On October 11, Princess Aiko, the only daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, made her first solo official visit to Saga Prefecture since reaching adulthood. This milestone event saw her arrive in Saga to attend the National Sports Festival and visit the Saga Castle History Museum. However, the day took an unexpected turn when police discovered an 80-year-old man carrying a folding knife in the castle grounds, prompting an immediate arrest and increased security measures.
According to a report by Saga Shimbun, the elderly man, who is currently unemployed and from Yamaguchi Prefecture, was found with a folding knife that had an 8.5-centimeter blade. He was arrested for violating Japan’s firearms and swords law after museum staff noted his suspicious behavior and called the police.
When questioned by the authorities about his intention to carry the knife, the man stated, “I know it’s wrong to carry a knife, but I’m not here to harm anyone.”
Shortly after the man’s arrest, Princess Aiko’s convoy passed through the area as she was scheduled to visit later that evening. Dressed in a salmon pink outfit, she received a warm welcome from local residents upon her arrival at Saga Airport before heading to the National Sports Festival competitions. This visit marks a significant moment for Princess Aiko as it is her first duty as an adult member of the royal family, emphasizing her new role in public service.
