Japan-Idaho Relations

 

Mr. Takashi Teraoka, the Consul General of Japan in Portland, invited the Idaho Japanese Association to celebrate the beginning of Japan’s newest era, Reiwa.

 

Japan marks a new era each time a leader ascends the throne in Japan. The Reiwa Era began May 1, 2019 when Emperor Akihito’s eldest son, Naruhito, ascended the throne as the 126th Emperor of Japan. “Reiwa” translates to “beautiful harmony”.

 

The event started with the national anthems of Japan and the United States. It was then followed by speeches from area dignitaries and with a special presentation by Sangha Taiko, a traditional Japanese drum group made of local drummers from Ontario, Oregon.

 

The featured dignitaries who spoke included: 

 

Each dignitary shared their vision of the economic and cultural ties between Japan and Idaho.