Japanese Imperial Couple in Hawaii

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko arrived in Hawaii Tuesday, after spending nearly two weeks touring Canada. Their plane landed in Hickam Air Force Base a quarter after 3 p.m., and the couple were greeted by local politicians, such as Governor Linda Lingle and Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, Admiral Timothy Keating.

: AP

After their arrival, the Emperor and Empress headed to Kapiolani Park. While there, the couple saw their rainbow shower tree, which they planted back when they toured Hawaii in 1960, as Japan’s Crown Princely couple.

They also met with local dignitaries and residents. Meeting with the local people was reminiscent of Akihito and Michiko’s Canadian visit, where people of Japanese descent gathered in large crowds to see them. Hawaii is home to large numbers of people of Japanese heritage.

“I just went to Japan a year ago and of course we could only stay outside of the castle but that was a thrill for me. Now I am here because I thought this is the only opportunity, the last time because I don’t think he will come again,” said Harriet Lum, a Pearl City resident.

: Reuters

“Its important because he’s kind of the people’s Emperor. He married a commoner and he really cares for the elderly. And he’s kind of nodding towards Hawaii to maintain the relationship,” said Curtis Matsushige, a Mililani resident.

Wednesday saw the Emperor and Empress lay a wreath at the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, the final resting place for hundreds of U.S. soldiers who served in the Second World War. Their Imperial Majesties bowed their heads in respect once the wreath was put in place.

They then went on to have lunch with Governor Lingle at Washington Place. At night, they will go to the Hilton Hawaiian Village to attend a banquet which honors the 50th anniversary of the Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation.

Thursday will see the end of the imperial tour. Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko will fly back to Japan for much needed rest and relaxation from visiting two countries back to back.