TOKYO -- Princess Kako, niece of Emperor Naruhito and second daughter of Crown Prince Akishino (Fumihito), will mark her 30th birthday on Dec. 29. Over the past year, she has deepened her understanding of traditional Japanese culture, including lacquerware and ceramics, while continuing her advocacy for inclusivity by engaging with individuals with disabilities using sign language. The Mainichi Shimbun reflects on her notable activities throughout the year, both domestically and internationally, accompanied by a collection of photographs.

Promoting traditional Japanese crafts

As president of the Japan Kogei Association, Princess Kako actively supported traditional Japanese crafts by visiting exhibitions across the country. She attended the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibitions in Tokyo, Fukuoka Prefecture, and Ishikawa Prefecture.

In February, she visited the historical town of Arita in Saga Prefecture to observe the production of Arita porcelain. At the renowned Imaemon Kiln, which specializes in Iro-Nabeshima ware, she received an explanation from Imaizumi Imaemon XIV, a living national treasure.

According to the Imperial Household Agency, Princess Kako also visited specialized craft exhibitions incognito to further her appreciation of pottery, textiles and other traditional art forms. Her schedule was filled with opportunities to immerse herself in Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Advocating for inclusivity through sign language

Princess Kako's commitment to promoting inclusivity was evident in her use of sign language at various events. In August, she addressed the audience in Japanese Sign Language at the 41st national speech contest for high school students in sign language, as she had done the previous year. During her speech, she signed, "I hope that people will gain a better understanding of different backgrounds and circumstances from their own."

She repeated this message in other events, such as the Nippon Agoonoree international scout camp for people with disabilities in August and a Girl Scouts of Japan event in October celebrating the International Day of the Girl, indicating her strong hope for a society that embraces diversity.

Strengthening international relations

Princess Kako also played a vital role in international goodwill. In May, she embarked on an official visit to Greece to commemorate the 125th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Tokyo and Athens. While there, she attended celebratory events, visited the Parthenon -- a World Heritage Site -- and interacted with people at local welfare facilities, even using Greek Sign Language to communicate.

During her visit, she met with Greece's first female president, Katerina Sakellaropoulou. Reflecting on their meeting, Princess Kako wrote following her return, "We had a frank conversation about our hopes that this commemorative year would provide many people in both countries an opportunity to learn about each other's nations. I was deeply impressed by the president's care for society and her people, and I shared my own thoughts on the activities I have been involved in both at home and abroad. It was a memorable experience."

Back in Japan, Princess Kako continued her international engagement by participating in exchange events with foreign diplomats. In March, October and December, she held informal discussions with young diplomats from Latin American countries at the Akishino residence. The Imperial Household Agency noted that she conversed warmly in English without an interpreter, asking about their impressions of Japan and fostering friendly dialogue.

Fashion choices reflecting thoughtful representation

Princess Kako's fashion choices during her public engagements also garnered attention. Her wardrobe reflected the nature of each visit, ranging from casual wear and pantsuits to traditional Japanese attire. Notably, during her visit to Ishikawa Prefecture for the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibitions, she accessorized with a barrette and earrings made of Wajima lacquerware, showcasing her support for traditional local craftsmanship.

(Japanese original by Nao Yamada, Tokyo City News Department)