2026/04/30

On April 12, the “Opening Commemorative Forum and Reception for the 400th Anniversary of the Kan’ei Gyoko” was held.

On Sunday, April 12, we had the honor of hosting the “Opening Commemorative Forum and Reception for the 400th Anniversary of the Kan’ei Gyoko (Imperial Visit to Nijo Castle in 1626)” at ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Kyoto.

The forum began with an opening declaration by Governor Takatoshi Nishiwaki of Kyoto Prefecture, followed by opening remarks from Mayor Koji Matsui of Kyoto City. The program then featured lectures by Tadahiro Konoe (32nd heir of the Konoe family) and Timon Screech (Professor at the International Research Center for Japanese Studies), as well as a panel discussion joined by Kanako Hamasaki, producer of the 400th Anniversary Project. The session offered a rich and varied program.

The program began with the opening declaration by Takatoshi Nishiwaki, Governor of Kyoto Prefecture.

Opening remarks were delivered by Koji Matsui, Mayor of Kyoto City.

Lecture by Tadahiro Konoe (Heir of the 32nd generation of the Konoe family)

Lecture by Timon Screech (Professor at the International Research Center for Japanese Studies)

At the reception that followed, a guest address was delivered by Hirofumi Matsuzaka, Senior Deputy Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Junya Suzuki, Vice Chairman of the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, then offered a toast.

An address was delivered by Hirofumi Matsuzaka, Senior Deputy Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs.

A toast was proposed by Junya Suzuki, Vice Chairman of the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

During the reception, attendees were also presented with an overview of the project and the unveiling of the official poster design. In addition, geiko and maiko from Gion Kobu made a special appearance, introducing the Miyako Odori performance titled “Kan’ei Gyoko Miyako no Hanayagi.”

The poster design was presented by Kazuhisa Umehara, Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 400th Anniversary of the Kan’ei Gyoko.

Geiko and maiko from Gion Kobu also kindly attended the event, promoting the Miyako Odori performance titled “Kan’ei Gyoko Miyako no Hanayagi.”

Closing remarks were delivered by Yasushi Katsume, Member of the House of Representatives.

The day’s opening events concluded in a warm and convivial atmosphere, following the formal closing remarks delivered by Yasushi Katsume, Member of the House of Representatives. We extend our sincere gratitude to all those involved.

The 400th Anniversary of the Kan’ei Gyoko commenced with the participation of approximately 250 attendees.We will continue to hold various events, so please look forward to them.

This event was made possible with the generous support of ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Kyoto. We express our sincere appreciation.

写真撮影：橋本正樹