In Japan, Empress Masako shines in the spotlight after 16 years on the sidelines
- The new empress has surprised those who doubted she could handle the pressure of her imperial duties after the coronation of Emperor Naruhito
- She had barely been seen in public since 2003, but last month impressed watchers at a banquet attended by US President Donald Trump
Barely seen in public for more than a decade, there were some who feared her fragility might worsen under the weight of her new title and the responsibilities that go with being empress in the world’s longest-reigning royal dynasty.
The fear was that Masako might become a burden on her husband and more of a worry – potentially even an embarrassment – for the Imperial Household Agency. Instead, and with royal watchers scrutinising her every mood, she has defied expectations and is unquestionably thriving.
On May 22, Masako attended the annual meeting of the Japanese Red Cross Society in Tokyo, her first solo expedition as empress. Before a crowd of more than 1,900 people, she watched and applauded as organisations and individuals were recognised for their support for the society, and listened to reports.
The last time she attended the event was July 2003, a short while before she was diagnosed with what the palace has always termed an “adjustment disorder”.
