The 28th Fukuoka Prize Award Ceremony opened with a video introducing past laureates, followed by the beautiful harmonies of the Fukuoka City Children's Choir.

In the presence of Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino, the distinguished guests from Cambodia, the People’s Republic of China, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam, representatives of various fields and many Fukuoka residents turned their eyes to the stage and greeted the laureates with loud applause as they appeared on the stage. The glamorous yet warm atmosphere was typical of Fukuoka, a city overflowing with hospitality, and befitted a prize that is bestowed by the people of Fukuoka.

Mr. TAKASHIMA Soichiro, Mayor of Fukuoka, addressed the audience on behalf of the organizers. He explained the significance and spirit of the Fukuoka Prize, and concluded with the hope that the Prize would serve to deepen exchanges among people of the Asian region and contribute to the promotion of culture, mutual understanding, and peace.

His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino expressed his sympathy to those affected by the recent torrential rainfall in northern Kyushu and offered his congratulations to the laureates. His address was followed by the Juror’s Statement by Professor KUBO Chiharu, Chair of the Fukuoka Prize Jury and President of Kyushu University. The laureates were then presented with their certificates and medals. The resounding applause from the audience dispelled the nerves of the laureates and their faces relaxed into beaming smiles. The laureates were also presented with bouquets by children from Fukuoka International School.

The second part of the proceedings began with a performance of the first movement of Mozart’s Divertimento in D Major, K. 136 by the Kyudai Philharmonic Orchestra, which has a history stretching back more than 100 years. The laureates expressed their joy in their speeches, and Master KONG Nay performed a piece he had written especially for the occasion, called For the Award Ceremony in Fukuoka. Finally, Chikuzen biwa musician, Ms. TERADA Chobi, performed Heike Monogatari〔The Tale of the Heike〕Nasu no Yoichi on the traditional Japanese string instrument that has its roots in Fukuoka. The splendor of the ceremony was befitting to such a celebratory occasion, one that could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of language or disability.