The ceremony was held at 5:2 a.m. in the "Pine Room" of the Imperial Palace.
Five people received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun. The "Zuiho Grand Chon" was awarded to two people, including Mr. Shigeru Iwasaki, who served as the top Joint Staff Chief of the Self-Defense Forces. His Majesty the Emperor said, "I would like to express my deep gratitude for your many years of hard work in your duties"