Title: "Japanese Honor Emperor," Seattle Times, 11/3/1903, (ddr-densho-56-34)
Densho ID: ddr-densho-56-34

JAPANESE HONOR EMPEROR

Celebration of Mikado's Birthday Is Participated in by Many in Seattle.

Consul Entertains Countrymen and Will Receive All Foreigners.

The Japanese of the world are celebrating today. Throughout the United States, wherever there is a group of subjects of the Flowery Kingdom, a demonstration is taking place. It is in honor of the birthday of the Emperor of "The Land of the Setting Sun."

The celebration in Seattle began at an early hour this morning. S. Hisamidza, the Japanese consul in this city, is the prime mover in the local festivities. From 10 o'clock this morning until 4 o'clock this afternoon, he spent the day receiving the Japanese people of Seattle at his home, 326 Thirtieth Avenue. From 4 to 6 o'clock this afternoon he will receive all "foreigners" who desire to call, while tonight, in Germania Hall, the Japanese people will end the day and celebration.

The entrance to the Hisamidza home is beautifully decorated with a large silken banner, symbol of the Japanese race and nation. The Japanese consul this morning was dressed in the uniform of his rank, while a bright gold mounted sword hung at his side. Mrs. Hisamidza was gowned in white silk, with the conventional long train worn by the women of Japan at the court receptions.

Mr. Hisamidza says that the celebration going on in his native country is similar to some respects to our own celebration of Independence Day.

He explains that the Japanese people of the city at some time during the day with all make offerings to the long life and prosperity of the Emperor and to their native land. All places of business will be closed and the time spent generally in the celebration of the Mikado's birth. This morning the consul sent a telegram of congratulations to the Japanese minister at Washington, D.C.

In Japan the day started with the firing of the national salute in every city and village throughout the land. The day will be spent in song and thankgivings, while in the larger cities, principally the seaport towns, special programs and fetes will be carried out.