Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visit Amori Prefecture

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the 80th National Sports Festival (Japan Games) in Aomori Prefecture this weekend.

The imperial couple visited Aomori Prefecture this weekend to attend the National Sports Festival.

Renamed the “Japan Games”, the games have been held since 1946 with the goal of disseminating sporting activity widely, spreading the sporting spirit, improving the physical health and strength of the people, promoting regional sport, contributing to the development of local culture, and enriching the national lifestyle, according to the Japan Sports Association.

On Saturday, the Emperor and Empress attended the opening ceremony. Emperor Naruhito gave an address, saying in part, “I hope that you will be able to fully demonstrate the results of your training and efforts, and that you will also be able to cultivate friendships and deepen exchanges.”

A moment of silence was also held for victims of recent natural disasters, which Emperor Naruhito touched on in his speech: “I sincerely hope that recovery and reconstruction will progress so that all those affected by these disasters can return to a normal life where they can live in peace as soon as possible.”

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako also spoke with various officials of the festival and athletes competing, including Kayoko Fukushi, a native of Aomori Prefecture, in Aomori City.

On Sunday, the imperial couple watched table tennis before meeting with elderly individuals and observing children and the elderly enjoying a game of “pétanque,” in which they throw balls at a target. The imperial couple reportedly commented, “It’s wonderful to see them interacting and having so much fun.”