The Imperial Family at the Nasu Imperial Villa
The Nasu Imperial Villa has served as a summer retreat since 1926, and the Emperor and Empress visit every year, usually between July and September. Even before they were married, the couple enjoyed hiking in the Nasu mountains, and now they are joined by their daughter, Princess Aiko (b. 2001). The white flowers of the cork azalea, which bloom in clusters on the Nasu Highlands, are the Princess’s personal symbol.
The Imperial family occasionally visit the villa in autumn to admire the autumn colors. If Crown Prince Akishino (b. 1965) and his family are staying at the villa at the same time, the families spend time walking together through the forests and hiking in the mountains.