An Imperial Wedding Gift Inspired Two Generations of Scholars

The Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation was established in 1959 to commemorate the wedding of then Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko.

The Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship is awarded to graduate students of Japan or the United States who are pursuing a subject area leading to better understanding between Japan and the United States.

University of Hawaii at Manoa:
The Nexus of U.S.-Japan Scholarship

With pivotal involvement by the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the scholarship is offered to two categories of graduate students:

1.  Japanese graduate students for study at the University of Hawaii at Manoa; and
2. American graduate students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa for study in Japan.

The Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation’s vision is to positively impact the world through academic excellence. Scholars represent diverse segments of industry and academe. Areas of specialization include but are not limited to history, economics, business, anthropology, culture, political science, sociology, religion, and philosophy.

On June 5, 2018, several Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation scholars/alumni and current Trustees were honored to have a private audience with Prince and Princess Akishino, the younger son of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. The Prince and Princess were in town to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Gannenmono – the arrival of the first immigrants to Hawaii from Japan. Many who attended the private audience commented that the Prince and Princess exuded the same grace and elegance as Their Majesties as they spoke one-on-one with the guests. Mahalo to all who attended this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Thank you also to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel for their warm hospitality.

The use or reprinting of these photos are strictly prohibited without the permission of the CPASF – Honolulu, the CPASF – Japan Committee, and the Imperial Household Agency.