Reception to Celebrate the Emperor of Japan’s Birthday (4 March 2026)
2026/3/16
A reception in celebration of the Emperor’s birthday was held at the Mission of Japan on 4 March. The reception was jointly hosted by the Permanent Mission of Japan to the International Organizations in Geneva, the Delegation of Japan to the Conference on Disarmament, and the Consulate of Japan in Geneva. Ambassadors from other Permanent Missions and heads of international organizations in Geneva were among the approximately 430 guests in attendance.
At the reception, a wadaiko (japanese drum) performance was presented by ReMi Taiko, who have been dedicated to introducing, promoting, and teaching wadaiko culture in Geneva since 2005. Furthermore, tasting corners were set up where Ms. Emiko Okamoto, Japan Tea Goodwill Ambassador, and Mr. Matthew Zellweger, Master Sake Sommelier, respectively provided introductions to Japanese tea and sake.
There was a variety of dishes prepared by the official chefs of the Ambassador’s residence, and drinks offered in the bustling reception hall, including a selection of red and white wines from around Japan.
Many guests enjoyed the reception and had a pleasant and meaningful time.
Ambassador Oike delivering his address
Ambassador Ichikawa delivering her address
Ambassador Nagai making a toast
Japanese drum performance by ReMi Taiko
Sake tasting corner by Mr. Matthieu Zellweger
Japanese tea tasting corner by Ms.Emiko Okamoto
430 guests attented the reception
At the reception, a wadaiko (japanese drum) performance was presented by ReMi Taiko, who have been dedicated to introducing, promoting, and teaching wadaiko culture in Geneva since 2005. Furthermore, tasting corners were set up where Ms. Emiko Okamoto, Japan Tea Goodwill Ambassador, and Mr. Matthew Zellweger, Master Sake Sommelier, respectively provided introductions to Japanese tea and sake.
There was a variety of dishes prepared by the official chefs of the Ambassador’s residence, and drinks offered in the bustling reception hall, including a selection of red and white wines from around Japan.
Many guests enjoyed the reception and had a pleasant and meaningful time.
Ambassador Oike delivering his address
Ambassador Ichikawa delivering her address
Ambassador Nagai making a toast
Japanese drum performance by ReMi Taiko
Sake tasting corner by Mr. Matthieu Zellweger
Japanese tea tasting corner by Ms.Emiko Okamoto