Princess Aiko, the eldest daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, participated in the "Okihiki" timber-hauling ceremony at Ise Jingu in Mie Prefecture on Sunday, according to 毎日新聞. She wore a white happi coat for the traditional event, which precedes the shrine's once-in-20-years rebuilding ritual.
The princess joined the procession as participants pulled logs toward the shrine grounds, responding to the call-and-response chant of "enya" with a smile, TBS NEWS DIG reported. Her involvement went beyond observation, as she actively took part in the physical labor of the event, according to 名古屋テレビ.
The Okihiki ceremony is part of the Shikinen Sengu, a major rebuilding tradition at Ise Jingu that occurs every two decades. The event involves transporting timber that will be used to reconstruct the shrine's main sanctuary, a practice that has continued for centuries.
The participation of imperial family members in this rite has precedent. Nineteen years ago, then-Crown Prince Naruhito, now the emperor, also took part in the Okihiki event, TBS NEWS DIG noted. Princess Aiko's attendance continues this family tradition at the sacred Shinto site.
The Shikinen Sengu is considered one of Japan's most significant religious ceremonies, drawing attention from across the country. The upcoming rebuilding marks the latest cycle in a tradition that has been maintained for over 1,300 years.
Princess Aiko's participation highlights the imperial family's ongoing connection to Shinto traditions and regional cultural events. Observers will likely watch for further imperial involvement as the rebuilding ceremony progresses toward its completion.
