professor Emeritus Takayoshi Kohira, who chairs the advisory panel for the reconstruction of Shuri Castle, also reflected on his discussion with the Imperial Couple. He shared, "I told them that young people are working hard on the reconstruction project with a sense of mission, and everyone is united in hoping for the rebirth of Shuri Castle. They are very knowledgeable about the history of Okinawa's hardships and are truly dedicated to it. I strongly felt their desire for the reconstruction of Shuri Castle and their thoughts for the region of Okinawa."
The garden party provided a unique opportunity for guests to connect with the Imperial Family while enjoying the beautiful setting of the Akasaka Imperial Gardens. Despite the occasional strong winds, attendees took pleasure in strolling through the gardens, taking commemorative photos, and engaging in meaningful conversations.
As the event concluded, the atmosphere remained one of camaraderie and appreciation, exemplifying the enduring connection between the Imperial Family and the people of Japan. The modifications made this year not only enhanced guest interactions but also ensured a more enjoyable experience for all involved.
