TOKYO - Emperor Naruhito presented prestigious Grand Cordon decorations to Toyota Motor Chairman Akio Toyoda and other recipients of Japan's autumn honors at a ceremony held at the Imperial Palace on November 10th, recognizing their longstanding contributions to the country and society.
The investiture ceremony took place in the Matsu-no-Ma, or Pine Room, of the Imperial Palace, where the Emperor personally handed decorations to each recipient.
Among those honored with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun were Toyoda, 70, chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, and Keizo Takemi, 75, a former minister of health, labor and welfare.
Yasuhiko Nishimura, 71, former grand steward of the Imperial Household Agency, received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure in recognition of his service supporting the Imperial Family's activities following Emperor Naruhito's accession to the throne in 2019.
Addressing the recipients, the Emperor expressed appreciation for their decades of public service, saying, "I deeply appreciate your dedication over many years to fulfilling your respective responsibilities and your contributions to the country, society and its people."
The Emperor also addressed foreign recipients in English, thanking them for their efforts to promote national development and strengthen international relations.
"I deeply appreciate your efforts to contribute to the development of your countries and to the advancement of relations with the international community," he said.
Following the ceremony, the recipients wore their newly awarded decorations and gathered for commemorative photographs in front of the Imperial Palace.
Japan's twice-yearly honors recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to public service, industry, culture, diplomacy and other fields. The autumn decorations are among the country's most prestigious national honors, with Grand Cordon awards traditionally presented by the Emperor at formal ceremonies in the Imperial Palace.
Source: FNN
