Society

Imperial Couple Revisit Oxford, Reconnect with Old Friends and Memories

OXFORD, Jun 29 (News On Japan) - The Emperor and Empress of Japan arrived in Oxford at around 7:30 PM Japan time on June 28. They were greeted by the Chancellor of the University of Oxford and other dignitaries. Their first stop was Balliol College, where Empress Masako studied.

Empress Masako studied international relations at Oxford while working as a diplomat. Emperor Naruhito, who researched the history of the Thames River, was already acquainted with her, as she was considered a candidate for marriage at that time. Alongside her studies, she occasionally showcased her culinary skills by preparing Japanese dishes at parties.

Upon returning to Japan, Empress Masako played a pivotal role in diplomacy, serving as an interpreter for numerous dignitaries. Her former professors speak highly of her exceptional abilities.

One of her mentors, Lucas Tsoukalis, described her as “very approachable, charming, intelligent, and active, and one of the best students I have ever had.”

Another mentor, Adam Roberts, recalled an event where Empress Masako attended a dinner with her father, a diplomat, alongside other distinguished scholars. He remarked, “Empress Masako seamlessly mingled with the highly talented academics. She was very composed, maintaining her humor and smile, and I felt she possessed extraordinary capabilities.”

Before visiting Oxford, Emperor Naruhito reconnected with an old friend, Philip Whitmore, who played viola in a string quartet with him. Whitmore had mentioned in an interview on June 17 that he thought they wouldn't meet this time, but on June 26, he received a sudden call from the Japanese Embassy, and a meeting was arranged.

Philip Whitmore shared, “Yes, I met His Majesty. He was very lively, and we reminisced about old times. It seems his collection of violas has grown to four.”

After 15 years, they spent about 20 minutes chatting over tea. Whitmore added, “I was delighted to see him. I hope he continues to find time for music despite his busy schedule.”

On June 27, Emperor Naruhito visited Windsor Castle on the outskirts of London, where the late Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away without a chance to reunite with him due to the pandemic, is laid to rest.

After completing the official schedule, Emperor Naruhito spoke to the press, reflecting on his visit.

“The historic buildings of London and the serene presence of the Thames River made me feel strongly that I had returned to a place filled with memories. Many people welcomed us back with ‘welcome back,’ and it made me very happy. I am grateful that Masako and I could visit this memorable place together. I was pleased to see everyone smiling during the dinner despite the solemn atmosphere.”

Source: ANN

Shimadzu Unveils World's First Optical Lattice Clock

Shimadzu Corporation has launched the world's first optical lattice clock, which measures time using the oscillation frequency of atoms trapped by lasers. The clock boasts an unparalleled accuracy, with an error of just one second over 10 billion years.

Tohoku Shinkansen Cars Unexpectedly Detach

A Tohoku Shinkansen train came to an unexpected stop between Ueno and Omiya on March 6th after its coupled cars separated. The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on the Hayabusa-Komachi No. 21 train.

Japan to Release Rice Reserves as Prices Surge Past 5,000 Yen for 5kg

Japan’s rice prices have been steadily climbing, with the cost of a 5-kilogram bag rising from 2,430 to 3,297 yen last year and further increasing to 3,949 yen this year, putting pressure on household budgets. To curb these rising prices, the government has decided to release its rice reserves.

Gunkanjima Faces Collapse Risk as Buildings Deteriorate

The historic buildings of Hashima Island, commonly known as Gunkanjima, are facing a risk of collapse due to ongoing deterioration, it was revealed on March 3rd. The island, part of the "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution," a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks its 10th anniversary this summer, has seen its structures degrade significantly over time.

Nara's Omizutori Fire Ritual Marks 1,274 Year

The annual Shunie ceremony, commonly known as Omizutori, has begun at Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Carrying large torches, attendants lit the way as monks, known as the Rengyoshu, slowly ascended the steps of Nigatsudo Hall.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Society NEWS

Free ‘Manhole Cards’ Resold for Thousands, Angering Collectors

A surge in the resale of 'Manhole Cards,' collectible cards featuring designs of local manhole covers distributed for free by municipalities, has angered collectors and local governments. Some cards are being resold for as much as 100,000 yen, prompting concerns over fairness and the original intent behind the initiative.

Abandoned Hospital Becomes Haunting Ground, Alarming Residents

An abandoned hospital in Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture, has become a well-known "haunted spot," drawing unwanted attention and raising concerns among local residents. Fresh footprints in the snow indicate frequent trespassing, despite the lack of any official visitors.