A Japanese-style ceremony to welcome New Zealand's All Blacks national rugby squad was held at Zojoji temple in Minato Ward, Tokyo, on Saturday. The three-time World Cup winners -- 1987, 2011 and 2015 -- aim to be the first team to claim a third consecutive World Cup title.
At the beginning of the ceremony, players entered the Koshoden hall at the precincts, where they enjoyed listening to a koto harp performance.
All Blacks captain Kieran Read, who will join Toyota Verblitz after the World Cup, said he is truly thankful for the warm hospitality he has received from many people since his arrival in Japan, and he is looking forward to the tournament.
Afterward,the team members gathered for a commemorative photo in front of the illuminated main hall and interacted with their fans, including signing autographs.
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