On December 9, 2013, Her Imperial Highness Crown Princess Masako of Japan turns 50 years young.  Prior to her special day the Imperial Household Agency released video footage of the crown princess surrounded by her husband, daughter, and of course the sweet family dog.

On December 9, 2013, His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan departed from Tokyo International Airport to attend the memorial service for the late Mr. Nelson Mandela in South Africa.  The future emperor is accompanied by the former Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Yasuo Fukuda.

The crown prince and Mr. Fukuda will return to Tokyo on Wednesday, December 11, 2013.

On December 6, 2013, Their Imperial Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan returned to Tokyo after a six-day official visit to India.

Upon their arrival at the Tokyo International Airport the emperor and empress were warmly welcomed home by Their Imperial Highnesses Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako of Japan and Their Imperial Highnesses Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko of Japan.

On Wednesday, December 4, 2013, Their Imperial Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan continued their six-day visit to India.  This afternoon the imperial couple visited the Kalakshetra Art Academy in Chennai.

On the afternoon of December 3, 2013, His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan held an audience with the Vice President of the United States, Mr. Joe Biden, at Tōgū Palace in Tokyo.  Also, attending the brief meeting was newly appointed United States Ambassador to Japan, Ms. Caroline Kennedy. 

According to the United States Department of State, Vice President Biden is currently on an eight-day visit to:

“…Japan, China and the Republic of Korea. The trip will underscore the administration’s strong commitment to the rebalance, and to our enduring role as a Pacific power. It is an opportunity to give lift to our treaty alliances and to advance our very important relationship with China.”