Japan Royals Release Juvenile Grouper

Nov 16, 2026 | News On Japan

OSAKA - Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako released young fish into Osaka Bay on November 15 during a national marine conservation event, where around 100 fishing boats flying colorful flags welcomed the imperial couple with a parade despite rainy weather.

The Emperor and Empress, who were visiting Osaka Prefecture, arrived at Rinku Park in Izumisano, overlooking Osaka Bay, at around 3 p.m. to attend a fish release ceremony held as part of the National Convention for the Development of an Abundantly Productive Sea.

At the waterfront venue, approximately 100 fishing boats decorated with traditional flags celebrating abundant catches staged a welcome parade. The imperial couple responded by waving to the fishermen as the vessels passed.

The Emperor and Empress then received juvenile red-spotted grouper and Japanese flounder, two species whose catches have recovered through long-running fish stocking programs aimed at restoring local marine resources.

Following a signal from local elementary school students, the couple gently released the young fish into the sea, highlighting efforts to sustain fish populations and protect the fishing industry in Osaka Bay.

After the ceremony, the Emperor and Empress met and spoke with students from a special needs upper secondary school before returning to Tokyo on the evening of November 15.

Source: FNN

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