Celebrations were held for Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday on February 23.

Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and their daughter Princess Aiko, made three appearances for a public gathering with Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko and Princess Kako at the imperial palace.

About 18,000 people turned up for the public gathering that was held in the morning.

The Emperor and other imperial family members dined with about 120 guests including Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru at the lunch ceremony “Enkai no Gi.”

It was the first time in five years the event took place as it previously had been canceled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

A toast was made with Japanese sake. Princess Aiko attended the toast for the first time.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako later visited Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko.

In the evening, Prince Hisahito visited the Imperial Palace to deliver his birthday wishes to Emperor Naruhito.