Reception on the Occasion of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan’s Birthday

The Birthday of the Emperor of Japan is a national holiday of significant importance. This day holds a special historical and cultural meaning for the Japanese people. It is currently celebrated on February 23 in honor of the birthday of Emperor Naruhito. This holiday is observed as a symbol of unity and stability of the state of Japan. On February 13, 2026, an official reception dedicated to the Birthday of the Emperor of Japan was held in the city of Astana. The event, organized by the Embassy of Japan, was conducted at a high level. The ceremonial gathering was attended by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Kazakhstan Yasumasa Iijima, as well as official representatives of the Republic of Kazakhstan, members of the diplomatic corps, and invited distinguished guests. Also, invited to participate were the Head of the Department of Oriental Studies of L.N.Gumilyov Eurasian National University G.U. Birimkulova, the faculty members of the department B.Zh. Abzhapparova, G.K. Uteulieva, A.A. Tleubaeva, N.B. Suduyeva, A. Rakhman, as well as the president of the Japanese club “Mononoke,” third-year student R. Yergalikyzy. The event began with the official congratulatory address by the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Kazakhstan. In his speech, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of friendly relations between the two countries and expressed confidence in the continued strengthening of cooperation. At the next stage of the ceremonial program, in accordance with Japanese tradition, the “kagami-biraki” ceremony was held. This is the tradition of opening the lid of a sake barrel with a wooden mallet, symbolizing a successful start of new undertakings, unity, and harmony. After the ceremony, a reception with a buffet was organized for the guests. During the event, the attendees had the opportunity to exchange views in an informal setting and establish new contacts. This event became an important diplomatic and cultural meeting aimed at strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between Kazakhstan and Japan.