Japan's Princess Aiko might only be four years old but she was the epitome of professionalism and poise as the Imperial family held a centuries-old ceremony to celebrate her passage from infancy to childhood and give thanks for her growth.
Saturday's Chakko-no-gi ceremony, which has been followed by the Japanese royal family for at least nine centuries, took place at Tokyo's Togu Palace, where Aiko lives with her parents Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako. And her parents' pride in their only child was clear for all to see as they smiled broadly for photographs to mark the special occasion.
The little princess was dressed in traditional costume, including a deep purple kosode, or short-sleeved silk jacket, and hakama (culottes), presented to her by her grandparents, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. Over these she wore a red chrysanthemum pattern uchiki (long jacket) and held a fan in her hand. And after the ceremony she changed into a beautiful pink silk ceremonial kimono.
While her future looks set to hold a life of royal duty, for now Aiko, who turns five next month, is making the most of being simply a schoolgirl during the week. She is happily settled into kindergarten where, according to the Imperial Household, she enjoys playing the Japanese word game 'Shiritori' with her friends, singing songs, and riding a bike with the help of stabilisers.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
