2013.01.20 66th Birthday Celebration for Thai Elephant “Hanako”

23/01/2013

On 20 January 2013, Mr. Singtong Lapisatepun, Chargé D’Affaires, attended the 66th birthday celebration of the Thai elephant “Hanako” at Inokashira Park Zoo in Tokyo.  Hanako was given by Thailand to Japan in 1949, as the first elephant which arrived Japan after the World War.  Hanako is now the oldest elephant natured by a zoo in Japan.

Mr. Lapisatepun blessed Hanako on this special occasion, while Mr. Etsuo Narushima, Inokashira Park Zoo Director, told the audience Hanako’s story.  After that, Musashino City and Mitaka City Mayors, including two sons of Mr. Somwang Sarasas, who presented Hanako to Japan, also gave her a blessing. 

Hanako was treated a special cake made by bread, potatoes, carrots and strawberries.  Approximately 800 people attended Hanako’s birthday celebration.