The official visit of Emmanuel Macron to Japan has begun under the sign of culture and deep ties between the two countries, combining traditional heritage and contemporary references.
In Tokyo, the French president met with Master Moriguchi, recognized as a “living national treasure” for his art of Yūzen, a traditional textile dyeing technique. Seven years after their first meeting, this exchange took place at the Ginza Motoji house, a reference in the world of kimonos. Emmanuel Macron praised “the beauty of the gesture that transcends time” and the Japanese master’s attachment to France, highlighting the central role of Franco-Japanese cultural exchanges.
The head of state also met with director Hayao Miyazaki, a major figure in Japanese animation. On this occasion, he was presented with a painting inspired by Porco Rosso, one of the filmmaker’s iconic works. Emmanuel Macron emphasized the values of freedom conveyed by this film, resonating with current issues.
Between ancient tradition and popular culture, this initial visit illustrates Emmanuel Macron’s desire to strengthen Franco-Japanese ties by relying on both heritage and shared values.
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