Japan celebrates the 66th Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor
2026/2/16
A toast by H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani and the Ambassador
The Ambassador recieves H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani
Embassy staff members' spouses wearing kimono
Speech by Ambassador Yokota in Arabic
"Kagami-biraki" by H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani and the Ambassador
On 11 February 2026, Ambassador Yokota hosted a reception at the Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut to celebrate His Majesty the Emperor’s 66th Birthday, in the presence of H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani, Minister of Agriculture, representing H.E. General Joseph Aoun, President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Nabih Berri, Speaker of Parliament and H.E. Judge Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister.
The reception was attended by approximately 460 guests, including Ministers, members of Parliament, government, business, academic and cultural representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The reception was attended by approximately 460 guests, including Ministers, members of Parliament, government, business, academic and cultural representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
General Promotion booth
Nigiri sushi served by the official residence chef
Following the national anthems of both countries, Ambassador Yokota delivered a speech in Arabic, expressing his joy at fulfilling his long-cherished wish to live and work in Beirut. He also explained about the history of the Japanese Imperial Family and shared an excerpt from the words of His Majesty the Emperor at the beginning of this New Year. He further emphasized that Japan sincerely hopes for peace and stability in Lebanon and supports the efforts of the current Lebanese government to promote reforms and to establish full sovereignty over the entire territory of Lebanon.
Subsequently, to pray for the further development of bilateral relations, Ambassador Yokota performed a kagami-biraki (ceremonial sake barrel opening) together with H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani.
Subsequently, to pray for the further development of bilateral relations, Ambassador Yokota performed a kagami-biraki (ceremonial sake barrel opening) together with H.E. Dr. Nizar Hani.
(Top) The Shogun Lounge, (Bottom left) TOYOTA : Lexus RX500 hybrid F-Sport, (Bottom right) SUBARU : New Forester
SEIKO Watch Corporation
During the event, Embassy staff and their spouses welcomed guests in traditional kimono, while the Embassy chef served nigiri-sushi. A special corner featured Japanese sake. Also, the reception featured sushi rolls (maki-sushi) from local Japanese restaurant The Shogun Lounge, as well as Japanese sake and mochi ice cream through Japanese food distributor General Promotion. These were well received by the guests.
JICA booth
Display of traditional Hina Dolls
This year, with the generous cooperation of local Japanese car dealerships, TOYOTA exhibited the Lexus RX500 hybrid F-Sport, and SUBARU displayed the New Forester. SEIKO Watch Corporation also showcased its products.
(Left) CCP, (Right) Parcic
(Left) Save the Children, (Right) Japanese Red Cross
Furthermore, local NGOs active in Lebanon—including the Japanese Red Cross, CCP, Parcic, and Save the Children—as well as JICA, set up booths to introduce their activities. A display of Hina dolls also drew attention from the guests.
▶Press Release (English & Arabic)
▶Press Release (English & Arabic)