Princess Aiko, the daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, turned 23 on Sunday. She is increasingly involved in royal duties and public life as a member of the Imperial family.
This spring, Princess Aiko graduated from Gakushuin University and began working with the Japanese Red Cross Society. Her role has expanded to include both humanitarian and official duties.
In February, the princess attended a luncheon for foreign dignitaries. She greeted the Kenyan president and his wife in Swahili, demonstrating her cultural engagement.
In April, Princess Aiko attended her first Imperial garden party. Later, she visited Saga Prefecture for her first solo regional engagement, where she participated in the Japan Games and tried traditional Japanese paper-making.
Although planned, her September visit to Ishikawa Prefecture was canceled due to heavy rain. She and her parents expressed sorrow over the recent disasters and wished for the affected people’s peace.
For her birthday, Princess Aiko will visit Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko. A birthday celebration will also be held at the Imperial Palace.
