Prince Akishino highlights Japanese contribution to Yguazú's agriculture and culture

Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko visited Yguazú, Paraguay, for the first time on Sunday, August 23, 2026, to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration to the country. The visit highlighted the significant contributions of the Japanese community to the agricultural, cultural, and social development of the Yguazú region.

During their tour, the royal couple visited the Immigrant Museum and "Tukumi" Center, where they viewed farming tools and artifacts used by the early Japanese pioneers who settled in the area in 1961. Prince Akishino acknowledged the pioneers' arduous efforts in establishing themselves in a jungle-covered region. The visit also included a floral tribute at the Yguazú Cemetery to honor the first Japanese immigrants, with Prince Akishino expressing condolences and respect for their sacrifices.

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I am satisfied to visit this area of the country for the first time.

The prince also recognized the integration of Japanese descendants into Yguazú's institutional life, citing Manabu Ishibashi as the first community delegate and Mauro Kawano as the current municipal mayor. He also touched upon Ciudad del Este's multicultural character and the Nikkei community's efforts in promoting Japanese culture and language education. Prince Akishino particularly valued the focus of the Japanese communities in Yguazú and Ciudad del Este on education, culture, and coexistence with Paraguayan society.

This visit to Yguazú is part of the Japanese princes' agenda in Paraguay, following their participation in the central celebration in Asunción and a visit to La Colmena. Their trip to Alto Paraná brought them to one of Paraguay's most significant Japanese communities.

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I express my condolences and respect to those who began the process of colonization through great sacrifice.