TOKYO - Empress Emerita Michiko celebrated her 92nd birthday on October 20th, receiving birthday greetings from Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and other members of Japan's imperial family at her residence in Tokyo, as concerns grow over her declining physical strength and signs of fatigue.
The Emperor and Empress visited the Sento Imperial Residence to offer their congratulations, along with Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko. Michiko's granddaughters, Princess Aiko and Princess Kako, also visited to mark the occasion.
Over the past year, Michiko has continued to make occasional public appearances and spend time with her husband, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, despite her advanced age and ongoing health concerns.
In January, she attended the annual New Year's public greeting at the Imperial Palace, while in May, the couple traveled to the Hayama Imperial Villa in Kanagawa Prefecture for a period of rest.
During their stay in Hayama, the couple were seen walking hand in hand near a coastal cape, with Akihito gently asking his wife, "Are you all right? Be careful."
They also spent time interacting with local residents. During one encounter, a parent introduced a young child who was approaching her second birthday. Michiko asked whether the child would continue to grow, while the parent later expressed appreciation for the former empress's kindness.
"I was happy that she held my daughter's hand and wished her healthy growth," the parent said.
Although some of Michiko's scheduled activities were canceled because of the intense summer heat and other considerations, she continued to appear in good spirits throughout much of the year.
However, an aide revealed that Michiko has recently been experiencing increasing fatigue and is gradually reducing the distance she walks during her regular outings.
"Recently, the Empress Emerita has been becoming tired more easily, and the distance she can walk during her strolls has gradually become shorter," the aide said.
According to those close to the couple, Michiko sometimes develops a slight fever in the afternoons. Her levels of B-type natriuretic peptide, or BNP, a blood marker used to assess heart failure, have also remained above the normal range.
Despite these concerns, officials said there has been no significant change in her overall physical condition, and the couple continue to lead quiet and peaceful lives together.
Michiko has also been taking precautions against a recurrence of deep vein thrombosis, a condition diagnosed in 2022, while working to prevent further muscle weakness.
As part of these efforts, she regularly walks with Akihito within the grounds of their residence and participates in light exercise to maintain her strength and mobility.
In the evenings, Michiko sometimes enjoys watching televised sporting events, including volleyball matches, as well as music programs.
One of her greatest pleasures, according to those close to her, is receiving visits from Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and other members of the imperial family, who continue to spend time with the couple whenever opportunities arise.
Source: TBS
