On the first afternoon of the course, 52 students representing 16 countries (Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, Croatia, Egypt, Hong Kong, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Macao, Malaysia, Mongolia, Montenegro, Samoa, United Kingdom, USA) were surprised to see the Princess enter the most prestigious dojo in the world, founded by Jigoro Kano Shihan. She was accompanied by Kodokan President Haruki Uemura, both dressed in judogi. The sight of the Princess in judogi, adorned with imperial emblems, created an unforgettable impression.
Her Imperial Highness, who became an IJF Ambassador during the Judo World Championships Tokyo 2019, observed the ashi-waza lesson led by IJF Academy Sport Director Florin Daniel Lascau. The IJF Academy Chairman Envic Galea explained the key points of the session while two IJF Academy experts, Olympic champions Giulia Quintavalle and Mark Huizinga, demonstrated the techniques.
Following the lesson, group photos were taken to mark the occasion. The Princess then departed the Kodokan, receiving heartfelt applause and bows from all the students, Kodokan and AJJF representatives and IJF Academy experts present.
Reflecting on the visit, Envic Galea said, “Her Imperial Highness Princess Tomohito of Mikasa radiates genuine warmth and passion for judo. Speaking with her, it’s clear the sport is not just ceremonial, it’s woven into her household rhythm and personal identity. She exemplifies the judo moral code, a true ambassador of judo’s spirit.”
Florin Daniel Lascau added, “The day could not have been better for the participants of the 135th IJF Academy course. Learning judo in Japan, in the historical Kodokan, in the presence of President Uemura and visited by Her Imperial Highness Princess Tomohito of Mikasa, was amazing.”
Finally, Kodokan President Haruki Uemura emphasised the significance of the moment, “I am pleased to see that the Academy has been developing steadily year by year. Her Imperial Highness has come to encourage us because she recognises the Academy’s importance in promoting judo worldwide and in training instructors. Although she attends IJF events as an Ambassador, a visit such as this is quite rare and I feel greatly honoured.”
The visit of Her Imperial Highness Princess Tomohito of Mikasa was not only a symbol of respect for the Academy’s work but also a reminder of the deep cultural and historical roots that continue to shape judo today.