The Emperor, who was enthroned a year ago, conducted the Shunsai ritual at the Kyuchu Sanden three sanctuaries in the Imperial Palace on Friday. Wearing a face mask, the Emperor entered the Imperial Palace by car through the Hanzomon gate at around 8:30 a.m.
It was the first time for the Emperor to ride in a car that has an acrylic plate separating rear and driver's seats, as a precaution against the new coronavirus. Imperial Household staff, such as close aides, usually sit in the rear seat with the Emperor but they refrained from doing so that day to prevent infections.
People standing along the street leading to the Hanzomon gate greeted the Emperor, saying,"Congratulations." The Emperor opened a window of the car and bowed to them.
The Shunsai ritual is held on the 1st, 11th and 21st of every month to pray to deities for the peace and tranquility of the state and the people.
On the 1st of each month, the Emperor offers a prayer. On the other days, Imperial Household staff conduct the ritual on his behalf.
Late in the Heisei period (1989-2019), the Emperor offered prayers twice a year to lessen the burden of his work, but the practice was brought back to full-scale when the current Emperor was enthroned.
Since the outbreak of the new coronavirus, the Emperor's excursions have been limited to official duties and rituals conducted at the Imperial Palace.
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