I
thought the reception for a little low key for a Princess, with most everyone
in ski clothes, but this was a ski race weekend. There were a few short welcome-type speeches,
then a Kanpai with beer or Hokkaido milk and later some delicious food. The
Princess was wearing a suit with the race pin and a snowflake pin, carrying
white gloves and a small black purse.
When she went on stage, a member of her staff stepped forward and took
the purse from the Princess, returning it when she stepped off stage. I really think I could do that job – Princess
purse holder. Ted and I had the good fortune to be personally introduced to Her
Imperial Highness! She was very gracious and spoke with us in English. I didn’t
see her eat anything at the reception, but she did walk around to each table
for greetings and photos before leaving with her staff members.
I’ll
write about the rest of the race weekend later in the week. The race was fun,
but truly, the best part of the weekend for me was meeting the Princess.
8 comments:
Well! What a wonderful experience. In some ways it was probably best not to know beforehand as you might have worried about etiquette.
Fun!!
Good for you! What a lovely surprise and certainly something to 'write home about'.
The Imperial Household are facing one big problem - there are not enough men in the family. You see, a male member of the Imperial family will remain in the family even when they marry. The princesses have to leave the family upon marrying. The result is that if Princess Akiko of Mikasa marries, she no longer can take part in these official duties. Your chances of meeting an Imperial Highness is decreasing by each princess getting married. Maybe the government need to value a female member as highly as a male?!
How fun to meet the princess.
What a fantastic experience!!
How fun!
Question: Did she keep her hands in that position the entire time?
How cool is that!?
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