Emperor and Empress enjoy Okinawa karate demonstration on their last official visit to Okinawa
Emperor and Empress (right) observing Morio Higaonna’s demonstration (left) at the Okinawa Karate Kaikan in the morning of March 29 in Tomigusuku City (photograph taken by representative)
March 30, 2018 Ryukyu Shimpo
On March 29, the Emperor and Empress concluded their supposedly last official visit to Okinawa and flew back to Tokyo from Naha Airport with their special plane.
On the final day, they visited the Okinawa Karate Kaikan in Tomigusuku City.
Besides viewing Okinawa karate, the Emperor and Empress also learned about the history of Okinawa karate via display panels.
Four holders of Intangible Cultural Property recognized by Okinawa Prefecture demonstrated Okinawa karate katas at the special dojo outside the Okinawa Karate Kaikan. Following the demonstration, the Emperor and Empress spoke with each and every one of the performers.
They said, “Thank you very much for demonstrating such beautiful technique” and “Please take care.”
Morinobu Maeshiro, 73, who demonstrated the traditional useshi, said, “I was happy they could view the original form of karate that originated in Okinawa.”
Masahiro Nakamoto, 80, who demonstrated his mastery of nunchucks, smiled and said, “Opportunities like these may or may not happen once in a lifetime, so I am honored.”
The Emperor and Empress had stayed in Okinawa for two-nights and three-days from March 27.
They had visited the Japanese War Cemetery Okinawa, Okinawa Peace Memorial Hall, and Yonaguni Island.
According to a representative of Okinawa Prefecture, about 20,000 people welcomed the Emperor and Empress along their travel routes and destinations during the three days.
As Emperor, this was the sixth visit and 11th visit including the time when the Emperor was a Prince.
(English translation by T&CT and Chelsea Ashimine)
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