Princess Aiko joins Ise Shrine's Mokihiki ceremony

On August 1‑2, 2026, Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, travelled to Ise City in Mie Prefecture to take part in the traditional Mokihiki (御木曳) ceremony. The event is a key element of the 20‑year Shikinen Sengu rebuilding of Ise Shrine, during which sacred hinoki wood is hauled to the inner and outer shrines.

Wearing a cream‑coloured happi coat, Princess Aiko joined local residents in pulling a thick rope that transports the timber. She switched from her usual heeled shoes to flat shoes for the ceremony, a change noted by observers as a sign of her earnest involvement. The ceremony also recalled the Emperor’s participation in 2007 when he was Crown Prince. Her presence was greeted by the Mie governor and local officials at Kintetsu Ujiyamada station, and she was seen smiling and waving to the crowd.