Overview
- The imperial couple arrived in Mie Prefecture on November 8 by special train for a one-night visit tied to the 44th National '豊かな海づくり大会' ceremony on November 9.
- They inspected Toba Aquarium in Toba City, which houses roughly 1,200 species, including a dugong and the country’s only sea otter kept in captivity.
- They received briefings on biodiversity initiatives, including the aquarium’s work to conserve the rare freshwater fish known as Ushimotsugo.
- During the tour they observed animal-care demonstrations, with the Emperor asking about an otter training toy and the Empress inquiring about subspecies distribution.
- They applauded when an otter completed a training jump, and they remain in Mie to attend the tournament’s ceremony on Sunday.