Overview
- The Imperial couple attended the opening ceremony in Sasebo for the combined National Cultural Festival and the National Arts and Culture Festival for Persons with Disabilities.
- In remarks, the Emperor called holding the event in Nagasaki during the 80th year since the atomic bombing "very meaningful" and expressed hope for greater cultural development and a stronger desire for peace.
- They watched performances portraying Nagasaki’s history through theater, music, and dance and applauded frequently.
- During post-ceremony interactions, they praised performers and told cultural leaders that the presentations were "wonderful."
- They met high school peace ambassador Takada Kenshiro, a third-generation hibakusha, encouraging him to continue his efforts as the prefecture-wide festival proceeds under the theme "culture for everyone" through November 30.