Emperor’s Birthday National Day Reception (March 22, 2024)
On March 22, the Consulate General of Japan held a reception celebrating the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. The event began with a performance by local Japanese drum group Arashi Daiko, followed by renditions of the national anthems of Japan and Canada performed by a violin and cello duet. Speeches were delivered by the Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie and representative of the Government of Quebec, Martine Biron, the Chair of the Montreal city council, Martine Musau Muele, and Consul General Akihiko Uchikawa. The opening ceremony concluded with the traditional “kagami biraki”, for which Lieutenant-Governor Manon Jeannotte and President of the National Assembly Nathalie Roy joined the stage. Guests were offered a selection of typical Japanese dishes and alcoholic beverages, along with ikebana arrangements and information booths showcasing local Japanese companies and promoting Japanese tourism, allowing attendees to experience Japanese culture and charm firsthand.